How to Tell If Your Home Heating Oil Tank Is Leaking

mpf954
Oct 14
3 min read

Heating oil tanks are a staple for many Long Island homes—but over time, corrosion, poor maintenance, or age can cause leaks that pose environmental and health risks.

A leaking oil tank isn’t always obvious. Sometimes, the signs are subtle—until the problem becomes expensive. Here’s how to spot the warning signs early and what to do if you suspect a leak.

1. Unexplained Increase in Oil Usage

If you notice your oil deliveries are more frequent but your heating habits haven’t changed, that’s a red flag. Leaks—especially underground ones—cause fuel to slowly escape into the soil, meaning your tank never seems full for long.

2. Strong Oil Odors Indoors or Outdoors

A faint smell of heating oil in your basement or yard could indicate a small leak. If the odor becomes stronger over time, it’s likely fuel is escaping from the tank, fittings, or supply lines. Tip: Don’t try to mask the smell—ventilate the area and call a professional immediately.

3. Visible Stains or Wet Spots

Look around your tank for:

Dark or oily stains on the floor or soil
Drips or residue near fill or vent lines
Pooled oil around the base of the tank

Even small spots can indicate a larger internal problem.

4. Rust, Corrosion, or Bulging on the Tank

Older steel tanks—especially those over 20 years old—can rust from the inside out. Watch for:

Rust streaks or bubbling paint
Dents or bulges on the tank surface
Flaking metal or damp rust patches

These are early warning signs that the tank walls may soon give way.

5. Oil in Unusual Places

If you find oil in your sump pump, drainage systems, or near your foundation, a leak has likely reached below-ground areas. Indoor tanks can also leak through seams or fittings, allowing oil to spread beneath flooring or walls.

6. Dying Grass or Vegetation

Outdoor leaks often show up as dead patches of grass or plants in a consistent pattern near the buried tank or fill line. The oil contaminates soil, preventing plants from growing.

7. Soil or Water Contamination

If your property uses a well or you notice oil sheens on standing water, contamination may already be spreading. Immediate professional cleanup is required to prevent environmental damage and regulatory fines.

What to Do If You Suspect a Leak

Stop using the tank immediately. Shut off the oil supply if it’s safe to do so.
Call the DEC Spill Hotline — 1-800-457-7362 — to report the issue (required by NY law).
Contact a licensed environmental contractor like Eastern Environmental Solutions for:
- Leak detection and confirmation
- Oil recovery and soil sampling
- Cleanup and remediation
- Proper DEC documentation

FAQs

What are the first signs of a leaking oil tank? Common signs include increased oil usage, strong odors, rust, or stains around the tank.

How dangerous is a small leak? Even small leaks can cause significant soil contamination and costly cleanup if ignored.

Who should I call if I suspect an oil tank leak? Contact the DEC Spill Hotline and an environmental contractor like Eastern Environmental for professional assessment.

Can I repair a leaking tank? Repairs are often temporary; full replacement or abandonment is usually the safest option.

Will my homeowners insurance cover cleanup? Some policies cover sudden leaks, but most exclude gradual leaks—check with your insurer.

Why Choose Eastern Environmental

For over 20 years, Eastern Environmental Solutions has helped Long Island homeowners detect and resolve oil tank leaks safely and efficiently. We provide: