Seasonal Tank Maintenance Tips for Business Owners

For any business or industrial facility that utilizes tanks on-site, periodic and seasonal tank maintenance is vital to consider. Seasonal changes can impact tank efficiency in several ways, and ensuring you have a seasonal tank maintenance checklist prepared ahead of time is important.

At Redi, we’re proud to offer a huge range of industrial services around Idaho, Nevada, Wyoming, Colorado and nearby areas, including hydrovac solutions like slot trenching, potholing and tank cleaning. Here are some basics on how seasonal changes can impact tank efficiency, plus some seasonal tank maintenance checklist items to consider and the importance of regular professional cleanings and inspections for any on-site tank.

How Seasonal Changes Impact Industrial Tanks

With changing seasons comes fluctuating temperatures, precipitation levels and weather conditions that can all have an impact on industrial tanks and their efficiency. The type of tank you have, the contents it holds and its location will all play a role in how seasonal changes affect it.

Temperature Changes:

Temperature changes can cause expansion or contraction of materials used to construct the tank, leading to potential cracks or leaks. This is especially true for metal tanks located outside where they are exposed to extreme temperatures. It’s important to regularly inspect these tanks for any signs of damage and address any issues immediately.

Precipitation Levels:

Rain, snow and other forms of precipitation can also impact industrial tanks. For above-ground tanks, heavy rainfall or snow accumulation can cause the tank to become unstable or even collapse. In underground tanks, excessive precipitation can lead to flooding and potential contamination of the stored material. Regular maintenance and proper drainage systems are essential in preventing these issues.

Chemical Exposure:

Depending on the type of material being stored, industrial tanks may be exposed to a variety of chemicals. These chemicals can have corrosive properties that can damage the tank over time if not properly monitored and maintained. It’s important to regularly test the integrity of the tank’s walls and lining, as well as ensure proper ventilation to prevent buildup of fumes.

Age/Usage:

Like all equipment, industrial tanks have a lifespan and will eventually need to be replaced. The age and usage of a tank can directly affect its structural integrity, making regular inspections and maintenance crucial in order to prevent any potential accidents or leaks.

Environmental Factors:

External factors such as weather conditions, seismic activity, and soil composition can also impact the safety and stability of industrial tanks. It’s important to take these factors into consideration when designing, constructing, and maintaining the tank.

Seasonal Tank Maintenance Checklist

While your specific list may include a few items particular to your own tank setup, here are a few common elements that should typically be featured in a seasonal tank maintenance checklist:

• Cleaning and clutter removal: Naturally, any debris or clutter on or around the tank should be removed. This will help ensure that you have easy access to all of your tank’s crucial components, and it will also reduce the risk of potential hazards.
• Inspection: Regular inspections of the tank’s physical condition are important for catching issues early on before they become larger and more expensive problems. Look for signs of corrosion, leaks, and damage to the tank’s structure.
• Testing: Certain elements such as pipes, valves, and pumps need to be tested regularly to ensure they are functioning properly. This is especially important if your tank is used for storing hazardous materials.
• Maintenance: Routine maintenance tasks such as checking fluid levels, changing filters, and cleaning parts should be done on a regular basis to keep your tank in good condition.
• Training: It’s important for employees who work with the tank to be properly trained on its operations, safety procedures, and emergency protocols. This will help prevent accidents and ensure that any issues are addressed promptly.
• Environmental regulations: Depending on the type of materials stored in the tank, there may be specific environmental regulations that need to be followed. These could include proper disposal methods, spill prevention measures, and monitoring requirements.

Importance of Regular Professional Inspections and Cleaning

For any type of storage tank, whether it is above ground or underground, regular professional inspections and cleaning are crucial for maintaining its integrity and safety. Here are some reasons why these practices are important:

• Identifying potential issues: During an inspection, a trained professional can identify any cracks, corrosion, or other damage that may compromise the structural integrity of the tank. This allows for prompt repairs to be made before the issue worsens.
• Preventing leaks and spills: Regular cleaning helps remove any build-up inside the tank that could potentially cause leaks or spills. By removing sediment and debris, there is less likelihood of clogs or blockages in pipes and valves.
• Extending lifespan: With proper maintenance through inspections and cleanings, above ground storage tanks can last for decades. This not only saves money in the long run by avoiding costly replacements, but it also reduces the environmental impact of constantly manufacturing new tanks.
• Ensuring compliance: Many industries are subject to regulations and laws regarding above ground storage tanks. Regular inspections and cleanings help ensure that these tanks are in compliance with safety and environmental standards set by governing bodies.

At Redi, we’re happy to assist with any tank cleaning or related hydrovac services as part of our industrial solutions for clients across the Western US. Contact us today for more information or to schedule a consultation!