Oil spills might have a devastating effect on the environment and cost a lot of money to completely clean up and resolve. There were many occasions whenever a clean-up operation has already established to take place due to leaks from heating oil tanks or pipes. In a single case a pipe developed a leak underneath a neighbour's home, to be able to clean-up the leak the complete ground floor of the house had to be removed to get usage of the contaminated environment. That is why it's important to be sure to check your tank and pipes regularly for just about any damage which could result in a leak.Look for  oil tank replacement   and possible leaking issuesThere are numerous of things that you need to check on a regular basis to ensure your heating oil tank or pipes aren't damaged and causing leaks.Inspect the tank for rusting, corrosion or physical damage - Visually inspect your tank for any clear signs of damage which could result in weakened areas and possible leakages. Internal rusting or corrosion can easily result in a leak as these areas are weaker than the remaining tank and could leak due to the pressure.Consider the tank stand - Heating oil tanks can be incredibly heavy. A fuel tank with a 1,135 litre capacity can weigh around a tonne, meaning that the stand is put under enormous pressure. It's important to check to make certain the stand is still structurally sound and contains no signs of giving way.Check your drip leg - Some heating oil tanks have a drip leg on the pipe leading from the storage tank which collects water from the system and stores it so that it could be easily removed. This water can freeze in cold temperatures and rupture the pipe, causing a leak. Look for rupturing on this pipe and make certain the valve is fully shut to avoid any oil spillage.Check out the piping - Although your tank might be in good condition, your piping might not be. Pipes can simply rupture and shift around if they're not supported properly. Check all along the piping to be sure the piping hasn't come from its support.