The Reasons Homeowners Should Consider Removing An Underground Oil Tank

Homeowners who have an underground oil tank should consider having it removed. Although there are some risks associated with the removal process, many benefits make it a worthwhile endeavor.

The Reasons Homeowners Should Consider Removing An Underground Oil Tank

The following are reasons that homeowners should consider removing their underground oil tanks:

Environmental Risks

One reason homeowners should consider removing their underground oil tanks is that it can help protect the environment. If an oil tank develops a leak, it can contaminate the soil and groundwater. This can lead to serious environmental problems, such as the contamination of drinking water supplies. In addition, an oil spill can cause extensive damage to plant and animal life. Homeowners can help prevent these environmental disasters by removing an underground oil tank.

Saves Money

Another reason to remove an underground oil tank is that it can save money in the long run. Although the initial removal cost may be high, it is often cheaper than repairing or replacing a damaged tank. In addition, many insurance companies offer discounts to homeowners who do not have underground oil tanks. As a result, removing an underground oil tank can help to save money on both insurance premiums and repairs.

Increase the value of the home

Removing an underground oil tank can increase the value of a home. Many potential buyers are wary of houses that have underground oil tanks due to the potential for leaks and environmental damage. As a result, houses with underground oil tanks often sell for less than houses without them. By removing an underground oil tank, homeowners can make their homes more attractive to potential buyers and potentially get a higher sales price.

Risks fire hazard

Another reason to remove an underground oil tank is that it can be a fire hazard. If an oil tank leaks, the oil can seep into the soil and reach nearby sparks or flames. This can cause a devastating fire that could destroy a home and injure people. By removing an underground oil tank, homeowners can help prevent these types of fires.

The oil inside the tank may no longer be usable.

Finally, another reason to remove an underground oil tank is that the oil inside the tank may no longer be usable. Over time, the quality of the oil inside the tank can degrade, making it unusable for most purposes. As a result, it is often best to remove an underground oil tank before the oil inside becomes unusable.

Things to Do Before Starting the Oil Tank Removal

Here are some things to keep in mind before starting the oil tank removal process:

Seek professionals – It’s important to seek a professional oil tank removal company to handle the job. This is not a do-it-yourself project.

Get a permit – You will need a demolition permit from your local municipality before starting the removal process.

Notify your neighbors – Let your neighbors know about the work that will be happening. This way, they can be prepared for any noise or other disruptions.

Prepare for the worst – Have a plan if something goes wrong during the removal process. For example, you should have a backup power source if the electricity is cut off.

Now that you know some of the things to do before starting the oil tank removal process let’s look at why you should consider removing your underground oil tank.

What is the process of removing an oil tank?

The following are the steps typically involved in removing an oil tank:

Obtain permits required by the local fire department

The first step in any oil tank removal process is to ensure that you have the proper permits required by your local fire department.

Locate the fill and vent pipes, which are generally located near the top of the tank.

The next step is to locate the fill and vent pipes. These are generally located near the top of the tank.

Drain the remaining oil from the tank

Once you have located the fill and vent pipes, you will need to drain the oil from the tank. It can do this by attaching a hose to the fill pipe and draining the oil into a container.

Place polyethylene sheeting under the tank

To prevent oil from leaking into the ground, you must place polyethylene sheeting under the tank because it can get messy and cause environmental problems.

Cut the tank open

Once the tank is empty, you will need to cut it open. It can do this with a saw or other cutting tool by cutting the tank’s circumference.

Remove all oil and sludge from the tank bottom.

After the tank is cut open, you must remove all the oil and sludge from the bottom. One can do this by using a shovel or other digging tool.

Clean the inside of the tank using recyclable/biodegradable material

Clean the inside of the tank with a recyclable/biodegradable material such as sawdust, wood chips, or shredded newspaper.

Remove and transport the oil tank and associated piping to a licensed scrap yard.

Another step is to remove the oil tank and associated piping to a licensed scrap yard or recycling center. There, the tank will be appropriately disposed of.

Submit oil tank removal permit to Fire Department

Finally, you will need to submit the permit to the Fire Department.

Removing an oil tank can be daunting, but it’s important to do it correctly to avoid environmental problems.

Frequently asked questions

The following are some frequently asked questions about oil tank removal:

How much does it cost to remove an oil tank?

The cost of removing an oil tank will vary depending on the size of the tank, the type of tank, and the location of the tank.Generally, One can remove smaller tanks for less money than larger tanks.

How long does it take to remove an oil tank?

The length of time it takes to remove an oil tank will also vary depending on the tank’s size, type, and location.Usually takes a minimum of 2hrs and a maximum of 8hrs.

How do I properly dispose of my tank once it’s removed?

Well, you have a few options. You could take it to a licensed scrap yard or recycling center for proper disposal.

What are some of the environmental problems that can occur if I don’t remove my tank correctly?

Many environmental problems can occur if an oil tank is not removed correctly. Some of these problems include leaks, contamination of soil and water, and fires.

Final Thoughts

There are many reasons why homeowners should consider removing an underground oil tank. These reasons include

• Preventing fires,
• Protecting the environment,
• And saving money.

While removing an oil tank can be daunting, it’s important to do it correctly to avoid environmental problems.