All You Need to Know About Safe and Affordable Oil Tank Removal
If you are looking for an easy and efficient way to get rid of an old oil tank, then you have come to the right place. Oil tank removal can be an intimidating process and a daunting one if you do not know what to do. To make sure that the process goes smoothly, here is everything you need to know about safe and affordable oil tank removal.
Understanding the Basics of Oil Tank Removal:
Removing an oil tank is a complicated process. It involves specialized knowledge and experience to meet the oil tank installation code and removal regulations. Homeowners should turn to professional oil tank replacement services for their removal and disposal needs, as DIY attempts are not recommended. The cost of removal will depend on the size of the tank, with larger tanks requiring more time and effort, and possibly special equipment, which will add to the total cost. Alternately, abandonment may be an option if the tank is not leaking, where it can be filled with concrete or foam, and the surrounding soil tested.
When deciding to remove an oil tank, homeowners should first consider the cost and environmental implications. An aboveground tank is significantly less expensive to remove than an underground one, and the job should be left to a licensed professional. The average cost to remove an aboveground oil tank ranges between $300 and $1,000, with additional expenses depending on how much oil is in the tank, site accessibility, and any special tools needed. It’s also important to check your homeowners insurance policy to see if it covers oil tank removal, or if you need to take out a special oil tank insurance policy.
Once the oil tank is removed, disposal must also be considered. In some cases, a dismantling yard or salvage yard may be able to recycle the tank, or a local landfill may accept it. There could also be government regulations on the removal of tanks past their life span, or safety concerns if hazardous substances have contaminated the soil. In some cases, a municipality may block property sales until they can certify removal or abandonment. An inspection may be necessary to ensure the tank is not leaking, before it can be disposed of.
What is an oil tank?
It is important to be aware of your oil tank and how it is functioning. Regular inspections should be done to ensure that it is not leaking and that it is safe for use. There are several signs that can indicate your oil tank is leaking, such as visible oil stains on the underbelly of the tank, loose fittings, overfilling, and more. If you think your oil tank may be leaking, it is best to contact a professional to assess the situation and determine the best course of action. They will also be able to advise you on the regulations and laws regarding oil tank removal and disposal in your area. Safety should always be the top priority when dealing with oil tanks, so make sure to contact an expert if any concerns arise.
What are the risks of an oil tank leak?
Oil leaks from tanks can have serious consequences for both your home and the environment. Leaks from underground tanks can release fumes and vapors that can accumulate in basements and other areas, increasing the risk of fire or explosion. Oil can also pollute the surrounding area, including groundwater sources, and harm plants and wildlife.
When a tank leaks, it usually starts with a pinhole size opening, allowing the oil to escape and impact the soils around the tank. The oil can then spread farther away from the tank due to gravity and rain, making it difficult to spot. Above ground storage tanks (ASTs) can also leak, but the leaks are typically sudden and obvious.
It is important to stay on top of tank maintenance and replace old tanks as needed. If you suspect your oil tank is leaking, contact a professional for help. They will be able to assess the situation and recommend the best course of action.
-How can an oil tank be removed safely and affordably?
For those looking to remove and dispose of an old heating system, oil tank removal professionals are the best option. The cost for a residential oil tank removal in an easily accessible, unfinished basement is typically $475 within 25 miles of Wakefield, MA. Restricted access, such as door openings that are smaller than 29” wide, crawl spaces or narrow stairways will incur an additional fee. If the oil tank has already been removed by your plumbing/heating contractor and it is outside, cleaned and disconnected then the removal fee is much lower at $325.
The process of oil tank removal begins with a manual inspection of the tank for leaks or cracks. After ensuring the tank is empty, the technician will cut the tank in place, safely. Residue will then be cleaned from the tank walls with speedy dry. According to the Massachusetts Comprehensive Fire Safety Code 527 CMR 9.02, any tank that is permanently disconnected or not in use for a period of 24 months must be removed. If you require emergency service, CommTank is available 24/7 to help with your oil tank needs.
To summarize, the safest and most affordable way to remove an oil tank is to hire a professional. The cost of a residential oil tank removal in an easily accessible, unfinished basement is $475 within 25 miles of Wakefield, MA. Restricted access, such as door openings that are smaller than 29” wide, crawl spaces or narrow stairways will incur an additional fee. In addition, any tank that is permanently disconnected or not in use for a period of 24 months must be removed according to the Massachusetts Comprehensive Fire Safety Code 527 CMR 9.02. Emergency services are also available 24/7 if needed.
Choosing the Right Professionals for Oil Tank Removal
When it comes to oil tank removal, homeowners should always turn to professionals that specialize in oil tank replacement. A qualified team will have the specialized knowledge and experience necessary to meet all installation code and removal regulations. In most cases, the entire process of oil tank removal can be completed within one day. Samples collected at the time of removal will typically be picked up by the laboratory the following business day.
When choosing the right professionals for oil tank removal, there are a few things to consider. Make sure that the company has been in business for at least 10 years and has a place of business rather than operating out of a home office. It is also important to hire an environmental professional to manage the oil tank removal project. Additionally, with the help of technology, most tank removal projects can now be assessed without an on-site visit.
When researching oil tank removal companies, be aware that there are some businesses that may try to take advantage of homeowners by claiming that they have a problem that needs remediation. Make sure to ask about soil sample laboratory analysis and get an explanation of how the company will assess for leaks and what the cost for soil sampling will be. Finally, ask for a detailed report that includes information about the work done, photos, and a professional opinion of why the tank did or did not leak. This will ensure that your oil tank removal is done safely and affordably.
-How to identify a qualified oil tank removal company
Identifying a qualified oil tank removal company is essential to ensuring that your oil tank is removed safely and in compliance with local regulations. Many towns require a permit to remove an oil tank, which can usually be purchased for less than $100. It is also usually recommended that all tanks be removed from the ground when taking a tank out of service.
When a tank is removed, a professional determination can be made as to its integrity. However, there is no standard certification mandated by the EPA or the NJDEP for residential heating oil tanks. Instead, a property owner can receive a professional determination from the company performing the tank removal activities, describing what transpired during the tank removal. This determination should include a statement regarding the visual integrity of the tank and if it did or did not leak.
To ensure that any contamination is identified, a site assessment can be carried out while the tank is being removed. Evidence of contamination can be determined from product odors, product stained soils, and/or visual evidence of free product. In addition, inspection of the UST (Underground Storage Tank) for evidence of corrosion or perforations should be done once the tank is removed from the ground. The standard analytical testing method for number two heating oil in New Jersey is Diesel Range Organic (DRO) EPA Method 8015, which provides a broad spectrum look at the total amount of petroleum hydrocarbons in the soil. Clarification as to concentrations of DRO can be ascertained by collection of a soil sample from the tank excavation and submitting it to an independent licensed laboratory for analysis.
Home improvement contractors conducting residential underground heating oil storage tank (UST) removal or replacement must maintain liability insurance coverage of one million dollars ($1,000,000) and have completed both the Occupational Safety & Heath Administration’s (OSHA’s) 40-Hour Hazardous Waste Operations Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) Training per 29 CFR 1910.120, and subsequent annual 8-hr refresher training, as well as International Codes Council’s (ICC’s) UST Tank Decommissioning U2 Training.
By finding a professional who is knowledgeable about oil tank installation codes and removal regulations, you can rest assured that your oil tank will be removed safely and affordably.
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