Do's and Don'ts When Planning to Remove an Underground Oil Tank

Until the late 1980s, oil tanks were one of the most efficient methods of storing enough fuel for heating houses. These are huge containers that can hold up to 275 gallons of oil for average homes. But as time progresses, the efficiency of oil tanks in today's society continues to plunge further every year. 

Environmentalists have also raised multiple concerns regarding oil as a non-renewable source of fuel. Not to mention, oil tanks have become outdated technology, making them difficult to maintain. For the most part, you would need professional assistance to fix leaks or make adjustments to your oil tank.  

Of course, there are a lot of cons to owning an oil tank. From expensive fuel prices to inconvenient repairs– even selling your old houses can be a hassle as real estate clients prefer homes without oil tanks nowadays. So if you ever decide to get rid of them, here's a list of things you should and shouldn't do when having your underground oil tank removed.

Do: Seek Professional Help

For obvious reasons, you can not merely get rid of a 275-gallon tank on your own. You would need to hire professional technicians to do the work for you. Hopefully, these trained workers will ensure the safe and proper removal of your oil tank. 

Having oil tanks removed requires paperwork to authorize land and sewer lines inspection. Guys at www.simpletankservices.com do oil tank removal projects with an added contamination-free assurance. Their soil sample testing for oil contamination can help you check for proper tank removal. Soil sample testing will allow you to check your property for any pollution or oil contamination. 

Don't: Pretend it was never there.

In the past, many people figured that dumping sand inside their oil tanks and forgetting they ever existed was the easiest way to get rid of it. That is not how things work. Although, it is neither the worst nor the most efficient method in dealing with your oil tanks. 

Abandoning an oil tank (old ones in particular) is a huge no-no. Oil tanks usually come with steel frames that will deteriorate over time. Rust is also an inevitable occurrence that will contribute to wall breakage and eventually cause a leak. 

Deserting an oil tank can cause you a lot of unnecessary difficulties in the future. Even if the tank itself remains sturdy, the pipes can also generate a different concern. If you no longer want to use your oil tanks, the best option is to have them properly removed.

Do: Check for Damages or Leaks

Before you have your oil tank extracted, make sure that you and the professional you hired already checked the tank for leaks. It is crucial to inspect your oil tank before making any efforts to get rid of it. Moving it while it has unknown leaks or damaged pipes may cause soil contamination or other complications.

In case there is a leak, the extraction company should know how to deal with the situation without incurring any more damage. Petroleum escaping through wall breaches can contaminate the soil and reach as far as groundwater. These chemicals can poison the soil and water surrounding it, affecting the wildlife and natural minerals. 

Don't: Expose Yourself to Leaked Petroleum. 

Short-term effects of accidental oil vapor inhalation can cause headaches, dizziness, nausea, increased blood pressure, eye, nose, and throat irritation. Long-term effects are even more severe, including kidney and liver damage. Other health complications include cancer since petroleum is an identified carcinogen.

Be sure to have your kids stay away while the tank removal or cleaning procedure is taking place. Have them stay at a relative's house or maybe a hotel for a day or two on the day of the clean-up.  

While the professionals have not yet arrived, handle the leak by closing off the area to prevent lung exposure and possible fires. Contact the fire department and let them know of the situation.

Do: Hire State-Certified Removal Contractors

Oil tank extraction is a complicated procedure and requires highly skilled professionals. Most extraction companies order a 40-hour training program for their employees. You can be sure that they are fully capable of the job. 

State-certified removal contractors already know the set of tactics to get these extractions done. They should also have their personnel, equipment, and insurance. Be sure to trust only those with years of experience, or at least a long list of successful projects. Hiring amateurs to carry out the task might cause you more harm than good.

Do: Check For Insurance.

Clean-up for the harmful chemicals that leak into the soil and groundwater is expensive. But since oil leaks also concern state property, there are grants available to assist you financially. 

Insurance may also help you cover some of your expenses. Make sure to seek legal advice and prepare all the necessary paperwork. Aside from that, organizations such as the Environmental Protection Agency have programs that might help you.

Oil tank removal and clean-up can cost up to $30,000 at most. However, plain removal without oil leaks is only around $1,000 to $3,000. Of course, expenses will depend on several factors, including– tank size, wall breach, leaks, and many more. Be wise with your finances to avoid overspending. Get state grants and make use of that insurance company if available. 

You're all set!

Now that you know the do's and don'ts of oil tank removal, you should be able to make the proper precautions and take appropriate considerations. 

If you are looking for a new house or property, make sure to always check for buried oil tanks. You never know what type of problematic future you can prevent. Save yourself from the inconvenience of oil tank removals in your future homes. You should know how much of a hassle the procedure can be. 

Oil tanks have served an efficient purpose back in the day. But having one of them just sitting around (unused) underneath your homes can be huge trouble for you, your family, and your neighbors shortly.