Ameer Randolph
Scrap yards will accept old fuel oil tanks, but they must be empty and clean. Some scrap yards require fuel tanks to be cut in half or have a hole cut into them for inspection. Before cutting open a fuel tank, it is important to ensure it is not sealed, as this can be dangerous. Tanks can be emptied by draining, flushing, or vacuuming. Old fuel oil tanks can also be advertised and sold online, or to a person who takes used oil.
Characteristics and Values
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Scrap yards requirements | Must be cut in half or have a hole cut in them; must be cleaned |
| Alternative options | Selling as is on FB Marketplace; selling to people who want to make a grill or smoker; selling to people who use fuel oil |
| Potential risks | Sparks; blow back; burns; ignition; environmental hazard |
| Professional services | Reputable companies that can clean the tank; qualified contractors that can haul the tank to approved hazardous waste sites |
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What You'll Learn
- Scrap yards may require tanks to be cut in half or have a large hole cut in them
- Tanks must be cleaned before being accepted by scrap yards
- Tanks can be sold as-is on marketplaces like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace
- Tanks can be repurposed into yard art, grills, smokers, or shop stoves
- Removal of fuel oil tanks should be left to professionals due to safety hazards
Scrap yards may require tanks to be cut in half or have a large hole cut in them
Scrap yards may have different requirements for accepting old fuel oil tanks. Some scrap yards require old fuel oil tanks to be cut in half, while others may only need a large hole cut into them for inspection. This is done to ensure that the tank is empty and does not contain any flammable fluids or residue that could pose a safety hazard during the recycling process. Cutting the tank open also helps to prevent any unintended energy release or explosions due to the presence of flammable substances.
In some cases, a permit may be required for the removal and disposal of old fuel oil tanks, and proper safety equipment and procedures must be followed to avoid exposure to harmful chemicals. It is important to check with the specific scrap yard to understand their requirements and prepare the old fuel oil tanks accordingly.
The size of the hole required by scrap yards can vary, with some requiring a 2x2ft opening, while others may need a 12"x12" hole or a 5" "window" for inspection. It is important to ensure that the hole is accessible when hauling the tank to the scrap yard, typically not on the bottom of the tank. Additionally, some scrap yards may require the tank to be cleaned and free of any flammable fluids before accepting it for recycling.
Before cutting into sealed tanks, it is crucial to exercise caution and use appropriate tools, such as a plasma torch, to avoid potential hazards associated with the mixture of oxygen and petroleum products. Cutting open old fuel oil tanks can release harmful chemicals, so it is recommended to wear protective gear, including Tyvek suits, gloves, and breathing apparatus, during the process.
While selling old fuel oil tanks to scrap yards may not be very profitable, there are alternative options for repurposing them. Some people may be interested in purchasing them for various purposes, such as constructing grills, smokers, or yard art. Additionally, old fuel oil tanks can be used for water collection and storage or fuel storage at construction sites.
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Tanks must be cleaned before being accepted by scrap yards
Scrap yards will accept old fuel oil tanks, but they must be cleaned and vapour-free before they are brought in. This is because residual fuel or vapour in the tanks can be deadly, and has caused explosions in the past.
There are a few methods for cleaning out old fuel tanks. One is to drop a couple of pounds of dry ice into the tank and let it work for a few minutes to displace the oxygen out of the top. Then, cut a hole in the tank to ensure it is accessible when hauled in. Another method is to use an LEL analyser to check the tank for vapours, then cut a "window" in the tank, wash it out with a pressure washer, and vacuum up the residue. A third option is to let the tank drain with the valve open for about a month, then cut it into pieces and pressure wash the interior.
In addition to being cleaned, the tanks must also be cut in a specific way before being accepted by scrap yards. Some scrap yards require a 12"x12" hole to be cut into the tank, while others require the tank to be cut in half. Some yards require a 10"x10" hole to be cut into propane tanks.
It is important to be careful when cutting into old fuel tanks, as sparks can be dangerous. It is also important to think carefully before cutting into anything that is sealed, as there may be dangerous combinations of substances, such as oxygen and petroleum products.
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Tanks can be sold as-is on marketplaces like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace
Scrap yards typically require old fuel oil tanks to be cut in half or have a large hole cut into them before accepting them. This is because they need to be cleaned internally, as they may contain sludge, benzene, and lead residue from the fuels. Additionally, old fuel oil tanks may not meet current standards due to the lack of a sump or spill catchment, which could reduce their resale value.
However, there are alternative options for selling old fuel oil tanks without having to go through the hassle of cutting them open. Tanks can be sold as-is on marketplaces like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace, where there is a demand for them. People seek tanks for various purposes, including smaller tanks for grills or smokers, water collection and storage, and fuel storage at construction sites. For example, a user on Craigslist was offering an old fuel oil tank with 80 gallons of oil for $200.
When selling on Craigslist, it is beneficial to be vigilant and regularly check the local listings. It is also worth considering alternative platforms like Facebook Marketplace, where users have mentioned purchasing used tanks at reasonable prices. For example, a user purchased three 20-pound tanks for less than $50 each on Facebook Marketplace.
Selling old fuel oil tanks on online marketplaces can be a convenient way to find buyers who are specifically seeking such items. This option may be more lucrative than scrapping the tanks, especially if the tanks are still in usable condition and can cater to the needs of those looking for fuel storage solutions or tanks for various projects and applications.
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Tanks can be repurposed into yard art, grills, smokers, or shop stoves
Old fuel oil tanks can be repurposed in a variety of ways, from practical to artistic applications. One popular idea is to turn them into grills or smokers for cooking. This process requires some work, including cutting holes and removing any remaining fuel and sludge from the tank. The tank can then be burned out and sandblasted to ensure it is safe for cooking. Some people opt to weld and add spare parts to create custom smokers or grill/smoker combos.
There is some debate about the safety of using old fuel tanks for cooking due to the presence of carcinogens and other pollutants. Some people recommend waiting for a cleaner tank or using a new sheet of steel instead. However, others argue that the amount of residue in the tank is minimal and comparable to the pollutants present in the air and other aspects of daily life.
Aside from cooking applications, old fuel oil tanks can be repurposed into yard art, adding a unique and industrial touch to outdoor spaces. They can also be used to create workbenches, hot tubs, fire pits, or unusual planters. With some creativity and welding skills, old fuel oil tanks can be transformed into a variety of functional and artistic creations.
For those interested in repurposing old fuel oil tanks, online forums and platforms like Pinterest offer a wealth of ideas and inspiration. People share their experiences, provide tips, and showcase their custom creations, from smokers to grills and even unique yard art. It is important to approach any project involving old fuel oil tanks with caution and ensure that proper safety measures are taken to address any potential hazards.
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Removal of fuel oil tanks should be left to professionals due to safety hazards
Fuel oil tanks can be a tricky business. Used since the 1930s, more than a million underground fuel oil tanks still exist today. Commonly used on residential and commercial properties, these tanks were usually constructed of bare steel and used to contain oil for heating or fuel. However, they have been a source of concern for homeowners looking to sell their properties, as they are considered a "buyer turn-off". They are also a potential environmental hazard, with leaky tanks causing serious ecological damage and costing thousands of dollars.
Due to the safety hazards involved, it is highly recommended that fuel oil tank removal be left to professionals. Firstly, fuel oil is extremely toxic and flammable, posing a significant risk if not handled properly. Secondly, the removal process itself is complex and requires specialized knowledge and equipment. Before removing the tank, it must be closed and taken out of service, which includes removing any remaining oil, cleaning the tank, and checking for leaks. This process can be hazardous, especially if harmful vapors are present. Heavy machinery is then used to dig up and remove the soil above the tank, and a panel is cut in the tank to lift it from the ground.
In addition to the technical expertise required, there are legal considerations as well. Regulations for oil storage tanks vary across different locations, with some states requiring USTs to be properly closed and removed within a certain timeframe. For example, Michigan requires USTs to be removed within one year of their last use, while New York mandates emptying, cleaning, and vapor removal. Soil testing and liability issues may also arise during the selling or buying of properties with underground fuel oil tanks.
To ensure compliance with regulations and safety standards, it is crucial to hire a qualified firm permitted to work in your area. It is also recommended to verify that they carry pollution liability insurance. By leaving the removal process to professionals, homeowners can avoid potential hazards and ensure that the job is done correctly and safely.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, scrap yards do take old fuel oil tanks, but they need to be empty, cleaned, and cut in half or with a hole cut in them.
Firstly, remove all the oil from the tank. Then, cut the tank lengthwise around the perimeter and scoop out all the sludge. After that, wipe the tank down with mineral spirits to remove any residue.
Yes, old fuel oil tanks can be dangerous if they have residual fuel or vapors in them, so it is important to ensure the tank is clean and vapor-free before cutting. It is also important to be careful when transporting the tank as they can lose their structural integrity over time and suddenly collapse.
Old fuel oil tanks can be used for grills, smokers, water collection and storage, or fuel storage at construction sites. They can also be crushed and scrapped or sold as scrap metal.
Old fuel oil tanks may have some resale value, but it depends on their size and condition. Smaller tanks may be worth more for grills or smokers, while larger tanks may have more value for fuel storage. The price of scrap metal can also impact the value of old fuel oil tanks.
