Ameer Randolph
Fuel oil tanks are often found in homes in the Northeast, where more than 30% of homes still burn oil. Removing or decommissioning an old fuel oil tank is a complex process that requires careful attention to safety and environmental regulations. Homeowners must ensure that the oil and tank are removed, recycled, or reused according to strict guidelines. This often involves engaging professionals with the proper insurance and qualifications to handle the job.
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What You'll Learn
Use a fuel transfer pump to remove oil from the tank
Using a fuel transfer pump is a common method to remove oil from a tank. This method is relatively simple and can be done by following the below steps:
Firstly, purchase a fuel transfer pump online or from your local hire store. You will also need drums suitable for heating oil. A good quality fuel transfer pump can move up to 40 litres of heating oil per minute. Therefore, if you transfer the oil into 25-litre drums, be careful as they will fill up quickly.
Secondly, place the filter end of the pump into your oil tank until it reaches the bottom of the tank. Then, place the trigger end into the drum or new oil tank. If your old and new tanks are not close together, you will need to extend the hose on your pump. Alternatively, you will have to perform a double transfer, siphoning the oil from the old tank into drums, and then moving the drums next to the new tank to transfer the oil.
Thirdly, connect the alligator clips to your battery. Red goes to plus and black to minus. Finally, press the button on the pump to start the transfer of oil.
It is important to note that a fuel transfer pump will only remove large debris that could damage the pump. Dirt and water will remain at the bottom of your oil tank, so it is recommended to let the oil settle for 5 minutes after elevating one end of the tank to allow any dirt and debris to settle before starting the pump to drain the remaining oil.
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Ensure you have drums suitable for heating oil
When it comes to removing heating oil from a tank, it is important to ensure you have drums suitable for heating oil. This is a key step in the process of closing fuel oil in a tank. Drums, or containers, are used to store the heating oil once it has been removed from the tank.
There are a variety of drums available, with different materials, shapes, and sizes to choose from. Metal drums, for example, can withstand high temperatures of up to 300°C, making them suitable for heat-intensive applications. On the other hand, plastic drums require lower temperatures, typically not exceeding 50°C, to prevent deformation. Drums can also be open-headed, with a removable lid, or tight-headed, which are permanently closed. Open-headed drums are useful when frequent additions or extractions are made, and tight-headed drums are typically used for lower viscosity liquids.
To ensure the heating oil can be safely stored, drum heaters are often used to regulate the temperature and maintain optimal viscosity. This is especially important for viscous liquids like heating oil, which require moderate heat to reduce viscosity and allow for easy pumping or pouring. Drum heaters can be designed as heating jackets, base drum heaters, or immersion heaters, each offering unique benefits for different heating requirements. For example, base drum heaters are ideal for partially filled drums as they provide direct, localized heat. Additionally, drum heaters can be customized for specific temperature requirements, ensuring even heating to avoid hot spots or damage to the drum.
When choosing drums for storing heating oil, it is important to consider the volume of oil being transferred. A 25-litre drum, for instance, will fill up quickly, and it is crucial to be prepared to turn off the pump before moving to the next drum. By choosing suitable drums and utilizing drum heaters, you can ensure the safe and efficient storage of heating oil, allowing for a smooth transition when closing fuel oil in a tank.
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Turn off the boiler switch
If you want to close your fuel oil tank, one of the first steps you should take is to turn off the boiler switch. This is important because it prevents any more fuel from being pumped into the boiler, which could cause an overflow.
Once the boiler switch is off, you can move on to the next steps of closing your fuel oil tank, which may include connecting a hose to the bleeder valve on the boiler pump and placing the other end in a clear container. This will help you to remove any remaining fuel or water from the tank and boiler system.
It is important to note that turning off the boiler switch will not completely stop the flow of fuel. You may need to take additional steps, such as closing the shut-off valve, to fully stop the flow of fuel and prevent it from leaking out of the tank.
In some cases, it may be necessary to keep the boiler switch on temporarily, even while closing the fuel oil tank. This can be done to ensure that the furnace remains lit and operational, especially if you are in the process of removing water from the oil tank.
Overall, turning off the boiler switch is a crucial first step in closing your fuel oil tank. It helps to prevent overflow and makes it safer to work on the tank and boiler system. By following this step, you can ensure that the process of closing your fuel oil tank is done properly and safely.
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Attach the hose to an explosion-proof transfer pump
Explosion-proof transfer pumps are used to safely remove fuel oil from tanks. They are designed to prevent fire or explosion accidents in flammable and explosive environments. These pumps are equipped with safety devices such as a sealing device to prevent leakage, overload protection, and over-temperature protection. They also feature explosion-proof wiring terminals and grounding devices to prevent sparks or heat caused by electrical failure.
When attaching the hose to an explosion-proof transfer pump, it is important to ensure that the pump is suitable for use with fuel oil and that all necessary safety precautions are being followed. Before beginning, ensure that the pump is placed in a well-ventilated, dust-free, and corrosion-free environment, avoiding high temperatures or humid environments.
To attach the hose to the pump, first locate the inlet port on the pump. This is usually clearly marked and may be covered by a cap or plug. Remove any covering from the inlet port to expose the threaded connection. Next, prepare the hose by ensuring that it is securely attached to any drums or containers that will be used to collect the fuel oil. Ensure that the hose is free of any debris or blockages and that all connections are secure to prevent leaks.
Carefully thread the hose onto the inlet port of the explosion-proof transfer pump, making sure that the hose is properly aligned and securely attached. You may need to use tools such as wrenches or clamps to ensure a tight and secure connection, depending on the specific design of your pump and hose. Once the hose is attached, check for any signs of leakage or damage.
After attaching the hose, you can proceed with the fuel oil transfer process. Ensure that you follow the specific instructions provided by the manufacturer of your explosion-proof transfer pump for safe and proper usage. This may include connecting power sources, operating the pump, and following any necessary safety protocols during the transfer process.
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Dispose of the oil and tank in line with local regulations
When disposing of the oil and tank, it is important to adhere to local regulations to avoid environmental and safety hazards, as well as legal consequences. Here are the key steps to follow:
Engage Professionals
Firstly, recognise that removing and disposing of an oil tank is not a do-it-yourself job. Contact a local firm experienced in decommissioning and removing fuel oil tanks, such as Removal Specialists. These professionals will be knowledgeable about the strict regulations governing the removal and disposal process. They will also have the necessary equipment to handle the oil and tank safely.
Obtain Permits
Before beginning the removal process, ensure that the necessary permits are obtained from the relevant authorities. In the case of the Deldons, they required a permit from the local fire department, which cost them $50. This permit ensures that the removal process complies with safety regulations.
Follow State and Local Guidelines
Different states and localities have varying guidelines for the removal and disposal of oil and tanks. For instance, in Massachusetts, everything in the tank, as well as the tank itself, must be removed, recycled, or reused according to strict state guidelines. Check with your local environmental agencies to understand the specific regulations that apply to your area.
Store Oil Properly
If you are storing oil before disposal, ensure that it is kept in structurally sound and closed containers, such as 55-gallon closed-top drums. These containers must be in good condition, with no severe rusting or leaks. Keep accurate records of the oil, including the Bill of Lading, dates, amounts, and transporters. Only allow authorised personnel to handle the oil to prevent contamination with other fluids.
Recycle or Reuse Oil
Recycling used oil is not only environmentally beneficial but also required in certain states. Contact local used oil recycling companies to understand the specific requirements in your area. These companies can also advise on the proper storage, transportation, and recycling procedures to ensure compliance with regulations.
Comply with EPA Regulations
If you are disposing of the oil without recycling, it may be classified as hazardous waste. In such cases, you must comply with the regulations set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This includes properly labelling the waste and following hazardous waste generator rules. Additionally, ensure that any transporters you work with have a valid EPA identification number.
By following these steps and staying informed about local regulations, you can ensure that the disposal of the oil and tank is handled safely, responsibly, and in compliance with the law.
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Frequently asked questions
Closing fuel oil in a tank is not a do-it-yourself job. There are strict regulations governing how the oil and tank must be removed and disposed of. It is best to hire a professional to do this.
To remove heating oil from your oil tank, you will need a fuel transfer pump and drums suitable for heating oil. Using a fuel transfer pump is relatively simple. At one end is a filter that ensures no debris is transferred through the pump. On the other end is a trigger, similar to the type found at your local petrol station. To start transferring heating oil, place the filter end into your oil tank until it reaches the bottom of the tank. Next, place the trigger, either into a drum or your new oil tank. Connect the alligator clips to your battery, red to positive and black to negative. Press the button on the pump to start the transfer of oil.
A good quality fuel transfer pump can move up to 40 litres of heating oil per minute. Most fuel transfer pumps are portable and do not need an electric power supply. Instead, you can attach them to a car or leisure battery to power the pump.
The cost of removing fuel oil from a tank varies depending on the company and the amount of oil to be removed. The Deldons hired Removal Specialists, a local firm experienced in decommissioning and taking out fuel oil tanks. The work took a few hours and the bill came to just $325, plus $50 for a permit from the Arlington fire department.
Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- If you are transferring oil into drums, be careful as a 25-litre drum will fill up quickly. Be ready to depress the trigger and turn the pump off before moving the trigger to the next drum.
- When the filter is not fully submerged in oil, the transfer of heating oil will slow considerably. Stop the pump and elevate the far end of the tank so that the remaining oil runs down towards the filter.
- Let the heating oil settle for 5 minutes after elevating one end of the tank. This will allow any dirt and debris to settle at the bottom before starting the pump to drain the remaining heating oil.
