Regan Brown
Moving a fuel oil tank is a complex process that requires careful planning and execution to avoid environmental disasters and ensure compliance with regulations. The process involves several steps, including draining the oil, selecting appropriate equipment, addressing sludge and rust, and safely transporting and reinstalling the tank. The complexity and cost of the undertaking lead some to consider purchasing a new tank instead of relocating an existing one.
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What You'll Learn
Drain the tank
The first step to moving a fuel oil tank is to drain the tank. It is important to remove as much fuel oil from the tank as possible before attempting to move it. This is because a full tank of oil can weigh a lot, and moving it could be dangerous and cause a spill. For example, a 275-gallon tank that is half-full of oil will weigh about 1380 lbs.
There are several ways to drain a fuel oil tank. One way is to use a fuel transfer pump to pump the oil out of the tank into drums or another tank. Fuel transfer pumps can be purchased or rented, and they typically come with a filter to remove large debris. It is important to note that the oil may be contaminated, so proper disposal or filtering may be necessary. If you are in Northern Ireland, you must empty the tank before moving it, and you may need to submit a prenotification to the NIEA if you are moving the oil to a different property.
Another way to drain a fuel oil tank is to use a barrel pump, which can be hooked up to a drill. This method may be more suitable for smaller tanks or for those who do not have access to a fuel transfer pump. The oil can be pumped into drums or another tank, and then the tank can be moved.
It is also possible to donate the oil to a neighbour, family member, or friend, or to transfer the oil to a new tank. However, it is important to know how long the oil has been sitting in the tank, as kerosene has an expiration date of 18 months to 2 years before it naturally degrades.
Once the tank is drained, it can be moved using a variety of methods such as a hoist, crane, or truck. However, it is important to be very careful when moving the tank, as the legs may collapse or the tank may split, causing a spill.
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Use a pump and drums
Using a pump and drums is a safe way to move a fuel oil tank without risking an oil spill. This method is especially useful if you are moving a tank that is not completely empty.
First, you will need to purchase a pump. A standard diesel transfer pump or barrel pump will work. You can also purchase a pump kit, which may include useful accessories such as a hose. If you are only going to be transferring oil on one occasion, you may prefer to rent a pump instead of buying one.
Next, you will need to purchase or source drums to store the oil. You will need several 55-gallon drums, which can be purchased new or second-hand. If you are buying second-hand, ensure that the drums are clean. You may also need a hose, depending on the pump you have selected.
Now, you are ready to start pumping the oil out of the tank and into the drums. Depending on the size of your tank, you may need to pump the oil into 3-5 drums. This process can take around an hour to set up and complete.
Once the tank is empty, you can safely move it without the risk of oil spilling. When you have moved the tank to its new location, you can pump the oil from the drums back into the tank. Use a filter on the pump line to reduce the amount of dirt or sludge that might enter your tank.
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Consider the weight
The weight of a fuel oil tank and its contents is a crucial factor to consider when planning a move. The weight will determine the equipment and methods needed to ensure a safe and successful relocation.
Firstly, it is essential to determine the weight of the oil tank when it is full. A 275-gallon oil tank, for instance, can weigh around 1380 lbs when half full. The weight of the oil alone in this scenario is approximately 900 lbs, with the tank itself contributing around 300 lbs. It is important to note that oil weights can vary based on volume and specific gravity, so accurate measurements are crucial.
When considering the weight, it is highly recommended to reduce the amount of oil in the tank before attempting to move it. Partially emptying the tank can significantly decrease the overall weight, making it safer and more manageable to handle. This can be achieved by pumping the oil into 55-gallon drums or other suitable containers. By reducing the oil level to a quarter or less, the risk of spillage and structural failure is greatly reduced.
The weight of the oil tank and its remaining contents will dictate the equipment required for the move. For smaller tanks, an engine hoist or crane on a rotator truck may be sufficient. However, for larger tanks, more specialised equipment, such as a pallet truck with cradles or a tow truck, may be necessary. It is important to ensure that the equipment has the capacity to handle the weight safely and securely.
Additionally, the weight distribution of the oil tank should be considered. Some tanks may have sturdy legs that can support the weight, while others may have screwed-in legs that are more susceptible to buckling under the load. Distributing the weight evenly and ensuring the tank is secure during the move are critical factors in preventing collapse or damage to the tank.
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Regulations and insurance
Regulations surrounding fuel oil tanks vary depending on the region and the type of tank. In the UK, domestic heating oil storage is covered by The Building Regulations, which include seven requirements, two of which are designed to limit the risk of stored oil becoming a fire risk or a pollution risk to the environment. These rules are regulated by OFTEC, which provides guidance on the installation of oil storage tanks. While there is no mandatory requirement to upgrade an existing oil tank that doesn't meet these standards, it is against the law to allow stored oil to pollute the environment, and individuals may face criminal prosecution and fines if they fail to prevent a spill.
In Canada, the Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) has introduced regulations for the manufacture, installation, and operation of oil fuel systems. These regulations require licensing of installers and regular inspections of tanks. Additionally, the TSSA advises owners of fuel oil heating systems to have their systems inspected by qualified technicians and to register their underground fuel oil storage tanks.
In terms of insurance, oil tanks and spills are typically covered under home insurance policies, but the coverage may be limited. Home insurers usually cover the loss of metered oil due to theft or accident but may exclude coverage for wear and tear or gradual leaks. Clean-up costs for oil spills are often subject to specific conditions and may not be covered in all circumstances. To ensure adequate coverage, it is recommended to take out a specialist Oil Spill policy, which may require an annual inspection of the tank by an Oftec engineer and the implementation of any recommended works within a specified timeframe.
Some insurance carriers may impose age restrictions on fuel oil tanks, choosing not to provide coverage for tanks that have passed a prescribed age based on their own risk assessment criteria. However, there may also be insurance companies that provide coverage regardless of the tank's age. It is essential to review the specific requirements and exclusions of different insurance carriers to ensure compliance with their criteria.
In the case of agricultural oil storage, specific regulations such as the Control of Pollution (Silage, Slurry, and Agricultural Fuel Oil) Regulations of 1991 in the UK, or similar regulations in other regions, may apply. These regulations outline the required distance of the tank from water sources and flood-prone areas to mitigate the risk of oil spills. Additionally, underground storage tanks may be subject to different regulations, such as the Defra Groundwater Protection Code in the UK.
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Refill the tank
Refilling a fuel oil tank is a relatively straightforward process. The first step is to determine how much heating oil you need to order. This can be done by checking the gauge on your tank, which will indicate how much oil is left. As a general rule, you can expect to burn about three gallons of heating oil per day (or 100 gallons per month) during the winter months. If you have a 275-gallon storage tank, for example, you'll likely need to refill your tank at least once during the winter.
You can also use a yardstick to measure how much oil is left in your tank. Place the yardstick into the tank to the bottom and then remove it. You can then determine the amount of oil left by matching the measurement on the yardstick to a chart that corresponds to the size and style of your tank.
Once you know how much oil you need, you can place an order for heating oil online by entering your zip code on a site like FuelSnap. Refer to tank charts to determine how much heating oil to order. When ordering, you can choose to order a predetermined amount (such as 100 or 150 gallons) or request a 'fill', where the driver will pump oil until the tank is full.
After placing your order, a truck will arrive to deliver the oil. The driver will attach a hose to the fill pipe on your tank and begin pumping. As the oil enters the tank, air in the tank will escape through the vent pipe, causing a whistle or alarm to sound. The driver will listen for this sound to know when the tank is full. If you have ordered a predetermined amount, the driver will stop pumping once that amount has been delivered. However, they will still listen for the whistle to ensure the tank is not overfilled.
It is recommended to refill your oil tank before the start of the winter season, as demand is higher during this time, and prices may be higher. Additionally, keeping your tank full during the summer months can help prevent corrosion and keep your heating system healthy.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended to remove all oil from the tank before moving it. Use a pump and drums to remove the oil, and then move the tank.
You can either donate the oil to someone who can use it, transfer it to your new tank, or dispose of it.
You will need a pump, drums, and possibly a dolly or engine hoist to move the tank.
Yes, there are regulations regarding the specifications of the groundworks and the position of the tank relative to boundaries. If you are moving the tank to a new location, you may need to install a new base for it.
