Sylvie Willis
Underground fuel oil tanks have been used since the 1930s, and more than a million are still in use today. However, they pose a significant environmental hazard, and leaks can cause serious ecological damage and cost thousands of dollars to clean up. As such, it is important to be vigilant for signs of a leaking tank, such as increased fuel consumption, dying vegetation, and strange tastes or smells in water sources. If a leak is suspected, a professional should be contacted immediately. Removal of an underground fuel oil tank is a complex process that requires careful work and measurements and should only be performed by a certified professional.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Reasons for removal | Leaks, high heating bills, space taken up, selling the property, environmental hazards |
| When to remove | As soon as possible, especially if signs of a leak are detected. The older the tank, the more likely it is to leak. |
| Removal process | Close the tank, remove oil, clean the tank, dispose of the tank at a recycling/scrap metal facility, test the soil, remediate if necessary |
| Cost | $1,000 to $5,000 depending on size, condition, ease of access; EPA estimates $10,000 to over $1 million, with an average of $130,000 |
| Who to contact | Certified professional, with possible state supervision; contractors who can haul to approved hazardous waste sites |
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What You'll Learn
- Underground oil tank leaks can be expensive and hazardous
- Signs of a leaking tank include increased fuel consumption and changes in water taste/smell
- Removal should be done by a certified professional, following local codes and recommended practices
- Tanks must be emptied, cleaned, and purged of vapors before removal
- Tanks cannot be removed to standard waste stations and must be taken to approved hazardous waste sites
Underground oil tank leaks can be expensive and hazardous
Underground oil tanks can be a major source of environmental and health hazards, especially if they start to leak. Over time, the structural integrity of these tanks can deteriorate, leading to an increased risk of leaks. The longer a leak goes unnoticed, the more severe its consequences can be, resulting in costly repairs and environmental damage.
There are several factors that can contribute to the corrosion and eventual leakage of an underground oil tank. One of the primary causes is the chemical composition of the stored material, which can interact with the tank's structure and lead to corrosion. Additionally, factors such as moisture in the soil, corrosive byproducts within the tank, and the pH level of the surrounding soil can all accelerate corrosion and weakening of the tank.
Underground tanks are often made of steel or similar materials, which are susceptible to weakening over time. As the tank ages, it becomes more prone to cracking and leaking. Movement of the ground, due to construction, earthquakes, or even tree roots, can also put stress on the tank, leading to potential leaks. Inclement weather, such as heavy rain or snow, can create hydrostatic pressure that could cause a rupture in the tank walls.
The consequences of a leaking underground oil tank can be severe and far-reaching. Leaks can contaminate the surrounding soil, groundwater, and surface waters, impacting local ecosystems and water sources for communities. This contamination can lead to serious ecological damage and incur costs in the thousands, or even millions, of dollars for cleanup and remediation.
To prevent costly and hazardous leaks, it is crucial to regularly inspect and maintain underground oil tanks. Homeowners should be vigilant for subtle signs of leaks, such as increased fuel consumption, dying vegetation above the tank, an oily sheen on water, odours, or changes in water taste or smell. If a leak is suspected, contacting a professional inspector is essential to address the issue promptly and mitigate potential environmental and health risks.
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Signs of a leaking tank include increased fuel consumption and changes in water taste/smell
Underground oil tanks can be a major headache for homeowners. They are costly to maintain, inefficient, and pose a significant environmental hazard. The longer they remain in the ground, the more likely they are to leak. As such, it is important to know the signs of a leaking underground oil tank so that you can address the issue promptly.
One of the tell-tale signs of a leaking underground oil tank is an increase in fuel consumption, resulting in higher heating bills. If you notice a sudden spike in your heating costs and can rule out other causes, it may be time to call in a professional to inspect your tank for potential leaks. Even a small pin-sized hole can leak up to 400 gallons of fuel per year, leading to a substantial increase in your energy usage and costs.
Another sign of a leaking underground oil tank is the presence of an oily sheen on the surface of water sources, such as ponds, streams, or sump pumps. This occurs when the oil seeps into the groundwater, creating a slick coating across the water. This type of contamination is extremely dangerous and should be addressed immediately. If left unresolved, it can cause serious environmental damage and affect neighbouring properties.
Changes in water taste and smell can also indicate a leaking underground oil tank. If you are on well water and the leak reaches it, you may detect a difference in the taste, smell, or even the colour of your water. This is a sure sign that your oil tank is leaking and needs to be removed.
In addition to these signs, you may also notice dying vegetation or plants in the area above the underground oil tank. This is because the leaked oil can contaminate the soil, killing the surrounding vegetation. A strong, pungent smell similar to diesel fuel or heating oil around your home is another indicator of a leaking tank. These volatile compounds can evaporate and create a vapour with its own distinct odour, which can cause headaches, nausea, and other health issues if inhaled over an extended period.
If you suspect a leak, it is crucial to contact a licensed and reputable company specialising in underground oil tank removal. They will have the expertise to properly assess the situation and perform the necessary soil sampling and remediation, if required. Removing an underground oil tank is a complex process that requires careful work and measurements. It is essential to choose a company that employs highly trained professionals who can ensure the job is done correctly and safely.
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Removal should be done by a certified professional, following local codes and recommended practices
Underground oil tanks have been used since the 1930s, and more than a million still lie underground today. While there is no regulation requiring the removal of underground oil tanks, they will eventually corrode and leak, causing serious environmental damage and costing thousands of dollars to fix. Therefore, it is wise to remove them if they are not in use.
The removal of an underground oil tank should be done by a certified professional, following local codes and recommended practices. This is because the removal process is complex and requires careful work and measurements to be done correctly. Before anything can be done about the tank itself, it must be closed completely and taken out of service. This involves removing any remaining oil from the tank and connected pipelines. The oil can then be filtered and reused. The tank is then thoroughly cleaned to ensure no harmful vapors are left behind.
Once the tank is removed, a certified laboratory will analyze soil samples to determine if any contamination has occurred. If the soil is contaminated, remediation will be required. The tank will be hauled away to an approved hazardous waste site for treatment and eventual sale as scrap metal.
It is important to hire a qualified contractor to ensure the job is done correctly the first time. Costs for UST removal can vary depending on the degree of contamination and local cleanup standards, ranging from $10,000 to over $1 million. When choosing a contractor, it is a good idea to get multiple quotes and opinions to ensure you are getting the best service.
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Tanks must be emptied, cleaned, and purged of vapors before removal
Underground oil tanks, often used for heating residential properties, pose a significant environmental hazard and must be removed by a certified professional. The longer they remain buried, the more likely they are to leak, causing serious problems for homeowners and the environment.
Before removing an underground oil tank, it is crucial to ensure that it is properly emptied, cleaned, and purged of vapors. This process must be carried out in accordance with accepted industry procedures and applicable regulations to protect human health, safety, and the environment. Even after draining the tank, some stored material may remain on the tank's walls or floor, and vapors from the contents may still be present. Therefore, it is essential to inspect and test the tank to ensure no flammable or toxic materials are left before beginning any work.
The cleaning process itself presents safety challenges due to the potential presence of flammable vapors and the confined space within the tank. Workers must be specially trained and equipped with the correct personal protective equipment (PPE) for the task and the materials stored in the tank. Gas and oxygen detectors, as well as specialized safety equipment such as harnesses, may be necessary to ensure worker safety.
Additionally, before removing the tank from the ground, all connected piping and ancillary equipment must be emptied, disconnected, and properly capped or removed. This comprehensive preparation ensures that the underground oil tank is ready for safe removal by qualified professionals.
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Tanks cannot be removed to standard waste stations and must be taken to approved hazardous waste sites
Underground fuel oil tanks or USTs (underground storage tanks) are a common feature in houses built between the 1930s and 1980s. They are often found in basements, taking up valuable space, and are considered an eyesore. However, the real concern with these tanks is the potential environmental hazard they pose. Underground fuel oil tanks are susceptible to leaks, especially as they age, which can cause serious ecological damage and cost homeowners thousands of dollars in cleanup costs. Therefore, it is crucial to be vigilant in monitoring these tanks and addressing any signs of leakage promptly.
The removal of underground fuel oil tanks is a complex process that must be handled by certified professionals, and in some cases, under the direct supervision of the state. This is because, even when emptied, these tanks remain contaminated and pose a significant risk to the environment. As a result, they cannot be disposed of at standard waste stations. Instead, qualified contractors are responsible for transporting the old tanks to approved hazardous waste sites, where they undergo specialised treatment.
The process of removing and disposing of underground fuel oil tanks is highly regulated due to the potential risks involved. Homeowners should be aware of these regulations and ensure that the removal is carried out safely and responsibly. The cost of removing and disposing of an underground fuel oil tank can vary significantly, depending on factors such as the degree of contamination and local cleanup standards. According to the EPA, the average cost of UST removal is estimated to be around $130,000, but the price range can span from $10,000 to over $1 million.
To initiate the removal process, homeowners should contact a reputable firm specialising in fuel oil tank removal, such as Environmental Works in Portland, OR. It is crucial to hire a qualified contractor who is permitted to work in your area and carries pollution liability insurance. The local fire department can often provide recommendations for qualified contractors and may also be involved in issuing permits for the removal work. Once the tank is removed, a disposal ticket will serve as proof that the process was handled correctly.
It is worth noting that some companies may offer additional services, such as cleaning the tank before disposal. However, regardless of how thoroughly the tank is cleaned, it is still considered contaminated and must be handled as hazardous waste. Therefore, it is imperative to prioritise hiring a qualified contractor who will adhere to the proper disposal protocols for underground fuel oil tanks.
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Frequently asked questions
Some signs to watch out for are an increase in fuel consumption, dying vegetation in the area of the tank, a strange taste, odour or colour in your water supply, and an oily sheen on the water near the tank. If you notice any of these signs, call an expert right away.
Contact a professional as soon as possible. The longer a leaking underground storage tank remains buried, the more likely it is that the leaks will become worse and more expensive.
First, the tank must be closed completely and taken out of service. This includes removing any remaining oil, oil from connected pipelines, and thoroughly cleaning the tank. Then, the tank will be removed according to local codes and recommendations from the American Petroleum Institute. After removal, a contractor will take soil samples to test for contamination. If the soil is contaminated, remediation will be required. Finally, the hole will be filled in with new grass and foliage.
The cost of removing an underground fuel oil tank can vary depending on several factors such as the size of the tank, its condition, and how easily it can be accessed. The EPA estimates that UST removal can range from $10,000 to over $1 million, with an average cost of $130,000. However, some sources state that removal can cost between $1,000 to $5,000.
