Underground oil tanks were once a common choice for storing heating oil in residential and commercial properties. However, they can pose significant environmental risks as they age and deteriorate. If you own property with an underground oil tank, it’s crucial to manage and remove it properly to avoid potential hazards such as soil contamination and groundwater pollution. This guide provides essential steps to safely manage and remove underground oil tanks while explaining how professionals like Simple Tank Services can assist in the process.
Understanding the Risks of Underground Oil Tanks
Over time, underground oil tanks can corrode and leak, leading to serious environmental and financial problems. When leaks occur, hazardous materials seep into the surrounding soil, potentially contaminating local water supplies and harming ecosystems. Additionally, leaking tanks can result in costly cleanup efforts and legal liabilities for property owners.
Even if the tank is not actively leaking, old and unused underground oil tanks are ticking time bombs. They pose risks to the property’s future value and can complicate any potential sale or transfer. Therefore, it is crucial to proactively address the presence of underground oil tanks.
Signs That Your Underground Oil Tank May Be Leaking
Detecting a leaking underground oil tank early can significantly reduce potential damage. Here are some signs to watch for:
Unexplained increase in heating oil usage
Dead vegetation or soil discoloration near the tank area
Oil sheen on nearby water sources or surface puddles
Unusual odors in the yard or basement
If you notice any of these indicators, it’s important to contact a professional oil tank removal service, such as Simple Tank Services, to assess the situation.
Steps to Managing Underground Oil Tanks
Inspection and Testing:
If you suspect the presence of an underground oil tank or if you know you have one, it’s essential to have it inspected regularly. Simple Tank Services can perform tank inspections and precision testing to determine if the tank is still structurally sound or if it poses a risk of leakage.
Monitoring:
For property owners still using underground oil tanks, regular monitoring is critical. This involves checking oil levels and watching for any signs of malfunction. Professional monitoring systems can be installed to provide real-time alerts if a leak or issue arises.
Planning for Removal:
Removing underground oil tanks is often the best long-term solution. Whether the tank is still in use or has been decommissioned, planning for its removal is essential to prevent future problems. Tank removal involves a series of steps, including excavation, proper disposal of any remaining oil, and the safe removal of the tank itself.
The Process of Underground Oil Tank Removal
Permitting and Preparation:
Before any work begins, your local government may require permits for tank removal. A qualified service like Simple Tank Services will handle all permitting and site preparation, ensuring that the process complies with local regulations.
Excavation and Removal:
The tank is carefully excavated from the ground, and any residual oil is safely removed. After excavation, the tank is cleaned and transported to a licensed facility for proper disposal.
Soil Testing and Remediation:
Once the tank is removed, soil testing is conducted to check for contamination. If contamination is found, additional remediation efforts are required to clean the affected soil and prevent environmental damage.
Take Action to Safely Manage Underground Oil Tanks
If your property contains an underground oil tank, it’s important to take action. Whether through regular monitoring or professional removal, managing the situation today will help you avoid potential hazards in the future. With the expertise of Simple Tank Services, you can ensure the process is handled safely, efficiently, and with minimal disruption.