An underground oil tank may appear to be a hidden issue to many homeowners because it is placed underground and out of view. However, these tanks provide serious hazards to the environment and your property if they are not inspected. It’s crucial to comprehend the possible risks associated with an abandoned or neglected subterranean oil tank, whether you’re selling your house or moving to a new one. We’ll discuss the dangers of leaving underground oil tanks unattended in this blog, along with safe removal techniques to save your house, your health, and the environment.
An underground oil tank: what is it?
An underground oil tank is a subterranean container that is usually used to hold heating oil for home heating systems. Although many of these tanks have been replaced or decommissioned over time, some may still exist and be forgotten. These tanks were typical in residences constructed prior to the 1980s. These tanks may deteriorate with age, posing major hazards.
The Dangers of Environmental Contamination from Unattended Underground Oil Tanks
The danger of environmental pollution is the main issue with outdated, underutilized oil tanks. Heating oil can seep into the surrounding soil as a result of oil tanks rusting, corroding, or developing leaks over time. This poses a major risk to public health since it not only contaminates the soil but also has the ability to seep into neighbouring groundwater and reach water supplies. It is crucial to address this issue before it worsens because cleaning up oil spills and contaminated locations can be expensive and challenging.
Health hazards
The chemicals in heating oil are dangerous to humans and animals. When an underground oil spill occurs, toxins can leach into the air, soil and water, causing respiratory problems, skin irritation and other health problems for those living nearby Prolonged exposure to pollution can cause cancer and other serious diseases. Making sure water goes into the tank and is properly disposed of helps protect your health and the health of the community.
Property values decline
Unused underground oil tanks can significantly reduce the value of your property. Potential buyers may be concerned about costs and environmental liabilities associated with tank removal and pollution cleanup. Also, not removing the tank can be contentious during a home inspection or sale. Intentionally removing the tank can preserve your property value and prevent future problems.
Structural damage to your property
When an underground oil reservoir leaks or ruptures, the oil can spill into the surrounding soil, potentially damaging your foundation, soil, and ecosystem as the oil seeps into the soil , causing the foundation to weaken and damage the surrounding soil. In addition, underground storage tanks can pose a risk of flooding, especially if there is heavy rain or snow, causing serious damage to your property.
Legal and insurance issues
Many states have laws and regulations governing the safe and proper disposal of oil underground. If the tank leaks and causes environmental damage, you could be held liable for cleanup, which could result in hefty fines or lawsuits. In addition, some insurance companies do not cover underground oil damage, leaving you in financial trouble in the event of an oil spill or leak.
How to safely drain an underground oil pipeline
Draining water from an underground oil tank is a major task that must be handled by professionals. Here is an overview of safe disposal methods.
Research and analysis
The first step is to have the tank inspected properly. The certified contractor will inspect the condition of the tank and surrounding soil for signs of leaks or contamination. If the tank was already leaking, an environmental assessment may be necessary to determine the extent of contamination.
Permits and regulations
In many places, you will need a permit to remove oil from underground. A licensed operator will be familiar with local laws and regulations, ensuring that the disposal process meets all necessary requirements. Failure to obtain proper permits can result in costs and delays in the process.
Drain the tank and clean it
Residual oil should be wiped off before draining the tank. This is an important step to prevent expansion during removal. The oil will be thoroughly drained and the flask cleaned to ensure that no harmful substances are present.
Mining and Extraction
Once the tank is emptied and rinsed, drilling begins. The tank shall be thoroughly emptied and the surrounding soil inspected for contamination. If contamination is detected, the soil should be removed and treated. The tank will then be disposed of safely in accordance with environmental standards.
A Prosperous Land
If the soil around the tank is contaminated with oil, a treatment may be necessary. This may include cleaning or amending contaminated soil, or in extreme cases using specialized methods such as bioremediation or excavation. This process ensures that your property is returned to a safe and healthy condition.
Testing after extraction
Once the tank and contaminated soil have been removed, additional soil and groundwater tests are conducted to ensure that the environmental risk is not prolonged and further remediation will be required if contamination is found.
Why work now
The risks of untapped underground oil spills are real, but they can be addressed immediately. By removing the tank as soon as possible, you avoid environmental damage, protect your property value, and eliminate health or legal risks. The longer you wait, the higher the risks, and once contamination occurs, it can be that much harder to deal with.
At Simple Tank Services, we specialize in the safe and effective removal of underground oil tanks. Our experienced team follows the necessary procedures to ensure that removal work is completed quickly, safely and in compliance with all local regulations. We will help you protect your home and surroundings with reliable professionals and services.
If you think you have an underground oil tank or need to plan an evacuation, don’t wait. Contact us today to start ensuring your property protection and peace of mind.