If you’re a DIY homeowner, you may wonder if you can save money by installing your own heating oil tank. While it’s possible to handle the installation yourself, in most cases, this is a project for a service professional. Many states and municipalities have specific regulations for home heating oil tanks that you’ll need to be sure to follow, and an incorrectly installed tank can become a hazard. Find out more about the oil tank installation and removal process in this post from Care Environmental Remediation Services in Northern New Jersey.
Tank Installation Process
If you’re looking to change your home’s heating source, or you want to replace an existing oil tank, you can purchase a tank for home use and install it yourself. Some factors you may want to consider:
- Location: Do you want to store your tank indoors, or outdoors?
- Size: How much heating oil does your home’s tank need to hold?
- Code compliance: What are the rules for home heating oil tanks as stipulated in state or local building codes?
- Safety equipment: Do you know how to install an oil gauge or a vent alarm on the tank?
If you’re not sure of the answers to the above questions or aren’t feeling 100 percent confident in your abilities, contact a licensed professional to handle the installation.
Removing Your Existing Heating Oil Tank
If you are replacing an existing heating oil tank with a new one, the old tank will need to be removed. It’s best to leave this step to a professional – if any oil spills during the removal process, you could be looking at a costly cleanup project. Plus, it’s important to realize that removing the old tank may not be the best option.
Sometimes, a home heating oil tank can be abandoned in place, meaning that the tank is completely drained, decommissioned, and sealed up – but it is left on the site. This can be a more cost-effective option than removing the tank altogether. Our qualified remediation professionals can help you weigh the costs and benefits of removal versus abandonment in place.
If your existing tank is under warranty, or your homeowner’s insurance covers the tank, be sure to review the fine print carefully. You may be able to get financial assistance with decommissioning and replacing your tank.
State Regulations for Home Heating Oil Tanks
If you are removing an existing heating oil tank from your property, make sure you check with your state’s environmental protection agency. In New Jersey, homeowners must work with an environmental services provider that holds a Department of Environmental Protection Underground Storage Tank (UST) Certification in Tank Closure. This certified professional will close the tank system in compliance with state regulations, and they’ll sample the surrounding soil and groundwater to check if the tank has leaked. If oil has seeped out, the homeowner will need to pay for site remediation to treat and remove any contaminated soil.
Learn More From a Licensed Professional
When it comes to keeping your home safe, don’t leave anything to chance. Oil tank installation and removal can be a complicated process. Care Environmental Remediation Services can safely remove or abandon your home heating oil tank and check your property for any possible contamination. Our team of remediation experts has successfully closed more than 1,600 underground storage tanks in Northern New Jersey and the surrounding area. We’ll make sure your property is free of contamination and that you’re in compliance with all state and local environmental regulations. For more information or to schedule a free consultation, contact us today.
