Removing Heating Oil Tank from Basement in 2023
For most homeowners, removing your heating oil tank from your basement can be a tricky and challenging process. Why? Because, as is so often the case, our heating oil tanks are buried underground. Leaks are a real danger, and cleanup from these leaks can be quite costly. Here is some info about properly removing your heating oil tank from your basement:
- Cost. The cost of removing your heating oil tank can vary, but generally speaking, most contractors charge between $1000 and $5000 for removal. This will depend on how easy or difficult the removal is, how big the tank is, its current state, as well as location and other factors. This estimate may or may not include sampling and testing, cleanup work in the event of a leak, or other extras. It’s always best to receive a personalized estimate from your contractor before the removal process begins.
- Reasons for removal. So, how do you know that you should remove your heating oil tank in the first place? Here’s the thing: NO tanks were designed to be buried; this will absolutely cause a significant amount of rust, and possibly will contribute to leaks. Particularly if you notice an increase in your home heating oil consumption, this is likely indicative of a leak — and you should consider removing your heating oil tank right away.
- Leaks. It’s important to know whether or not your tank has begun to leak. Here are some signs to look for: strong odors, stains around your tank, or visible holes in your tank. If you suspect that your tank is leaking, it’s time to get in touch with an HVAC expert.
Steps to Safely Remove Heating Oil Tank From Basement
Step 1: Pump Out The Old Oil
To begin, remove the gauge and pump the oil out of your tank. This is the first and most important step in the process of removal since oil can cause a significant amount of environmental damage if left unchecked.
Step 2: Properly Dispose Of The Oil
Next, you’ll need to properly dispose of the old oil. Many contractors will take care of this for you — but if you’re feeling up to it, you can always do it yourself. The important thing is to ensure that the oil does not end up in landfills or groundwater sources.
Step 3: Handle The Sludge
Sludge is formed in oil tanks when water vapor condenses and deposits itself on the interior walls of the tank, creating rust particles. This sludge can be a bit tricky to handle, so it’s important to consult with an expert in this area before proceeding. Experts usually handle it by cutting a hole on the side of the tank and scrapping off sediment through the opening.
Step 4: Cut The Vent And Fill The Pipes
Once you’ve handled the oil and sludge, the next step is to cut the vent and fill the pipes in to prevent soil contamination. This step is important since it ensures that there is no spill if oil is sent down in error.
Step 5: Remove The Tank
Finally, you’re ready to remove your tank. This can be done by hand or with a crane. Once your tank is removed, you can dispose of it properly. It can be sent to a steel mill where it can be recycled and reused. Removing your heating oil tank from your basement is no small undertaking, and should be done with plenty of care and preparation. With the right info and help, you can ensure that your oil tank removal goes off without a hitch – leaving you with peace of mind and a clean basement. Remember, the safety of you and your family should always come first – so don’t hesitate to look for professional help when needed.
Contact Robert B. Payne, Inc. Today
Do you have further questions about removing a heating oil tank from your basement? If so, it’s time to contact Robert B. Payne, Inc. today at 540-373-5876. Here at Robert B. Payne, Inc., we’re happy to help answer your questions and offer our assistance. We pride ourselves on providing affordable, top-quality HVAC services.