By Barbara Lehrer
Real Talk
Barbara Lehrer
If you have oil to fuel your heating system, it is imperative that you check the oil tank.
Whether inground or above ground, the tank will eventually need to be replaced. A tank in your basement is easy to see. If there is any rust on it, then bring in an oil company to review its condition. Tanks decay from the inside out, so if you see evidence on the outside, then the inside is in a serious state of needing replacement.
An inground oil tank is more complicated because it cannot be seen. Homeowner’s insurance is noticeably an issue when a buyer is researching their purchase with this situation. The lender may or may not have an issue with the tank, as many buyers assume. The tank’s location is always documented on the property disclosures and the bank appraiser will most likely address it if it is more than 25 years old, or even if it is newer. Most insurance companies will deny coverage; therefore a buyer cannot get a mortgage on the property. Contamination in the ground can affect wells in the area, as an example. Cost for remediation can be very high, as all the contaminated dirt would also have to be replaced.
Instead of checking the inground tanks, we remove them, completing the process by testing samples of the dirt under the removed tank. If you are currently still using that inground tank, stop ordering oil for it and get a new one installed in your basement. If your home is on slab, a tank can be placed outside the building.
After you convert your fuel to the new tank, order the inground tank to be removed. Each town has its own process of sending a fire marshal representative to oversee the actual dig. Proper disposal of the metal or fiberglass tank is then the final cost, along with filling in the hole properly.
Even if your inground tank is not being used, it still needs to come out, as it may be leaking what was left when you decided to abandon it. Abandonment is only done under strict conditions, such as if it is located where it will cause major damage, like under a patio or a driveway.
If you have converted to natural gas, you still should take your tank away, as any moisture in it can result in decay. This process of checking your tank’s condition is similar to all the other mechanics in your home. Well tanks can get corroded too, as well as electric panel boxes that get a drop of water inside them.
The oil tank can be a huge environmental expense if left uncared for. Keep your tank at least half full at all times. If it gets too low it can stir up bottom sludge or moisture, which can affect your furnace system. Have your oil company review the bottom of the tank and all the extensions, such as the filler and the filter.
Enjoy the winter; New England is the best.
If you need more information on these issues, email Barbara.Lehrer@cbmoves.com.