FAQs

BURIED OIL TANK ANSWERS

Q: How long will my underground oil tank last?

An in-ground tank should last more than twenty years, but like most things, the tank’s life span is a function of its construction (galvanized steel, anodized steel, fiberglass, etc.), soil conditions surrounding it (wet or well drained) and, particularly with steel tanks, home owner maintenance (use of fuel conditioners and water dispersants).

Q: How do I know if my underground oil tank is leaking?

There are several signs that your buried oil tank may be compromised including, but not limited to:

  • Plant life in the vicinity of the tank is dying
  • Your oil consumption seems to be increasing despite your best efforts to conserve
  • Telltale oil-slick sheen (like a rainbow) is visible on puddled water near your inground oil tank.
  • You can detect the odor of fuel oil in the yard or even in the house.

However, a damaged inground oil tank may remain undetected until it is actually removed and both it and the ground surrounding it are closely inspected.

Q: There’s a tank in the ground, but it’s not been used for years. Can I just leave it?

Typically, leaving a tank in place will be allowed only if its removal will jeopardize the structural integrity of your existing foundation, walkways, landscaping, etc. If you choose to leave your tank in place, decommissioning will be required.

When proximity to structures precludes complete excavation of contaminated soils, a passive venting system is installed.

Q: Can I install a NEW in-ground tank?

Yes. But with over fill protection, monitoring wells, cathodic protection, and the like, today’s codes make it more costly than above ground or basement installation. The benefit is larger fuel deliveries at reduced price. Cons are if you were to sell your home even though the new tank has a 30 year manufacturer’s warranty, the buyer’s bank may still require this new tank to be removed.

Q: What happens to the stuff you haul away?

The residual oil & sludge are reprocessed and recycled. The steel tank is cleaned and hauled to an appropriately licensed scrap metal processor. The soil, depending upon the level of contamination, is either trucked to a HAZMAT-certified incinerator (higher contamination levels) or to a landfill licensed to accept lower level oil-contaminated soil.

Q: What’s it going to cost, how long will it take, and when can you start?

We are pleased that you’ve taken the time to visit our website and welcome the opportunity to propose a Martin Tank Removal solution to your in ground oil tank problem. Just call (860) 872-8939. If we’re helping another client at the time you call, just leave a message and we’ll get right back to you. That’s our IMMEDIATE RESPONSE guarantee.