-Underground storage tanks are used to store heating oil and other oils and gases
-Size of tanks vary from 38"x60" holding 300 gallons up to 126"x46'6 holding up to 30,000 gallons
-Typical life expectancy of tank is 10 to 15 years, after this point corrosion is inevitable
-The number of leaks discovered has grown dramatically in recent years
-Abandoned oil tank is any home heating oil tank no longer in use, disconnected from a frunace and is not actively used
-Majority of abandoned oil tanks are left with an average of 130 gallons of oil
-Negatively affecting drinking water supply due to groundwater contamination
-Abandoned tanks are left full many times and will eventually collapse, completely contaminating the soil
-May cause fire and explosion hazard under certain conditions where connection lines are worn out
-As new technology refines/changes fuel content, tanks mus be able to adapt
-Leaks that contaminate soil are expensive to clean up
-When buying a home, check for abandoned tanks before purchase
Links providing further information:
--Cascade Tank Control, specializes in decommissioning and/or removal of residential underground heating oil tanks, soil testing, and site clean-up.
-Abandoned tank on property reduces property value because removal is expensive
-Can cause liability for damages to adjacent property
-Creates complications in sale of homes
-Use a reliable contractor when installing a new tank or removing an old one
-Tesk tanks frequently for leaks
-Replace tank before there is a doubt of a problem, will be cheaper in the long run
--Heating oil tanks and the environment
--Independant testing organization that will evaluate leak detection equipment for USTs
--Environmental remediation specialist, firm providing clients with years of experience
--Storage tank removal company
--Tank sales company
--The Environmental Protection Agency's site discussing the economy and the environment
