Oil Tanks

Oil Tanks in Westchester and Putnam Counties

Safe Oil Tank Removal, Repair, and Replacement Services for Home and Businesses

We are experts in below-ground or above-ground fuel oil tank issues, including township laws and codes across Westchester and Putnam counties.

When is the last time you had your heating oil storage tank inspected? If the answer is “I don’t know” – and especially if your tank is below ground – we suggest that you continue reading.

What is an Oil Tank?

An oil tank is a container used for storing various types of oil, such as crude oil, fuel oil, or lubricating oil. These tanks come in various sizes, shapes, and materials, designed to hold oil safely and securely. They are crucial for industries involving oil production, transportation, and storage.

Here are some common types of oil tanks:

  • Above-Ground Storage Tanks (ASTs): These are typically large tanks situated above the ground. ASTs can be made of different materials like steel, fiberglass, or even plastic. They're commonly used for storing oil in industries and residential areas due to their accessibility for maintenance.
  • Underground Storage Tanks (USTs): As the name suggests, these tanks are buried underground and are used for storing oil in a concealed manner. USTs are commonly made of coated steel, fiberglass, or even composite materials to prevent corrosion and leakage.
  • Fixed Roof Tanks: These tanks have a fixed, non-removable roof and are usually used for long-term storage of oil. They're cost-effective and come in various sizes for different storage needs.
  • Floating Roof Tanks: These tanks have a floating roof that moves up or down depending on the oil level. They minimize the vapor space above the oil, reducing the risk of ignition. They are commonly used in oil refineries.
  • Open Top Tanks: These tanks are similar to fixed roof tanks but have an open top, often covered with a floating roof or a geodesic dome to prevent contamination and evaporation.
  • Pressure Tanks: These tanks are designed to withstand high pressures and are used for storing oils or liquids that require a specific pressure for storage or transportation, such as liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) or compressed natural gas (CNG).
  • Double-Walled Tanks: These tanks have an additional layer or wall for added protection against leaks or spills. They are commonly used for storing hazardous materials or in areas where environmental protection is a concern.

Oil tanks vary in size, design, and functionality, and their selection depends on factors like the type of oil being stored, storage capacity needed, location, and regulatory requirements.

Common Types of Oil Tank Issues

Oil tanks can encounter several issues that affect their functionality, safety, and environmental impact:

  • Corrosion: Tanks made of metal, especially steel, are susceptible to corrosion caused by contact with the stored oil, moisture, or environmental factors. Corrosion weakens the tank walls, leading to leaks and structural instability.
  • Leaks and Spills: Corrosion, physical damage, or inadequate maintenance can result in leaks or spills, posing environmental risks, contaminating soil, and potentially polluting water sources. Spills can occur during transport, refilling, or due to aging tanks.
  • Cracking or Structural Integrity Issues: Tanks can develop cracks or structural weaknesses over time due to material fatigue, improper installation, or external damage. This compromises their integrity, risking leaks or catastrophic failure.
  • Overfilling or Overpressure: Filling the tank beyond its capacity or exposing it to excessive pressure can cause overflow, leaks, or damage to the tank. This can happen due to equipment malfunction, human error, or inadequate monitoring.
  • Equipment Malfunctions: Faulty valves, gauges, fittings, or vents can lead to equipment malfunctions, resulting in leaks, inaccurate measurements, or other operational problems, impacting the tank's efficiency and safety.
  • Environmental Impact: Oil leaks or spills can severely impact the environment, contaminating soil, groundwater, and surface water. This can harm ecosystems, wildlife, and human health, requiring extensive cleanup efforts.
  • Regulatory Compliance Issues: Failure to comply with regulations regarding tank installation, maintenance, or disposal can result in legal repercussions, fines, or penalties.

Regular inspections, proper maintenance, adherence to safety standards, and prompt repairs or replacements are crucial for preventing these issues. Monitoring tanks for signs of wear, corrosion, or damage is essential to ensure safe and efficient oil storage while minimizing environmental risks. Additionally, implementing secondary containment systems and modernizing older tanks can help mitigate potential problems.

Why You Should Test Your Oil Tank

If you have a decades-old tank (especially if it’s an underground tank), you really need to understand how well the tank’s walls are holding up to the ravages of time and exposure of oil to the tank’s surfaces. No one can give you a precise date for when a tank might fail, but having it tested and inspected can make you aware of imminent wear and contamination risks. Robison will refer you to a trusted vendor for oil tank testing. If removal and replacement is required Robison’s equipment team will work with you to get rid of the old and install the new!

You will certainly need our testing if you want to:

  • Avoid the hazard and expense of an oil spill
  • Apply for tank insurance
  • Plan to buy or sell an oil-fueled home
  • Ensure you meet current township laws and codes

Why You Need Robison for Oil Tank Removal or Repair

Perhaps we will find that your aging tank’s walls, oil lines, fill or vent pipes have rotted. Or that dirty sediment has built up over 20-30 years. To avoid hugely expensive spill reparations, unfortunate impediments to selling your home, or untimely interruption of your heating services, you will want us to either remove or repair the tank at once. Our experts can help you with all facets of your project. Removal of an impaired oil tank is always the preferred choice. Below-ground oil tank removal will require our use of a backhoe and includes backfill material and the return of the disturbed area to rough grade. We will include permit purchases in our proposal. While we don’t recommend it (for re-sale purposes, among other reasons), we can cut and clean the tank, with sediment drummed for disposal. We then fill the tank with sand, concrete, or foam (depending upon local code requirements).

How to Buy a Replacement Tank

We can help you understand all available options for your residential or commercial oil tank needs, including inventory, location, and above- vs. below-ground models. You can buy the right tank from us at a fair price, and our expert professionals will install it safely and according to all local and New York State laws. The price of tank installation will include pumping over any usable oil from the old tank to the new tank. Our technicians will determine the amount of usable oil during installation. Excess oil or any sludge will require us to use a vacuum truck to properly remove and dispose of it properly.

Handling Fuel Tank Contamination

Should we detect contamination, we are required by law to contact the Department of Environmental Conservation (D.E.C). The cost of any remediation with the D.E.C. is between the owner and the Department and is completely unrelated to Robison.

Signing Up for Oil Tank Insurance

The Pro Guard Program protects you against the costs associated with an oil tank leak. A recent tank test and completed application are required. Ask your Robison representative for more information. To schedule any oil tank services for your home or business, please contact us today by calling (914) 345-5700. Robison serves Elmsford, Greenburgh, Mount Pleasant, Mount Vernon, New Rochelle, White Plains, Yonkers, and surrounding towns in Westchester and Putnam counties, NY.

For more information on the Pro Guard Program or to enroll, please click here.

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