Underground oil tanks have been a part of our homes and commercial establishments for a long time. However, with changes in technology, heating systems continue to evolve. Now, outdated heating methods like underground oil tank and gas furnace are getting replaced with more efficient systems.
Initially, underground heating oil tanks were thought to be a cost-effective, appealing, and viable technology for homes and buildings. With time, we now know that underground oil tanks pose a threat to the environment. When underground oil tanks leak, they contaminate the soil, foliage, and surrounding water bodies. The worst part about confidential oil tank leakage is that it often goes undetected until some major catastrophe doesn’t happen.
If your commercial property has an underground oil tank, it’s best to call a professional API tank inspection team and remove the oil tank.
Why should underground oil tanks be removed?
Whether you have an underground oil tank or above ground oil tank on your property, you must look after the tanks’ upkeep and maintenance. Underground heating oil tanks have become obsolete and archaic. Besides this, they are dangerous for the environment as well. A leakage in the oil tank can contaminate local flora and fauna and pose a threat to humans. Since it’s hard to detect leakage of oil in underground fuel tanks at the initial stage, one must be vigilant of any possible contamination or spillage. Most often, oil leakages or damage to the oil tanks become apparent only when they have gone out of hand. In such a condition, the owner may have to shell out a lot of money for oil tank removal, soil remediation, and environmental cleanups.
If you consider discarding an old or outdated underground oil tank on your property, you must consult API inspection companies.
Having said that, some telltale signs can help you determine whether the underground oil tank has contaminated or not.
Signs of leaking underground oil tanks
#1 The ground above the underground oil tank has turned brown.
When oil leaks into the soil, it started to damage the foliage. If you notice a patch of land turning brown despite too much care, it could be due to leakage in the oil tank. Besides dying flora, the gassy smell is another way to determine oil tank spillage. If you experience gassy odor coming from underneath the ground, you must call oil tank removal experts for professional assistance. Being the oil tank owner, you must take all necessary steps to prevent the oil spill from turning disastrous for the environment and humans.
#2 Problem with the water.
If corroded oil tanks are not removed in time, leaked oil from the tank can seep into the surrounding water bodies and contaminate it. It can disrupt the water supply as well. If the water has a funky odor or funny taste, report the problem and get your property checked for any leaking underground oil tank.
