Home Heating Oil Groton CT is one of the most efficient and reliable ways to keep the inside of your home warm and comfortable. It’s not without its share of controversy, however. When a home oil tank fails, it can cause many environmental issues, and limited oil supplies do not help the home heating oil industry’s perception. Like commercial nuclear power, heating oil tanks are completely safe as long as precautions are taken.
Heating Oil Tanks for the Home
Home Heating Oil Groton CT tanks have caught a lot of flak over time, but not all of it is justified. Older steel tanks are vulnerable to rust, deterioration and other failures. Steel tanks rust outwardly, and can fail with little to no warning. A licensed inspector can determine your tank’s risk of failure. If your home’s heating oil tank fails, the cleanup cost can far exceed the value of your property. If you have homeowner’s insurance, be sure to read the fine print to check for exclusions. Some policies have a disclaimer excluding coverage for pollution, meaning that cleanup is your responsibility.
New tanks such as those available from Andersen Oil Co. are made of thicker steel, double-strength polyethylene materials or fiberglass. These new materials reduce the risk of rust and failure. If your home’s heating oil tank is older and made of steel, you should check your homeowner’s insurance policy (preferably under the advice of an attorney), and have it inspected regularly. In some locations, you may have to have the tank inspected at predetermined intervals. Damp locations, poor maintenance or structural compromise will reduce your tank’s useful life span.
Removal of Old Oil Tanks
Depending on your local laws, you may be able to remove your old tank yourself, but you may be required to hire a pro. Proper tank removal includes pumping the pipes and the tank, cleaning them, and taking the excavated parts to a landfill or salvage yard. After removal, you must pay for a site assessment to determine proper removal. Underground tanks are sometimes filled and sealed, but this is only done when removal of the tank compromises the structural integrity of nearby buildings.
