Detection of Oil Tank Leaks - Angola Transparency

Early detection of an oil tank leak is crucial to minimize potential hazards and environmental impact. Several signs can indicate a leak, including:

Key Facts

Detection of the leak: It is crucial to detect the leak as early as possible. Signs of an oil tank leak include a strong oil smell, oil stains on the floor or ground near the tank, contaminated well or water supply, and increased fuel consumption.
Indoor oil tank leak: If the leak is detected indoors, immediate action should be taken. Notify the fire department, ventilate the area by opening windows and using fans, close off the area to prevent access, and consider moving your family to a safe location if the leak is large. Contact an oil cleanup contractor and your insurance company for assistance.
Outdoor oil tank leak: Outdoor leaks pose a greater challenge as they can go undetected for a long time. If you suspect an outdoor oil tank leak, it is recommended to take a soil sample and contact a state-certified tank removal contractor. The tank will need to be removed, and the extent of the oil leak and potential contamination of the water table will be assessed. Contact your insurance company for coverage and follow the necessary cleanup procedures.
Cost of repair: Repairing an outdoor oil tank leak can be expensive, with costs potentially reaching up to $15,000 depending on various factors. It is important to consult with multiple contractors to get the best price and consider insurance coverage.

Strong oil smell
Oil stains on the floor or ground near the tank
Contaminated well or water supply
Increased fuel consumption

Indoor Oil Tank Leaks

If an oil tank leak is detected indoors, immediate action is necessary:

Notify the fire department: Oil is combustible, and the fire department should be informed to assess the potential fire risk.
Ventilate the area: Open windows and use fans to circulate air and remove any oil vapors.
Close off the area: Restrict access to the affected area to prevent further exposure.
Consider moving your family: If the leak is substantial, consider moving your family to a safe location until the cleanup is complete.
Contact an oil cleanup contractor: Hire a professional to clean up the spill, repair or replace the tank, and assess any potential health risks.
Contact your insurance company: Check your homeowner’s insurance policy for coverage related to oil spills and consider adding protection if necessary.

Outdoor Oil Tank Leaks

Outdoor oil tank leaks pose a greater challenge due to their potential to remain undetected for an extended period. If you suspect an outdoor leak:

Take a soil sample: Contact an environmental expert to collect a soil sample from the area around the tank. This is a reliable method to determine the presence of a leak.
Contact a state-certified tank removal contractor: Engage a professional to remove the tank safely and properly.
Remove the tank: The contractor will remove the tank and assess the extent of the oil leak. If the leak has reached the water table, further evaluation and cleanup will be necessary.
Notify the authorities: Inform the state authorities about the oil leak, and they will assign a case number for documentation.
Determine the extent of the leak: Assess the impact of the leak on the water table and surrounding soil. Vertical and horizontal evaluations are required to determine the extent of the contamination.
Contact your insurance company: Your homeowner’s insurance policy may cover the cleanup costs and potential tank replacement. Contact your insurance company for guidance.
Finish the job: Once the cleanup is complete, the contractor will fill the excavated area and perform an onsite analysis to ensure compliance with state standards. They will also clean up the site and restore it to its original condition.
File the paperwork: The contractor will file a No Further Action letter with the state and provide you with a copy for your records.

Cost of Repair

The cost of repairing an outdoor oil tank leak can vary significantly depending on several factors. It is essential to obtain quotes from multiple contractors to ensure you receive a fair price. Additionally, check with your insurance company to determine the extent of coverage available for the cleanup and potential tank replacement.

Conclusion

Oil tank leaks pose potential hazards to your health, the environment, and your property. Early detection and prompt action are crucial to minimize the impact of a leak. If you suspect an oil tank leak, whether indoors or outdoors, do not hesitate to contact professionals for assistance. Taking immediate action can help prevent further damage and ensure the safety of your family and the environment.

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FAQs

How can I tell if my oil tank is leaking?

Signs of an oil tank leak include a strong oil smell, oil stains on the floor or ground near the tank, contaminated well or water supply, and increased fuel consumption.

What should I do if I suspect an oil tank leak?

If you suspect an oil tank leak, take immediate action. For indoor leaks, notify the fire department, ventilate the area, close off the area, consider moving your family to a safe location, contact an oil cleanup contractor, and contact your insurance company. For outdoor leaks, take a soil sample, contact a state-certified tank removal contractor, remove the tank, notify the authorities, determine the extent of the leak, contact your insurance company, and finish the job by restoring the site.

Can I repair an oil tank leak myself?

It is not recommended to repair an oil tank leak yourself. Oil tank leaks can be dangerous and require specialized knowledge and equipment to fix properly. Contact a qualified oil cleanup contractor for assistance.

How much does it cost to repair an oil tank leak?

The cost of repairing an oil tank leak can vary depending on the severity of the leak, the location of the tank, and the cost of labor in your area. However, the average cost of repairing an oil tank leak ranges from $500 to $15,000.

Is the cost of repairing an oil tank leak covered by insurance?

Some homeowner’s insurance policies may cover the cost of repairing an oil tank leak. However, coverage varies depending on the policy, so it is important to check with your insurance company to determine if you have coverage.

How can I prevent oil tank leaks?

To prevent oil tank leaks, you can take the following steps:

Place all fuel oil lines that run from the tank to the furnace under concrete or put them in protective tubing.
Make sure all the pipe connections are clean and tight.
Keep an eye on your fuel usage and investigate if you notice any sudden changes.
Regularly monitor the condition of the fuel tank and the lines, especially if your tank is old.
Install spill and overfill devices on ASTs to prevent spills and overflow during heating oil delivery.
Schedule regular maintenance for your oil tank and furnace to ensure they are operating efficiently and safely.

What should I do if I have an old oil tank that is no longer in use?

If you have an old oil tank that is no longer in use, it is important to have it removed and disposed of properly. Contact a qualified oil tank removal contractor to safely remove the tank and dispose of any remaining oil or contaminants.

Are there any environmental regulations regarding oil tank leaks?

Yes, there are environmental regulations regarding oil tank leaks. These regulations vary by location, but generally require that oil tank leaks be reported to the appropriate authorities and that the leak be cleaned up and remediated to prevent further contamination.