On June 13th, we found something that we do not see in Montgomery County every day: a 275-gallon heating oil tank buried in a vault under the front porch.
Now, we typically see this kind of thing in certain parts of Baltimore County or Baltimore city, as well as areas like Arbutus, Halethorpe, Catonsville, and others in that vicinity.
However, this is not typical of tanks in Silver Spring.
Most commonly, heating oil tanks in Silver Spring buried below the ground, located outside the house, or located in the basement both would be freestanding.
Having a tank in an eight-foot deep block vault that has no access is not only a very bad idea in the first place, but also not common in Montgomery County at all.
Our Advice From A Recent Heating Oil Tank Removal In Silver Spring, MD
Discovering a 275-gallon aboveground heating oil tank under a front porch in a vault in Silver Spring, Montgomery County, was surprising for us, and potentially hazardous for the homeowner.
The placement of the tank in a vault beneath the porch is not common in the area and should raise a lot of questions.
We’ll start with the obvious: burying a heating oil tank in a vault with no access points is not a good idea. It poses serious safety risks and complicates routine maintenance and inspections.
In the event of a leak, early detection becomes challenging, leading to potential environmental contamination and costly cleanup efforts.
By removing the buried tank that’s underneath their porch, homeowners eliminate these risks GreenTRAX specializes in the safe and efficient removal of underground heating oil tanks, mitigating potential hazards and providing peace of mind for homeowners in Silver Spring and beyond.
Signs It’s Time to Remove Your Heating Oil Tank
As a Silver Spring homeowner, it’s essential to be aware of signs that indicate the need for heating oil tank replacement or removal.
Pay attention to the following signs that indicate it may be time to replace your heating oil tank:
- Age of the Tank – First and foremost, consider the age of your heating oil tank, the lifespan of a tank is 20 years. Tanks that have been in the ground for 30, 40, or 50 years have exceeded their lifespan and need to be replaced.
- Unusual Odors – If you notice persistent petroleum odors around your basement or near the heating system, it could be a sign of a leak. Contact GreenTRAX to assess the situation promptly.
- Stained Soil – Check the soil around the aboveground tank for discoloration or oil stains. This can indicate a leak or seepage from the tank.
- Increased Fuel Consumption – If your fuel consumption has significantly increased without any apparent reason, it may suggest a leak.
- Corrosion and Rust – Observe the exterior of your tank for signs of corrosion, rust, or deterioration. These can weaken the tank structure and increase the risk of leakage.
- Safety Concerns – If your tank is located in an unsafe or inaccessible area, such as under a porch or or hidden behind a wall in your basement, the tank has to be removed and replaced and relocated to ensure the safety of your home.
Being proactive in identifying these signs will help you take timely action and avoid potential hazards associated with a deteriorating heating oil tank.
If you notice any of them, reach out to GreenTRAX for a fast, professional assessment and expert guidance on tank replacement options.
What to Expect on the Day of Your Silver Spring, MD Heating Oil Tank Removal
When the day of your underground heating oil tank removal arrives, it’s essential to be prepared and make the process as smooth as possible. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
- Have Funds Available – Ensure you have the necessary funds to cover the tank removal, oil and sludge disposal, and any required soil remediation and cleanup in case of leakage. Having access to these funds, either in your bank account or on a credit card, will help streamline the removal process.
- Keep Your Yard As Clear As Possible – Help our team by clearing the area surrounding the underground oil tank. Store away garden hoses, extension cords, downspout extensions, and yard decorations that may hinder access to the tank area. Remember that the excavation area and equipment movement space are larger than you might expect, so provide ample room for our team to work.
- Have A Landscaping Plan – If you have valuable landscaping above the tank area, consider having your landscaper remove and store those items prior to our arrival. GreenTRAX can handle the removal and replacement of small bushes or plants, but we cannot guarantee their survivability. Plan ahead and leave extra room for this process.
- Address Irrigation Systems – If you have an irrigation system with sprinkler heads, low voltage wires, or irrigation lines in the excavation area, it’s crucial to address them before the tank removal. Coordinate with your irrigation company to cut and disconnect pipes and wires or schedule repairs after the work is complete.
- Maintain An Open Parking Area – Ensure there is ample parking space available, including the driveway and the area directly in front of your house. Our team requires multiple trucks and trailers, including a large dump truck, to facilitate the removal process. If necessary, kindly request your neighbors to avoid parking in front of your property on the scheduled day.
Get Help Removing Your Underground Heating Oil Tank
To schedule your heating oil tank removal in Silver Spring, Maryland, contact GreenTRAX today. While the adventure we had on June 13th makes for a good story, it does not make for a good situation for your home.
Rather than wait until your heating oil tank in Silver Spring is leaking, contact us. We’ll provide you with fast, same-day estimates and proposals.. Trust GreenTRAX for a hassle-free heating oil tank removal experience. Call us at (410) 439-1085 or send us a message here.
