You will need to do some things to prepare for an oil tank inspection properly. Using inert material, such as concrete or cement, to fill the tank is one of the most crucial aspects of oil tank testing Westchester County NY. You should also check for potential issues and the seams that run down the tank’s sides. Additionally, you must examine for any potential petroleum compounds in the earth surrounding and beneath the tank’s walls.
Inspection of the Soil Around and Below the Tank
Inspecting the soil around and below the tank sides for petroleum compounds is a good way to detect a spill or leak. This should be done in an environmentally safe manner. Petroleum will sink through unsaturated soil and enter the water table. If possible, the area should be covered with a thick layer of chemically inert solid.
A properly executed plan can save money, time, and headaches. When evaluating whether or not an oil spill has occurred, it is imperative that the owner/operator sanitize the area and properly dispose of waste. Oil spills can be deadly. It is important to use appropriate spill containment techniques and follow standard safety procedures to reduce the risk of a potential explosion or fire.
Checking the Base and Footing of an Oil Tank
If you plan to install a new oil tank, it is best to check the base and footing first. Leaking or burning oil can greatly impact your health and your property. When deciding on the location of the tank, consider the flood zone and surrounding area.
A solid concrete slab should be used for any oil tank above ground. This allows for proper drainage. Consider incorporating a few inches of space between the floor and the tank.
Inspecting the Seams for Rust
Among the various issues associated with oil tanks, the rusting of the seams is a major concern. It not only pollutes the oil, but it can also be the cause of a spill. There are some things you can do to protect the tank from corrosion.
The first thing you can do is to check for cracks in the shell-to-bottom welds. These cracks may be the result of faulty installation or external damage.
Another common sign of external damage dents. They can result from shifts in the soil, unstable legs, or substandard materials.
Inspecting the Oil Lines Between the Oil Tank and Oil Burner
A fuel oil tank should be inspected periodically. You may leak and waste fuel if you last checked your tank a while ago.
There are many things to look for in your fuel tank. One of the first things to check is the fuel gauge. This should be a large red number that can be seen from the street. It should be free of obstructions. You also want to make sure that the legs are in good shape.
Proper Storage of the Oil Tank
If you’re considering buying a property with an oil tank, you need to ensure it’s properly stored. You are testing the tank before buying is an important part of your home inspection. It can be just as important as conducting a thorough property survey.