16/10/2024

Why oil tank relocation might not be right for you

Are you considering relocating your oil tank? Before making any moves, dive into our essential guide on Oil Tank Relocation. We’ll tackle everything from the age and condition of your tank to financial considerations, safety risks, environmental impacts, compliance with regulations, and structural modifications. Get the insights you need to make an informed decision on whether relocating your oil tank is the right choice for you.

Age and Condition

It is important to consider the age and condition of your oil tank before you decide to relocate it. If your tank is older or you are concerned about its condition, relocation is probably not the best option for you. Older tanks could be nearing the end of their useful life, making them susceptible to corrosion or leaks. Moreover, the structural integrity of older tanks might be compromised when moved, potentially leading to tank failure. This could result in significant replacement costs, indicating why relocation might not be the best option for you.

Cost Considerations

When considering relocating your oil tank, it’s important to evaluate the financial implications. If you have an older tank, you should think about the option of complete removal and replacement over just relocating your existing tank. Older tanks, because of their age and potential wear and tear, might only work for a short time after being moved before needing to be completely replaced. It is recommended to carefully assess the tank’s current condition and compare the costs of moving it versus replacing it to make the most financially sound decision.

Safety Risks

Moving an oil tank poses several safety risks that you should be aware of before scheduling its relocation. Although it’s rare, tanks can split or break during the relocation process, causing a big mess. Ventilation can also contribute to safety issues. If your tank is located inside your property or in an outbuilding, it is really important to have proper ventilation. Keeping your pets and small children away from the area while the relocation is taking place will help to prevent any illness caused by potential fumes from the oil.

Environmental Impact

Sediment and other buildup can cause oil tanks to leak and contaminate the environment, posing risks to ecosystems and nearby communities. Water contamination is also a concern, especially if the property is close to water bodies. Additionally, ageing or poorly maintained tanks can lead to fire or explosion, with the risk worsening from the relocation of declining tanks. Property owners may face legal and financial consequences for environmental damage. 

Compliance with Regulations

If your oil tank is a few years old, it may not meet current government regulations and may need to be replaced as opposed to relocating. It’s important to check the latest requirements for domestic oil tanks before deciding to move your tank. The position of the tank in relation to buildings and water, as well as laws surrounding size and bunded skins, is something to consider when relocating your oil tank. If your tank can no longer comply with these regulations, oil tank relocation might not be the best option for you. Instead, you should remove and replace your tank.

Structural Modifications

When relocating your oil tank to a different location within your property or to a different property, you will need to make structural modifications to the base. Oil tank bases have specific requirements that OFTEC technicians must install. Different requirements apply for Steel oil tanks and Plastic tanks. When relocating your tank, you must consider the base material, size, and location and determine whether you can move it or if it needs to be rebuilt and installed.

In conclusion, the decision to relocate your oil tank is completely down to your property and the tank itself. Considering factors such as the age and condition of your tank, associated costs, safety risks, environmental impacts, regulatory compliance, and the need for structural modifications, it’s clear that careful planning is necessary for this process. 

Contact a member of our team today to discuss oil tank relocation or your other options you may prefer such as removing and replacing your oil tank.

FAQs:

Does the volume of the tank affect the cost of the relocation?

The size of your oil tank doesn’t usually affect the cost of the relocation, however, this information will still be needed when scheduling so your technicians can make a plan. 

The position, age, location and new location will also need to be told to the technician in order to give an accurate quote, and make the relocation as smooth as possible. 

How long does it take to move an oil tank?

The relocation of an oil tank usually takes around 2 – 3 hours, given the oil tank is in a easily accessible location and is not moving too far. 

If you are installing multiple tanks, your tank is underground or inside, you are looking to move your tank to a different property altogether, or require extensive groundwork, the time will increase.