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Can Tank Testing Alone Confirm a Leak, or Do You Also Need Soil Testing?

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  A tank test can provide useful information about the condition of an underground or above-ground oil tank, but it does not always tell the complete story. A tank may pass a pressure or tightness test while contamination has already affected the surrounding soil. This is why understanding the difference between tank testing and soil testing is important for property owners, buyers, and sellers. If you suspect an oil tank leak, relying on only one type of testing may leave important questions unanswered. The right approach depends on the tank’s condition, its history, and what is found around the tank. What Does Tank Testing Tell You? Tank testing is designed to determine whether a tank or its connected piping is currently tight. Depending on the tank and testing method, professionals may evaluate the system for signs of leakage or loss of pressure. A passing tank test generally means the tank did not show evidence of an active leak during the testing process. However, it does not ...
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How to Know if You Have a Residential Underground Oil Tank

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  If you own an older home, there is a chance it may have an underground oil tank that is no longer in use. Many residential properties once relied on heating oil, and some tanks were buried underground when the home was built or when heating systems were installed. The challenge is that these tanks can be difficult to identify because they are hidden beneath soil, landscaping, driveways, or other structures. Knowing how to identify a potential tank is important before buying or selling a property, starting construction, or making changes to the heating system. An old tank that has deteriorated may also create environmental concerns. Here are some practical ways to determine whether your property may have one. Check Your Property’s Heating History The first step is to find out how the home was heated in the past. Older properties may have used oil-fired heating systems before switching to natural gas, electric, or another heating source. Look for old records, heating bills,...
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What Happens If Soil Contamination Is Found During Tank Removal?

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  Removing an underground oil tank can uncover more than an old or damaged tank. In some cases, soil contamination during tank removal is discovered around the tank area. This usually happens when oil has leaked into the surrounding soil over time. Understanding what happens next can help property owners prepare for oil tank removal in New Jersey and the environmental steps that may follow. Why Does Soil Contamination Occur During Tank Removal? Older underground storage tanks can develop rust, cracks, or other damage that allows petroleum products to escape. Even a small leak over many years can affect the soil surrounding the tank. Contamination may not be visible until the tank is excavated and the soil is inspected. During professional underground oil tank removal, contractors typically examine the excavation area for signs of petroleum impact. If contaminated soil is suspected, additional testing may be required to determine the extent and type of contamination. What Ha...
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Soil Contamination From Oil Tanks in New Jersey: Causes, Testing & Cleanup

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  Oil tanks can provide reliable heating for homes and commercial properties, but older or damaged tanks may create a serious environmental concern: soil contamination. In New Jersey, underground oil tanks can develop leaks that allow petroleum products to seep into surrounding soil, potentially affecting groundwater, property value, and future construction plans. Understanding the causes of soil contamination from oil tanks, how contaminated soil is tested, and what cleanup involves can help New Jersey property owners address problems before they become more complicated and expensive. What Causes Soil Contamination From Oil Tanks? The most common cause of contamination is an underground oil tank leak . Over time, metal tanks can corrode, crack, or develop weak areas because of age and exposure to moisture in the surrounding soil. Other common causes include: -Corrosion and deterioration of older tanks -Damaged or leaking fuel lines -Improperly abandoned underground oil tanks -Spil...
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