Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my tank is leaking?

Obvious signs could include unusually high oil usage, excessive water in the tank, and/or burner problems. In most cases however, the easiest way to determine if your tank is leaking is to conduct a tank investigation. Tank investigations generally consist of collecting soil samples from around the tank or performing a precision test.

What are the requirements to have my home heating oil tank precision tested?

Our testing method requires that the tank have a direct fill pipe at last 2 inches in diameter, a minimum of 17 inches of product, an on site source of electric, and the ability to get our testing van within 100 feet of the tank. Also, the tank system will need to be shut down for approximately 4-6 hours. Test results can be provided same day. Download a PDF of tank testing requirements.

What if my tank does not meet the testing requirements for a precision test?

In cases where a precision test is not possible, Pure Earth Recycling recommends conducting a soil investigation around the tank. Soil samples are collected and analyzed for petroleum contaminants, and based on the results, a determination is made and documented in a letter. Read about our proven methods that determine if you heating oil tank is tight.

Why do I need to have my heating oil tank inspected for a property transaction and/or refinance?

Lending institutions and insurance companies are liable to cleanup third party impacts related to contamination from leaking tanks. In most cases the third party is either a neighboring property or groundwater. For this reason, most companies require a tank investigation before issuing a loan and/or insurance policy.

I have an aboveground tank. Are there any testing requirements for aboveground tanks?

For the same reasons listed above, many companies require an inspection of aboveground tanks as well. Download our AST Inspection Sheet.

Do you install, pump out, or service septic tanks?

No. Pure Earth Recycling (NJ), Inc. does not offer any services related to septic tanks.

Should I remove or abandon in place my heating oil tank?

If possible, tanks should always be removed and properly recycled. Abandoned tanks become obstacles if future development of the area requires subsurface modification. In instances where structural issues arise, abandonment is a viable option. However, tanks left in the ground will continue to corrode and could eventually result in a sinkhole. Abandoned tanks should be properly cleaned and filled with concrete to minimize future concerns.

If my tank has leaked how much additional will it cost to clean up the contamination?

The cost of a clean up associated with an underground tank will vary depending on the length of time the tank leaked, the amount of product discharged, local geology, depth to groundwater, etc. A true cost estimate cannot be given until the area has been properly delineated to determine the actual size of the impacted area.

Is the NJDEP notified when I remove my tank?

Regulated tanks require that a 30 day notification be filed with the NJDEP prior to removal. Home heating oil tanks however, are not regulated and therefore no notification is required. Local permits need to be obtained from the township/county prior to removal for both regulated and non-regulated tanks.