Many homeowners choose to invest in heating systems powered by oil because of their reliability, efficiency, and long-term cost savings. If you’re upgrading your home’s heating setup or replacing an older tank, you might be wondering what the installation (or the eventual replacement) process will look like. The good news is that our professionals are here to guide you through every step so that you can feel confident in the work performed and the safety of your system.
An Overview of the Professional Oil Tank Installation Process
When it comes to installing an oil tank, one of the first decisions you’ll make is the type of tank best suited for your property. Tanks can be aboveground or underground and may be located indoors or outdoors, depending on your home’s layout, space availability, and local regulations. The type of tank you choose typically dictates the installation process more than anything else. With that said, the basic oil tank installation typically involves the following steps:
1. Site Evaluation and Planning
Regardless of the type of heating oil tank you are considering, our professional team always begins the installation process with a thorough site assessment. We’ll evaluate your home’s size, heating needs, and available space to recommend the correct tank size and the safest, most practical location. We’ll take into account factors such as accessibility for refueling, ground stability, local codes, and environmental protection requirements.
For indoor tanks, we make sure there’s sufficient ventilation and clearance from combustible materials. For outdoor or underground tanks, we take soil conditions and distance from your home into account to ensure secure placement.
2. Permitting and Preparation
Before installation begins, our team handles all necessary permits and compliance documentation so that your installation meets both local and state regulations. We’ll also schedule inspections with the appropriate authorities when required, so you don’t have to navigate any of the red tape on your own.
3. Old Tank Removal (for Replacements)
If you already have an oil tank in place, we will safely pump out any oil from your old tank and then clean it to remove all remaining oil and sludge in accordance with environmental regulations. Once it’s all clean, we handle the removal process. For an indoor tank, this may involve cutting the tank into smaller, more manageable pieces. For an underground oil tank removal, the site will be excavated so that we can lift out the tank. In all cases, we will transport and dispose of the old tank at a certified facility.
4. Installation of the New Tank
Once everything is approved, our technicians prepare the site and begin installation. For aboveground tanks, we construct a stable concrete or steel base that supports the tank and prevents corrosion from ground contact. Underground tanks require excavation, placement of protective materials, and careful positioning to avoid damage to surrounding utilities.
Each tank is fitted with secure piping, fill and vent lines, and a reliable gauge system for easy monitoring. We also seal the tank to prevent leaks and environmental contamination.
5. System Connection and Testing
After the oil tank is installed, we connect it to your home’s heating system. This includes the fuel line, filter, and shutoff valve, which all work together to safely deliver heating oil to your furnace or boiler. We then conduct comprehensive testing, including pressure checks, leak detection, and system calibration, to verify that everything functions smoothly and safely.
6. Final Inspection and Cleanup
Before we consider the job complete, we perform a final inspection with you. We’ll review your new system’s setup, demonstrate how to read gauges, and explain how to schedule refills and maintenance. Our team also cleans up the work area before leaving.
Is There Anything You Should Do to Prepare for a Heating Oil Tank Installation?
While our professionals handle the heavy lifting, a little preparation on your part can help the installation go incredibly smoothly.
Clear the Installation Area
If your tank will be installed indoors, such as in a basement or utility room, make sure the path to the area is free from obstacles. For example, move any furniture, storage boxes, and other belongings away from the tank and from the path leading to the nearest exit (like the basement stairs or garage door).
For outdoor or underground installations, keep the surrounding space clear of vehicles, lawn furniture, and debris.
Secure Your Pets
A busy work site with new people and open doors can be stressful for pets. Please keep them secured in a separate room or area of the house for their safety and our team’s efficiency.
Plan for Temporary Heat (If Necessary)
If your existing system needs to be disconnected during the installation or replacement, consider preparing for a short period without heat. This is typically brief, but it’s helpful to plan accordingly, especially during the winter months.
What to Do After Your New Oil Tank Is Installed
Congratulations, your new tank is installed! Now what?
- Schedule Your First Oil Delivery: Your new tank will be installed empty. You’ll need to call your heating oil supplier right away to schedule a fill-up.
- Plan for Regular Maintenance: To keep your new oil storage tank in pristine condition, plan on having it inspected annually by a professional. Also, keep the area around the tank clear of storage, and for outdoor tanks, gently brush away any snow or ice that accumulates on or around the vents and fill pipes.
- Monitor Your Tank’s Oil Levels: Keep an eye on your tank’s gauge to track your oil usage and avoid running out of fuel. Many modern tanks come with smart monitoring systems that make this easy to manage remotely. Consistent monitoring also helps you spot any unusual drops in fuel level that might indicate a leak.
Trust Our Professionals for a Seamless Installation
Installing a new oil tank is a significant investment in your home’s comfort and safety, and it’s a job that requires professional expertise. At Professional Tank & Environmental, we have over 20 years of experience installing residential oil tanks across Bucks, Montgomery, Philadelphia, Chester, Delaware, and Lehigh counties in Pennsylvania. Our team handles every stage of the process with care, so you can enjoy reliable, seamless performance for years to come.
And we don’t just stop at installation. We can also help with ongoing tank maintenance and cleaning to protect your investment down the line.
If you’re considering a new oil tank or need to replace an old one, we’re here to help. Get in touch with our experts today to schedule your oil tank installation or request a free estimate!
