What Does a New Oil Tank Cost In Havertown, PA?

One of the most frequently asked questions that we hear a lot during the heating season, is “How much does a new oil tank cost?” If you use oil to heat your home or business, there comes a time when you have to replace the tank. It may be old and rusting, and it’s just time for a new one.

In our hometown of Havertown, PA we have 60+ years of working with oil tanks. What we know for sure is that the cost to replace an oil tank can vary, depending on a few factors.

The costs involved in replacing an oil tank vary somewhat based on a few variables such as the complexity of the replacement, size of the tank, labor costs, and potential “clean up” situations stemming from the tank needing replacement. 

On average the cost to replace an above-ground oil tank in Havertown, PA is between $4,000 and $6,000. In this article, I’ll let you know some of the variables that can affect the final cost.

Factors That Affect the Cost to Replace an Oil Tank

In assessing the total cost, I always factor in these variables:

• Tank location
• Tank size
• Labor Costs
• Permits and hazardous waste disposal

There are a few other factors that can impact the cost of oil tank replacement, but these provide the bulk of the expense. Let’s break them down individually.

Tank Location

We have found over the years that the location of home oil tanks will vary. Many tanks are located inside the home – usually in the basement area. Other tanks are positioned outside the home or even buried underground. Tank accessibility is one of the biggest factors in determining the final cost of replacement.

Outdoor Underground

Tanks that are located outdoors and buried underground are among the most expensive replacements simply because removal involves bringing in excavation equipment to remove the old tank. If there has been any kind of significant oil leakage due to the condition of the tank or an accidental spill, the EPA or Environmental Protection Agency must be brought in to oversee clean-up. The fuel line between the tank and the oil system needs to be replaced as well.

Outdoor Above-Ground

Those tanks that are positioned above ground with all sides clear of the house are the easiest to replace and the least expensive barring complications. As long as the tank is visible on all sides and is in good condition, removal and replacement is a relatively easy matter.

If the tank to be removed is abutting the house without a clear view to inspect condition it is generally a good idea to replace an aging tank. The life expectancy of an outdoor above ground tank is about 15 years. 

Indoor

Indoor tanks can be among the lowest cost to remove as long as the tank is accessible through Bilco doors or a wide doorway, removal and exchange is a relatively easy process.

Tank Size

Standard above-ground oil tanks (like those in your home’s basement or yard) usually have a 275-gallon capacity. They can come in either a horizontal or vertical orientation and have a dimension of 44 inches high by 60 inches wide and 27 inches deep.

Labor Costs

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, on average, maintenance and repair workers charge $22 per hour. Likewise, the average rate of a licensed plumber is about $31 per hour. The actual rate will vary by experience, location, and complexity of the job.

Permits and Hazardous Waste Disposal

Permits are not required to install a residential heating oil tank. However, should a significant oil spill or oil leakage occur or if there is excess fuel oil to be disposed of, your service provider must follow Environmental Protection Agency guidelines and properly dispose of any tainted matter.

Signs you Need an Oil Tank Replacement

Some of the key signs that you may need an oil tank replacement are:

• Clogged Filters
• Leaks
• Damaged legs
• Using More Oil
• Age
• Pipe Clogs

Clogged Filters

Like any mechanical system, a clogged filter will diminish the performance of your oil furnace making the system work harder to output the desired heat.

If you notice that your furnace or oil-fired heating system stalls when you turn it on or makes a rumbling noise upon start-up, that is a sign that your oil filters are clogged and not allowing enough oil through the system.

Another sign of a clogged filter is darker smoke rising from your chimney. A clogged filter might be allowing water into your heating system – another sign of a clogged filter.

Leaks

It is always a good idea to check for oil or water leaks around your furnace or oil tank. If you notice any of these signs or smell any overpowering oil smell contact your service provider for a check up.

Damaged Legs

Damaged legs or bent legs are a major concern. A full 275 gallon fuel oil tank weighs approximately 2800 pounds. An unstable leg on your tank puts considerable stress on the overall system creating a potential catastrophic event.

Using More Oil

If you notice that you are using more oil than normal, that is a clear flag that your heating system needs a qualified technician to determine the source of the problem. Clogged filters, leaks, and clogged lines are all areas of concern.

Age

Indoor tanks have a life of about 25 years. Outdoor tanks last about 15 years before needing replacement.

Pipe Clogs

Occasionally “gunk” or heating oil sludge will form and clog up a pipe. This occurs when bacteria oxidize the fuel in your tank. This can be a natural result of condensation that occurs with temperature change over time. Poor heating performance is a signal that the oil lines may not be open. Maintaining a “full” tank reduces condensation.

New Oil Tank Cost: FAQs

John Cipollone, Inc specializes in fuel oil delivery and service in and near Havertown, PA. We know the ins and outs of fuel oil furnaces and have been servicing them for over 60 years.

How many years should an oil tank last?

Indoor tanks have a life of 25 years. Outdoor tanks can last 15 years. Weather conditions and location can play a role in this lifespan as well.

Can I replace my old oil tank?

Replacing an oil tank is not a DIY job. Excess oil and sludge require special permits and disposal. We recommend leaving it to the pros.

What happens if a heating oil tank leaks?

Small leaks can be remediated easily. Larger leaks require EPA notification and clean up. If you have a leak call an HVAC professional right away.

How do I know if my heating oil is bad?

A change in the odor of heating oil is a sign that it may have gone bad.

What is considered a major oil leak?

According to the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, a “large volume” leak requires specialized clean up. Spills in waterways, ground, and homes present health hazards. When in doubt, call your home heating oil specialist.