If you own a property with an Petroleum Storage tank (PST), chances are you don’t think about it much—until something goes wrong. These tanks are essential for fuel storage at gas stations, industrial sites, and commercial properties, but they don’t last forever.
The question many property owners face is: when to replace underground petroleum tank? Failing to replace an aging or compromised tank can lead to leaks, soil and groundwater contamination, and costly remediation efforts. Worse, waiting too long could result in hefty fines, legal liabilities, or even business closure if regulatory violations are found.
In this article, we’ll explore how to determine when to replace underground petroleum tank, key warning signs, environmental regulations, and the tank replacement process to help you avoid costly surprises.
Why Underground Petroleum Tanks Need Replacing
You might think your underground petroleum tank is working fine, but these systems have a limited lifespan. Over time, materials corrode, fuel leaks develop, and environmental hazards increase. Understanding when to replace underground petroleum tank can prevent financial loss and serious liability.
Key Reasons to Replace Your PST:
- Tanks Don’t Last Forever – Most PSTs last 20-30 years before they start corroding or failing. Older tanks—especially those installed before 1998—are more likely to leak and fail regulatory inspections.
- Environmental and Legal Risks – A leaking underground petroleum tank can contaminate soil, groundwater, and nearby properties, leading to expensive cleanup costs and regulatory fines.
- Regulatory Compliance – State and federal EPA regulations have changed over the years. If your PST does not meet modern environmental safety requirements, replacement may be legally required.
- Business Operations – An unreliable tank can cause operational downtime, fuel loss, and unexpected expenses. Proactively replacing your UPT helps maintain business continuity.
A Costly Lesson: What Happens When You Wait Too Long
A property owner in Texas recently contacted us after noticing a strong petroleum odor near his gas station. He assumed it was a minor issue—until a routine inspection revealed petroleum contamination in the surrounding soil and groundwater.
The cause? A 30-year-old underground petroleum tank that had been leaking unnoticed for years. What could have been a straightforward tank replacement turned into a pricey environmental cleanup project. The business suffered lost revenue, legal fees, and extensive remediation costs.
If the owner had recognized the warning signs sooner, he could have avoided major financial and legal consequences. This case highlights why it’s critical to understand when to replace underground petroleum tank before a small issue turns into a disaster.
Key Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Underground Petroleum Tank
Still not sure when to replace underground petroleum tank on your property? Here are some major warning signs that indicate it’s time for a replacement:
1. Visible or Suspected Leaks
Leaks are one of the biggest red flags that your UST is failing. Common signs include:
- Sudden fuel level drops without explanation.
- Strong petroleum odors around the tank area.
- Stains, puddles, or dead vegetation near the tank site.
- Complaints from neighboring properties about fuel smells.
If you suspect a leak, don’t wait—replacing your underground petroleum tank quickly can help avoid costly contamination cleanup.
2. The Tank Is More Than 20-30 Years Old
Most underground petroleum tanks have a lifespan of 20-30 years. If your tank was installed before 1998, it likely doesn’t meet modern safety standards and should be replaced.
Older tanks, particularly those made of bare steel, are prone to corrosion, leaks, and structural failure. Newer tanks are designed with protective coatings, leak detection systems, and secondary containment features to prevent failures.
3. Frequent Repairs and Maintenance Issues
If your PST constantly needs maintenance, it’s likely more cost-effective to replace it. Common problems that signal a failing tank include:
- Recurring pump malfunctions or clogged fuel filters (indicating internal corrosion).
- Rust, water, or debris found in fuel samples.
- Rising maintenance costs that exceed the value of keeping the old tank.
4. Failing Regulatory Inspections
State and federal environmental agencies, including the EPA and Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), enforce strict regulations on underground petroleum tanks.
If your PST fails an inspection, you may be required to:
- Replace outdated components or install leak detection systems.
- Perform environmental testing to assess potential contamination.
- Upgrade or replace the entire system to meet compliance.
Ignoring compliance issues can lead to severe fines, operational shutdowns, and legal action.
5. Water in the Tank
Water should never be present in your PST. If water intrusion occurs, it may be due to cracks, corroded seals, or poor installation. Water in your tank can cause:
- Microbial growth, which clogs filters and degrades fuel quality.
- Corrosion, leading to tank failure.
- Increased contamination risks, requiring costly remediation.
If water is consistently found in your tank, it’s a strong indicator that you should replace your underground petroleum tank soon.
Understanding Regulations & Compliance for PST Replacement
Knowing when to replace underground petroleum tank is only part of the process. Strict environmental laws govern PST replacements, requiring property owners to follow regulations carefully.
Key U.S. Regulations for PST Replacement
- EPA UST Regulations – Mandates leak detection, secondary containment, and corrosion protection for all underground tanks.
- State-Specific Laws – In Texas, the TCEQ requires registration, monitoring, and proper disposal of old tanks.
- Permit Requirements – Most replacements require permits, compliance reporting, and final inspections.
Failing to meet these regulations can result in fines, legal penalties, and environmental damage claims.
The Underground Petroleum Tank Replacement Process
If you determine it’s time to replace your underground petroleum tank, here’s what to expect:
- Site Assessment & Environmental Testing – Identifies contamination risks before replacement.
- Tank Removal & Disposal – Certified professionals safely excavate, drain, and remove the old tank.
- Installation of a New, Compliant Tank – Modern PSTs use fiberglass-reinforced plastic or double-walled steel for enhanced safety.
- Final Inspection & Approval – Regulatory agencies inspect the installation before the system is approved for use.
How CRG Texas Environmental Services Can Help
At CRG Texas Environmental Services, we specialize in underground petroleum tank assessments, replacements, and regulatory compliance.
✔ Over 30 years of experience handling PST projects across Texas.
✔ Full-service removal, installation, and environmental consulting.
✔ Regulatory expertise to ensure compliance with EPA and state laws.
If you’re unsure when to replace underground petroleum tank, contact us today for a professional evaluation!
Call CRG Texas Environmental Services now to schedule an inspection!
Conclusion
Knowing when to replace underground petroleum tank can save you from costly environmental cleanup, regulatory fines, and operational disruptions. Whether your tank is aging, leaking, or no longer compliant, replacing it before disaster strikes is the smartest decision.
If you’re considering a tank replacement, reach out to CRG Texas Environmental Services—we’re here to help!