Underground Propane Tank Removal

Out of service buried propane tanks raise a number of liability issues both to the owner and buyers of properties who have these tanks.  Buried propane tanks, due to their construction (metal), rust and will eventually fail.

An abandoned propane tank does not mean empty.    An empty reading on a propane tank can mean 12% propane is left, on a 1,000-gallon tank that's 120 gallons or 24 BBQ size propane tanks.

The solution to abandoned propane tanks is to implement closure on the tank, which is either removal of the tank or foam filling the tank. 

Properly abandoned, by faring off the remaining propane and opening the tank and filling with an inert foam.  

Propane Tank Foam Filling

Curren will inject an inert foam material into the tank.   As a reference, a 1000-gallon UST will accept approximately 5 cubic yards of foam and a 500-gallon UST approximately 2.5 cubic yards.    Curren will allow foam to settle in the tank after filling to top off each tank with foam to account for any compression of the foam.  Bung openings on grade will be left in place to allow for inspection by municipal personnel.  Fill ports will be left visible above ground (grade). 

Of course the tank can also be flared, valve bung opened, the tank removed from the ground and transported off site and the excavation backfilled. This is of course with obtaining local permits and providing a report of closure.

Call the experts at Curren Environmental, we have over 25 years' experience with tanks and offer a free initial consultation.  Professional help is available Monday to Friday 8:00 am to 5:30 pm EST toll free at

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