Consumers Digest

Legally under Maine Law, do I need to install a oil tank when I have a new boiler installed? ?

After consulting with a heating tech, I purchased a boiler and indirect hot water heater online from Pex Supply Co. It was a highly rated unit by consumer reports and digest etc. The heating tech has been in the business for years but after receiving the unit now wants to sub the install job out to another heating tech. This other tech showed up and immediately couldn't understand why I purchased this unit and just put me on the defense the entire time. He thought I should have purchased it through a local tech. why I just didn't go through a local tech (guess he couldn't understand that I wanted to save money-which is the reason for getting the effecient boiler in the first place) So this guys becomes a little pushy in that regard and starts saying that since he is replacing the boiler, he need to replace the oil tank. I asked him if it was a law, and he said yes. He said also it is a good idea anyway where there is sludge at the bottom of the tank. He tells me that he can install the 275 gallon tank for $1700. (Keeping in mind that I can purchase this tank myself from the local hardware store for less then $300..I am having some problems with all of this). I understand the theroy of re[placing the tank, but I doubt it is a law. I also thought that is why there are 2 filters and a screen on the tank and fuel lines to prevent the sludge from getting into the new boiler anyway. So instead of an expected install price of $2-3K, he is now pushing $5k or more.

Public Comments

1. I'd show this guy the door, and look for someone else.
2. What you did was cut into their mark up profits on the hot water heater and boiler. So I assuming the one who wants you to replace the oil tank is trying to make more money. Now I don't live in Main and I am not sure if it is a law but I would call you local city hall and ask. Also find two new heating company get rid of the one who wanted to sub your job out to this other loser. Too me it just sounds shady.