Complete Guide to VeederRoot Tank Monitoring Systems
Understanding Tank Monitoring Importance
Automatic tank gauging is essential for environmental protection, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency.
Why Automatic Tank Monitoring Matters
Environmental Protection:
Underground tanks present serious environmental risks:
- Leak risk: Tanks and piping can develop leaks from corrosion, damage, installation defects
- Groundwater contamination: Fuel leaks contaminate drinking water supplies
- Soil contamination: Environmental damage extends beyond immediate area
- Cleanup costs: Remediation costs $50,000-$500,000 or more
- Liability: Owner responsible for contamination and cleanup
- Early detection critical: Small leaks caught early minimize damage and cost
Regulatory Requirements:
Federal and state regulations mandate monitoring:
- EPA requirements: Federal underground storage tank (UST) regulations
- New York DEC: Statespecific requirements and oversight
- Continuous monitoring: Required 24/7/365 monitoring
- Leak detection: Certified leak detection systems required
- Record keeping: Documentation of monitoring and testing
- Penalties: Fines and potential closure for noncompliance
Inventory Management:
Accurate fuel inventory essential for operations:
- Know what you have: Realtime inventory levels
- Prevent runouts: Never run out of fuel unexpectedly
- Optimize deliveries: Order at optimal times
- Reconciliation: Track delivered vs sold fuel
- Shrinkage detection: Identify theft or losses
- Financial management: Accurate inventory valuation
Operational Efficiency:
Automated monitoring saves time and improves operations:
- Eliminate manual gauging: No more dipsticks and calculations
- Remote access: Monitor from anywhere
- Automatic alerts: Notifications when action needed
- Data for decisions: Business intelligence for optimization
- Integration: Works with POS for complete fuel management
Risks of Inadequate Monitoring
Without Proper Tank Monitoring:
- Environmental releases undetected: Leaks continue unnoticed
- Massive cleanup liability: Contamination grows exponentially
- Regulatory violations: Fines and potential closure
- Inventory inaccuracy: Don't know what you actually have
- Delivery problems: Run out of fuel or overorder
- Theft undetected: Losses not identified
- Manual labor burden: Time spent on manual monitoring
- No data for optimization: Flying blind operationally
Real Examples:
- Small undetected leak over months: $200,000+ remediation
- Inventory inaccuracy causing repeated runouts: Customer loss
- Theft undetected for year: $15,000+ loss
- Regulatory violation: $10,000 fine plus required upgrades
- All preventable with proper tank monitoring
Modern Tank Monitoring Benefits
Continuous Protection:
- 24/7/365 monitoring
- Instant leak detection
- Immediate alerts
- Never miss a problem
- Peace of mind
Regulatory Compliance:
- EPAcertified systems
- Automated testing
- Complete documentation
- Inspectionready
- Avoid violations
Inventory Accuracy:
- Realtime levels
- 1/8inch accuracy (Mag Plus probes)
- Delivery reconciliation
- Shrinkage detection
- Better decisions
Operational Efficiency:
- Eliminate manual monitoring
- Remote access and monitoring
- Automatic alerts
- Integration with POS
- Time savings
Learn more about tank monitoring installation
VeederRoot Industry Leadership
VeederRoot is the undisputed global leader in automatic tank gauging.
Market Dominance
Industry Statistics:
- Over 1,000,000 installations worldwide
- Largest ATG manufacturer globally
- Trusted by major brands and independents
- Industry standard for tank monitoring
- Most widely supported systems
Why Market Leadership Matters:
- Proven reliability: Fieldtested in every condition
- Long-term support: Company stability ensures decades of support
- Parts availability: Easy to source parts and service
- Technician expertise: Most technicians trained on VeederRoot
- Resale value: Recognized quality maintains property value
- Safe choice: Betting on proven industry leader
Innovation Leadership
Invented Automatic Tank Gauging:
- First ATG system in 1977
- Continuous innovation for 45+ years
- Industry's largest R&D investment in ATG
- Set industry standards
Pioneer in leak detection technology
Technology Firsts:
- Magnetostrictive probe technology
- Statistical inventory reconciliation (SIR)
- Networked tank monitoring
- Cloudbased remote monitoring (TLSConnect)
- Continuous feature enhancement
Product Evolution
TLS Console History:
- TLS300: Original console (1990s-2000s)
- TLS350: Value console (2000s-2010s)
- TLS450: Premium console (2010s)
- TLS450PLUS: Current premium console
- TLS350R: Retrofit console (current)
- Continuous improvement and upgradeability
Backward Compatibility:
- New consoles work with existing probes
- Upgrade paths available
- Protect previous investments
- Longterm platform
Complete Ecosystem
Integrated Solutions:
- Consoles (multiple models)
- Probes (various types for all applications)
- Tank monitoring accessories
- Integration with Gilbarco POS
- Remote monitoring (TLSConnect)
- Complete fuel management
SingleVendor Benefits:
- One company for complete system
- Guaranteed compatibility
- Unified support
- Complete accountability
- Simplified procurement
Regulatory Recognition
EPA Certification:
- All systems EPAcertified
- Meet federal requirements
- Regular recertification
- Trusted by regulators
- Compliance confidence
Industry Approvals:
- UL Listed
- State approvals nationwide
- International certifications
- Insurance company approved
- Thirdparty validated
TLS450PLUS Premium Console
The flagship VeederRoot console delivering maximum capability and features.
When to Choose TLS450PLUS
Ideal For:
- Large stations: 8+ tanks to monitor
- Highvolume operations: Complex fuel operations
- Corporate/brand operations: Enterprise requirements
- New construction: Latest technology for new facilities
- Advanced leak detection needs: Most sensitive testing
- Remote monitoring priority: TLSConnect cloud access essential
- Futureproofing: Maximum capability and expandability
Best For Operators Who:
- Demand most advanced technology
- Need comprehensive features
- Manage multiple tanks (816)
- Value remote monitoring highly
- Require statistical inventory reconciliation
- Want maximum leak detection sensitivity
- Prioritize complete fuel management
Key Features and Capabilities
Maximum Capacity:
Supports large, complex operations:
- Monitor up to 16 tanks: Adequate for largest stations
- Support 32 dispensers: Complete dispenser inventory tracking
- Multiple product types: Gasoline, diesel, E85, DEF, kerosene, etc.
- Flexible configuration: Adapt to any site requirements
Advanced Leak Detection:
Most sensitive testing available:
- 0.1 GPH leak detection: Detects leaks as small as 0.1 gallons per hour
- 0.2 GPH leak detection: Standard testing also available
- Tank tightness testing: Confirms tank integrity
- Line leak detection: Tests piping systems
- Multiple test methods: Comprehensive leak detection coverage
- EPA certified: Meets and exceeds all federal requirements
Statistical Inventory Reconciliation (SIR):
Advanced fuel accountability:
- Trend analysis: Longterm variance tracking
- Alarm thresholds: Alert when variances exceed limits
- Loss identification: Distinguish leaks from operational losses
- Compliance reporting: Required by many regulatory agencies
- Theft detection: Identify unusual patterns
- Business intelligence: Optimize fuel operations
TLSConnect Remote Monitoring:
Cloudbased anywhere access:
- Monitor from anywhere: Phone, tablet, computer access
- Realtime data: Current tank levels and status
- Alarm notifications: Email/text alerts for problems
- Historical data: Trend analysis and reporting
- Multiple locations: Manage all sites from one dashboard
- No VPN required: Direct cloud connectivity
Color Touchscreen Interface:
Modern, intuitive operation:
- 7inch color touchscreen: Easytoread display
- Intuitive menus: Simple navigation
- Graphical displays: Visual tank levels and trends
- Onscreen help: Builtin assistance
- Customizable screens: Configure for your preferences
Comprehensive Reporting:
Extensive builtin reports:
- Inventory reports: Tank levels, deliveries, usage
- Leak detection reports: Test results and compliance
- Reconciliation reports: Delivered vs sold analysis
- Compliance reports: Regulatory documentation
- Custom reports: Flexible reporting tools
- Scheduled reports: Automatic report generation
Multiple Communication Options:
Flexible connectivity:
- Ethernet: Network connectivity
- RS232/RS485: Serial connections
- Wireless: Optional wireless connectivity
- Modem: Phone line backup
- Multiple protocols: Compatible with various systems
Expandability:
Futureproof investment:
- Software updates: Downloadable feature updates
- Hardware expandable: Add capacity as needed
- Integration ready: Connect to future systems
- Long support life: Supported for decades
- Upgrade paths: Protect investment longterm
Configuration and Installation
Standard Configuration:
- TLS450PLUS console
- Mag Plus probes for each tank
- Probe cables and wiring
- Dispenser sensors (if SIR required)
- Communication connectivity
- Installation and calibration
- Training
Options:
- TLSConnect cloud subscription
- Additional dispenser sensors
- Wireless connectivity
- Backup communication methods
- Enhanced reporting features
Investment
Pricing:
- TLS450PLUS console: $8,000-$12,000 (console only)
- Mag Plus probes: $1,500-$2,500 each
- Installation and calibration: $3,000-$6,000
- Total system (4tank example): $17,000-$28,000 installed
- Larger systems: $25,000-$40,000 for 8+ tanks
Included:
- Console and all components
- Probes for all tanks
- Complete installation
- Tank calibration (required for accuracy)
- Regulatory compliance testing
- Staff training
- Documentation
- Warranty
Annual Costs:
- TLSConnect subscription: $300-$600 per year (optional)
- Annual compliance testing: $500-$1,000
- Maintenance: Minimal (very reliable)
TLS450PLUS Benefits
Maximum Capability:
Most advanced features available:
- Largest capacity (16 tanks, 32 dispensers)
- Most sensitive leak detection (0.1 GPH)
- Statistical inventory reconciliation
- Remote monitoring included
- Complete feature set
- No limitations
FutureProof Investment:
Technology platform for decades:
- Software upgradeable
- Expandable capacity
- Long manufacturer support
- Latest technology
- Protect investment
Best Total Value:
Premium features justify cost:
- Avoid environmental disasters
- Regulatory compliance confidence
- Operational optimization
- Remote monitoring convenience
- Long service life (20+ years)
- Lower total cost of ownership
TLS350 Value Console
Excellent balance of capability and cost for typical operations.
When to Choose TLS350
Ideal For:
Small to medium stations: 28 tanks
- Independent operators: Costconscious decisions
- Equipment replacement: Upgrading aging systems
- Budgetfocused: Excellent value priority
- Standard requirements: Don't need premium features
- Proven reliability: Fieldtested platform
Best For Operators Who:
- Operate typicalsize station
- Need reliable tank monitoring
- Prioritize costeffectiveness
- Don't require 0.1 GPH leak detection
- Want proven VeederRoot quality
- Seek excellent ROI
Key Features and Capabilities
Adequate Capacity:
Handles most operations:
- Monitor up to 8 tanks: Sufficient for typical stations
- Support 16 dispensers: Adequate for most sites
- Multiple products: All common fuel types
- Standard configuration: Meets typical needs
EPACertified Leak Detection:
Reliable leak detection:
- 0.2 GPH leak detection: Standard EPAcertified testing
- Tank tightness testing: Confirms tank integrity
- Line leak detection: Tests piping systems
- Regulatory compliance: Meets all federal requirements
- Proven reliability: Thousands of installations
Essential Features:
Everything most operators need:
- Realtime inventory: Current tank levels
- Delivery detection: Automatic delivery recording
- Alarm management: High/low level, leak alarms
- Basic reporting: Essential inventory reports
- POS integration: Works with Passport and others
- Reliable operation: Proven in field
Simple Interface:
Easy to use:
- LCD display: Clear, readable screen
- Button navigation: Simple menu system
- Straightforward operation: Easy to learn
- Onconsole access: Local monitoring and control
Standard Communication:
Essential connectivity:
- RS232/RS485: Serial connections
- Ethernet: Network connectivity
- Modem: Optional phone line
- POS integration: Standard protocols
Remote Monitoring Capable:
Optional connectivity:
- TLSConnect compatible (subscription)
- Remote access available
- Webbased monitoring
- Alarm notifications
- Not included standard but available
Configuration and Installation
Standard Configuration:
- TLS350 console
- Mag Plus probes for each tank
- Probe cables and wiring
- Installation and calibration
- Training
Options:
- TLSConnect remote monitoring (subscription)
- Additional sensors
- Enhanced connectivity
Investment
Pricing:
- TLS350 console: $5,000-$8,000 (console only)
- Mag Plus probes: $1,500-$2,500 each
- Installation and calibration: $2,500-$4,000
- Total system (4tank example): $13,500-$20,000 installed
- Smaller systems (23 tanks): $10,000-$15,000
Value Proposition:
Excellent pricetoperformance:
- VeederRoot quality and reliability
- EPAcertified leak detection
- Essential features included
- Proven platform
- Save $3,500-$8,000 vs TLS450PLUS on 4tank system
- For most operators, best choice
TLS350 Benefits
Proven Reliability:
Fieldtested platform:
- Thousands of installations
- Excellent track record
- Long service life (15-20 years)
- Manufacturer support
- Parts availability
Excellent Value:
Best bang for buck:
- Lower cost than TLS450PLUS
- All essential features included
- EPAcertified and compliant
- Reliable VeederRoot quality
- Excellent ROI
Adequate Capability:
Meets needs of most operations:
- 8tank capacity sufficient for 95% of stations
- 0.2 GPH leak detection meets requirements
- Essential features present
- Expandable if needs grow
- Most common choice for good reason
TLS350R Retrofit Solution
Costeffective console upgrade preserving existing probes.
When to Choose TLS350R
Ideal For:
- Existing TLS300/older TLS350: Upgrade aging consoles
- Budgetconstrained upgrades: Console only, keep probes
- Probes still functional: Existing probes in good condition
- Immediate modernization: Quick upgrade path
- Regulatory compliance: Console meets current standards
Best For Operators Who:
- Have aging console (TLS300, early TLS350)
- Want to modernize without complete replacement
- Have functional existing probes
- Prioritize costeffective upgrades
- Need regulatory compliance now
What is TLS350R?
Retrofit Console:
Designed specifically for upgrades:
- Replace console only: Keep existing probes
- Compatible with legacy probes: Works with older VeederRoot probes
- Modern capabilities: Current TLS350 features
- Quick installation: Faster than complete replacement
- Costeffective: Lower cost than full system replacement
How It Works:
- Remove old console (TLS300 or older TLS350)
- Install TLS350R console
- Connect to existing probes
- Calibrate and configure
- System modernized
Capabilities
Same as TLS350:
All standard TLS350 features:
- Up to 8 tanks
- Support 16 dispensers
- 0.2 GPH leak detection
- Essential features
- POS integration
- Reliable operation
Upgrade Benefits:
Modernization without full replacement:
- Current regulatory compliance
- Modern features
- Reliable new console
- TLSConnect capable
- Extended system life
When NOT to Choose TLS350R
Replace Complete System If:
- Probes very old or failing: Don't rely on aging probes
- Probes not VeederRoot: Incompatible probes
- Want most advanced capability: Need TLS450PLUS features
- Complete modernization desired: Fresh start with latest technology
- Probes don't support new features: Older probes limit capability
- Consider Complete Replacement When:
- System more than 20 years old
- Probe failures occurring
- Want latest technology
- Budget allows complete upgrade
Investment
Pricing:
- TLS350R console: $4,000-$6,000 (console only)
- Installation: $1,000-$2,000
- Calibration: $500-$1,000
- Total: $5,500-$9,000
Savings vs Complete Replacement:
- Complete new system (4 tanks): $13,500$20,000
- TLS350R upgrade: $5,500$9,000
- Savings: $8,000$11,000
- Preserves probe investment
- Extends system life 1015 years
TLS350R Benefits
CostEffective Modernization:
Upgrade without complete replacement:
- Significantly lower cost
- Preserve probe investment
- Modern console capabilities
- Quick implementation
- Excellent interim solution
Regulatory Compliance:
Meet current standards:
- Current console technology
- EPAcertified system
- Compliance documentation
- Avoid violations
- Inspectionready
Extended System Life:
Years of additional service:
- New console (15-20 year life)
- Existing probes continue service
- Delay major capital expense
- Bridge to eventual complete replacement
- Costeffective strategy
Mag Plus Probes
Premium magnetostrictive probes delivering accuracy and reliability.
What are Mag Plus Probes?
Magnetostrictive Technology:
Advanced measurement method:
- Magnetic float: Rides on fuel surface
- Magnetostrictive sensor rod: Detects float position precisely
- Electronic measurement: Extremely accurate level detection
- Temperature compensation: Corrects for temperature effects
- Product identification: Identifies fuel type
- Water detection: Detects water accumulation
How They Work:
- Float rests on fuel surface in tank
- Magnetic field from float detected by sensor rod
- Precise distance calculated electronically
- Level, volume, temperature, water measured
- Data transmitted to console
- Continuous realtime monitoring
Accuracy and Reliability
Exceptional Accuracy:
- 1/8inch level accuracy: Extremely precise measurement
- Better than floats: Traditional floats accurate to several inches
- Temperature compensation: Automatic correction for fuel expansion
- Consistent measurement: Reliable regardless of conditions
- Volume accuracy: Precise inventory calculations
LongTerm Reliability:
- No moving parts in sensor: Only float moves
- Solidstate electronics: Extremely reliable
- Sealed construction: Protected from fuel environment
- Long service life: 20+ years typical
- Minimal maintenance: Virtually maintenancefree
Features and Capabilities
MultiPoint Measurement:
Comprehensive tank monitoring:
- Fuel level: Primary measurement
- Fuel temperature: For volume compensation
- Water level: Detects water accumulation (critical)
- Product identification: Confirms correct fuel type
- Fuel volume: Calculated from level and calibration
Alarm Capability:
Builtin sensors trigger alarms:
- High level alarm: Prevent overfills
- Low level alarm: Warn before runout
- Water alarm: Alert when water detected
- Sensor malfunction: Selfdiagnostics
Communication:
Reliable data transmission:
- Digital communication: Accurate data to console
- Long cable runs: Up to several hundred feet
- Multiple probes: Daisychain configuration
- Diagnostic feedback: Health monitoring
Probe Configurations
Standard Mag Plus:
Most common configuration:
- Single probe per tank
- Measures at one point
- Adequate for most applications
- Standard installation
Mag Plus Discriminating:
Enhanced water detection:
- More sensitive water detection
- Lower detection threshold
- Important for water contamination concerns
- Recommended for critical applications
Dual Probes:
Large or oddlyshaped tanks:
- Two probes in one tank
- Average for accurate level
- Required for some configurations
- Special applications
Installation Considerations
Probe Selection:
Choose appropriate length:
- Based on tank depth
- Standard lengths available
- Custom lengths possible
- Professional measurement required
Tank Preparation:
Proper installation critical:
- Clean tank interior
- Remove debris and sludge
- Verify tank integrity
- Proper probe mounting
Calibration:
Essential for accuracy:
- Physical measurement of tank
- Create volume vs level table
- Program into console
- Verify accuracy
- Required for each tank
Investment
Pricing:
- Mag Plus probe: $1,500-$2,500 each (standard)
- Installation per probe: $300-$500
- Calibration per tank: $200-$400
- Total per tank: $2,000-$3,400
4Tank Example:
- Probes: $6,000-$10,000
- Installation: $1,200-$2,000
- Calibration: $800-$1,600
- Total: $8,000-$13,600
Mag Plus Benefits
Superior Accuracy:
Best available measurement:
- 1/8inch accuracy
- Temperature compensation
- Reliable regardless of conditions
- Precise inventory data
- Regulatory compliance
Comprehensive Monitoring:
Multiple measurements:
- Level
- Temperature
- Water
- Product ID
- Complete information
LongTerm Reliability:
Decades of service:
- Solidstate reliability
- Minimal maintenance
- Long service life
- Manufacturer support
- Industry standard
Water Detection:
Critical safety feature:
- Early water detection
- Prevent engine damage
- Fuel quality protection
- Required monitoring
- Peace of mind
Leak Detection Capabilities
Protecting environment and compliance through advanced leak detection.
Why Leak Detection Matters
Environmental Protection:
Early leak detection minimizes damage:
- Small leaks detected before becoming large releases
- Minimize contamination
- Reduce cleanup costs
- Protect groundwater
- Prevent environmental disasters
Regulatory Compliance:
Federal and state requirements:
- EPA requires leak detection
- New York DEC enforcement
- Continuous monitoring mandated
- Testing frequency specified
- Documentation required
- Fines for noncompliance
Financial Protection:
Avoid massive costs:
- Small leak remediation: $50,000-$100,000
- Large release remediation: $200,000-$500,000+
- Property devaluation
- Business interruption
- Legal liability
- Insurance claims
Tank Leak Detection
0.2 GPH Testing (Standard):
EPAcertified standard:
- Detects leaks of 0.2 gallons per hour
- Monthly testing required
- Overnight static test
- Automatic testing
- Pass/fail results
- Compliance documentation
0.1 GPH Testing (TLS450PLUS):
Most sensitive available:
- Detects leaks as small as 0.1 GPH
- Earlier problem detection
- More sensitive than required
- Premium capability
- Enhanced protection
How Testing Works:
- Tank must be static (no deliveries or sales)
- Test period (typically 8-10 hours)
- Precise level monitoring
- Temperature compensation applied
- Calculate volume change
- Compare to pass/fail threshold
- Document results
Test Conditions:
Requirements for valid test:
- No deliveries during test
- No dispensing during test
- Minimum fuel level
- Stable temperature conditions
- Full test duration
- Proper calibration
Test Results:
Clear documentation:
- Pass: No leak detected
- Fail: Leak detected or suspected
- Inconclusive: Test conditions not met
- Complete records maintained
Regulatory reporting
Line Leak Detection
Pressurized Piping Testing:
Piping from tank to dispenser:
- Mechanical line leak detectors
- Pressure decay testing
- Annual testing required
- Detects piping leaks
- Separate from tank testing
TLS Console Integration:
Comprehensive monitoring:
- Tank and line testing
- Complete system coverage
- Unified documentation
- Regulatory compliance
- Singlesystem management
Statistical Inventory Reconciliation (SIR)
What is SIR?
Longterm variance analysis:
- Compare delivered vs dispensed fuel
- Statistical analysis of variances
- Trend identification
- Distinguishes operational losses from leaks
- Required by many jurisdictions
How SIR Works:
- Track fuel deliveries (volume received)
- Track fuel sales (volume dispensed)
- Calculate expected inventory
- Compare to measured inventory
- Analyze variance trends
- Alert when exceeds thresholds
TLS450PLUS SIR:
Advanced capability:
- Continuous statistical analysis
- Configurable alarm thresholds
- Trend reporting
- Compliance documentation
Business intelligence
Benefits:
- Detect small ongoing losses
- Distinguish leak from operational issues
- Theft detection
- Regulatory compliance
- Inventory optimization
Compliance and Documentation
Automatic Testing:
Scheduled testing occurs automatically:
- Console performs tests on schedule
- No manual intervention required
- Consistent testing
- Never miss required test
- Reliable compliance
Complete Documentation:
Required records automatically maintained:
- Test date and time
- Test type and method
- Test results (pass/fail)
- Tank and system information
- Stored for regulatory inspection
- Printable reports
Regulatory Reporting:
Meet inspection requirements:
- Inspectionready documentation
- Historical test records
- Compliance demonstration
- Printable reports
- Export capability
Inventory Management Features
Accurate inventory data enables better business decisions and operations.
RealTime Inventory
Continuous Monitoring:
Always know what you have:
- Current tank levels: Realtime gallons in each tank
- Volume by product: Gasoline, diesel, separate tracking
- Percentage full: Visual representation
- Time to empty: Estimated based on sales rate
- Historical trends: Usage patterns over time
Display Options:
Multiple ways to view inventory:
- Console display
- POS integration
- Remote monitoring (TLSConnect)
- Reports and exports
- Graphical trends
Delivery Management
Automatic Delivery Detection:
System knows when delivery occurs:
- Tank level increase detected
- Volume calculated automatically
- Product verified
- Timestamp recorded
- No manual entry required
Delivery Reconciliation:
Verify delivery accuracy:
- Compare measured vs bill of lading
- Identify discrepancies
- Document actual receipt
- Dispute resolution support
- Vendor accountability
Delivery Planning:
Optimize ordering:
- Usage rate analysis
- Time to empty calculation
- Optimal reorder points
- Seasonal adjustment
- Cost optimization
Inventory Reconciliation
Shrinkage Analysis:
Track delivered vs sold:
- Beginning inventory
- Plus deliveries received
- Minus fuel dispensed
- Equals expected inventory
- Compare to measured inventory
- Variance = shrinkage or gain
Acceptable Variance:
Normal operational losses:
- Temperature effects (expansion/contraction)
- Measurement tolerances
- Evaporation (minimal with proper equipment)
- Typically 0.51% is acceptable
- Variances outside range indicate problems
Problem Identification:
Unusual variances trigger investigation:
- Leak detection (environmental)
- Theft or driveoffs (criminal)
- Meter inaccuracy (calibration needed)
- Delivery short (vendor issue)
- Other operational problems
Business Intelligence
Sales Analysis:
Fuel sales patterns:
- Sales by product and grade
- Sales by time period (hour, day, week)
- Peak period identification
- Seasonal trends
- Yearoveryear comparison
Margin Management:
Profitability tracking:
- Delivered cost tracking
- Sales price
- Margin calculation by product
- Identify profitable products
- Pricing optimization
Operational Optimization:
Datadriven decisions:
- Delivery scheduling
- Product mix
- Pricing strategy
- Inventory levels
- Cost reduction
POS Integration
Seamless Communication:
Tank monitoring and POS work together:
- Realtime inventory to POS
- Automatic reconciliation
- Delivery detection shared
- Unified reporting
- Singlesystem management
Benefits:
- No manual data entry
- Always accurate
- Automatic reconciliation
- Better business intelligence
- Operational efficiency
Regulatory Compliance
Tank monitoring systems must meet federal and state regulatory requirements.
Federal EPA Requirements
Underground Storage Tank Regulations:
EPA 40 CFR Part 280:
- Leak detection required: Continuous monitoring mandated
- Monthly testing: Tank integrity testing
- Annual testing: Line leak detection
- Record keeping: Documentation requirements
- Notification: Report releases immediately
- Compliance demonstration: Prove compliant on demand
Certification Requirements:
Systems must be certified:
- EPAapproved leak detection methods
- Thirdparty certified equipment
- Proper installation and calibration
- Regular testing
- Documentation maintained
VeederRoot Compliance:
All systems EPAcertified:
- TLS450PLUS: Full EPA certification
- TLS350: Full EPA certification
- Mag Plus probes: Certified components
- Leak detection methods: Approved
- Complete compliance confidence
New York State Requirements
DEC Regulations:
Statespecific requirements:
- PBS registration required
- Annual testing mandated
- Record keeping (35 years)
- Notification of releases
- Periodic inspections
- Compliance enforcement
Testing Frequency:
New York requirements:
- Tank leak detection: Monthly (0.2 GPH test)
- Line leak detection: Annual pressure test
- Overfill prevention: Annual functional test
- Spill prevention: Annual functional test
- System integrity: Various testing schedules
Documentation:
Required records:
- All leak detection test results
- Line testing documentation
- Calibration records
- Maintenance records
- Delivery records
- Available for inspection
Compliance Testing
Monthly Tank Testing:
Automatic 0.2 GPH test:
- Scheduled monthly
- Occurs automatically overnight
- No operator intervention
- Results documented
- Regulatory requirement met
Annual Line Testing:
Pressurized piping:
- Mechanical line leak detector test
- Pressure decay test
- Professional testing required
- Documentation maintained
- Empire Petroleum Services provides testing
Calibration Verification:
Periodic accuracy checks:
- Verify probe accuracy
- Adjust if needed
- Document calibration
- Maintain measurement accuracy
- Typically every 35 years
Inspection Readiness
What Inspectors Review:
During regulatory inspection:
- Leak detection test records
- Line testing documentation
- Equipment certification
- Calibration records
- Maintenance documentation
- Operator training records
Preparation:
Always inspectionready:
- Complete test history available
- Documentation organized
- System properly maintained
- Operator knowledge
- Confident compliance
Empire Petroleum Services Support:
We help with compliance:
- Install compliant systems
- Annual testing services
- Documentation management
- Inspection preparation
- Compliance confidence
Learn about DEC compliance services
Selecting the Right System
Choosing the optimal Veeder Root configuration for your specific needs.
Tank Count Consideration
24 Tanks (Small Station):
- TLS350: Excellent choice, adequate capacity
- TLS350R: If upgrading existing system
- TLS450PLUS: If want premium features
- Most choose: TLS350 for value
58 Tanks (Medium Station):
- TLS350: Still adequate, good value
- TLS450PLUS: More capability and features
- Most choose: TLS350 for value or TLS450PLUS for features
9+ Tanks (Large Station):
- TLS450PLUS: Required for capacity
- Only option for more than 8 tanks
- Premium features justify cost at this scale
Feature Requirements
Essential Features (All Models):
- Realtime inventory
- Leak detection
- Alarm management
- POS integration
- Regulatory compliance
Premium Features (TLS450PLUS Only):
- 0.1 GPH leak detection (more sensitive)
- Statistical inventory reconciliation (SIR)
- TLS Connect remote monitoring (included)
- Color touchscreen
- Advanced reporting
- Maximum capacity (16 tanks)
Feature Priority:
- Must have: Regulatory compliance features (all models)
- Nice to have: Remote monitoring (TLS450PLUS or add to TLS350)
- Optional: SIR (TLS450PLUS only, required some jurisdictions)
- Premium: 0.1 GPH testing (TLS450PLUS only, exceeds requirements)
Budget Considerations
Investment Comparison (4Tank System):
- TLS350: $13,500-$20,000
- TLS450PLUS: $17,000-$28,000
- Difference: $3,500-$8,000
Long-Term Considerations:
- Both have similar service life (1520+ years)
- Both meet regulatory requirements
- TLS450PLUS has more features
- TLS350 has better value
- Decision: Features vs cost
ROI Perspective:
- Both systems pay for themselves through leak prevention
- Premium features may justify cost for some
- Value features adequate for most
- Total cost of ownership similar over 20 years
Remote Monitoring Priority
TLS Connect Value:
If remote monitoring important:
- TLS450PLUS: Included, best implementation
- TLS350: Available as addon subscription
- Benefits: Monitor from anywhere, automatic alerts, multilocation management
- Cost: Subscription fee ($300-$600 annually)
Who Needs Remote Monitoring:
- Multilocation operators (essential)
- Operators who travel frequently
- Corporate oversight requirements
- Absentee owners
- High value convenience
Who May Not Need:
- Single location owner operated
- Always onsite
- Budget priority
- Local monitoring sufficient
Typical Recommendations
Small Independent (24 tanks):
- Recommendation: TLS350
- Why: Excellent value, adequate features, proven reliability
- Investment: $10,000-$20,000
Medium Independent (48 tanks):
- Recommendation: TLS350 or TLS450PLUS
- Decision factors: Budget, feature needs, remote monitoring priority
- Investment: $13,500-$28,000
Large Station (8+ tanks):
- Recommendation: TLS450PLUS
- Why: Required for capacity, premium features justified
- Investment: $25,000-$40,000
Multi Location Operator:
- Recommendation: TLS450PLUS with TLS Connect
- Why: Remote monitoring essential, consolidate management
- Investment: Per location, with cloud subscription
Upgrading Existing System:
- Recommendation: TLS350R if probes good, TLS350 or TLS450PLUS if complete replacement
- Decision factors: Probe condition, budget, feature needs
- Investment: $5,500-$28,000 depending on scope
Installation and Calibration
Proper installation and calibration ensure accurate, reliable operation.
PreInstallation Assessment
Site Survey:
Professional evaluation:
- Tank count and sizes
- Existing equipment condition
- Probe locations and access
- Console location planning
- Communication infrastructure
- Power requirements
Tank Preparation:
Critical for accuracy:
- Tank cleaning if needed
- Remove sludge and debris
- Verify tank integrity
- Proper probe mounting points
- Safe working conditions
Installation Process
Console Installation:
Professional mounting and connection:
- Mount console in appropriate location (office, manager area)
- Connect power supply
- Install communication cabling
- Connect to network if applicable
- Initial configuration
Probe Installation:
Precise tank installation:
- Measure tank depth accurately
- Select appropriate probe length
- Mount probe in tank (through riser)
- Secure properly
- Connect cable to console
- Verify communication
Communication Setup:
Connect to other systems:
- POS integration (if applicable)
- Network connectivity
- Remote monitoring setup (if applicable)
- Test all connections
- Verify reliable communication
Calibration (Critical)
Why Calibration Matters:
Essential for accuracy:
- Tanks not perfect cylinders
- Volume varies with level
- Individual tank characteristics
- Measurement accuracy depends on calibration
- Required for regulatory compliance
Calibration Process:
Professional tank measurement:
- Physical measurement: Precisely measure tank at multiple levels
- Create strapping chart: Leveltovolume conversion table
- Program console: Enter strapping data
- Verification: Confirm accuracy with known volumes
- Documentation: Maintain calibration records
Professional Calibration Required:
Not DIYable:
- Specialized equipment needed
- Precision required
- Expertise essential
- Documentation for compliance
- Empire Petroleum Services provides complete calibration
Testing and Commissioning
Initial Testing:
Verify complete system:
- Probe communication
- Accurate level reading
- Temperature measurement
- Water detection
- Alarm functionality
- Leak detection capability
Integration Testing:
Confirm system integration:
- POS communication
- Delivery detection
- Inventory reconciliation
- Reporting functionality
- Complete workflow
Compliance Testing:
Regulatory requirements:
- Initial leak detection test
- Line leak detection
- System functionality
- Documentation
- Inspectionready
Training
Operator Training:
Essential for effective use:
- Console operation
- Reading displays
- Interpreting alarms
- Basic troubleshooting
- When to call service
Manager Training:
Advanced functions:
- Report generation
- Inventory management
- Reconciliation analysis
- System configuration
- Compliance documentation
Timeline
Typical Installation:
- Site assessment: 12 hours
- Installation: 13 days (depending on tank count)
- Calibration: 48 hours per tank (can overlap with installation)
- Testing: 1 day
- Training: 24 hours
- Total: 12 weeks from start to operational
Return on Investment
Tank monitoring systems deliver compelling financial returns through risk mitigation and operational efficiency.
Leak Prevention Value
Avoiding Environmental Disasters:
Single avoided leak pays for system multiple times:
Small Leak Scenario:
- Leak: 0.5 GPH for 3 months undetected
- Total release: 1,080 gallons
- Remediation cost: $75,000-$150,000
- Lost fuel value: $3,500
- Total cost: $78,500-$153,500
Moderate Leak Scenario:
- Leak: 2 GPH for 2 months undetected
- Total release: 2,880 gallons
- Remediation cost: $150,000$300,000
- Lost fuel value: $9,500
- Business interruption: $20,000+
- Total cost: $179,500$329,500
With Proper Tank Monitoring:
- Leak detected immediately (daily or weekly)
- Total release: 20-150 gallons maximum
- Remediation cost: $10,000-$50,000
- Lost fuel value: $100-$500
- Total cost: $10,100-$50,500
- Savings: $68,400-$279,000
ROI from Single Avoided Leak:
- System investment: $15,000
- Avoided leak cost: $100,000 (moderate example)
- ROI: 667%
- Plus: Ongoing protection for 20+ years
Inventory Accuracy Benefits
Delivery Optimization:
Better ordering decisions:
- Know exact inventory levels
- Order at optimal times
- Avoid emergency deliveries (higher cost)
- Optimize cash flow
- Value: $2,000-$5,000 annually
Shrinkage Detection:
Identify losses:
- Theft detection
- Meter inaccuracy identification
- Operational losses quantified
- Loss prevention
- Value: $3,000-$10,000 annually (if problems exist)
Avoid RunOuts:
Never run out of fuel:
- Customer satisfaction maintained
- Revenue loss prevented
- Reputation protected
- Value: Difficult to quantify but significant
Operational Efficiency
Eliminate Manual Monitoring:
Labor savings:
- No dipsticking required
- No manual calculations
- No manual record keeping
- Labor savings: $1,000-$3,000 annually
Remote Monitoring (TLSConnect):
Multilocation management efficiency:
- Monitor all locations from anywhere
- Reduce site visits
- Faster problem response
- Management efficiency
- Value: $2,000-$5,000 annually for multilocation
Better Business Decisions:
Datadriven management:
- Understand fuel sales patterns
- Optimize pricing
- Manage margins
- Improve profitability
- Value: Significant but difficult to quantify
Compliance and Risk Mitigation
Avoid Regulatory Violations:
Maintain compliance:
- Fines avoided: $5,000-$25,000+ per violation
- Closure risk eliminated
- Insurance compliance maintained
- Professional reputation
- Value: Priceless
Insurance Benefits:
Risk reduction:
- Lower insurance premiums potential
- Demonstrable risk management
- Avoid claims that increase premiums
- Value: Varies by policy
ROI Calculation Example
4Tank Station Investment:
- TLS350 system: $15,000
- Choose midpoint for example
Annual Quantifiable Benefits:
- Delivery optimization: $3,000
- Labor savings: $2,000
- Shrinkage detection: $5,000 (if problem exists)
- Total: $10,000 annually
Risk Mitigation Value:
- Leak detection (insurance value): $100,000+ potential saved
- Compliance maintained: Violations avoided
- Cannot easily quantify but enormous
Simple Payback (Quantifiable Only):
- $15,000 / $10,000 = 1.5 years
But Real Value:
- One avoided moderate leak: $100,000+ saved
- True ROI: Immeasurable but clearly positive
- System essentially free if prevents one leak
20Year Total Value:
- 20year quantifiable benefits: $200,000
- Investment: $15,000
- Annual maintenance: $10,000 (20 years × $500)
- Net 20year benefit: $175,000
- ROI: 1,167%
Plus: Value of environmental protection, regulatory compliance, peace of mind
Intangible Benefits
Peace of Mind:
- Confidence in environmental protection
- Know inventory accurate
- Regulatory compliance assured
- Professional operation
- Sleep well at night
Professional Operation:
- Modern, capable systems
- Competitive advantage
- Property value
- Pride of ownership
Get Expert Tank Monitoring Consultation
Ready to upgrade to VeederRoot tank monitoring? Empire Petroleum Services is the exclusive authorized Gilbarco VeederRoot dealer for New York State we provide factorydirect pricing, expert consultation, professional installation, complete calibration, compliance certification, and ongoing support.
Schedule Consultation
Contact Empire Petroleum Services:
Phone: 7163911717
Email: service@epsofny.com
Office: 6515 Transit Rd 24, Bowmansville, NY 14026
Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:30 AM - 4:30 PM EST
Request Tank Monitoring Pricing and Information
What You'll Receive
Free Consultation Includes:
- Assessment of current tank monitoring
- Discussion of needs and requirements
- System recommendations (TLS450PLUS, TLS350, or TLS350R)
- Configuration planning
- Integration discussion (POS, remote monitoring)
- Detailed pricing proposal
- Installation timeline
- Compliance guidance
- No obligation
Why Choose EPS for Tank Monitoring
Exclusive Authorized Dealer:
- Only Gilbarco VeederRoot dealer in New York
- Factorydirect pricing
- Full manufacturer support
- Genuine VeederRoot products
Expert Installation:
- Professional probe installation
- Precise tank calibration
- Complete system integration
- Compliance testing
- Warranty protection
Compliance Services:
- Annual leak detection testing
- Line leak testing
- Documentation management
- Inspection preparation
- Regulatory confidence
Complete Support:
- 24/7 emergency service
- Remote support
- Parts and repairs
- System optimization
- Longterm partnership
