What type of heating oil tank should I get?
Domestic home heating oil tanks come in a range of shapes and sizes, in plastic and metal, and can be single-skinned, double-skinned, or integrally bunded. They normally range from holding around 1,000 to 2,500 litres, and the size of the tank you require will be determined by where it’s going to be located, what space is available, and the amount of domestic heating oil you use.
An OFTEC registered engineer will be able to advise you what type of central heating oil tank is most suitable for your individual circumstances and also whether you need a bunded tank. One thing to consider is that smaller deliveries of say 500 litres usually come at a higher unit price than larger deliveries, so it’s worth making sure your tank is big enough, if possible, to accommodate orders of 900 litres or more.
Single-skinned tanks: These have one layer of protection against an oil leak and are normally installed in a secondary type of containment system such as reinforced concrete.
Double-skinned tanks: Also known as twin-walled tanks, these have two protective layers that protect against leaks. These also should have a secondary containment system.
Integral bunded tanks: These offer the best protection against leaks. The heating oil is contained in an inner tank, and an outer tank acts as protection, with a holding capacity of 110% of the inner tank’s capacity and fittings. Plus a bunded heating oil tank also protects the inner tank from the weather and the elements.
Building regulations now advise that all new heating oil tanks installed are bunded, and we would recommend you use an OFTEC registered engineer to install a new or replacement tank. You may also want to fit a heating oil tank gauge to help you monitor the amount of domestic heating oil in your tank.
Please note, underground tanks need to be professionally made for the job, and may require planning permission.