If your heating oil tank is past its best and coming to the end of its life with cracks or splits, or if you've had an oil leak and need to replace your tank immediately, there’s quite a bit to think about when purchasing a replacement tank. And with spring, and hopefully warmer weather, just around the corner, now could be the ideal time to start the planning process.
There are different types and sizes of tanks available, and knowing which one is the best for you can be confusing. And there are other things you may want to think about, such as whether you want to change the location of your tank, or even consider a different energy source. Plus on top of all that, there are the heating oil tank regulations to consider too.
But there’s no need to be daunted as in this blog we’re going to take a look at what you need to know to help you make an informed choice and take any worries away.
What heating oil tank should I choose?
Plastic or steel? Large or small? Single-skinned or bunded? Above-ground or below-ground? There’s a large range of options available!
Heating oil storage tanks are available in plastic and also in metal. Plastic tanks are made from hard-wearing polyethylene and come in a range of sizes. They’re usually cheaper than metal tanks, do not need painting, and can be installed straight onto a base on the ground. If properly maintained, they can have a life expectancy of up to 20 years.
Metal tanks are also available in different sizes, but whilst stronger, highly durable and more resilient against extreme weather than plastic tanks, can rust over time and may require more maintenance. As they are less insulated than plastic tanks, they can be more prone to condensation, which can lead to water accumulating at the bottom of the tank. However, if properly maintained, a metal tank can last as long as 30 years.
Domestic heating oil tanks come in a range of sizes, and the best size for you will depend on where the tank is located and the amount of home heating oil you use. Whilst the minimum delivery of heating oil is 500 litres, heating oil suppliers often charge more for small deliveries, so it’s always worth considering a tank that is large enough for a delivery of 1,000 litres or more. Typically domestic heating oil tanks range from 500 litres upwards, although most residential tanks are 1,200 litres in capacity, but if you’re likely to use a lot of fuel, a larger tank would be recommended unless you are comfortable with frequent deliveries.
Tanks can also be single-skinned or bunded. A single-skin tank has one skin that the oil is contained within, whereas a bunded tank is simply a tank within a tank. The fuel is sorted in the inner tank, while the second tank is enclosed around the first, reducing the risk of spillage if the tank was to split. If your property is close to controlled water such as a stream, river or even a septic tank, you will need a bunded oil tank. Your OFTEC registered oil heating engineer will be able to offer help and advice.
The most common heating oil tank is an above-ground tank. However, underground tanks can be buried partially or wholly but may require planning permission to install and installation may be restricted if close to controlled water. They are specially designed to withstand the pressure exerted on the outside of the tank when it’s empty and should be encased in concrete. They are much more expensive to install than above-ground tanks.
Where to locate my tank
If you are thinking about putting your new central heating oil tank in a different location from the old one, careful planning is needed as there are a few things you will need to consider. Ensuring you have the right location that complies with local building regulations will keep you and your family safe and help extend the lifespan of your new tank.
- Bear in mind that your delivery driver and also your engineer will need to be able to access the area easily to ensure you can receive your oil deliveries safely and have your tank regularly inspected and maintained. Things to consider include the driveway width, clearance height, and distance from the drive to the tank, as well as any obstacles that might hinder access.
- Avoid areas prone to flooding or subsidence, and make sure that the area will be suitably stable and provide proper support for your new tank. You will need a level-standing base that is suitable for the weight of the tank when full. It must be non-combustible, and made from either concrete (at least 100 mm thick), paving stones, or stonework (at least 50 mm thick). The base must also be large enough to extend by 300 mm beyond all sides of the tank.
- Your choice of location must meet regulatory requirements – your OFTEC registered heating oil engineer will be able to advise.
- When considering where to locate your heating oil tank, don’t forget to consider security. By placing your tank away from public access, it will make it more difficult for thieves to notice your tank. Concealing it with a fence or trellis or installing a roof over the tank to prevent it from being spotted on satellite images are also considerations, but make sure to adhere to OFTEC regulations.
Renewable alternative fuels
Thinking about going greener?
Whilst the government has moved its initial proposed date to phase out off-grid fossil fuel boilers from 2026 to 2035, with an 80% phase-out rather than a 100% one, it may be that you’re considering an alternative source of energy. Heat pumps, which extract heat from the air, ground or water and transfer it to your home, are currently being championed by the government.
Whilst they can be a good choice for well-insulated new builds, heat pumps are not suitable for all properties. They can be costly to install and usually require energy efficiency improvements such as the fitting of new, larger radiators, underfloor heating and improved insulation as they are less efficient than heating oil.
However, the good news is that there are greener options than traditional heating oil on the way. Hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) is coming soon.
Future Ready Fuel is currently in discussions with government on how best to introduce HVO for home heating in the UK and in a joint statement, Paul Rose and Ken Cronin, the respective chief executives of industry groups OFTEC and UKIFDA said about HVO ‘There is an alternative way forward for millions of off-grid residents who can neither afford nor want to install a heat pump.'
HVO can be used in your existing oil central heating system – it just requires a simple, cost-effective conversion. It’s cleaner than traditional heating oil and can reduce carbon emissions by almost 90%.
Whilst we're not able to supply HVO to domestic properties at this time, we are able to supply HVO to off-grid companies that currently use diesel to power their business. But domestic HVO is coming soon.
So watch this space!
Thought about changing to LPG?
Finally, have you thought it may be a good time to consider switching to an alternative fuel such as LPG - a cleaner and greener choice with which to heat your home? Usually compatible with your existing heating system, there's no changing radiators or pipework, plus it's virtually impossible to steal. If you're interested in moving over to LPG, give us a call on 01423 772 789 and we'll chat with you and explain how everything works. Or click here to find out more.