Heating your home with heating oil can be cost effective and more straightforward than you might initially think. But one thing you will need to take into account is the storage of your heating oil. So what should you look for when choosing a home heating oil fuel tank? Well, here at Compass Fuel Oils, we are the UK’s leading fuel oil specialists, providing next day delivery across the UK. This is our guide to everything you should know about home fuel storage.
What are the important considerations when choosing a fuel tank for home heating oil?
There are a number of things to consider when you are choosing a new fuel tank for your home heating oil. These considerations include:
- The size of the tank
- The position of the tank
- Tank bunding
- Storage regulations
How big should your fuel tank be for home heating oil?
The size of tank that is necessary for your property will determined by the amount of space around your property, as well as the amount of fuel you will need. For smaller properties, smaller fuel tanks can be a better option as your fuel will not be standing in storage for too long, which will reduce the risk of condensation and potential fuel line problems. However, for larger properties with unlimited outdoor space, it can be beneficial to buy a larger fuel tank as this will be more cost effective.
Where should your fuel tank be stored?
Your fuel tank will need to be installed in line with government regulations but you may have the option to position this outside or inside.
If your fuel tank will be stored outside, this needs to be away from any water sources to prevent possible contamination. The tank will also need to be away from driveways or places where there is the risk of them becoming damaged. It is best to keep your outdoor tank in a safe, hidden area and have a padlock or alarm system installed to deter theft. It is also important to remember to make sure your oil tank is still visible for deliveries.
Storing your oil heating tank indoors offers further protection from the weather and opportunistic thieves or vandals, but you still need to adhere to fire and building regulations.
Fuel tank bunding for home heating oil
Most tanks for home heating oil will be plastic or steel made up of single or double layers, or an integral bund. A tank with an integral bund offers the most effective protection when compared with single or double layers around a tank. This is because bunded tank is essentially a tank sitting within a tank, so there is more space to contain any leaks. If you have a single or double-layered tank, you will need to have a bund built around them to prevent oil spillages.
Storage regulations for home heating oil
Beyond all of the above points, you should make sure you are familiar with the applicable storage regulations and legal requirements. For more information about the legal requirements based on your circumstances, see the government website.
For more information or advice, get in touch with the team today, here at Compass Fuels.