Bunded oil tanks come in many shapes and sizes, but another key criteria you need to think about is what they’re made of. This material can either be steel or plastic, with the choice you make very much dependent on your requirements.

 

So, what are the main differences between the two materials? As you might imagine, both have their various advantages over the other so, to help you decide, we are going to look at each of these in more detail.

 

Steel Oil Tanks: Advantages

 

1 – Durable.

Steel is more resilient to extreme weather and is able to endure more accidental damage. It also offers a longer lifespan than plastic, as it is much more durable.

 

2 – Security.

With the recent rise in oil theft, steel oil tanks are a better option when it comes to security. This is because steel is a stronger material, making it more difficult for thieves to syphon oil from. They are also heavier so are more difficult to remove.

 

3 – Storage.

Steel tanks are a better option for larger businesses as they can hold a lot more oil than plastic options. This can allow you to take advantage of cheaper oil prices, as you’ll be able to bulk buy more of it.

 

Plastic Oil Tanks: Advantages

 

1 – Lighter.

Steel oil tanks are much heavier than their plastic counterparts which, while might be advantageous against thieves, isn’t always practical. Plastic oil tanks are much more lightweight and manoeuvrable, making them easier to transport and move if required.

 

2 – Rust.

Unlike steel, plastic doesn’t rust, so plastic oil tanks don’t develop clogged filters over time. They also don’t require repainting to keep them fresh and rust-free, like you would need to do with a steel oil tank.

 

3 – Flexible.

Due to the nature of plastic, most plastic oil tanks are whole and unlikely to split. They are also able to regain their natural shape in the event of damage or adverse weather, making them less prone to oil spills.

 

The tank you choose to buy will largely depend on your needs. If you own a business and are more concerned about security, then a steel tank is likely the better bet. Whereas, if you are looking for an oil tank that you can take with you wherever you go, then a plastic tank is more practical.

 

Still feeling stuck? Feel free to contact us if you would like more advice.

 

Many of us have already started bumping up the thermostat by a couple of degrees. It’s also the time of year that people are reassessing their heating bills and working out whether there’s a more cost-effective option.

 

If you’ve been considering a switch from gas to oil heating – particularly a private supply – here are some of the benefits and drawbacks to consider.

 

The pros of oil heating:

• Safety – although oil is flammable, it’s not explosive like gas and does not produce carbon monoxide.
• Efficiency – heating oil burns at a higher temperature than natural gas and delivers more heat than other heating sources.
• Ideal for remote locations – if you aren’t close to a natural gas supply line, you can still arrange deliveries of heating oil.
• Lower up-front costs – boilers that run on oil tend to be cheaper than those that burn gas.

The drawbacks of oil heating:

• Higher long-term costs – for the foreseeable future, heating oil costs more than natural gas. Read our post about making sure you get the best price.
• Requires additives – to keep your boiler running as efficiently as possible, you will need to mix heating oil additives into your supply.
• Remembering to keep your tank filled – no supply line means that it’s up to the tank owner to arrange oil deliveries in a timely manner so you don’t run out mid-winter.
• More maintenance – oil produces significant soot and dirt, meaning that chimneys and filters will need to be cleaned regularly.

 

For more information about oil heating, particularly regarding the specifics of setting up a private oil storage tank, simply give our team a call. We sell, install, remove and replace oil tanks for domestic, commercial and agricultural properties all across the south coast and would be happy to help you.

 

After a sizzling summer, the temperatures are finally dropping and there’s a definite chill in the air. This is an important time of year for oil storage tank owners, as the fluctuating temperatures can make tanks a little more vulnerable. If you use your tank for heating oil, it’s likely to see a lot more use over the coming months, so it’s a good idea to double-check it’s in good working order before your next refill.

 

Here are the essentials for carrying out a tank inspection:

 

• Walk around the outside of your tank, looking for signs of wear and tear on all surfaces (don’t forget to check the top).

 

• Look for signs of sun-bleaching, deep scratches, rust spots, dents or bulges – these can all compromise the integrity of your tank.

 

• Check that the ground beneath your tank is level and secure – pay close attention to the base of your tank to see if it is taking unnecessary strain in one area.

 

• Scout the ground for any signs of leakage

 

• Check the fittings surrounding the tank itself – the cap, for example, and the connected pipes and valves if you can see them.

 

• Look at your tank’s surroundings – are there objects nearby that could be blown into the tank, or overhanging branches that could fall? Clear these as soon as possible.

 

• Don’t forget to check the bund. External bunds can fill up with water and dirt, even if your tank is kept indoors. Keep them clean and empty.

 

• Follow our security checklist to make sure that the physical safety of your tank is up to scratch before refilling it.

 

Routine tank maintenance is essential for keeping your tank in good working order and identifying any risks as soon as possible. Although it can be tempting to put off costly repairs or replacements, dealing with a split tank (particularly one that’s just been filled up) is going to be a much bigger issue.

 

At SG Tanks, we have been carrying out tank surveys, installations and replacements for many years. If we can be of any assistance – either by answering your questions or coming to replace your tank before winter – we would be happy to help. Simply call us on 01903 856403 or drop us a message on our contact page.