SG Tanks

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Things to think about when positioning a bunded oil tank

Bunded oil tank

Thanks to their extra levels of protection, Bunded oil tanks are one of the easiest and safest way to store oil for helping to heat your home or business. As with any oil tank however, you will need to make sure that the tank is installed safely and correctly. There are also a number of other things to think about if you’re thinking of getting an oil tank installed. This includes building regulations, OFTEC regulations, where to safely put the tank and why you should get one in the first place.

 

Why you should get a bunded oil tank

 

As mentioned, bunded oil tanks are a safe way of storing heating oil thanks to the way they are designed. This is because of the bund around the tank that gives it an extra layer of protection. The secondary containment tank helps to provide additional protection against potential leaks and spillages, which also helps to prevent damage to your home and the environment. Of course, bunded oil tanks still need regular maintenance to make sure they are in good condition and working as they should.

 

OFTEC fire regulations – what you need to know

 

If you’re using a bunded oil tank and connecting it to a boiler in your home, then you must comply with OFTEC fire regulations. This includes guidance on where you should position the bunded tank. For example, the guidelines state that a bunded oil tank must be located on a non-combustible base covering an area of 300mm around the exterior of the tank. You must also make sure the tank is kept at specific distance form non-fire rated parts of the property such as sheds, fences, doors and windows.

 

Full information on the OFTEC regulations for domestic oil tanks and storage can be found on the official OFTEC website. This includes specific measurements to keep in mind when positioning your bunded oil tank.

 

Don’t forget about building regulations

 

If you’re using a bunded oil tank for domestic purposes, you also need to think about building regulations. These can differ depending on where you are in the country, so you will need to check the regulations put in place for your local area. If you’re getting an oil tank installed, they will be able to assess this for you if they are part of a scheme such as OFTEC or APHC.

 

If you’re installing the tank yourself, you will need to talk to your local council so that the necessary inspections can be carried out. As well as helping you to comply with the correct regulations, this will also help you position the tank safely and securely. Of course, you will also need to consider the size of the tank and where it will end up.

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The pros and cons of plastic and steel fuel tanks

Oil tanks are available is a huge range of designs and sizes. But if you’re thinking of having a fuel tank installed on your property, you’ll need to make a decision: a steel oil tank or a plastic oil tank. The material that you choose will depend on your needs and requirements. So to help you make the decision here are the pros and cons of both plastic and steel fuel tanks.

 

Steel Oil Tanks

Pros

  • Steel is highly durable and long lasting – making it resilient to everything from hot summer sun to unpleasant weather
  • Steel tanks offer optimal security for your fuel as they are harder to drill into to syphon than plastic tanks
  • They are priced very competitively with plastic tanks, which can make them much better value for money
  • Our high quality tanks are resistant to both external and internal corrosion
  • Steel tanks generally have a longer lifespan than their plastic alternatives

Cons

  • Steel oil tanks are much heavier than their plastic alternatives – that means that they are harder to move around if you want to manoeuvre them or change their location
  • If you don’t buy from a reputable supplier, there is a risk that they could corrode over time

 

Plastic Oil Tanks

Pros

  • Plastic tanks are seamless which means that they are very unlikely to split or fail
  • Plastic tanks are lighter and more manoeuvrable – this makes them easier to transport, install and move if you wish to change their location
  • Plastic tanks are available in a broader variety of sizes and shapes, meaning they may fit more easily

Cons

  • Unfortunately plastic tanks cannot offer the same level of security as steel tanks – they are easier to drill and to syphon fuel from
  • They are also more vulnerable to accidental damage
  • From a green perspective, steel tanks may be the favourable option as plastic is harder to recycle when your tank reaches the end of its life cycle
  • Plastic tanks can be weakened by exposure to direct sunlight