There is a massive selection of oil tanks available on the market today. This includes plastic tanks, steel tanks, single-skinned tanks, and bunded oil tanks. You may be familiar with the term ‘bunded oil tank’ but you may be wondering - what is a bunded oil tank and how is it different from other storage tanks available? Below, we are going to answer all the frequently asked questions about bunded oil tanks, and look at why a bunded tank is the safest and most efficient solution for your oil storage.
What do I need to know before buying an oil tank?
You should be aware that oil tanks come in a wide range of different sizes and styles. The two main types of oil tank are made from steel and plastic. Steel tanks are a traditional type of tank and are generally considered more secure than plastic, as they are made from a stronger material and offer better protection against fuel theft and vandalism. However, many people choose plastic oil tanks as they are lightweight and therefore easier to install, and resistant to rust and corrosion. The most appropriate oil tank will depend on your individual needs and requirements. The size tank you choose should be determined by taking factors like size of your property, oil usage, and available space into account. Having a bigger oil tank will mean you can purchase large volumes of fuel in bulk and take advantage of low oil prices and deals.
What is a bunded oil tank?
A bunded oil tank is different from a single skin oil storage tanks because bunded tanks contain a secondary containment tank which provides protection against leaks or spills. If a leak were to occur, then any oil would be safely contained within the outer tank, thus preventing any environmental damage. An oil leak can cause serious pollution and lead to large fines or even prosecution for failing to follow environmental regulations. Bunded oil tanks offer a higher level of safety and ensure that you oil storage complies with all current legislation. The design of a bunded oil tank also provides extra protection against vandalism or fuel theft by making your oil harder to access.
How do I install an oil tank?
Oil tanks installations should comply with local Building Regulations and tanks must always be installed by a qualified tank installation technician or other competent person. Ideally, your tank installer should be OFTEC registered and fully insured. Oil tanks contain large volumes of valuable fuel and can cause serious pollution and environmental damage if installed incorrectly. It is therefore vital that you have your tank installed by a professional who has received adequate training.
How Close To My House Can I Install My Oil Tank?
There are a number of OFTEC regulations regarding the location of oil tanks. Under these rules, domestic oil tanks with a capacity of 3,500 litres or less must be installed a minimum of 1.8 metres away from any part of a building or structure that doesn’t have 30 minutes fire resistance and also openings in buildings such as doors and windows. Tanks should also be at least 1.8m from combustible eaves and boiler flue termination points. The tank should also not be within 760mm of a non-fire rated boundary. If this is not possible, then you must take additional protection measures by installing a 30 minute fire-resistant wall. The fire wall must extend at least 300mm beyond the height and the ends of the oil tank. An alternative to the fire wall would be to install a fire protected tank. Whether the tank is fire protected or not, all oil storage tanks must have a non-combustible base which extends 300mm beyond the perimeter of the tank.
Can I Install An Oil Tank Indoors?
Under current regulations, oil tanks can be installed inside a building or garage etc. however the tank must be designed for the purpose and installed inside a fire proof chamber. These chambers usually consist of a fire resistant wall, floor and ceiling and a fire door with a minimum of 60 minutes fire resistance. The chamber also needs an automatic door closer, bulk head light and lock which can be opened from the inside without using a key. Make sure that you contact your local OFTEC installer for advice if you are unsure which guidelines and rules apply.
What Types Of Fuel Can I Store In An Oil Tank?
Oil tanks are designed to safely store the following fuel types:
- Heating oil
- Diesel
- Kerosene
- Agricultural fuel oil
- Biodiesel blends manufactured in accordance with British Standards and not greater than B5
Final thought
There is a wide range of different oil storage tanks available on the market and the most appropriate one will depend on your individual needs and requirements. In most cases, a bunded oil tank offers the safest and most efficient solution for your oil storage needs. Bunded oil tanks are durable and offer additional protection against leaks, spills, and environmental damage. Having a bunded tank installed by an OFTEC-certified professional means you can have peace of mind knowing that your fuel in being stored in a safe and responsible manner and in line with all current regulations.
