Nothing can ruin a good day quite like having your heating switch off unexpectedly, especially during the long, cold winter months.
Not only does it mean your building will become very cold very quickly, but it could also damage your equipment if the oil runs out. Ensuring longevity for your appliances as well as maintaining steady warmth in your building is completely dependent on understanding your single skin or bunded oil tank.
How Much Does My Oil Tank Hold?
The average tank holds anywhere from 650 litres all the way up to 2,500 litres, so it can be difficult to get an idea of just how big your oil tank is. Most plastic tanks will have the size written on a metal plate somewhere on the body of the tank, however not every container does. A handy guide for working it out is to measure your tanks size first and then use this equation to get your answer.
1. The volume of the tank = Height x Width x Length)
2. Then take the volume and convert into gallons by multiplying by 6.25
3. Convert the gallon amount into litres by multiplying by 4.54609
4. This will give you your answer
How Do I Know When My Tank Needs Filling Up?
There are several factors that determine when one should top up. Usually, the best time to fill up is just as it gets to about one third full. This ensures that you never run too low, and always leave enough fuel for emergencies. The last thing you want is to run out if the weather suddenly changes for the worse.
Also, by keeping an eye on oil prices, you may be able to top up at more cost-efficient times. By topping up when prices are cheaper, even if your tank isn’t empty yet, you can save yourself money in the long run rather than purchasing when it’s expensive.
What Affects the Frequency of Tank Filling?
Time of year
During darker, colder winter months, it’s a given that your heating system will be in greater use than in the summer. Longer, hotter showers and heaters on 24/7 will mean your refuelling frequency will increase greatly. During the summer months, it’s likely you’ll find yourself refuelling much less, as well as seeing a reduction in oil costs as less people need to top up.
Weather
Sudden plunges in temperature or unexpected storms may increase your oil consumption far above what you would expect. While seasonal changes are to be expected, surprise weather can see a change in oil consumption too.
Longer hotter summers, winter starting later, or unpredictable freezes will see your usage increase and decrease unexpectedly. It’s important to keep an eye on the amount you’re using during unplanned changes in weather to ensure you don’t run out or top up too early, spending unnecessarily.
Usage behaviour
Buildings with more occupants will use a greater deal more than those with a smaller occupancy. More rooms being heated, longer showers or a drop in your building’s insulation quality will all have a negative effect on the time between refilling. Monitor your consumption habits and seeing where you’re using the most can help you stay more efficient.
Tank Size
While it may sound obvious, smaller tanks will require more frequent filling up than bigger ones. Of course, you may not have room for something that holds 2,500 litres, but ensuring you have the right size for your usage means you don’t have to fill up as frequently. Working out what size is perfect for your needs means you can worry less about running low or spending unexpectedly.
Explore Bunded Oil Tanks with Tanks for Everything
Every location and business will have vastly different needs and requirements for their oil tank based on the industry they’re in. Tanks for Everything have everything you need to make the right decision, ensuring peace of mind, safety and an OFTEC Certification on every single one of our oil tanks.
We offer a huge variety of storage options for all your needs including major brands such as DESO bunded oil tanks and Harlequin bunded oil tanks. We have storage all the way up to and including ten thousand litres for business of all sizes. If you’re based mainland England or Wales, and need your tank delivered, we also offer free delivery.
