Once you’ve decided on the shape and size of your oil tank, you need to make the important decision of whether to choose a steel or a plastic option. High quality oil tanks are made in both commonly found materials and the best option for you will depend on your specific needs, budget and where you live.
Steel Oil Tank Advantages
There are lots of advantages to using a steel oil tank. Steel oil tanks are available as either bunded tanks or single skin tanks and come in many different shapes and sizes. Steel tanks can be extremely useful in certain locations and have excellent durability.
More Storage
For businesses, commercial properties and larger residential homes, steel oil tanks are a good option. This is largely because steel oil tanks generally hold more oil than their plastic alternatives. With more storage capacity, individuals and businesses can take advantage of lower oil prices as and when relevant and aim to bulk buy this to use for the future. With a greater storage capacity, using a steel oil tank also means fewer deliveries of oil to coordinate and receive.
Secure
Oil theft is set to be an increasing problem this winter with more and more people concerned about fueling their homes and rising energy bills. Steel oil tanks are often seen as a more secure option than plastic oil tanks. This is because steel is a much stronger material than plastic and it is harder to syphon oil from a steel tank than from a plastic tank. The sheer weight of a steel oil tank also means that they are harder to remove or load onto a truck to be taken away and stolen.
Durable
If you live in an area with extreme weather conditions or your oil tank is likely to be exposed to the elements throughout the year, a steel oil tank is a good, durable option. Steel oil tanks are generally much more resilient and can also withstand accidental damage such as falling branches from nearby trees. The longer lifespan of a steel oil tank means that they do not need replacing as often as plastic oil tanks.
Plastic Oil Tank Advantages
Plastic oil tanks come in a huge number of shapes and sizes. Just like steel oil tanks, they can be bought as plastic bunded oil tanks or single skin oil tanks. For some oil tank users or premises, plastic oil tanks can have various advantages over steel oil tanks.
Lighter
If you are likely to need to move your oil tank into different locations, or simply want a tank that is lightweight and easy to install, a plastic oil tank may be a good option for you. Plastic bunded oil tanks are much lighter than steel oil tanks and if you’re going to locate your tank in a protected position away from extreme elements, the durability issue will be irrelevant.
No Rust
One of the main drawbacks of using a steel oil tank is that the material can easily rust - especially when the tank is outside and exposed to rain and wet conditions. Steel oil tanks often require maintenance and paintwork to keep them rust free which can be time consuming and involve extra costs.
A plastic oil tank does not rust and won’t develop clogged filters. This is a major advantage for plastic oil tanks rather than the more traditional steel alternatives.
Maintenance
Due to the physical properties of plastic, plastic oil tanks are maintenance free and do not require painting.
The Final Decision
Ultimately, the right oil tank for you will depend on your individual circumstances - such as whether you are a large business or an individual in a residential property. You’ll also want to think about factors such as your personal budget and how much oil you need to store at any one time.
If you require a high capacity of oil to be stored in your tank you may want to make more of an investment and opt for a steel oil tank, whereas if you are simply looking for an oil tank for your home that is lightweight and easy to install, a plastic option could be best.
