Oil Tanks
Most tanks used for domestic heating oil are steel or composite material containers that hold about 1000 litres (200 gallons) and weigh about 1000 kilograms (1 ton) when full. Their tall, narrow shape lets them easily pass through standard doorways, but it also makes them fairly unstable unless they have proper, secure supports to keep them from tipping over.
Domestic oil tanks are not designed to last forever and must be properly maintained and replaced after their effective service life. Life expectancy can be affected by the tank material and configuration of the tank.
Consider an innovative tank
Manufacturers use a number of technologies to produce tanks that have a longer life. These include double-walled tanks, fibreglass tanks, composite plastic/metal tanks, lined tanks, stainless steel tanks, and heavier-wall, 2.5-mm (12 gauge) steel tanks. They may come in different shapes to enhance stability. They may feature a different oil outlet type to prevent water accumulation in the tank. They may include an anti-syphon device or a fuel safety valve to prevent oil from spilling if the supply line is broken. It is recommended that you investigate these options when purchasing a new or replacement tank. The initial cost may be higher, but tank service life is usually longer.
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Key Documents
- Homeowners Guide to Heating Oil Tank Systems (PDF: 733k)
- Domestic Oil Tank Installation Guide (PDF: 126k)