12/09/2023

6 Things To Consider Before Choosing Your Oil Tank Size

Choosing the right oil tank size is essential if rely on oil for your heating. Whether you’re a new homeowner considering an oil-based heating system or looking to replace your existing oil tank, understanding the various sizes available is important. This blog will explore the factors to consider, the available options, and how to make an informed choice that suits your household’s specific requirements.

Size and Age of Property

The size of your property plays a significant role in determining your heating needs. Larger homes generally require more heating oil to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature, especially during the colder months, and the size of a property may influence how well it retains heat.

Homes of the same size may also have varying insulation and energy efficiency levels. The age of your house can also impact how well it heats up and maintains the temperature An older, larger home with poor insulation may require a larger oil tank to compensate for heat loss.

Number of People Living in the Property

The number of people living in your property can impact your heating oil consumption and, consequently, the size of the heating oil tank you should choose.

Space Heating Needs

The number of occupants can affect the space heating needs of your home. More people living in a space can result in more frequent use of heating systems, especially during cold weather, which may require more heating oil.

Occupancy Patterns

Consider the patterns of the people living in your house. If there are multiple family members who are home during the day or have varying schedules, the heating system may need to operate more frequently to maintain comfort, leading to higher fuel consumption.

Temperature Preferences

Different people may have varying temperature preferences. Some may prefer warmer indoor temperatures than others, which can affect the overall heating requirements of the home.

Guests and Visitors

Consider the frequency of guests and visitors to your home. Hosting guests can temporarily increase heating oil consumption, and a larger tank may be necessary to accommodate these fluctuations in demand.

Garden Space

Depending on the available garden space, you may have limitations on the maximum tank size you can install. Smaller gardens may not accommodate larger tanks, while larger gardens can accommodate a wider range of tank sizes.

You need adequate space for tank placement and clear access for delivery trucks. It’s essential to have enough space for safe and compliant installation. This will also affect tank placement in your garden.

The tank’s location within your garden can impact its visual appeal. Some homeowners prefer to install tanks in less visible areas or use landscaping to conceal them. Your garden space’s layout and size will affect your ability to integrate the tank into your garden.

Domestic Regulations

Considering domestic oil tank regulations is a critical step before choosing the size of your heating oil tank. These regulations are in place to ensure safety, environmental protection, and compliance with local building codes.

The capacity of domestic oil tanks in the UK is usually limited to 3,500 litres. However, larger tanks may be allowed in specific circumstances, subject to certain conditions and regulatory approval. Oil tanks must be installed in a location that complies with regulations regarding fire separation distances and minimum distances from property boundaries, watercourses, and buildings. The exact requirements may vary depending on the specific location and local regulations.

If you’re looking to install a tank with a capacity of over 2,500 litres or located within 10 metres of a water source, you are required to have a bunded oil tank. This secondary skin acts as another label of containment to help prevent leaks or spills from reaching the environment.

Delivery Frequency

Considering the delivery frequency is an important factor when choosing the size of your heating oil tank because it directly impacts your convenience, budget, and overall heating system efficiency. Here are several reasons why delivery frequency should be a consideration:

Convenience

A larger heating oil tank requires fewer deliveries, providing you with greater convenience. You won’t need to schedule deliveries as frequently, reducing the need to constantly monitor your tank’s oil level.

Cost Efficiency

Fewer deliveries often result in cost savings. Many oil delivery companies charge fees for each delivery, so you can save on these fees by reducing the frequency.

Supply Availability

Oil deliveries may be delayed or limited in rural areas or during extreme weather conditions. A larger tank can provide a buffer, ensuring that you have a good supply of heating oil on hand when needed, even if deliveries are delayed.

Heating Continuity

A larger tank reduces the risk of running out of heating oil during the heating season. Running out of oil can lead to discomfort, potential damage to your heating system, and the need for emergency deliveries at higher costs.

Energy Efficiency

Heating systems are often more energy-efficient when they run consistently rather than having to cycle on and off frequently. With a larger tank, your heating system can operate more steadily, potentially improving overall energy efficiency.

Budget

Considering your budget is crucial when choosing the size of your heating oil tank because it directly affects your upfront costs, ongoing expenses, and financial planning. There are several reasons why budget considerations are essential when selecting the size of your heating oil tank:

Initial Cost

Larger heating oil tanks typically have higher upfront costs for both the tank and installation. Smaller tanks are generally more affordable. Your budget will determine how much you can invest in the tank and its installation.

Installation Cost

The cost of installing the tank , including excavation, preparation of the tank site, and any required safety features, should be factored into your budget. These costs can vary depending on the tank size and location.

Maintenance Cost

Larger tanks may have slightly higher maintenance costs due to the complexity of additional components, such as larger vent pipes and fill pipes. Your budget should account for regular tank maintenance, which is essential for safety and longevity.

Delivery Cost

The size of your tank can impact delivery costs. A larger tank may require less frequent deliveries, potentially saving you on delivery fees over time. Smaller tanks, on the other hand, may need more frequent deliveries.

Fuel Cost

The size of your tank can also affect how you manage your fuel costs. A larger tank may allow you to purchase heating oil when prices are lower and store it for later use, potentially saving money on fuel costs.

In conclusion, choosing the right oil tank size is a decision that should be made after careful consideration and research. Your selection should reflect your specific needs and circumstances, considering factors such as the size of your house, its location, the number of occupants, and energy consumption habits. By conducting thorough research and seeking advice from a technician you can ensure that your oil tank is the perfect fit for your home.