31/10/2023
Oil Tank Installation, what to expect
Who can install an oil tank?
According to building regulations, whoever installs an oil tank must inform the local authorities, provide proof of safety measures and follow strict rules on location and positioning.
According to the law, anyone could install an oil tank; however, if you choose to bypass paying for a trained installer, you will need to get your handy work checked over by the building control regardless. We recommend sourcing a qualified person to install your tank as they will know what to look out for and can check any boxes for safety.
For a comprehensive breakdown of building regulations and guidelines provided by the government, visit the Planning Portal website.
How to know when you need a new oil tank
If your tank has any of the following, you need to replace it:
- Discolouration
- Cracks or rusting
- Oil leaks
- Unusual smell
How to replace or install a new oil tank?
When replacing an existing oil tank, it is essential to ensure that the foundation or base is still suitable and can hold the replacement tank. Furthermore, it is paramount to check local building regulations as they may have changed since your current tank was installed.
Once you are sure that the base for your tank is safe and you have ordered a new vessel, organise a delivery date and prepare for the day.
When an oil tank technician comes to your property, they will start by thoroughly checking the current tank to determine any safety issues or leaks. They will then begin the replacement or installation process.
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Siphon your tank:
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Prepare the base of the tank:
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Fitting the tank:
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After the tank is in place:
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Prior to use:
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After installation:
Firstly, any excess oil from your tank needs to be siphoned into a storage facility, ready to be put into your new tank.
Clean up the area of the tank to ensure that it can be removed safely. You will also need to check that the site is suitable for a new tank; for example, check the foundations can handle the weight of the new tank and has no damage that could affect fuel storage.
Once the tank foundation is prepared and clean, you must measure the surrounding space and ensure enough room for the tank to have a 300mm gap around the perimeter.
You must also ensure that the tank’s edges are no closer than 1.8m from surrounding buildings.
Once the foundation and surrounding areas are suitable for your new tank, the fitting process can begin.
If the tank is going into a difficult-to-reach location, tools such as winches and cherry pickers may help fit your tank.
Trained oil tank installers can also help you and will often have access to equipment, making the process easier.
After the tank is in place, remeasure the perimeter to ensure it is within guidelines.
Inside most tanks, you will find any accessories required for installation, such as valves and outlets.
Once retrieved, all that is needed is to attach the correct piping to the right outlets. Your installer can help you understand how your tank works and should fit all nozzles and required attachments for you.
Once your tank is connected to the outlet and has all relevant valves secured, speak with your installer about maintenance and information you may need in the future.
Before you refill the tank, ensure that all necessary paperwork is completed and you are aware of warranty details and legislation that will affect your tank.
At this stage, it is also wise to set up the gauge system and, if needed, connect your electronic gauge to your phone via app.
Once all preparation is completed, your installer will empty the siphoned oil out of the storage container into your new oil tank.
Congratulations, you should now have a new oil tank fitted.
Periodically check on the levels via your gauge, which will give you a good indication of how much oil you use and if there are any potential issues with the tank.
The final step you will need to do is to plan for the future. Book maintenance checks with your oil tank specialist, who can help keep yourself, your oil tank and your home safe.
