Oil Tank
Installations

Only a competent person can install domestic oil tanks on your property; also known as a certified technician. Having an accredited technician install, inspect, or remove your tank is crucial for ensuring its proper installation and longevity.

OFTEC is a trade association representing manufacturers of liquid fuel heating equipment and training providers; all technicians used at Oil Tank Change are OFTEC accredited and undergo regular inspections to ensure their practices are current.

Before your domestic oil tank can be installed, a solid and regulatory base must be put down.
Bases are essential to the longevity and safety of your tank and are a legal requirement.

Regulations for bases include:

• Material (at least 50mm)
• Concrete
• Concrete slabs
• Pre-cast concrete
• Stonework

The location of the base must align with regulations for oil tank placement. Hiring a certified OFTEC technician ensures your base is put down effectively and in the right place.

Breaking oil tanks into components makes determining what tank you need before installation easy.

1. 1. Consider the material a tank is made from. Metal and plastic tanks have different advantages and disadvantages. For example, metal is durable but is susceptible to corrosion, and plastic is more reliable but is limited in its oil capacity.

1. 1. Understanding the difference between single and bunded tanks can help narrow your oil tank options. Single skin tanks are just one single layer. Bunded tanks are essentially tanks inside a tank – this helps to contain the oil in case of a leakage, reducing the risk of an expensive cleanup.

1. There are several things to consider regarding choosing the size of an oil tank. Consider how many people live in the property, how big it is, and how much space you have for a tank. We recommend opting for a slightly bigger tank to prevent being caught short in the cold.

Technically, it is not a legal requirement for your oil tank technician to be registered with OFTEC. However, they must be considered a ‘competent person’ in accordance with the government’s building regulations for tradesmen. That being said, we strongly advise that you hire an OFTEC-registered technician for the installation of your oil tank to ensure that it is done correctly, reducing the risk of potential failures and leakages in the future.

The time it takes to install an oil tank can vary depending on the size and type of the tank, the complexity of the installation, any necessary groundwork or preparation, and the efficiency of the installer.

Generally, an installation can be completed within a day or two. However, more complex installations or those requiring additional work such as site preparation, removal of an old tank, or connecting to existing systems may take longer.

With proper maintenance, the typical lifespan of oil tanks ranges from 20 to 25 years. Nonetheless, if you suspect any issues with your tank, it’s advisable not to delay replacement, even if you’ve owned it for a shorter period.

At Oil Tank Change, we have a range of tanks, including single or double-bunded skin tanks and metal and plastic tanks. We also stock a range of brands:

• Atlantis
• Atlas
• Deso
• Harlequin
• Titan
• Tuffa

1. 1. Choose a Location: Decide where you want the new oil tank to be installed. Consider factors such as accessibility and distance to the property.

1. 1. Clear the Area: Clear the installation area of any obstacles, debris, or vegetation that may obstruct the tank installation.

1. 1. Check Regulations: Ensure compliance with local regulations regarding oil tank installation.

1. 1. Prepare for Drainage: If the installation site is prone to water accumulation or runoff, consider drainage solutions to prevent water from contaminating the tank.

1. 1. Remove Obstructions: Clear pathways and remove any obstacles that may slow the delivery of the new tank or the removal of the old one.

1. 1. Coordinate Access: Ensure that the installers have clear access to the installation area and any necessary utilities, such as electricity or water.

1. Be Available: Plan to be available on the day of installation to oversee the process, address any questions or concerns, and provide access to the installation site if needed.