A Complete Heating Oil Tank Replacement Guide

When is the time for Domestic Oil Tank Replacement?

Although oil storage tanks are designed for a life span of ten years, we mostly see them lasting up to 20 years with proper maintenance and care. That is why it is recommended to maintain your tank properly and regularly. If you see any signs of damage, you should address the problem immediately to avoid any hazardous incident.

So, if your tank is less than ten years of age and does not show any signs of damage or potential leaks, you are absolutely fine.

What Warning Sings Should You Look For?

Rust and dents Indicate operational issues with the oil tank.
Wet spots are an indicator of trouble underneath or on the tank surface.
Uneven legs indicate faulty heating oil tank installation, affecting tank function.
Exposure to frosty elements can also damage the tank.
A silent vent alarm during tank filling suggests malfunction and needs professional attention.
Frozen or broken fuel gauge requires immediate repair.
The presence of stray oil near the tank or gauge indicates a leak.
Check for splits or cracks in the rubber tubing; service if necessary.
Clean clogged vent pipes affected by infestation or wintry elements.
Excessive oil usage may signal leaks or other issues; inspect the tank.

How to Remove Your Old Oil Tank Safely?

Removing an oil tank safely requires multiple techniques and expertise. That is why it is recommended to engage a professional heating oil tank replacement company to ensure everything is done properly without any violation of health and safety regulations. Generally, the procedure of old oil storage tank removal is divided into three stages.

Stage 1: Cleaning/ Degassing the Old Oil Storage Tank:

In this stage, the tank is emptied and cleaned properly to eliminate any residual deposits of oil or other contaminants. This involves:

Extraction of liquid effluents and sludge using vacuum pumping and ADR hydro cleaning.
Scraping the inside of the oil tank clean.
Spraying a degreaser.
Cleaning the tank using pressurised water.
Issuance of a degassing certificate at the end.

Stage 2: Neutralisation of the Tank:

Once the tank is properly cleaned, it is rendered permanently unusable using different materials and methods, which is called neutralisation of the tank. This method is particularly used for tanks which are not removable for any reason. For safety purposes, neutralisation should be carried out within 48 hours of degassing.

The neutralisation is carried out in the following way:

For underground oil storage tanks, concrete or perlite is inserted into the tank.
For overground tanks, cold cutting is used to neutralise them.

Stage 3: Oil Storage Tank Removal:

Finally, the Oil storage tank is removed from its place using the following methods:

Removal and cutting are used for overground oil storage tank removal.
Excavation, extraction, and backfilling are used for underground oil storage tank removal.

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Heating Oil Tank Regulations

Which Tank Should Be Chosen?

Depending on your storage capacity requirements, you can choose from single-skin or bunded tanks. However, if you are going to store more than 2500 litres of oil, then you should select a bunded tank.

However, whatever tank you select must be manufactured according to their corresponding OFTEC standards.

Where should your New Tank be Installed

There are some strict regulations for the location of oil storage tanks:

It should be at least 760mm away from the boundary.
8 metres away from openings such as doors and windows and any structure that is non-fire rated.
8 metres from the flue terminal of the boiler.
50 metres from a freshwater source such as a spring or well.
10 metres away from any groundwater course, such as a stream or river.
Under 3500 storage capacity for the tanks inside a building.

What are the Base Requirements for the tanks?

The base should be fireproof.
It should be at least 50mm thick.
It must extend at least 300mm more in every direction from the tank.

Who Should Install Your Oil Storage Tank?

OFTEC requires that only a registered and certified person can install an oil storage tank. If a non-registered person installs the tank, you must inform the local body to inspect and flag the home oil tank replacement green to ensure the safety of the occupants as well as the environment.

Is the Documentation Needed for the Oil Storage Tank Replacement?

Yes, there are some forms and paperwork that is required for the process, but if you have hired certified tank installers, they can handle all the paperwork for you.

How Much Does It Cost to Replace an Oil Storage Tank

The cost of oil tank replacement services depends upon a few factors, such as:

Size of the tank
Type of the tank
Accessibility of the tank
Does it need cleaning?

However, on average, the cost of heating oil tank replacement cost can be around £2000 to £2300 in the UK.

How Can Network Environmental Help You?

Network Environmental houses a vast team of certified and experienced professionals who prioritise customers’ satisfaction through elite-class services. We make sure that you don’t have to worry about your oil storage tank once it is installed. Our engineers and technicians maintain the highest work standards throughout and ensure full adherence to safety regulations. Trust our heating oil tank replacement services and witness the efficiency and quality at its highest level.

Whatever your situation, we can handle it

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