Heating oil is integral in efficient home heating. Thus, you can find varieties of heating oil tanks in homes, offices, and other commercial and residential properties.
Whether or not it is a first buying experience for you, it is recommended to be fully aware of important information about these heating oil tanks.
Here are five factors to consider:
1. The Ideal Tank Type
The most common heating oil tanks are made of either polyethylene plastic or galvanized steel; for additional protection, some feature a polyurethane coating. These materials grant superior performance to the tanks. Design engineers prefer such materials for their overall advantage in manufacturability.
Plastic heating tanks are exceptional when it comes to design flexibility. Steel tanks, on the other hand, are the better options for weight savings.
Tank types:
✥ Double-skinned tanks built with layers for protection against leakage
✥ Single-skinned tanks built with a bund for protection against spillage
✥ Integrally bundled tanks built with one bund inside and another bund outside
2. Concerns about Installation
Typically, the distributors of heating oil tanks are in charge of the installation. They will survey sites in basements, garages, and underground storage areas of commercial and residential properties. Upon approval, the process commences.
To avoid different hazards, they abide by the required separation distance. The heating tank should be located away from heating sources. For one, it should be located 1.8 meters away from openings and structures. For another, it should maintain a distance of at least 7.6 meters from screenings and wooden boundaries.
In certain cases, the installation of drip trays is recommended for increased protection. Alongside, for the monitoring of oil levels, an automatic overfill prevention needs to be in place.
3. Problems & Solution
Most distributors and oil service companies are the ones that typically solve problems with commercial and residential heating oil tanks. Typically, the issues are minor; the complaints may be about threats of leakages and spillages.
The owners of the heating oil tanks that are installed in commercial properties prefer to approach the right professionals. This allows them to avoid delays and proceed with their businesses immediately.
For problems with residential heating oil tanks, an option is to troubleshoot the tank on your own. Keep in mind important precautionary measures; avoid bringing any flammable material near the location.
4. Safety Concerns
Since heating oil is a toxic substance, owners of heating oil tanks in commercial and residential properties should be mindful of potential risks. The solution is to adhere to industry-standard safety regulations. It is also best to approach an inspector annually. Otherwise, these could result to severe damages.
Possible risks:
✥ Leakages
✥ Restricted (or clogged) tank vents
✥ Spillages
5. Maintenance
With proper storage and inspections, heating oil tanks are most likely to remain in quality condition. Also, learn to keep an eye on alarming signs such as rust, bent legs, oil stains, overhanging eaves, clogs, cracks, loose foundation, and wet spots. Whether in a commercial or in a residential setting, owners should have the tanks evaluated regularly.
