Mercedes Mullins
Fuel oil tank sizes vary depending on whether they are above or below ground. The most common above-ground oil tank size is 275 gallons, with a capacity range of 105 to 500 gallons. However, there are also larger underground tanks with capacities of 1000 gallons, typically filled to about 900 gallons. Oil tank gauges are used to determine the amount of oil in a tank, with increments of 1/4 or 25%. For example, a gauge reading of 1/4 indicates approximately 68 gallons of oil remaining in a 275-gallon tank. It's important to regularly monitor oil levels to avoid running out and to ensure efficient heating systems.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Common above-ground oil tank size | 275 gallons |
| Capacity range of above-ground oil tanks | 105–500 gallons |
| Measurements of a 275-gallon steel vertical oil tank | 27″ wide, 44″ high, and 60″ long |
| Measurements of a 275-gallon horizontal oil tank | Same as above, but laid flat |
| Oil tank gauge reading for 1/4 full | Approximately 68 gallons |
| Oil tank gauge reading for 1/2 full | Approximately 136 gallons |
| Oil tank gauge reading for 3/4 full | Approximately 204 gallons |
| Common underground oil tank size | 1000 gallons |
| Typical fill level for a 1000-gallon underground tank | 900 gallons |
| Reading on the oil tank gauge when the tank is "full" | 90% of capacity |
| Actual amount of heating oil in a "full" 275-gallon tank | Approximately 240 gallons |
| Other common tank sizes | 340 and 420 gallons |
| Manual method to check oil level | Using a six-foot stick or dowel and a pencil |
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What You'll Learn
Common above-ground tank sizes
The most common above-ground fuel oil tank size is 275 gallons, with a capacity range of 105 to 500 gallons. Steel vertical tanks with a capacity of 275 gallons measure 27 inches in width, 44 inches in height, and 60 inches in length. The same capacity tank can also be oriented horizontally, with the same capacity but different dimensions.
Another standard size for above-ground tanks is 330 gallons. Tanks of this size are also typically oriented vertically or horizontally.
The 1,000-gallon cylinder is a common size for underground tanks, which are usually filled to about 900 gallons. However, this is significantly larger than the typical capacity range of above-ground tanks.
It is important to note that oil companies will not fill a tank to its absolute maximum capacity, as this leaves no room for expansion. Instead, they will typically fill a tank to about 90% of its rated capacity. For example, a 275-gallon tank will be filled to about 250 gallons.
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Underground tank sizes
Underground storage tanks (USTs) come in a variety of sizes and volumes, with the average top-of-tank depth being roughly 2 to 3 feet below the ground surface. Modern fuel tanks are stronger and can be placed as deep as 5 feet below the ground surface.
The size of a UST is usually determined by its purpose, location, and content. For example, some underground diesel fuel tanks can be up to 55 feet in length and hold up to 30,000 gallons. On the other hand, waste oil storage tanks can be as small as 3 feet long and hold just 55 gallons.
USTs for hazardous waste are typically buried between 10 and 100 feet underground. Underground heating oil tanks for residential use range from 220 to 1,000 gallons, with the average being 275 gallons. The size of the home typically dictates the size of the heating oil tank, with larger homes requiring bigger tanks.
To determine the size of a UST, professionals may conduct a Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessment, which involves visual and paperback investigations into the property's history, including building permits, demolition permits, and disposal records. A Phase 2 Environmental process may also be carried out, utilising electromagnetic induction, magnetometry, and ground-penetrating radar to identify UST dimensions.
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Reading a tank gauge
Reading a fuel oil tank gauge is a straightforward process that can help you estimate how much fuel is left in your tank. Most home heating oil tanks feature a float gauge with tick marks indicating the fuel level. These tick marks are typically labelled as Full, 3/4, 1/2, and 1/4. However, it's important to note that these gauges are not very accurate when the tank is low, especially since the rounded bottom of the tank can cause the gauge to go from 1/4 to empty quicker than expected.
To read the float gauge, simply look at where the middle of the disk lines up with the tick marks. For example, if the disk is aligned with the 1/4 mark, it means that your tank is approximately 1/4 full. In a 240-gallon tank, this would translate to about 60 gallons of oil remaining (240 x 0.25). While this amount could last for a few weeks, it is generally recommended to schedule a refill when your tank reaches around 30% capacity to ensure you don't run out of fuel.
It's important to remember that float gauges are not always precise, and they can malfunction or get stuck. To test the functionality of your float gauge, remove the protective casing and gently push the float downward. If the float rises back up to its original position when released, the gauge is working properly. If it stays down, it may indicate a malfunction that requires expert attention.
In cases where the tank gauge is not functioning or the tank does not have a float gauge, there are manual methods to assess fuel levels. One way is to use a slender stick that is long enough to reach the bottom of the tank. After a recent refill, immerse the stick into the tank and mark the point where the wet oil ends as your "full" line. As the oil level decreases, you can reintroduce the stick and compare the new wet mark to the "full" line to estimate how much oil is left.
By regularly monitoring your fuel oil tank gauge and keeping track of your fuel consumption patterns, you can ensure that you arrange for timely heating oil deliveries and maintain a comfortable living space during the cold winter months.
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Manual tank level checks
A typical domestic heating oil tank holds 275 gallons of fuel, though the capacity can range from 105 gallons to 500 gallons.
You can manually check the level of oil in your tank using a gauge stick or a measuring stick (also known as a dipstick). To do this, follow these steps:
- Remove the outer case of the gauge by turning it counterclockwise.
- Check the outer case for any damage and replace it if necessary.
- Press the floating marker (or "float") downward. If it pops back up, the gauge is working correctly. If it remains pushed down or becomes stuck, the gauge needs to be replaced.
- Remove the fill valve cap by turning it counter-clockwise.
- Carefully lower the measuring stick (or rod) until it touches the bottom of the tank.
- Pull the measuring stick out of the tank and read the oil depth.
- Record the reading in your manual tank gauge log.
- Clean the measuring stick with a dry cloth and repeat steps 5-7 to take another reading.
- Convert the inches displayed on your gauge to gallons using a gasoline-oil tank chart.
- Determine the size of your tank and compare it to the inches on your measurement.
- To determine how much space is left, subtract the total number of gallons in the tank from the oil tank's size capacity.
It is recommended to check the level of oil in your tank occasionally, especially before the heating season begins (usually around October) and after a period of unusually cold weather. Checking your oil level manually can help you avoid running out of fuel, which can damage your heating system.
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Ordering oil
Know Your Oil Tank
Firstly, you need to know the size of your oil tank. Most heating oil tanks have a total volume of 275 gallons and can safely hold 240 gallons of heating oil. However, tank sizes can range from 120 to 330 gallons. Knowing your tank size will help you estimate how much oil you need and when to order more.
Monitor Your Fuel Level
It is essential to regularly check the fuel level in your tank, especially during the winter months when oil usage is typically higher due to the colder weather. Most heating oil tanks use a standard float-style gauge or a site glass on top of the tank to indicate fuel levels. The float-style gauge uses a system of tick marks, similar to a car's fuel gauge, to show levels like Full, 3/4, 1/2, and 1/4. When your tank reads 1/4 full, it's time to consider ordering more fuel.
Decide on the Amount to Order
When deciding on the amount of oil to order, consider the minimum delivery requirements of oil dealers. Most dealers require a minimum delivery size of 100 gallons, and some offer price breaks for larger orders, such as 150 or 200 gallons. Ordering when your tank is at 1/4 full ensures you have enough space for a typical 150-gallon delivery.
Compare Prices and Delivery Options
Use online platforms like FuelSnap to compare prices and delivery dates from multiple dealers. Ordering oil online allows you to find the best deal and choose a delivery date that suits your schedule. Additionally, some companies offer automatic delivery services, where they monitor your fuel usage and schedule deliveries when your tank is low, eliminating the need for manual management.
Place Your Order
Once you've decided on the amount and found a supplier that meets your needs, it's time to place your order. You can do this by creating an account with the supplier and providing the necessary details, such as your address and payment information.
Remember to maintain your heating system annually, as this can significantly impact oil usage. By following these steps, you can ensure a consistent supply of heating oil for your home without the worry of running out.
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Frequently asked questions
The most common size for an above-ground fuel oil tank is 275 gallons, although capacities can range from 105 gallons to 500 gallons. The standard sizes are 275 or 330 gallons.
You can use a fuel oil tank gauge to determine how much oil is in your tank. This will usually be a clear glass or plastic cube marked with numbers like on a gas gauge. Alternatively, you can check the oil level manually using a stick or dowel.
It is recommended to keep your oil tank from running out by refilling it before it gets too low. When a tank gauge approaches 1/8 full, it increases the chance of sludge from the bottom of the tank clogging the oil filters.
