Sylvie Willis
Installing a fuel oil tank requires careful planning and adherence to safety regulations. Before installation, it is crucial to research local laws, building codes, and safety requirements. The location of the tank is a key consideration, with options including indoor, outdoor above-ground, and underground installations. Each location has its own set of benefits and drawbacks, with indoor installations offering protection from the elements, while outdoor installations offer easier access for deliveries and safety benefits in the event of a leak. When installing an above-ground tank, it is important to choose a safe location, ensure the tank is level and stable, connect the necessary pipes and valves, and comply with local regulations. Regular inspections and maintenance are also vital to ensure the safe and proper functioning of the fuel oil tank.
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What You'll Learn
- Choosing the right tank: Consider capacity, fuel type, and local regulations
- Location: Pick a safe, accessible spot, avoiding water lines and plants
- Installation process: Prepare the site, level the tank, and connect pipes
- Filling the tank: Inspect and get approval, then fill slowly, monitoring levels
- Maintenance: Regularly check for corrosion, leaks, and damage for safety
Choosing the right tank: Consider capacity, fuel type, and local regulations
Choosing the right fuel oil tank is a critical step in the installation process. Here are some key factors to consider when selecting a tank:
Capacity
The capacity of the fuel oil tank you choose should meet your home or business needs. Most above-ground heating oil tanks have capacities ranging from 100 to 500 gallons, with 275 gallons being the most common size for residential homes. Consider your average household fuel usage and choose a tank that can meet those demands. It is recommended to always keep your heating oil tank at least half-full to prevent fuel runouts and allow for some flexibility.
Fuel Type
Different fuel types may require specific tank materials and fittings. For instance, certain tanks are designed solely for heating oil, while others may accommodate diesel fuel or gasoline as well. Ensure that you select a tank that is compatible with your intended fuel type to avoid issues.
Local Regulations
Before installing a fuel oil tank, it is crucial to research local building codes and regulations. These regulations are in place to protect the environment and ensure safe fuel storage. Local codes may dictate restrictions on tank size, installation location, and fuel quality requirements. Additionally, there may be legal limits on how much fuel you can store, and you may need a permit or license for larger quantities. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in fines or permit violations.
By carefully considering these factors, you can choose the right fuel oil tank that meets your capacity requirements, is compatible with your fuel type, and complies with local regulations. This will ensure a safe and efficient installation process.
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Location: Pick a safe, accessible spot, avoiding water lines and plants
When installing a fuel oil tank, it is important to choose a safe location that is easily accessible and complies with local regulations. Here are some key considerations for selecting a suitable spot:
Firstly, it is recommended to avoid installing the tank near water lines, septic systems, or plants that may be damaged by fuel leakage. This precaution helps minimize the risk of environmental contamination in the event of a leak.
Secondly, consider the stability of the tank. Choose a flat, level surface that can support the weight of a full oil tank. For outdoor above-ground tanks, it is advisable to use a solid concrete pad or other firm surfaces. Natural materials like sod or bark can also aid in stability and proper water drainage.
Thirdly, think about accessibility for maintenance and refueling. While indoor installations offer protection from the elements and temperature changes, they may pose challenges for access during deliveries or repairs. Outdoor installations, particularly above-ground tanks, provide easier access for fuel providers and technicians.
Additionally, take into account local regulations and safety considerations. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) guidelines specify necessary distances from the house, property boundaries, and other structures to mitigate fire risks. Ensure that the location complies with these regulations and does not pose a safety hazard to your family and loved ones.
Lastly, consider the aesthetics and space constraints. Underground tanks offer a discreet option that preserves your landscaping, while above-ground tanks may require more space but can be disguised with creative landscaping techniques.
By carefully considering these factors, you can select a safe and accessible location for your fuel oil tank installation, ensuring compliance with regulations and minimizing potential risks.
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Installation process: Prepare the site, level the tank, and connect pipes
Installation process
Prepare the site
Before installing a fuel oil tank, it is important to check state and local township laws or codes about the necessary requirements for installing a tank. Most experts recommend installing heating oil tanks indoors, rather than outdoors, as outdoor tanks are exposed to the elements, which can lead to corrosion and cause damage. When installing indoors, a basement is a great location as it is free of household and vehicle activity and often has a solid cement foundation already in place. Local codes may require the solid-base foundation to be a certain depth.
When installing outdoors, the tank must be placed on a level surface, centred, and supported properly to prevent it from moving or falling over. The support legs must be installed on a concrete pad. Additional support should be considered for areas of high wind or flood plains. The tank should be at least five feet from any fuel-powered equipment and placed in an area not usually affected by normal activities.
Level the tank
Once the tank arrives, you’ll want to make sure it is level and stable. You may need to dig a hole or secure the tank with appropriate anchoring devices. Attach the tank legs to the base using lag bolts that are provided with the kit. Secure them tightly and check for any wobble or movement when attaching the legs to ensure that the tank is firmly in place. Add additional bracing along each side of your tank by installing a steel brace for extra support.
Connect pipes
When connecting the pipes, it is important to follow local regulations. All connections in the piping and tubing should be made fuel oil-tight by using joint compounds and pipe thread sealant. Product piping connections where liquid rises should have a shut-off valve. The supply lines should run directly to the tank and have a protective covering. Grooved, polyethylene-coated copper piping is a good choice.
Once the tank is set in place, connect the regulator and vent pipes as directed by your manufacturer. Install a drip pan underneath the tank, as this will catch any oil leaks. Install the oil gauge in your tank's designated gauge spot and use pipe thread sealant on the gauge to ensure a proper seal. Remove the cap from the fill line and vent line hole, located at the opposite end from the supply connection line. Run the oil fill pipe outside, near the foundation of the house, and place a fill cap on the outside end of the fill line pipe. A vent pipe will also need to be run outside from the vent line hole, which is adjacent to the fill line hole. Install a vent line cap on the outside end of the vent pipe.
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Filling the tank: Inspect and get approval, then fill slowly, monitoring levels
Once your oil tank is installed, you will need to get it inspected and approved before filling it. This is especially important if your tank is located outdoors. In some places, the local fire department is responsible for inspecting and approving oil tanks.
After your tank has been approved, you can start filling it. If you have a contract with a fuel company, they will usually deliver the fuel and fill your tank for you. The driver will attach a hose to the tank's fill pipe and begin pumping. The fill pipe is located at the top of the tank and extends outside the house through an exterior wall.
As the tank is being filled, the driver will monitor the level of fuel inside the tank. This is typically done by listening for a vent alarm or whistle, which makes a noise when the tank is not full. When the tank is almost full, the whistle will stop making a noise, and the driver will stop pumping. It is important to fill the tank slowly to prevent overflow, as oil trucks can pump up to one gallon per second.
When filling your tank for the first time, you may need to order a full tank of oil. For subsequent fills, you may prefer to order a predetermined amount, typically between 100 and 200 gallons, depending on your tank size.
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Maintenance: Regularly check for corrosion, leaks, and damage for safety
Maintenance is key to ensuring the longevity of your fuel oil tank and preventing leaks, corrosion, and damage. Regular checks are essential, especially if your tank is 10 years old or more. The average lifespan of a fuel storage tank is between 10 and 15 years, but careful maintenance can extend its working life beyond this. Aim to carry out a check at least once a month to monitor any signs of damage.
Start by checking the base and supports of the tank for any signs of cracking or subsidence. Pay close attention to the joints and connection points, as these are common areas for leaks. Signs of dampness or staining could indicate an oil leak. On plastic tanks, look out for whitening, bulging, cracking, splits, and deformation. Sun exposure can cause the plastic to expand and deform, leading to cracks that can result in oil spills and water contamination. An uneven base can also cause unusual pressure, leading to stretching and cracking.
Check all visible pipework, valves, and filters for any signs of damage or leaks. Keep all pipe connections clean and tight to prevent spills. Ensure that the tank is stable, and check the stability of the legs and the ground beneath for above-ground tanks. Many tanks have buckled or tipped due to instabilities. Tank dewatering at outlet pipes is essential to prevent water build-up and corrosion. Use a bung fitted 0.25 inches from the base of the tank to allow water to escape while keeping the oil contained. Dewater the tank every six months and filter out contaminants regularly to prevent sludge build-up, which can lead to corrosion.
If your tank is situated within a physical bund or secondary containment facility, inspect this as well. A bund is required by law to contain and prevent spills that can occur from tank penetration. It must be able to hold 110% of the fuel. Regularly check the bund for any signs of damage or leaks and ensure it is not filled with rainwater, as this reduces its containment capacity.
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Frequently asked questions
The key steps are: choosing the right tank, finding a suitable location, preparing the installation site, installing the tank, connecting the pipes, and getting the tank inspected.
You should consider the capacity you need, the fuel type, and the relevant safety requirements and regulations.
You can choose to install your tank indoors or outdoors. Outdoor tanks can be either above ground or underground. Most experts recommend installing your heating oil tank indoors, in a basement, as this keeps the tank safe from the elements and temperature shifts. However, outdoor tanks are more convenient for oil deliveries.
After installing the tank, you should connect all the pipe fittings according to local regulations. Once this is done, contact your local fire department to inspect and approve the tank. After the tank is approved, you can start filling it up.
