Oil Storage Tanks

When purchasing an oil tank, it is important to understand the different product and installation options. Choosing a tank with durable construction, sufficient capacity, and easy installation will help ensure that the heating needs of the household are satisfied without high costs and aggravation.

• Above Ground Indoors: Above ground heating oil tanks are usually located in a utility room, basement, or garage. The standard tank size is typically 275 gallons, but models are available ranging from 160-400 gallons.
• Above Ground Outdoor: Above ground tanks designed for outdoor use are typically installed at the rear or side of the home. They are built to withstand extreme weather, which can raise the cost of the unit. Standard capacity is 275 gallons, but several other sizes are available.
• Underground: Underground heating oil tanks are buried during installation. Storage capacity is generally larger than above ground tanks, ranging from 550-1000 gallons for residential applications.

Which Oil Storage Tank is Right for Me?

Continued improvements in storage tank technology have resulted in vessels that are stronger, safer and have a longer service life. There are three basic construction designs that offer a variety of different features and benefits.

• Steel: Due to their relatively inexpensive cost, steel tanks continue to be the most popular storage medium. They are manufactured for both above and below ground applications, and every tank must adhere to rigid UL construction standards.
• Fiberglass: Fiberglass tanks largely eliminate leakage and sediment concerns relating to rust. Traditionally used for underground replacement, fiberglass is now approved for above ground installations as well.
• Combination: The most advanced oil storage medium is the polyethylene double-wall tank. The inside tank is made of a thick, durable polyethylene composite covered by an outer shell constructed from galvanized steel. Polyethylene does not rust or corrode and galvanized steel is extremely abuse resistant. Both enclosures are pressure tested and comply with strict UL performance standards. Some combination systems include a leak-detection device in the unlikely event of a failure in one of the shells.

When considering an oil storage tank purchase, tank accessories can help improve safety and extend the life of the tank.

Oil Storage Tank Maintenance

Your oil storage tank requires regular maintenance just like the other components of your heating system. You can schedule maintenance for your tank at the same time as your furnace tune-up, addressing all your home heating needs in one visit. Have your system inspected at least once a year.

In between professional tune-ups, you can perform some basic maintenance tasks yourself.

• Remove debris from around the tank
• Keep all access points closed
• Treat and paint the surface of steel tanks as needed

You should also give your oil storage tank a visual inspection monthly to look for signs of trouble. Give our technicians a call if you see any of the following:

• Oil stains around the tank
• Discoloration of the tank
• Areas where the tank is bulging or cracked

How to Prevent Your Oil From Freezing

Cold weather is tricky for your oil storage tank. Home heating oil contains parrafin which can freeze and create clogs in your oil line. Insulate the storage tank and oil lines to help prevent freezing. Make sure your oil filter is placed inside the home where it’s warmer and the oil can pass through freely. Speak to our technicians about additives that will help prevent freezing in cold weather.

When to Replace an Oil Storage Tank

Most oil storage tanks will last for 15 to 20 years. Many models come with a 10-year guarantee, so you’re assured at least a decade of service from this installation. It’s good to start thinking about a replacement before you have a dire need for a new tank, so you may want to start researching replacements when your tank is about 15 years old.

Some signs that you may need a new oil storage tank soon include:

• Dent marks on the tank
• Rust spots on the tank
• Inefficient operation

Our technicians can help you evaluate these issues to determine whether you need a new tank or simply need an oil tank repair.

Roth – The Brand We Represent

The Roth Tank represents the state-of-the-art in storage tank science. Roth combines a seamless, high–density polypropylene inner tank with a galvanized one-piece outer steel enclosure to provide the safest and most reliable oil storage tank product available. With a smaller footprint, greater capacity, and a lighter weight than conventional steel tanks, Roth tanks provide exceptional performance and peace of mind.

Learn more about our TankSure(R) Program, which enables us to evaluate the safety and integrity of your aboveground heating oil tank using an EPA-approved ultrasonic tank test.