Whether you are building a new home or renovating an existing one, it is essential to understand oil tank installation guidelines. These guidelines will help you ensure that your tank is sized and supported correctly and adequately vented.
Properly Supported
Whether you need an oil tank for home heating or a business, you must follow proper oil tank installation Westchester County NY to ensure the system is safe and effective. It would help if you found out the regulations before starting. If you do, you could avoid an unsafe system requiring repairs.
You must make sure your tank meets the national construction standards. In addition, you will need to get permission from your local council and use a Competent Person’s scheme to ensure that your work meets the regulations.
The tank should be positioned on a concrete pad. The pad should be three inches thick and rest on a bed of crushed stone or well-draining gravel.
Properly Centered
Taking the time to center an above-ground oil tank properly will pay off in spades. Putting it in the wrong spot will spell disaster and should be avoided at all costs. You can only move a tank after draining its contents, which should be top of mind. In addition to a solid foundation, you’ll need a proper outlet for your tank’s waste oil.
For best results, install your new oil tank on a concrete base with a reinforced concrete or stone paver foundation. A solid base will also ward off any stray critters. As for the tank itself, you’ll want to find a good spot that isn’t overrun by lawnmowers. To prevent accidental spills, you’ll want to ensure the tank is secured with an oil-proofing spray. Finally, if your tank is particularly tall, you’ll want to install an additional anchor, preferably a non-metallic one.
Properly Vented
Having an adequately vented oil tank is essential to avoid leaks. Leaks can be caused by missing or clogged vent pipes, which can cause air pressure to build up inside the tank. The resulting pressure can damage the tank and its internal components.
It is essential to have a reliable vent alarm. A faulty alarm could mean that your tank is overfilled. It also could indicate a leak, which could lead to water damage and possibly an oil spill.
A vent whistle is also a good indicator. This type of whistle is typically located on the vent pipe of an oil tank. The whistle will sound when the tank is close to full. It will stop when the oil is one to two inches from the top.
Properly Sized
A properly sized oil tank is critical for anyone using oil heat. You want to stay supplied with oil in the middle of the winter. This can be a real disaster for your home, especially if you have children.
The size of your oil tank will depend on several factors, including the size of your home. A larger home requires a bigger tank. You’ll need more fuel to keep everyone warm if you have a large family. A smaller home may only need a smaller tank.
Your fuel consumption can also determine the size of your tank. If you need to figure out your consumption, it’s best to consult fuel experts. They can help you estimate your needs throughout the year.
