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- 500 & 650 Litre Bunded Oil Tanks
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Steel Bunded Oil Tanks
Steel heating oil tanks are a popular alternative to their plastic counterparts when it comes to installation at residential properties, and at Northern Tank Store we supply a full range of steel heating oil tanks for both domestic and commercial use. We offer single skin as well as bunded steel tanks for additional security and protection, in a comprehensive range of capacities.
The Benefits Of Steel Heating Oil Tanks
Steel heating oil tanks come with various advantages and disadvantages when compared to plastic tanks, but rest assured that we can provide expert advice on what is right for your property. Just like plastic tanks, steel heating oil tanks store either kerosene or gas oil for the purposes of fuelling a central heating system, with kerosene being most commonly used in the UK.
With high quality steel construction, these tanks are built to last. They offer full weather protection and the durable nature of steel means they will last for many years if correctly maintained. This can be a massive benefit if the tank is expected to be in contact with adverse weather conditions or direct sunlight.
While it is recommended to have your heating system inspected regularly, you can expect a steel tank to provide many years of trouble free use and to potentially outlast an equivalent plastic tank. Lower quality steel tanks can be more susceptible to rust or corrosion, however at Northern Tank Store we only offer products from the UK’s leading brands including Turners Fabrications. These tanks are constructed using high quality steel and finishing to offer high levels of resistance against corrosion, and are backed by an impressive 10 year guarantee for peace of mind.
Steel tanks also offer benefits when it comes to safety and security. Their tough outer shell is significantly harder to drill through than plastic, and even more so in the case of a double layer bunded tank, which reduces the risk of fuel theft. For the same reasons steel fuel tanks also offer enhanced protections against accidental damage or puncturing.
Bunded Steel Heating Oil Tanks
Above a certain capacity, steel heating oil tanks used for domestic applications must be bunded, but single skin versions are acceptable for smaller tanks depending on where they are positioned. Bunded tanks include an inner tank which holds the fuel, surrounded by an outer tank with a space, or bund, between the two.
In the event that the inner tank should fail, the oil will be retained within the bund and so prevent spillages into the immediate environment. Similarly, if the outer shell should be punctured, the oil can be safely retained within the inner tank. While they are not necessarily required in all circumstances, the benefits offered by bunded tanks makes them the preferred choice for many homeowners.
Steel Heating Oil Tanks At Northern Tank Store
At Northern Tank Store you can find a comprehensive range of heating oil tanks, including steel tanks in sizes from under 500 litres to over 13,000 Litres. Our range of tanks includes options for domestic heating oil storage as well as for commercial use, and offers a full set of features such as integrated gauges and overfill protection.
Benefitting from being the sister company to one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of heating oil tanks, we’re able to offer bespoke design and manufacturing so you can be sure we can supply a solution to meet your exact requirements. Our steel heating oil tanks are also available in a choice of colours as standard, whether you need a tank that can be clearly seen for safety reasons, or want a tank that blends into the surroundings of your property.
With several decades worth of experience in the industry, we can advise you on the best solution to meet your needs, including all necessary legislation and regulations to be aware of. If you have any queries or need help in finding the best product for your site or property, contact our team and we’ll be happy to assist you.
FAQs About Steel Bunded Oil Tanks
Are steel bunded oil tanks suitable for domestic heating oil storage?
Yes, steel bunded tanks are a strong choice for home heating oil storage, particularly where site conditions rule out plastic. They suit properties with limited space since steel units tend to have a smaller footprint for a given capacity, and they're often preferred on listed or rural properties where planners favour a less visually prominent profile.
What does "bunded" mean on an oil tank?
A bunded tank is essentially a tank within a tank. The inner vessel holds the fuel while the outer skin acts as a secondary containment layer, typically rated to hold at least 110% of the inner tank's capacity. This means a leak or failure in the inner vessel is caught before fuel reaches the ground, which is a legal requirement in many UK installations.
Do I legally need a bunded tank in the UK?
In many cases, yes. Building Regulations in England (Part J) and equivalent legislation in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland require bunded tanks for most new domestic heating oil installations above 2,500 litres, or where the tank is within a specified distance of a watercourse, drain, or building. Even below those thresholds, your insurer or oil supplier may insist on bunded containment.
How long does a steel bunded oil tank last compared to a plastic one?
A well-maintained steel bunded tank will typically outlast an equivalent plastic unit. Steel is less susceptible to UV degradation and physical impact damage, and can be inspected, treated for surface corrosion, and repainted to extend its life. The trade-off is that steel requires periodic inspection for rust, particularly at welded seams and around fittings.
Can a steel bunded tank be installed inside a building or outbuilding?
Yes, provided the installation meets relevant Building Regulations and fire safety requirements. Steel tanks are often chosen for indoor installations such as plant rooms or agricultural outbuildings because they carry a lower fire risk rating than some plastic alternatives and are less prone to distortion in high-temperature environments. Ventilation requirements and minimum clearance distances should be confirmed with a competent installer.
How do I maintain a steel bunded oil tank to prevent corrosion?
Key steps include regular visual inspection, keeping the exterior painted or coated, and ensuring the bund space remains free of standing water. Water pooling between the inner and outer skins accelerates corrosion, so any drainage point in the bund should be monitored and kept clear. An annual check by a qualified OFTEC-registered technician is recommended and may be required by your insurance policy.
What size steel bunded oil tank do I need for a typical home?
Sizing depends on annual consumption, which varies by property size, insulation, and boiler efficiency. A three- to four-bedroom home on oil-fired central heating typically uses between 1,500 and 3,500 litres per year, so most households choose a tank in the 1,000- to 2,500-litre range to allow for a full delivery without overfilling.
Can I connect two steel bunded tanks together to increase storage capacity?
Yes, twin-tank or multi-tank configurations are common where a single larger unit won't fit or access is restricted. Tanks are linked using a manifold and appropriate pipework so the connected vessels draw down evenly. The installation must be carried out to OFTEC standards with all connections properly sealed and the bund integrity of each individual tank maintained. Bund drains should never be linked as this would compromise secondary containment.
How is a steel bunded oil tank delivered and installed?
Steel tanks are heavy and arrive by flatbed or curtain-sided lorry, so your site needs vehicle access wide enough for delivery. Most tanks require lifting into position with a telehandler or crane. The base must be a solid, level concrete or block-paved pad capable of bearing the full loaded weight, which for a 2,500-litre tank can exceed 2,600 kg when full.
If you own a heating oil tank or are looking to buy one, find out about important factors to be aware of in this guide.
