The Ultimate Heating Oil Tank Installation Guide

Date Published: 05/03/2025

Whether you’re replacing an old oil storage tank or setting up a new system, properly installing your heating oil tank will keep your home safe, warm, and compliant with regulations. This guide covers everything you need to know about heating oil tank installation – from oil storage regulations and choosing the right type of tank to finding the best location and avoiding pollution risk.

Can you install your own heating oil tank?

We recommend contacting a licenced professional to ensure a smooth installation of your new heating oil tank and adherence to regulations.

What are the rules for installing an oil tank?

UK law requires heating oil storage tanks to comply with building and environmental regulations. This means:

• Maintaining minimum separation distances from buildings, boundaries, and heat sources.
• Installing oil tanks on a suitable base to support the weight of the tank.
• Making sure tank vent pipes are correctly fitted to prevent pressure build-up.

Why a DIY approach to installing isn’t always the best idea

Even when it’s legally allowed, installing a heating oil tank yourself can be tedious – not to mention risky. A poorly done installation can be a huge hazard, potentially leading to gradual leaks, sudden drops in oil levels, or fuel oil contamination. If strict regulations aren’t followed, you could face fines or be required to replace the heating oil storage tank at your own cost.

Choosing the right heating oil tank

An important thing to remember when looking to replace your tank is that not all domestic heating oil tanks are the same. The type of oil tank you choose affects its life expectancy, fuel usage, and the risk of breakdown.

Types of oil tanks

• Single-skin oil tanks – The most basic type of tank, suitable only for domestic use under 2,500 litres and in low-risk locations. They offer no extra protection against oil leaks and cannot be installed near open drains, water sources, or loose-fitting manhole covers. A bunded tank is required in higher-risk areas.
• Bunded oil tanks – A domestic oil tank with an extra layer of protection to contain leaks. These meet stricter safety regulations in high-risk areas.
• Underground oil storage tanks – Saves space but come with a higher risk of pollution and requires installation from a specialist.

What size heating oil tank do you need?

A range of sizes is available, from 1,000 litres of heating oil to 2,500 litres or more. If you’re not sure what size you need, ask yourself the following:

• How much oil do you use? – Would a larger tank allow you to buy fuel in bulk and save money?
• How much space do you have? – Do you have enough ground-level space to fit a bigger tank?
• Could your heating needs change? – If your fuel usage suddenly increases, will your tank be big enough to meet demand?

Which material should your tank be?

Choosing the right oil storage tank isn’t just about picking a size – it also comes down to what materials it's made from. The two main options are plastic and steel, with each having their own pros and cons.

Plastic heating oil tanks – Lightweight and hassle-free

Plastic heating oil storage tanks are a popular choice for off-grid homeowners because they’re lightweight, making them easier to transport and install. They’re also cheaper, both in upfront cost and installation – and won’t rust over time. Another big plus is that they have no seams or joints, reducing the risk of gradual leaks.

However, plastic heating oil tanks are not perfect. Plastic tanks can be less durable, especially in extreme weather. They’re more prone to physical damage, deep scratches, and UV exposure, which can weaken the material over time.

Steel heating oil tanks

If you want something sturdier, a steel fuel tank might be the better choice. Steel tanks are stronger and more impact-resistant than plastic, so they’re less likely to get damaged. They also tend to last longer, especially if they’re well cared for.

Many bunded oil tanks are made of steel because they provide extra protection against spills. A bunded tank has a second outer layer, known as a bund, which acts as a safety barrier. This design helps contain any leaks from the inner tank, reducing the risk of oil contamination. Bunded tanks are required in commercial settings and higher-risk domestic areas, such as near open drains or water sources, making them the safer and more compliant choice for many installations.

Nevertheless, steel tanks do have some downsides. They can rust and corrode if not properly looked after, while also being heavier and harder to install. Additionally, steel heating oil tanks tend to have a more expensive upfront cost.

So, which one should you choose?

For most homes, a bunded plastic oil tank offers the best mix of affordability, safety, and ease of installation. But if you need a larger capacity tank or are installing in a high-risk area, a steel fuel tank could be a better long-term investment. It all comes down to your space, budget, and how much maintenance you’re willing to do.

Need domestic heating oil for your new tank? Keep your home warm with fast, reliable delivery from Your NRG. Get a free quote today and make sure you never run low!

Where should you install a heating oil tank?

Getting the location right is just as important as choosing the right tank. A poorly placed tank can lead to safety risks, fuel theft, or even compliance issues. Here’s what you need to know.

How far away should a heating oil tank be from your house?

To stay compliant and safe, your heating oil tank must be placed:

• At least 1.8 metres from a building.
• At least 0.76 metres from a boundary fence or any non-fire-rated structure.

If you're looking to install your tanker closer than the outlined distances, you'll need a fire-rated barrier to reduce the risk of fire hazards.

What else should you consider when installing your tank?

When choosing the right oil tank location, think beyond just regulations. Accessibility, safety, and security all play a role in hassle-free fuel storage and delivery. Firstly, ensure the tank has a direct route for refilling, allowing easy access for heating oil deliveries. A poorly positioned tank can make refuelling difficult, leading to delays or extra costs. When you book your heating oil delivery through Your NRG, you can add specific delivery instructions as part of the checkout process to avoid any future complications.

You should also consider the risk of damage to your tank or its surroundings. Keeping the tank away from heat sources and potential hazards will help reduce the chance of spills or leaks. Lastly, don't forget the security of your tank. Heating oil theft is a growing problem. Install lockable caps and secure your oil storage tank to deter thieves and keep your fuel safe.

Installing a heating oil tank: What you need to know

A well-installed heating oil tank keeps your heating system running safely and efficiently. Here’s what to consider to make sure everything’s set up properly and meets regulations.

A solid base is essential

Heating oil tanks are heavy when full, so they need a strong, level base to support them. Concrete slabs, paving stones, or prefabricated bases are all good options to keep the tank stable.

Placement matters

Where your tank is located is just as important as what it sits on. Regulations require it to be a safe distance from buildings, boundaries, and heat sources. If it’s too close to a fence or structure, a fire-rated barrier might be needed.

Connecting it properly

A secure connection to your heating system is key. Vent pipes help prevent pressure build-up, and all pipework must meet safety regulations to avoid leaks or inefficiencies.

Safety checks go a long way

Before using your tank, it’s worth checking for any scratches, leaks, or sudden drops in oil levels. Making sure it’s correctly installed and up to standard helps prevent spills, keeps your heating running smoothly, and saves hassle down the line.

Keep your oil tank topped up all year long with Your NRG

Once your heating oil tank is in place, the next step is to make sure your heating oil supply never runs low. That’s where Your NRG comes in. We offer fast, reliable heating oil delivery across the UK, with flexible slots that work around your schedule. Our competitive prices mean you get great value with no hidden fees, and we supply the highest-quality fuel to keep your heating system running smoothly. Get your free, no-obligation quote today!