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Aug 28

Oil Tank Comparison: Above Vs. Below Ground Oil Tanks

  • August 28, 2021
  • Home Heating Oil
image of an above-ground heating oil tank

Heating oil is a popularly used fuel for domestic and commercial heating in the United States. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) states that more than five million households use heating oil as their main heating fuel during the cold season. However, if you use heating oil in your home, you have to think about your heating oil tank. You will need to consider when an oil tank replacement is necessary and then chose between an above ground vs underground oil tank. It is an essential thing to consider because having the right oil tank can help save you money and prevent unnecessary headaches in the long run.

To ensure that you make informed choices, here is a detailed comparison between the two types of heating oil tanks.

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Should I Choose An Aboveground Or Underground Heating Oil Tank?

A few of the differences between an aboveground oil tank and an underground oil tank are discussed in this article.

Table of Contents:
  • Should I Choose An Aboveground Or Underground Heating Oil Tank?
  • Position Of Heating Oil Tanks
  • Heating Oil Tank Capacity
  • Oil Tank Hazards And Safety
  • Convenience & Heating Oil Tanks
  • Other Factors to Consider When Choosing An Oil Tank
  • Conclusion
  • Contact The BHHC To Connect With A Local Oil Dealer

Position Of Heating Oil Tanks

Aboveground and underground oil tanks are installed above and below the ground surface, respectively. Aboveground tanks are typically placed next to a wall to have enhanced safety. These two types of tanks are commonly seen in houses built in the 1960s because fuel oil was widely used at that time. However, the technological evolution of heating and the population’s environmental conservation awareness had led to the adoption of cleaner energies. Remember that aboveground tanks can also be installed inside or outside your home, depending on where you want them.

Heating Oil Tank Capacity

Aboveground and underground oil tanks come in various sizes. This way, they can accommodate the different needs of different households. However, underground tanks usually have a larger capacity than aboveground tanks. For instance, standard residential aboveground tanks carry 275 gallons of oil, but these tanks also come in other capacities that range from 160 to 400 gallons. At the same time, underground tanks can have as much as 1,000 gallons of oil. Their commercial counterparts can hold even larger capacities.

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Oil Tank Hazards And Safety

Since underground oil tanks are placed in a hidden location, accidents rarely happen. This type of oil tank is most suitable for households looking for safety. They are also very durable as they are not continuously subjected to extreme weather and other harsh conditions like aboveground tanks. The challenge comes when there is a problem with your underground oil tank because it could be expensive and difficult to fix. Aboveground tanks allow for easier access.

Fortunately, most problems with both kinds of tanks can be avoided completely. Remember to have your oil tank replaced when your underground or aboveground tank is nearly at the end of its service life.

While aboveground tanks can be accessed easily, they are vulnerable to things like snow, fallen branches, and strong winds, among other perils. These tend to cause faster wear and tear on aboveground tanks. Oil tank theft is also on the rise nowadays, so professionals recommend that aboveground oil tanks be placed in a secondary containment system that’s in your line of view. This not only secures your tank but also provides environmental protection.

Convenience & Heating Oil Tanks

Underground oil tanks are more difficult to access, but they are still the more convenient option for maximizing space utilization. After all, some homeowners think that aboveground heating oil tanks are unpleasant to look at. They can occupy ample space in your yard, so mowing your lawn and other landscaping activities become a hassle to do. An underground oil tank can help avoid all these inconveniences so you can maintain your home’s aesthetics without much problem.

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Other Factors to Consider When Choosing An Oil Tank

image of checklist depicting what to look for when buying a home heating oil tank

You might have noticed that there is no better option between the two types of oil tanks. It comes down to your preference as underground and aboveground oil tanks offer their own advantages and disadvantages for your home. To help you make an informed decision on which will best suit your needs, here are some of the other factors to look into when selecting the oil tank to heat your home:

  • OIl Tank Material: The most common materials used in making oil tanks are steel and fiberglass. Steel is a durable and strong material. However, it tends to rust and corrode, and these can contaminate your heating oil, among other problems. Fiberglass is a safer alternative because you don’t have to worry about rust or corrosion. You can also opt for a tank made from a combination of steel and fiberglass. Be mindful when you select an aboveground tank since it will be exposed to various outdoor threats. Contact a professional HVAC company, like Better Home Heat Council, to guide you in choosing a tank that can withstand harsh conditions.
  • Shape Of The Heating Oil Tank: Oil tanks are either capsule-shaped or cylindrical. The former can be positioned horizontally or vertically, while cylindrical tanks can only be placed horizontally. Select the shape depending on how you want your tank set in your house. 
  • Oil Tank Cost:  Different manufacturers price their oil tanks differently. With this in mind, you can compare the prices from various vendors and choose one within your budget. 
  • Warranty: An extended warranty guarantees that you receive free or inexpensive inspections, repairs, or replacements within the warranty period. This will help you save more money in the long run.

Consult with your local, trusted oil supplier to know which tank best fits your heating oil storage needs. For Lehigh Valley residents, contact Better Home Heat Council and book a consultation.

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Conclusion

Keep in mind the different factors listed in this article when choosing between a belowground or an aboveground oil tank. Contact the professional HVAC technicians from Better Home Heat Council when you need a reliable oil tank installation company.

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BHHC Logo - Final 150Tall

The Better Home Heat Council (BHHC) is a local association that aims to help homeowners with everything that has to do with fuel oil heat. We provide you with knowledge, especially on things regarding the economic and efficient use of heating oil. Also, we assist people in identifying and solving issues about energy efficiency in their homes or office. We accomplish this by pushing them towards an effective and affordable path to ensure that their living areas become more efficient and cost-effective.

The BHHC also supports heating oil delivery service companies that offer services, products, and solutions to homeowners in the Lehigh Valley. If you are searching for a superior home heating oil delivery service near you, click here. Rest assured that most of the fuel oil delivery service companies in our system also provide free energy consultations.

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