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The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) states that more than five million American households used heating oil as the primary fuel between 2019 and 2020. This makes heating oil one of the most popular fuels for domestic and commercial heating in the country. If you use oil as your home heating fuel, at some point, you will explore proper oil storage via an oil tank. You can opt to have an above ground vs underground oil tank. This is crucial as having the right oil tank will help keep you from dealing with unnecessary costs and problems.
Read on to learn more on aboveground vs underground oil tanks.
Oil Tank Comparison: Above Vs. Below Ground Oil Tanks
Here is a detailed discussion on the differences between the two kinds of heating oil tanks.
Position Of Heating Oil Tanks
The names of the two kinds of oil tanks are indicators of where they are installed. One is placed above the ground surface while the other is below. Aboveground tanks are typically placed next to a wall for improved safety. Houses built in the 1960s usually have either of these two oil tanks as heating oil was widely used at that time. Currently, aboveground tanks can also be installed inside or outside your home, depending on where you prefer to put them.
Heating Oil Tank Capacity
Every household has varying needs. Therefore, both kinds of oil tanks come in different sizes. Underground oil tanks usually have a larger capacity than aboveground tanks. The standard residential aboveground tank can hold 275 gallons of oil, although other tanks come in capacities that range from 160 to 400 gallons. Whereas, underground tanks can hold up to 1,000 gallons of fuel oil. Commercial fuel tanks can carry even larger capacities as well.
Oil Tank Hazards And Safety
Underground oil tanks are in a hidden location. Therefore, accidents rarely happen. They are a suitable choice if you are looking for safety and durability. They are not consistently exposed to the elements, such as extreme weather, like aboveground tanks are. The challenge is when the underground oil tank experiences a problem as it can be hard and expensive to resolve the issue. Aboveground tanks are easier to access. Fortunately, most issues with these two tank types can be avoided. Take note to book an oil tank replacement when your oil tank is nearing the end of its lifespan.
Aboveground tanks are easily accessible, but they are vulnerable to threats like snow, strong winds, and fallen branches. These perils tend to wear out aboveground tanks quicker than their underground counterparts. Moreover, oil tank theft is on the rise, so it is recommended that aboveground tanks be placed in a secondary containment system within view from inside your home. This will help better secure it and enhance environmental protection.
Convenience & Heating Oil Tanks
Underground tanks are more difficult to access. However, they are still more convenient when it comes to space utilization. After all, some homeowners think aboveground oil tanks to be an eyesore. They can take up ample space in your yard, making it harder for you to mow the lawn and do other landscaping tasks. When you have an underground tank, you do not have to deal with these problems, as you can maintain your landscape while easily improving the appeal of your home.
Other Factors to Consider When Choosing An Oil Tank
You might have noticed that both aboveground and underground oil tanks have advantages and disadvantages. There is no better option between them. Choosing one over the other depends on your preferences. To help your decision-making, here are a few factors to consider about the residential heating oil tank you should have in your home:
- Oil Tank Material: Two of the common materials used in oil tank manufacturing are fiberglass and steel. The latter is a strong and durable material. However, it is susceptible to rust and corrosion that can lead to the contamination of the heating oil, among other problems. This makes oil tanks made of fiberglass a safer choice as you do not have to worry about rust or corrosion. A tank made from a combination of steel and fiberglass is also an option. Keep in mind that aboveground tanks are exposed to harsh conditions that make them more vulnerable to rust and other problems. Consult an expert HVAC and oil company like Tevis Energy to assist you. A professional can help you select a tank that can weather through harsh conditions.
- Shape: Oil tanks usually have a capsule or a cylindrical shape. A capsule-shaped tank can be positioned vertically or horizontally. On the other hand, cylindrical tanks can only be placed horizontally. With this in mind, choose the shape depending on how you want the oil tank to be positioned above the ground inside or outside your house.
- Oil Tank Cost: Oil tanks come at different prices. Compare prices from different authorized sellers and choose one that is within your set budget.
- Warranty: An extended warranty guarantees free or inexpensive checkups, repairs, or even replacements within the warranty period. This will help you save money in the long run.
It is essential that you consult your local, trusted oil supplier to find the right tank that meets your heating oil storage needs. For central Maryland and southern Pennsylvania residents, do not hesitate to call Tevis Energy and schedule a consultation.
Conclusion
Consider all the factors listed in this article when selecting which of the two kinds of oil storage tanks to use in your home. Be sure to contact the HVAC and heating oil professionals at Tevis Energy when you need oil tank installation services.
Contact Tevis Energy For Your Home Heating Oil Needs
Tevis Energy is a trustworthy HVAC company and heating oil delivery company that services central Maryland and southern Pennsylvania. Our company offers affordable and the most competitive heating oil prices in the area. Our goal is to provide you with excellent products and services. When you choose us to be your oil supplier, you can rest easy knowing that you will have correct and prompt heating oil deliveries at the best possible prices. Furthermore, we offer various heating oil delivery plans and financing options, as a way to customize your oil deliveries. Be sure to call us today to learn more.
Tevis Energy has certified and highly trained HVAC technicians to cater to all your heating and cooling needs. We guarantee that each of our techs has the experience, skills, and knowledge to provide excellent HVAC services. Our team can assist you with installations, repairs, maintenance, and much more. Our superior HVAC solutions always come at affordable costs.
Call us today to learn more about the products and services our company offers. We provide free, in-home estimates.
You can click here to contact us now or call us at (410) 876-6800 to find out more!