Do NOT install an AST underground
Do NOT install a UST aboveground.
accelerate the creation of condensation.
Additionally, long exposure to direct sunlight
subjects the tank coating to damaging UV rays.
The selected location should provide sufficient
room to inspect all the sides of the tank,
sufficient room to avoid debris or snow and
ice from collecting on the tank and sufficient
access to facilitate keeping the area beneath the
tank free of debris.
In some instances, suggesting the customer
consider having the tank installed within an
enclosure or recommending the customer
consider a non-metallic tank system can help
minimize the risk of premature tank obsolescence.
5. Tank Type - Above Ground
Standard Steel Tanks
Above ground steel tanks are generally available
in sizes from 120 gallons to 330 gallons.
Current manufacturing technology includes an
updated head design that improves both tank
performance and resistance to accidental over
pressurization.
Many above ground steel tanks are now
manufactured with an electrostatic powder
coated finish. Tanks that are manufactured
with only a coat of primer paint should be
painted with an industrial quality coating
before or during installation.
12 National Oilheat Research Alliance
The 275 gallon or the 330 gallon tanks manufactured
to the UL 80 standard are the most
and
common in use for homes. The UL 80 tank
is designed for the storage of fuel both inside
basements and outside above ground. They are
typically ‘ob-round’ to facilitate fitting through
doorways and stairways to basements.
A “standard” UL 80 275 gallon tank is approximately
27" x 44" x 60" and stands either
horizontally or vertically.
Manufacturers also make tanks in slightly
different dimensions to accommodate installations
challenged by limited basement accesses
or narrow doorways.
Cylindrical tanks and tanks manufactured
to the UL 142 standard are also available, but
these are not as common as the 275 ob-round.
It is important the UL label on the tank be
read and followed. Tank manufacturers specify
that tanks should be inspected and drained of
water annually. It is important to make the tank
owner aware of this.
Standard steel tank UL-80 label affixed
to storage tank.