Is It Time for New Fuel Storage Tanks?

As there are many types of standby generators, there are also many types of fuel storage tanks. With fuel prices rising and fuel deliveries not quite as reliable as they were in the past, now is a good time to assess your fuel needs and storage capabilities so that you don’t end up having to idle your generators or heavy equipment. This is especially important now that fall is in the air. With global fuel supplies facing strain from increased winter demand, decreased production, and reduced global shipping capacity, there is no time like the present to prepare for the real possibility that the fuel you need won’t be available when you need it unless you have it stored on site.

Which Type of Storage Tank Is Best?

There are many types of storage tanks, ranging in size from a few hundred gallons to around 30,000. Bunded tanks are ideal because they feature a tank within a tank. This gives you superior containment and also provides added insulation and protection from moisture intrusion and contamination. Bunded tanks can be constructed of steel, plastic, masonry, or concrete depending on climate and operating conditions.

Of course, there’s the tried and true steel tank. These are the most common types of tanks in the United States and are a reliable solution for long-term fuel storage. While steel tanks are costlier to manufacture and install, their design and construction means they are easily customized to meet your size and capacity requirements. Further, because they can be customized to achieve your desired size, a steel tank may be a better option if you need significant fuel storage capacity and don’t want to invest in multiple tanks.

Finally, don’t forget about regulatory requirements. These can vary widely from coast to coast, and community to community. Always verify that the tanks you want to purchase and install won’t run afoul of any applicable building codes, environmental regulations, or safety regulations within the location where you intend to install your fuel storage tanks.

Overestimating Is Better Than Falling Short

Properly stored and maintained diesel fuel can remain viable for between six to 12 months. Spending more and buying better quality fuel and fuel maintenance agreements can help you achieve the higher end of this scale. Regardless of the types of standby generators and equipment you have, it is always better to give extra padding to your fuel estimates over the winter months. With proper fuel management and dispersal of existing stock, you won’t waste a drop before any of the diesel fuel in your tanks goes bad.

At the end of the day, what works best for one business may not work for your business. At Gen-Tech, our standby generator specialists can help you select the best diesel fuel storage tank for your needs. We encourage you to contact us to speak with our team about the solutions we recommend for your types of standby generator and expected fuel requirements throughout the year.

Posted Under: fuel maintenance