What Are the Benefits of Using Bunded Oil or Fuel Tanks?

If you store fuel, heating oil, or waste oil, safety and environmental protection are very important. One of the best ways to store these substances safely is by using bunded oil or fuel tanks. These tanks offer better protection, reduce spill risks, and are more trustworthy than standard tanks.

Whether you're a homeowner needing heating oil, a farmer storing diesel, or a business handling waste oil, choosing the right kind of tank makes a big difference.

In this article, we’ll look at what bunded tanks are, how they work, and the key benefits of using them. We’ll also explore the different types, like plastic bunded oil tanks, steel bunded oil tanks, and waste oil bunded tanks, and help you decide which is best for your needs.

What Is a Bunded Tank?

A bunded tank is a tank within a tank. The inner tank holds the fuel or oil, and the outer tank (the "bund") acts as a protective layer. If the inner tank leaks, the outer tank contains the leak and prevents it from spreading.

This design makes bunded tanks much safer than single-skin tanks. They are often required by law for commercial or large storage installations because of their extra safety and environmental protection.

Why Not Use a Single-Skin Tank?

Single-skin tanks (just one layer) can leak directly into the environment if they are damaged or corroded. This could lead to expensive cleanups, environmental fines, and safety hazards.

In contrast, bunded tanks reduce this risk by catching leaks before they become a problem.

Environmental Protection

One of the biggest reasons to use bunded tanks is to protect the environment. Oil and diesel spills can cause serious damage to soil, rivers, and wildlife. If a leak goes unnoticed, it can spread quickly and lead to pollution that’s hard and costly to clean.

With a bunded diesel tank, the outer layer captures any leaks and keeps them contained. This helps avoid spills and keeps your site compliant with environmental laws.

Legal Compliance

In the UK and many other countries, there are laws that require bunded tanks in certain situations. For example:

• If you're storing over 200 liters of oil or fuel on a commercial site.

• If your tank is near a water source, drain, or stream.

• If you're storing hazardous materials like waste oil.

Using waste oil bunded tanks or bunded heating oil tanks ensures that your setup meets these legal requirements. Failing to comply can result in fines, penalties, or being forced to remove your tank.

Fire Safety

Oil and fuel are flammable materials, and leaks can be dangerous. Bunded tanks reduce fire risks by keeping the fuel secure and reducing the chance of it coming into contact with a spark or flame.

Some steel bunded oil tanks are also fire-resistant, offering extra safety in high-risk areas like garages, workshops, or farms.

Longer Tank Life

Bunded tanks last longer than single-skin tanks. The outer layer protects the inner tank from weather, UV rays, corrosion, and physical damage. This is especially useful for outdoor installations where tanks are exposed to harsh conditions.

Whether you choose plastic bunded oil tanks or steel bunded oil tanks, you can expect them to serve you well for many years with proper maintenance.

Leak Detection and Monitoring

Modern bunded tanks often come with built-in leak detection systems or alarms. These systems alert you if the inner tank leaks into the bund, allowing you to fix the issue before it becomes serious.

This feature is especially important for businesses, farmers, or commercial operators using a bunded diesel tank to power vehicles or equipment.

Cost-Effective in the Long Run

While bunded tanks might cost more upfront than single-skin models, they save you money over time. Here's how:

• Fewer leaks = lower cleanup costs.

• Longer lifespan = less frequent replacements.

• Legal compliance = no fines or legal issues.

• Better fuel management = less wastage.

In short, bunded tanks are an investment that pays off in the long term.

Suitable for All Types of Oil and Fuel

No matter what type of liquid you need to store, there’s a bunded tank for it:

• Bunded heating oil tanks—for home heating use.

• Bunded diesel tanks—ideal for farms, transport depots, and construction sites.

• Waste oil bunded tanks—designed for garages, workshops, and recycling.

You can also choose oil tanks with double-skin models that offer a similar level of protection if space or access is limited.

Wide Range of Sizes and Shapes

Bunded tanks come in all sizes, from small domestic tanks to large commercial units. Whether you need 500 liters or 10,000 liters, there’s a bunded option available.

There are also different shapes—horizontal, vertical, and slimline—to fit different spaces. This flexibility makes it easy to find the perfect tank for your needs.

Easy Maintenance

Thanks to their strong design, bunded tanks are easy to maintain. They often come with large inspection lids and built-in access points, making checks and refills simple.

With regular maintenance, a good-quality bunded tank can last 20 years or more. This is especially true for steel bunded oil tanks, which are known for their strength and durability.

Peace of Mind

Perhaps the most important benefit of all is peace of mind. Whether you're heating your home or fueling your business, you want to know your fuel is safe, legal, and protected.

Choosing a plastic bunded oil tank or a steel version gives you confidence that you're doing things the right way—safely, responsibly, and sustainably.

Popular Types of Bunded Tanks

Let’s take a closer look at the most popular types of bunded tanks on the market today:

Steel Bunded Oil Tanks

These tanks are very strong, fire-resistant, and ideal for high-risk or outdoor areas. They are often used by farms, factories, and workshops.

Tough and secure

Long-lasting

Great for large volumes

Plastic Bunded Oil Tanks

Plastic tanks are lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and easier to move and install than steel ones. Ideal for homes and small businesses.

Cost-effective

Rust-free

Easier to install

Bunded Diesel Tanks

These tanks are built to store diesel safely and are great for refueling vehicles, tractors, or equipment.

Designed for diesel

May include pumps, hoses, and meters

Perfect for farms or transport businesses

Waste Oil Bunded Tanks

Garages, service centers, and workshops often need to store used or waste oil. These tanks are specially made for that purpose.

Safe storage of hazardous waste

Meets regulations

Prevents environmental damage

Tips for Choosing the Right Bunded Tank

Here are a few things to keep in mind when buying a bunded tank:

1. What are you storing? – Heating oil, diesel, or waste oil?

2. How much space do you have? – Choose a shape and size that fits your area.

3. Plastic or steel? – Plastic is lighter and cheaper; steel is stronger and more durable.

4. Do you need extra features? – Like a pump, gauge, or lock?

5. Are you meeting legal rules? – Check with your local authority if you’re not sure.

Conclusion

Using a bunded tank is one of the smartest, safest, and most responsible ways to store oil or fuel. Whether you go for plastic-bunded oil tanks, steel bunded oil tanks, or waste oil bunded tanks, you’re investing in long-term protection for your property, the environment, and your wallet.

From oil tanks with double skin to specialist bunded heating oil tanks, there’s a solution for every home or business. It’s not just about storage—it’s about safety, security, and peace of mind.

So if you're planning to store fuel or oil, don’t settle for anything less than a bunded tank. The extra layer of protection could save you a lot of trouble down the road.

The Tank Shop Ltd Over 20 years of expert tank supply online, offering honest advice, top-quality UK & German products