Calor installed a converted above ground tank but we thought we were getting a new underground tank

MrsTwinkle

Help please oh wise ones!
In 2014 we arranged for Calor to install a new LPG system including a new underground tank. They have just raised our rate from 40p/litre to 47p/litre. I shopped around and AvantiGas offered us 30.9p/litre so we started to swap suppliers. AvantiGas have emailed to say they are unable to proceed as they won't take on converted above ground tanks. Well I had no idea that Calor had installed a converted tank. I thought we'd signed up for a new underground tank.
Two things, firstly AvantiGas commented that converted tanks corrode quicker and their coatings get damaged in the conversion and are not designed to be underground as the coatings need to 'breathe'. Secondly, I'm stuck with Calor which can't be fair. I'll have to pay approx £450 extra a year if I stay with them.
Can anyone advise me on this?
Thank you

jk0

Will Avanti supply an above ground tank?

G_M

I'm bemused.


So for 4 years you've been unaware that you have an above ground tank, believing instead that you had an underground one?


I can only assume you let the property out rather than live there? But even so, do you never do inspections?

molerat

G_M wrote: »

I'm bemused.


So for 4 years you've been unaware that you have an above ground tank, believing instead that you had an underground one?


I can only assume you let the property out rather than live there? But even so, do you never do inspections?

I read it as they have installed a converted overground tank underground and the new supplier refuses to fill it.

Mister_G

Yes, that's the way that I read it.

I didn't know that Calor did that, but obviously they do! Mind you they did originally install my overground tank under an 11kV power line!

I would have thought that Avanti could just install a new above ground tank, but I suppose that would depend on there being a suitable location.

snilloct1957

If Calor installed an above-ground tank underground that is now causing problems for you, it sounds like the tank is "not of merchantable quality" and "not fit for purpose." It seems like the contractor had a tank available in stock and just stuck it in the ground, hoping you wouldn't notice and that there wouldn't be a problem down the line. Do you have any paperwork relating to the installation of the tank? Any guarantee? Any manufacturer's numbers or references on the tank? There is obviously a lot of difference between the two types of tank to be installed, and maybe a Google search will throw some light on the subject. Go back to Calor after you've done some research and see what they have to say. Also, there maybe a safety issue/leakage if the tank corrodes.:cool:

snilloct1957

Check out this website https://www.hse.gov.uk/gas/lpg/storagetank.htm
for safety advice on lpg tanks.

Quote from the above website:- "In the vast majority of cases the tank will be owned by the company that supplies the gas, but if you are unsure then you should check this with your own supplier. In general, the supplier will look after the tank and its fittings (their integrity and maintenance) but again check this with your supplier if you are unsure, as legally it needs to be maintained in a safe condition."

Your first port of call should be to Calorgas; they may still be responsible for the tank and any safety issues it presents.

What was it about the tank that made Avantigas not want to touch it? Their representative, on his inspection visit, saw something he didn't like. An email to them may shed some helpful information concerning the viability of the tank and its lifespan.