Fuel Tank Systems

Buy fuel tank systems & refuelling systems – fuel supply for generators and standby power systems

A generator is only ready for action as long as its tank is full. On most units, the generator's own tank lasts for 6 to 12 hours – far too little for a serious backup power reserve or longer off-grid operation. With the right auxiliary fuel tanks and refuelling systems, you can extend your generator's runtime considerably – without constant topping up, without refuelling interruptions and without risky handling of open jerry cans.

At Kipor.org you will find the complete range – from compact Eltex auxiliary tanks (11 L) for camping and home backup inverters and pre-assembled 1,000-litre heating oil refuelling kits with pump, changeover valve and filter, to 5,000-litre bulk fuel tank systems with complete refuelling equipment for standby power systems, commercial emergency power and emergency service applications.

Honest advice: which tank size suits which application?

At Kipor.org we tell you the truth about sizing – so you invest in a tank system that is neither oversized nor undersized:

11–20 litres (Eltex auxiliary tanks, jerry can sets): Ideal for small inverter generators (2–4 kW) used for camping, in motorhomes or on food trucks. They double the runtime without constant refuelling stops. Straightforward, with no building regulations and no permit required.

200 litres (steel drum, IBC-200): For medium-sized applications – a building site running during the day, or smaller home backup power for 5–7 days. With a pump and filter, sufficient for most applications without the need to notify the authorities (varies by German federal state).

1,000 litres (IBC or steel heating oil tank): The most cost-effective size for serious home backup power with a diesel inverter generator (FME 8000iD, 15000iD) and for smaller businesses. Depending on generator size, enough for 100 to 300 hours of backup power.

2,000–5,000 litres (bulk tank system): For industrial applications, emergency service facilities, hospitals, data centres and larger standby power systems. These sizes usually require building approval, double-walled construction or drip trays, and often a permanently installed refuelling system with level indicator and leak detection.

The right size for you depends on your generator size, your backup power scenario (hours, days, weeks) and the space available on site – we are happy to give you specific advice.

Eltex auxiliary fuel tanks (11 L) for inverter generators

For inverter generators such as the FME XG-SF 3300E, FME XG-SF 4000ER, KIPOR IG2000iS, KIPOR IG3500 and comparable models, Eltex auxiliary tanks with an 11-litre capacity are the ideal solution. They are connected directly to the generator's original tank with a suitable hose and keep the generator supplied automatically – no decanting, no interruption to operation.

Benefits at a glance:

– Double to triple the runtime: A 3 kW inverter with a standard 7-litre tank runs for around 8 hours in eco mode – an 11-litre Eltex auxiliary tank adds a further 12–14 hours.
– No decanting from jerry cans while the generator is running – safer and more convenient.
– Universally compatible with most common inverter generators.
– UN-approved, ADR-compliant for safe storage and transport.

Eltex tanks are available in our range in various capacities (typically 11 L as standard, larger versions on request) – to match your specific generator model.

Steel jerry cans and refuelling kits for diesel inverter generators

For our diesel inverter generators (FME 5600D Carbon, FME 8000iD, FME 15000iD), we offer special steel jerry can refuelling kits and larger tank solutions:

20-litre steel jerry can refuelling kits: With an approved steel jerry can, hose set, connection adapter and changeover valve (generator tank ↔ external tank). Ideal for mobile applications or short-term backup power reserves.

200-litre steel drum kits: With hand pump or electric pump, connection fittings and level indicator. Ideal as a week-long backup power reserve for diesel inverters used for home backup.

1,000-litre heating oil refuelling kits (FME's own solution): A completely pre-assembled kit designed for connection to a 1,000-litre steel heating oil tank. Contents: hoses in the right length, pump, changeover valve between generator tank and external tank, fuel filter. With this solution, diesel inverter generators typically achieve runtimes of 100 to 300 hours – in other words, weeks of self-sufficient operation.

Bulk fuel tank systems from 2,000 to 5,000 litres for standby power and industry

For industrial standby power systems, commercial emergency power, emergency service facilities, hospitals and larger home backup projects, we plan and supply complete bulk fuel tank systems:

Tank capacity: 2,000 L, 3,000 L, 4,000 L and 5,000 L (larger capacities on request).

Designs: single-walled (with mandatory drip tray) or double-walled (with leak detection sensor, easier to install and to get approved).

Complete refuelling system: day tank (e.g. 200 L), high-performance transfer pump with controls, float level switch for automatic top-up from the bulk tank to the day tank, redundant filters, safety valves and overfill protection.

Connections: quick couplings for tanker deliveries, contents gauge, optional remote monitoring via M-Bus, Modbus or GSM modem.

Compliance: All systems are designed in accordance with the applicable regulations of the AwSV (German Ordinance on Facilities Handling Substances Hazardous to Water) – including documentation for notification to or approval by the authorities.

Components of a refuelling system – what's included?

A complete refuelling system consists of several matched components:

Storage tank (bulk tank): stores the main fuel supply. Installed in a fixed position, single- or double-walled depending on building regulations.

Day tank: an intermediate buffer at the generator, typically 50–500 L. Automatically topped up from the bulk tank. Allows fast fuel supply to the generator and decouples the bulk tank design from the generator's location.

Transfer pump: pumps fuel from the bulk tank to the day tank. Speed- or pressure-controlled, with dry-run protection and overload protection.

Float level switch: controls the pump automatically – when the level in the day tank is low the pump tops it up, and when it is full the pump switches off.

Filter system: dual fuel filter (pre-filter and fine filter), often with a water separator. Critical for the service life of the generator engine – contaminated fuel is the most common cause of damage to backup generators.

Changeover valve: between the generator's own tank and the external tank, manual or automatic. Allows the generator to be disconnected from the external system for servicing.

Safety components: overfill protection, leak detection sensor (for double-walled tanks), safety valves and, where necessary, a CO sensor in the generator room.

Level indicator: visual or electronic, often with remote transmission to a control room or app.

Heating oil, diesel or HVO 100 – which fuel is right?

For stationary backup generators, you have three sensible fuel options:

Heating oil EL (extra light): chemically almost identical to diesel, but marked for tax purposes and dyed red. For stationary backup power systems that are not used on public roads, heating oil is permitted in Germany and is considerably cheaper than diesel from the filling station. Stable in storage for many years with a heating oil additive – the best solution for long-term backup power reserves.

Diesel (DIN EN 590): standard filling station diesel, with no tax restrictions, but more expensive than heating oil. If you run your generator regularly and refuel it often anyway, diesel is frequently the more practical choice.

HVO 100 (hydrotreated vegetable oil): paraffinic fuel from renewable sources, with CO₂ reductions of up to 90% compared with fossil diesel. Approved for most modern FME diesel inverter generators (check for your specific model). Same storage properties as diesel and fully compatible with standard tank systems.

Safety & regulations (AwSV, ADR, permit requirements)

In Germany, fuel tank systems are subject to various regulations that apply depending on capacity and location:

Up to 1,000 litres (above ground, inside a building): usually no permit required, but minimum distances, drip tray and ventilation requirements apply. Storage without notification in a boiler room or equivalent room is common.

Over 1,000 litres: notification required to the responsible local water authority (district office) under the AwSV. Double-walled construction or a permanently installed drip tray with 100% of the tank capacity is required.

Over 10,000 litres: a facility requiring a permit, with comprehensive documentation, regular TÜV inspections and acceptance by an approved expert.

Transport (ADR): when transporting fuel above certain thresholds, ADR regulations for dangerous goods apply. Standard jerry cans up to 60 litres are usually exempt from some of the requirements.

We advise you on the right sizing and supply all the documents required for notification to or approval by the authorities.

Fuel tank system brands and supplier partners

For fuel tank systems, we work with carefully selected specialist manufacturers:

Eltex: high-quality auxiliary tanks for inverter generators and smaller generators. UN-approved and robustly made.

Cemo: German manufacturer of high-quality steel and plastic tanks from 200 L to well over 10,000 L, including double-walled solutions and complete refuelling equipment.

Bauer / Schütz / others: IBC tanks, steel drums, accessories and pumps for medium-sized applications.

FME's own refuelling kits: pre-assembled complete solutions, matched to our diesel inverter generator range.

Every component is technically tested by us and approved for the European market. For complete bulk tank systems, we can also supply project-specific solutions on request, including planning and installation support.

FAQ – frequently asked questions about fuel tank systems and refuelling systems

Which auxiliary tank fits my inverter generator?

For most inverter generators from FME, KIPOR, Honda and comparable brands, the 11-litre Eltex auxiliary tank connects directly to the original tank via an adapter. The correct connection method is important – we always supply the matching hose set and connection parts. Just tell us your generator model and we will recommend the right version.

How long will my generator run on a 1,000-litre heating oil tank?

That depends on generator size and load. An FME 8000iD (8 kW) uses around 1.5–2 litres of heating oil per hour at half load. With a 1,000-litre reserve, you therefore get around 500–650 hours of backup power – that is 21 to 27 days of continuous operation. An FME 15000iD runs correspondingly shorter, around 250–350 hours on 1,000 litres.

Can I use heating oil in a standard diesel generator?

Yes, provided it is a stationary installation that is not used on public roads. Heating oil EL and diesel are chemically almost identical. In Germany, heating oil is taxed at a lower rate (permitted only for heating and for stationary backup generators) and is dyed red. For mobile generators used on public roads, you may only use regular diesel – using heating oil there is a criminal offence.

How long does heating oil keep if stored correctly?

With the right heating oil additive, heating oil remains stable in storage for 5–10 years or longer – the ideal basis for a long-term backup power reserve. Without an additive, heating oil starts to age after 1–2 years (water separation, bacterial growth in the tank). We generally recommend supplying a high-quality additive with every backup power reserve.

Do I need a drip tray under my tank?

Yes, for every single-walled heating oil tank: a drip tray holding 100% of the tank's volume is mandatory as soon as the installation requires notification (from 1,000 L). For smaller tanks it is still strongly recommended, if only for insurance and fire safety reasons. Double-walled tanks with a leak detection sensor do not need an additional drip tray – often the neater solution.

From what size do I need to notify the authorities about my tank or get a permit?

In Germany, the rough rule is: up to 1,000 litres, heating oil storage usually does not require notification (residential areas); over 1,000 litres, it must be notified to the local water authority under the AwSV. Over 10,000 litres, a comprehensive permit with acceptance by an approved expert is required. Important: the exact thresholds vary depending on the federal state and location (residential area, water protection zone, above ground/underground). We supply all documents for the relevant notification or permit.

How does the changeover valve between the generator tank and the external tank work?

The changeover valve is installed in the fuel line between the generator's own tank and the external tank. In position 1, fuel flows directly from the generator's own tank (normal operation with the original tank); in position 2, the generator is fed from the external tank (long-term operation). In many systems the valve switches automatically – the generator draws primarily from the external tank and automatically switches to its own tank when the external tank runs empty.

What pump capacity do I need for my tank system?

The pump capacity must match the generator's peak consumption. For an 8 kW diesel inverter using approx. 2 litres per hour, a small transfer pump with a flow rate of 20–30 litres/minute is sufficient. Larger standby power systems of 50+ kW with correspondingly high consumption need pumps with 60–100 litres/minute or more. The delivery head (vertical distance from tank to generator) must match the pump's performance curve.

Can I use HVO 100 in my existing tank system?

Yes, HVO 100 can be used in practically all standard diesel tank systems without modification. Its storage properties are similar to or even better than fossil diesel (less susceptible to bacteria, longer storage stability). The only important point is that your generator itself is approved for HVO 100 – this applies to most modern FME diesel generators, but must be checked for each model.

How much does it cost to maintain a bulk fuel tank system?

Running costs are manageable: filter sets once a year (€50–200), regular visual checks and an expert inspection every 5 years (mandatory for permitted installations over 10,000 L, typically costing €500–1,500). Changing the fuel or topping up additive adds small costs. Compared with the cost of a failed backup power system, maintenance costs are usually negligible.

What safety equipment should a tank system have?

The minimum for any serious tank system: overfill protection (limit value sensor), level indicator (analogue or electronic), leak detection sensor (for double-walled tanks), safety valve in the line and fire protection equipment appropriate to the location. Larger systems add a CO sensor in the generator room and remote monitoring via M-Bus/Modbus/GSM.

How is the tank system connected to the generator?

Via a pre-assembled hose set or permanently installed fuel lines – depending on the installation. Mobile applications use quick couplings, while stationary systems often use weld-free stainless steel press fittings or tested fuel hoses. What matters is leak-tightness, fuel resistance and – with automatic transfer – connecting the float level switches to the pump control.

Free advice – in person or online around the clock

Not sure which tank size suits your generator and your backup power scenario? Unsure about the building regulations (AwSV, notification requirements, drip trays)? Need a complete bulk fuel tank system with day tank and transfer pump? Our technical team offers free, brand-independent advice on +49 (0) 5423 477400.

Outside our business hours, our free online advice tool is available to you – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We deliver and advise across the EU, including planning support and documentation for notifications and permits.