Andy Thanks very much for your response, it is very helpful. I hadn't actually considered a direct immersion heater but now that you mention it, it does make sense. I know that the immersion will take longer to heat the tank up but it's something I will consider now. We also have a wood/coal burning fireplace that will be replaced with a ...

Hello Sorry if this is thread is long dead but I have just picked up on this debate. Philos4424, I have a similar problem. I have a 1960 3 bedroom bungalow that is in need of renovation. I live in Jersey (Channel Islands) so a somewhat different climate to W. Scotland but like you I have no mains gas and no oil tank at present. I am going to ...