How to Clean a Fuel Storage Tank

Cleaning a fuel storage tank ensures safety and the tank's longevity

A fuel storage tank should be cleaned after long periods of use or before disposal. Fuel may settle in the tank overtime and become more difficult to clean out if left untreated. Improperly disposed fuel tanks may cause an environmental threat. Furthermore, tanks sitting with fuel residue in them may cause an explosion. A few simple steps will have the tank clean in no time and ready for storage.

Things You'll Need

• Rubber gloves
• Safety glasses
• Water hose
• Tri-sodium phosphate (TSP)
• Air compressor
• Air hose
• Denatured alcohol

Instructions

1. Unscrew any caps on the fuel tank. Empty the tank of all fluids by turning it upside down allowing liquids to run out of the drain. Make sure this is near a proper drainage area or a sewer. Never dispose of chemicals directly into the ground. This helps lessen the time it takes to clean the inside of the tank. Use water to clean out all dirt and solid material that may have built up. Place the caps over each drain.

2. Remove the cap from the main filler point. Put on rubber gloves and safety glasses. Fill the tank with a mixture of Tri Sodium Phosphate (TSP) and water. The ratio should read 1 cup of TSP power to 5 gallons of water. Fill the tank until it is completely full.

3. Stir the mixture inside the tank by using an air compressor and hose. Turn the compressor on and place the hose in the water until it reaches the bottom of the tank. The air should bubble up and mixing should take place. This process takes time and should be allowed to continue for 12 hours so the TSP covers the tank completely.

4. Remove the filler cap and drain the tank completely of the TSP/water mixture. Dry the tank out if you are going to use it again for fuel storage. Pour a gallon of alcohol through the main filler and move the tank around to distribute the alcohol throughout tank. When finished, drain the alcohol in a sewer or proper disposal area by turning the tank upside down again and leave the tank to air dry. The alcohol assists in drying the tank and absorbing any leftover water.

Tips & Warnings

• TSP powder is available at many home improvement stores or through paint suppliers

• Never smoke around a fuel tank. Any fire or sparks could cause an explosion.

• TSP is a dangerous compound that can cause skin or eye irritation. Always use the proper safety equipment when using this chemical.

References

• Clean Fuel Guys: Why it's important to keep fuel clean