Things You'll Need
Water-finding paste
Water-removal alcohol product (available at HVAC suppliers or from oil provider)
-Or-
Water absorption product
Checking your oil tank for water buildup is an essential step in ensuring you get the most out of your heating oil. Condensation in an oil tank will result in internal corrosion and a reduction in heating efficiency. If an underground tank is taking on water, it may be the result of a leak and will require professional assistance to fix. You can remove small amounts of water on your own, with the help of special products, but a lot of water in a tank will require professional help.
Remove Water From Your Oil Tank
Step 1
Determine how much water is in your tank. Your oil provider can provide you with a water-finding or water-indicating paste. Attach the paste to the end of a flexible material that you can lower into the tank. The paste will change color to indicate the amount of water present in the tank.
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Step 2
For a basic tank system, simply opening the drain valve at the bottom of the tank and collecting the water may be enough to solve your problem.
Step 3
Purchase an alcohol-based, water-removal product. This product is added to the tank to absorb any water.
Step 4
Purchase a water-absorption product, like the H¬2O Water Worm, that contains a water-absorbing desiccant. Insert the absorbent material into the tank, and leave the extraction string on the outside. The Water Worm can absorb up to 2 cups of water. When you remove the Water Worm, check to see that it is firm and has absorbed all the water it can. If it is still soft, reinsert it to soak up the rest of the water. You may require multiple Water Worms if you have more than 2 cups of water in your tank.
Step 5
Call your oil provider if you have a lot of water in your tank, and they will pump it out.
Tip
Shelter above-ground oil drums and tanks from the elements.
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