Red Seal Oil Heat System Technician Practice Exam

What should be done if there is water in the oil tank?

1. The tank should be left as is to monitor the situation

2. The tank should be drained and cleaned

3. A chemical treatment should be added to the tank

4. Water should be manually removed with a siphon

The correct answer is: The tank should be drained and cleaned

When there is water in the oil tank, the best course of action is to drain and clean the tank. Water can promote the growth of microorganisms, leading to issues such as sludge formation, which can severely impact the performance and efficiency of the heating system. In addition, water can cause corrosion and damage to the tank and connected components. Draining the tank allows for the removal of the water, preventing potential sediment buildup and reducing the risk of water mixing with the fuel oil. Cleaning the tank ensures that any accumulated sludge, dirt, or bacteria are removed, maintaining the integrity of the heating system and ensuring that the fuel oil remains uncontaminated. This proactive maintenance step is crucial for ensuring the longevity and efficient operation of the oil heat system. Monitoring the situation without taking action can lead to further complications. Adding chemical treatments may have temporary effects but won't address the root problem of water accumulation. Manually siphoning water may not effectively remove all contaminants and can risk introducing additional debris into the system. Therefore, draining and cleaning the tank is the most comprehensive and effective solution in this scenario.