A fuel tank holds fuel. Easy enough. And just like any container that is in constant use, eventually it can collect all kinds of debris that contaminates the fuel and decreases the efficiency of your engine as well as reduces the effectiveness of the tank itself. Eventually you’re going to need professional fuel tank cleaning, and here’s why.
Clean fuel is fuel that is free of water and contaminants. It burns efficiently, and that keeps your motors and engines running smoothly. Over time, the inside of the fuel tank begins to degrade, and any water or contaminants that come in with the fuel mix in with rust, creating a sludge that sits menacingly at the bottom of the tank. If the sludge is disturbed, it mixes in with the fuel as the fuel is pumped out to run through the motor. Sludge and motors don’t mix well.
You can try fuel cleaners, and some of them do a very good job. With fuel cleaners, you generally get what you pay for, so spend some money on a tried-and-true brand rather than wasting it on cheap and useless stuff. The cleaners themselves burn hot, searing away residue. Put the cleaner in when your tank is empty and then fill the tank with gas to avoid burning out your catalytic converter.
But even regular fuel cleaners won’t stop the fuel tank from collecting sludge eventually, and when you find your engine working less than efficiently, it’s time to get the tank cleaned. During the cleaning, fuel will be removed and various cleansers can be used to wash out rust and contaminants. A thorough drying will evaporate any remaining water.
For facilities that need to maintain compliance with state and federal regulations, hiring a reputable fuel tank cleaning company to oversee regular cleanings is the best way to stay up to date and compliant. Such companies are also important in keeping vehicle fleets in top working condition. Dirty fuel tanks mean stalling or dead engines. Vehicles that sit for long periods of time with tanks only partially full may experience condensation. Water in your fuel not only causes rust in the tank, it causes running problems.
A professional mechanic or fuel tank cleaning company can give you excellent advice and experienced diagnoses for your particular situation. Check around to get others’ recommendations and referrals so that you can be more certain that your money is well spent.