How to Inspect an Oil Tank Gauge

  • 0.5-1
  • Beginner
  • 25-75
What You'll Need
Oil tank gauge
What You'll Need
Oil tank gauge

An oil tank gauge is fairly simple to inspect. The gauge is a measuring device and should be located on top of the heating oil tank. Here are the steps in ensuring your oil tank gauge is in good working order.

Step 1 – Reading the Oil Tank Gauge

The heating oil tank is filled with oil that is used to heat the air and water in a home. The tank gauge is a device that indicates how much oil is in the tank. The tank contains a float assembly that moves the indicator rod in the gauge. The rod sits at the top of the gauge when the tank is full. The float will then move in a downward direction as the tank is emptied of its oil while producing heat in the home. The gauge has indication levels showing the fraction amount of fullness of the oil tank. These levels usually include three quarters, one half, and one quarter.

Step 2 – Removing the Oil Tank Gauge Cover

The plastic tube covering the parts of the gauge is secured to the iron gauge base. Manually unscrew the plastic cover in a counterclockwise direction. Using a tool or too much force could potentially damage the plastic.

Step 3 – Inspecting the Oil Tank Gauge Cover

Once the cover has been removed, inspect it for any damage. If it is damaged, have it replaced. If it is not damaged, set it in a safe place.

Step 4 – Testing the Oil Tank Gauge

Slowly and gently press down on the gauge rod. You should feel a small amount of resistance. Once you have pushed the rod most of the way down, release it. The rod should rise back up. If the rod does not rise up, it should be replaced. Contact a technician concerning replacing the parts.