How to Properly Use Gas and Water Finding Paste for Fuel Tanks

When it comes to maintaining fuel quality and preventing costly damage to engines and equipment, early detection of contaminants is key. Whether you're managing a gas station, fueling farm equipment, or running a fleet of trucks, gas and water finding paste is a simple, effective tool that can help. In this article, we’ll walk you through the proper way to use these pastes to detect fuel and water levels in storage tanks.

What Is Gas and Water Finding Paste?Gas and water finding pastes are chemical compounds that change color when they come into contact with gasoline, diesel, ethanol, or water. They’re typically applied to a dipstick or gauging rod and lowered into a fuel tank. Depending on the type of paste used, the color change will indicate the presence of either fuel or water in a specific part of the tank.

• Gas Finding Paste detects the presence of fuel.
• Water Finding Paste identifies water accumulation, typically at the bottom of the tank.

Why Is This Important?
Water in a fuel tank can cause serious problems—from microbial growth and fuel degradation to equipment failure and engine damage. Fuel contamination also reduces the quality of service and increases operating costs. Regular checks with finding paste help you catch these issues before they turn into expensive repairs.

Step-by-Step: How to Use Finding Paste Correctly1. Gather Your ToolsYou’ll need:

• A clean, dry dipstick or gauging rod
• Water finding paste and/or gas finding paste
• Gloves and safety gear (recommended)

2. Apply the Paste

• For water finding paste, apply a thin, even strip to the bottom few inches of the stick. This is where water would typically settle in a tank.
• For gas finding paste, apply it where fuel is expected. In many cases, you can use both pastes on different sections of the same stick.

Tip: Don’t apply too much paste—a thin layer ensures quicker, more accurate readings.

3. Dip the Stick

• Slowly lower the stick into the tank until it reaches the bottom.
• Leave it submerged for at least 5–10 seconds to allow the paste to react.

4. Read the Results

• Remove the stick carefully and hold it horizontally to avoid smearing.
• Look for any color changes in the paste:
  • Water finding paste usually changes from green to red or yellow to purple, depending on the brand.
  • Gas finding paste may turn from white to pink or red when fuel is detected.

5. Take Action if Needed

• If water is detected, drain or pump it out of the tank before it causes damage.
• Use the results to help schedule regular maintenance or inspections.

Best Practices for Reliable Results

• Always use fresh paste—expired or dried-out paste may not respond accurately.
• Clean and dry your dipstick before every use.
• Record your findings to monitor tank conditions over time.
• Perform checks regularly, especially after heavy rain or fuel deliveries.

Using gas and water finding paste is a fast, low-cost method to ensure the integrity of your fuel storage system. With just a dip and a few seconds, you can detect potential issues and protect your fuel supply. Make it a part of your routine inspection, and you’ll save time, money, and headaches in the long run.