Which of the following is a sign that a fuel oil heater may be leaking?

Which of the following is a sign that a fuel oil heater may be leaking?

• A. High temperatures on the heater surface
• B. Wet spots or rust on the tank
• C. Unusual noises from the heater
• D. Frequent cycling of the heating system

Answer: (B)

The presence of wet spots or rust on the oil tank is a clear indicator that there may be a leak in the fuel oil heater. When a fuel oil tank starts to leak, the oil can escape and accumulate around the base of the tank or on the surfaces beneath it, leading to visible wet patches. Additionally, the presence of moisture can cause rust to form on the metal surfaces of the tank. This rust indicates a prolonged exposure to moisture, which can also be tied to leaks in the system. Monitoring for such signs is critical, as a leak can lead to more severe environmental issues and operational problems within the heating system. While high temperatures on the heater surface, unusual noises, and frequent cycling of the heating system could suggest other issues related to the heating system's operation or efficiency, they do not specifically indicate a leak in the fuel oil heater. Wet spots or rust are much more definitive indicators of leakage, making them vital for preventative maintenance and safety in operations.

The presence of wet spots or rust on the oil tank is a clear indicator that there may be a leak in the fuel oil heater. When a fuel oil tank starts to leak, the oil can escape and accumulate around the base of the tank or on the surfaces beneath it, leading to visible wet patches. Additionally, the presence of moisture can cause rust to form on the metal surfaces of the tank. This rust indicates a prolonged exposure to moisture, which can also be tied to leaks in the system. Monitoring for such signs is critical, as a leak can lead to more severe environmental issues and operational problems within the heating system.

While high temperatures on the heater surface, unusual noises, and frequent cycling of the heating system could suggest other issues related to the heating system's operation or efficiency, they do not specifically indicate a leak in the fuel oil heater. Wet spots or rust are much more definitive indicators of leakage, making them vital for preventative maintenance and safety in operations.