If you've invested in a new custom marine fuel tank for your boat, you want it to last for as long as possible. One way to do that is to provide it with the care it needs. Now that you have new fuel tanks, here are four tips to help extend their life and improve performance.

Know Your Tank Material

If you want to extend the life of your marine fuel tank, know the material. There are three basic types of material used for the manufacturing of marine fuel tanks. Those are aluminum, composite, and steel. Composite fuel tanks last longer. They also need less maintenance. Aluminum fuel tanks are lightweight. The lighter weight can increase fuel efficiency. Steel fuel tanks are durable, but they tend to weigh more than aluminum and composite tanks. Aluminum and steel tanks both need more maintenance to ensure long life. 

Limit the Biocides

If you plan to use biocides to reduce algae growth, adjust your plans. Biocides may kill the algae that grow inside your fuel tank. But, it doesn't remove the algae. Instead, it leaves the algae inside the tanks where it can clog up the fuel filters. The algae can also cause damage to your engine. Avoid the problem. Limit the use of biocides. When you do use them, watch engine performance. If your fuel system misfires, your filters may be contaminated with algae debris. 

Watch the Return Pressure

You want to make sure that algae and contaminants get flushed out of your fuel tanks. To do that,  increase the return pressure. Reduced return pressure prevents your fuel from flowing through the system. When that happens, sediment and contaminants settle at the bottom of the fuel tanks. That undermines fuel efficiency. It also increases the likelihood of engine problems. The best way to avoid that is to ensure the best return pressure on your fuel tanks. 

Keep Them Clean

If you're worried about the life expectancy for your new fuel tanks, keep them clean. The best way to keep your fuel tanks clean is to use a fuel additive. Fuel additives improve engine efficiency and fuel consumption. They also help keep your fuel tanks and engine clean. It's also important that you have your fuel tanks cleaned at least once a year. That way, you keep the sediment and contaminants out of your tanks. 

Don't take chances with your new marine fuel tanks. The information provided here will help you care for your fuel system.

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