How do you check for water or other contaminants in the fuel?

To ensure the safety and proper functioning of the aircraft, it is crucial to check for water or other contaminants in the fuel. Sampling each tank and the strainer with a tester is the proper method as it involves physically removing fuel from these key locations. This allows for a clear and direct examination of the fuel for any signs of contamination, such as water or debris, which can settle at the bottom of the tanks.

Fuel testers typically feature a clear container that permits visual inspection of the sampled fuel. Any contamination that separates from the fuel can easily be identified, ensuring that only clean fuel is used in the helicopter’s systems. This proactive approach is essential in preventing engine failure due to fuel quality issues, which can have severe consequences during flight.

While inspecting the fuel gauge may provide some information about the fuel level, it does not indicate the quality of the fuel. Letting the fuel sit for 24 hours may reveal some separation, but this method is not as reliable or immediate for ensuring fuel quality compared to direct sampling. Using a magnet to detect contaminants is also not a practical or effective method for assessing fuel quality since most contaminants in fuel are not magnetic and cannot be effectively identified this way. This thorough approach to fuel quality checks is a vital part of