Presented with insight from Rochester Sensors Europe Limited
Smart Tank monitoring plays a critical role across industries—from fuel resellers optimizing delivery schedules, to water treatment facilities ensuring safe and continuous chemical levels, to organizations maintaining diesel generator fuel supplies to prevent power interruptions and many more.
With such varied applications, selecting the right tank monitor is essential.
The technology can seem complex, and the options overwhelming, but asking the right questions makes the process straightforward and ensures you invest wisely.
Modern tank monitors now offer a wide range of capabilities: diverse communication technologies, power sources, analytics, integrations, and more. Without a thoughtful evaluation, you risk choosing a level measurement sensor solution that does not meet your needs.
Below are the key questions every buyer should consider
- What Are Your Key Tank Monitoring Requirements?
Start by reviewing your current operations and defining where you hope to scale. Gather essential information such as:
- Number and types of tanks
- Substance stored (Fuel Oil, Kerosene, Chemicals, Water, Waste etc)
- Primary purpose of monitoring (inventory management, shortage prevention, etc.)
- Tank location and environmental conditions
- Required reading frequency
This baseline data will immediately narrow your critical sensor measurement type to meet your needs whether that is Radar, Ultrasonic, Pressure, LPG/Propane (via dial gauge linked to float) and guide the rest of the selection process.
- What Type of Communication Technology Is Best?
Remote monitoring depends on reliable data transmission—yet not all communication technologies suit every environment.
- Cellular: Reliable, remote level monitoring with battery-powered radar, ultrasonic, pressure and other sensors with cellular connectivity. A versatile option- especially dual-sim configurations.
- LoRaWAN: Ultra-low-power solution for long-range, large-scale deployments. Requires access to a LoRaWAN network and offers flexible reporting schedules with extended battery life.
- Wi-Fi: Primarily used in low-impact domestic applications;
- RF: Short-range, low-power communication that transmits tank level data to a paired receiver or modem for local display or onward server reporting
Rochester Sensors Europe supports a wide variety of communications protocols — LTE Cat M-1, NB‑IoT, 2G/3G GSM, LoRaWAN, Wi-Fi, and local radio — giving flexibility to match the solution to your location and operational demands.
- What Is the Total Cost Structure?
Tank monitors are simple to install and maintain, but costs can vary depending on your setup. Consider:
- Device cost (influenced by technology and application)
- Required accessories or installation hardware
- Data transmission fees
Understanding the full cost picture helps prevent surprises later.
- Is the Device Intrinsically Safe?
Because tank monitors are often used on fuel or hazardous materials, intrinsic safety certification is a critical factor to consider. Ask:
- Has a certified third party tested and approved the device?
- Are ATEX / C1D1Z0 certification markings and file numbers clearly visible on the device/packaging?
- Has it passed national regulatory testing (FCC, local networks, etc.)?
Your monitoring partner should provide clear, verifiable answers to all these questions.
- What Support and Service Are Available?
Even reliable hardware occasionally requires assistance. Clarify:
- What training resources are included?
- Will you have direct access to an account manager?
- What maintenance is required, and what does it cost?
- What warranty coverage is provided?
When selecting a tank monitoring solution, high-quality customer support is as important as the technology itself.
A Tank Monitor for Every Situation
Choosing a tank monitor is a significant decision with real operational impact. By asking the right questions, you’ll ensure the solution you select aligns with your current and future needs.
For expert guidance and reliable monitoring solutions, Rochester Sensors Europe stands ready to support your evaluation and help you make a confident, informed decision. Rochester Sensors places strong emphasis on both technology and service, ensuring that clients have access to guidance, troubleshooting, and expert advice throughout the lifecycle of their monitoring system
Our team are happy to help with any enquiries relating to our products or what we do. Contact us today. Email [email protected]
