Debunking Three Myths About UST Probe Replacement

Before you upgrade to a new ATG, it goes without saying that you want to make sure it’s compatible with your probes. However, at this stage of the conversation customers can be subjected to a fair amount of misleading information designed to keep them from exploring other options and more cost-effective alternatives.

To set the record straight, we’ll examine three of the most common myths that emerge when considering a UST upgrade.

Some well-known brand’s sales reps and their preferred equipment distributors will tell you that you can’t switch to another brand’s ATG console because it’s not compatible with your current UST probes. 

While it is true that you can’t mix and match ATG consoles and probes from different brands at a single site (ex: your tank gauge is from Brand A and your probes are from Brand B), that doesn’t mean you can’t switch to another brand’s gauges and probes (ex: your existing tank gauge and probes are from Brand A, but you replace the entire ATG system with an ATG console and probes from Brand B). 

In fact, it is strongly recommended that you replace your probes whenever you upgrade to a new console, regardless of the brand. 

When you upgrade your console and probes, it is critical to evaluate the equipment provider’s greater value in conjunction with your equipment purchases. Validate you’re choosing a manufacturer who:

• Provides reliable equipment at a competitive price (that’s table stakes)
• Develops future proof solutions that support lower cost of ownership and cross-brand compatibility, whenever possible (to give yourself the upper hand) 

What's more, if you have multiple fuel sites, you have options.

If you are planning any kind of site upgrade involving a new tank gauge it is highly likely you will have to replace your UST probes as well. Not doing so would be analogous to upgrading to a brand new car and driving it away with your old car’s tires. 

But the idea that you have to upgrade the tank gauge, probes and wiring at each and every one of your sites simultaneously is not true. In reality, there are more flexible options you can pursue to make ATG upgrades that better meet your timeline and budget, all without having to take your fuel site offline for construction.

This is where ClearView™ or DX Wetstock® can give you an advantage. 

With the capability to combine, view and monitor multiple ATG brands across all of your sites, you can upgrade ATG systems across your network of fuel sites one by one – not all at the same time. You will also get access to precise, real-time fuel inventory data and notifications, irrespective of the ATG brand you use.

Unless you want to rip out and replace several hundred feet of usable wire and conduit – there is no reason to dig up your forecourt! You can reuse existing wiring to tie in your new tank gauge and probes and avoid the high cost of breaking concrete. 

In certain situations, Dover Fueling Solutions’ patented multi-drop technology can yield additional cost-savings. Read our blog “3 Ways to Avoid the High Cost of Wiring from the Tank Gauge to the UST” to learn more about the technology and how it reduces installation costs.   

With today’s advances in fuel site monitoring equipment, retailers have access to more data than ever to help drive their decision-making. But there is nonetheless an important philosophical distinction that is emerging among fueling system equipment manufacturers. 

While some are pushing the narrative that you need to upgrade to their equipment, Dover Fueling Solutions (DFS) is giving you options. Whether you desire the flexibility to help grow your retail fueling operations or simply need to manage costs, UST equipment from DFS gives you choices – not dead ends.  

Learn More About Tank Gauge Upgrading

3 Ways to Avoid the High Cost of Wiring from the Tank Gauge to the UST
Can I Use Discontinued or Used Parts to Extend the Service Life of My Tank Gauge?