Maintaining accuracy at the fuel pump

According to a news report, random tests carried out recently by AA on more than 170 pumps across the country found 16% are dispensing inaccurate levels of fuel — one in six short-cutting their customers, while the remainder of error favoured the buyer.

Pumps in general, because of their heavy usage and varied handlers, should have their measuring facilities checked regularly. The large oil companies must also play a part.

The motorist is victimised enough through increasing fuel costs and Government taxes that he deserves his confidence at the pumps should not be shattered by anything other than foolproof readings.

Go into a food store and if unhappy about the weight of any product you can have it re-checked instantly on another scales. This is not the case with petrol; the customer is at the mercy of the digital screen on the dispenser pump.

To keep everybody happy I suggest: 1. All petrol retailers should, by law, have a signed and dated large framed certificate clearly displayed, to the effect every pump is checked and calibrated by a qualified service engineer once a year.

2. Any neglected or poorly maintained pumps should be condemned and replaced with new ones by the oil wholesaler.

3. If there is a system incorporating a visible measuring vessel in the dispenser screen, it should be used.

James Gleeson

Thurles

Co Tipperary