Setting an alarm level for water in oil is very important for equipment reliability. Establishment of levels, combined with testing at proper intervals, will allow the end user to act quickly if a sudden increment of water is detected.

Best practice is to maintain water levels at or below half of the saturation level of the oil at its operating temperature. For example, if the saturation level is 1000 ppm at 50℃, the caution level should be set at 500 ppm, with the critical level at 1000 ppm.

Water in oil should be maintained at a level as low as possible, due to its destructive nature. Routine oil analysis should be performed, including water content testing to ensure acceptable levels are maintained. This also allows the user to perform necessary remedial action when appropriate.

Prevention, however, is even better than cure. Ensuring that water ingression is minimised offers greater oil lifespan, equipment reliability and productivity.