Diesel is one of the most widely used fuels in the world. It is essential for powering everything from vehicles to generators. But when it comes to preserving diesel fuel for long-term storage, there are some do’s and don’ts that you should be aware of.… Read More »The Do’s and Don’ts of Long-Term Diesel Storage
Diesel Fuel Quality Fuel quality is something that has to be taken seriously. It has been estimated that around 70% of diesel engine failures are due to poor fuel quality. Over the last five posts, we have discussed how different fuel additive components can essentially… Read More »Diesel Fuel 101, Part 6
Winterizing Diesel fuel is impacted by seasonal temperature changes. Conventional summer diesel fuel can begin to gel around 32°F. If blended with biodiesel, it will begin to gel at higher temperatures. Some biodiesels begin gelling in the upper 40s to low 50s. So preparing your… Read More »Diesel Fuel 101, Part 5
Lubricity Lubricity additives are used in diesel fuel to help reduce engine component wear and prevent unnecessary damage due to poor lubrication. Today’s diesel fuels are dryer and contain less friction reducing lubricant than fuels pre-2006 when the low sulfur mandates came into effect. The… Read More »Diesel Fuel 101, Part 4
Detergents The heart of every diesel powered engine is the fuel injection system. The importance of keeping this system clean and operating efficiently cannot be understated. This is especially true with emergency power systems or any system that depends on diesel fuel being stored for… Read More »Diesel Fuel 101, Part 3
Combustibility Hard starting engines, white smoking and rough idling when cold are all indications there is a combustion problem. These can indicate an engine problem or may point to a fuel issue. Fuel stored for long periods of time will degrade, affecting combustion. Cetane decreases… Read More »Diesel Fuel 101, Part 2
Stability Diesel fuel degrades easier and faster today. Stability, a fuel’s resistance to degradation, is key to storing fuels. Due to today’s distillation process, diesel fuel does not have the stability it used to. The high pressures and high temperatures used in the refining process… Read More »Diesel Fuel 101, Part 1
The Challenge of Long-Term Storage Diesel fuel has an average shelf-life of about six months. This poses a problem for anyone trying to store it any longer. Studies over the last decade show it is more likely to be delivered in a contaminated, already degrading… Read More »How to Extend the Shelf-Life of Diesel Fuel
It’s August and the average US temperature is well above freezing. In fact it’s downright hot in most of the country. So why am I writing about heating your house. Answer, now is the time when home heating systems need to be serviced….. prior to… Read More »Factors to Consider When Using Biodiesel to Heat Your House
The 2022 hurricane season outlook is once again expected to be above average. Nineteen named storms are projected this year, according to the National Hurricane Center. If it’s anything like the last ten years, eight or them saw Atlantic storms starting before June 1st. If… Read More »Is Your Generator Fuel Ready for Hurricane Season?