All Diesel in the UK must be manufactured to a British standard. Two different grades mean that red diesel can be used throughout the year. Summer diesel is certified for use during summer due to its limited resistance to cold weather and winter diesel for winter which is more resistant to the cold.
So, what’s the difference between the two? Summer grade fuel will start to crystallise at -1 degrees, whereas winter-grade doesn’t crystallise until -15.
WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU USE THE WRONG GRADE?
If summer grade gas oil is used during the winter or if some still remain in your tank, this can lead to problems starting the engine and equipment can fail. This can occur from wax crystals and condensation forming in the fuel which can then cause blocked fuel lines and filters.
Ensure that you have winter-grade fuel
Add an anti-wax additive to the remaining summer grade fuel. This can only be added while the fuel temperature is above 13 degrees. It will not work if the fuel is already crystallized.
Don’t mix winter and summer grade diesel as it will lower the temperature protection. By how much depends on the mix.
How To Prevent Issues
Regularly Check Your Tank- Carry out regular checks and take action if any dirt or mould is present.
Examine pipework, filters and seals- Check these regularly, to reduce the chances of blockage change filters between every 2-3 deliveries.
Keep Your Tank Topped Up - Having your tank kept full can reduce the amount of air in the tank which draws out moisture.
Limit Storage Time- The less time your fuel sits in the tank, the better as moisture can build up over time.
Use Specialist Fuel Additives - To aid our customers in the management of their fuel we offer specialist fuel additives that can dramatically counter the effects of increased FAME and prevent costly downtime for plant and machinery.
Gas Oil Supreme- This can be used to stop the negative effects of biofuel and should be used on fuel stored for less than 12 weeks.
Anti Bug Protect- The higher FAME Content can increase the chances of bugs in the tank. Anti bug protect can be used in preventing this from happening.
Anti Bug Kill - This is used to eliminate bugs once identified.
Diesel Supreme- Prevents the effects of higher FAME content in diesel.
Fuel Store Plus- Prevents negative FAME effects on fuel which is stored for longer periods of time
We automatically adjust the quality of gas oil at no extra cost ensuring we supply you with the correct fuel all year round. For more information or to order, please give our office a phone on 01360 660264 and someone will assist you.