2 Essential Considerations for Storing Fuel This Winter

When the weather gets cold, many people think about how they will keep their homes warm during the winter. If your household needs to store fuel, you must understand how to preserve it so it does not freeze or spoil. Consider these two factors before storing fuel oil for this coming winter.

1. Container and Tank Preparation

Your first consideration will be the kind of tank or container you need over the winter. If this is your first time storing oil, you will have two options: metal and plastic. Metal containers are generally more durable. They can withstand higher temperatures than plastic containers. Metal is also less likely to warp or deform over time, making it a better choice for long-term storage.

However, metal containers are usually more expensive than plastic. They can conduct heat, making them unsafe to handle without proper insulation. Metal containers can also rust or corrode when exposed to untreated fuel. Plastic containers are lighter and typically cheaper than metal containers. But they are not as durable and can degrade over time if exposed to sunlight or high temperatures.

Before you store any fuel, you should prepare your tanks for the new fuel you bring. The first step is to clean the containers and tanks. Any dirt, debris, or water can cause problems when the fuel freezes.

Next, fill the containers and tanks as much as possible. A full tank or container will minimize the amount of air inside. Too much air can cause condensation, leading to water in the fuel. If possible, store the containers and tanks in a warm area. Warmer temperatures will keep the fuel from freezing. If you do not have any warm sections in your home, insulate the tank or container as much as possible to help minimize heat loss.

2. Fuel Additives

Depending on the fuel you use, you should consider which additives will help you preserve its quality over the winter season. Diesel fuel is less volatile than gasoline, meaning it is less prone to evaporation. It will not evaporate as quickly and will provide a more consistent fuel flow to your generator.

Also, diesel is less likely to condense on cold surfaces. However, both fuels will need some additives like fuel stabilizers, anti-gel, and anti-freeze. Gasoline will need more additives than diesel.

One of the challenges of storing gasoline in the winter is fuel freezing. When fuel freezes, it expands and can damage the fuel tank or clog fuel lines. Another challenge of storing fuel in the winter is expiration. Fuel can expire due to temperature, humidity, and light exposure changes. Expired fuel can cause generator problems or damage the fuel system.

A fuel stabilizer prevents the fuel from breaking down and becoming unusable. Fuel breaks down can form gums and sediments that clog generators and fuel lines. Fuel stabilizer prevents fuel from breaking down by inhibiting the growth of bacteria and fungi. It also helps to dissolve any gums or sediments that may have already formed.

Anti-gel keeps fuel from gelling in cold weather. Fuel gelling is the process by which fuel becomes thick and gel-like. Fuel gelling can cause problems because the gelled fuel will not flow properly through the generator. Thus, anti-gel maintains the fuel flow in cold temperatures. It prevents potential damage from frozen fuel.

Anti-freeze prevents ice from forming in the fuel tank. Moisture can condense and freeze inside a metallic tank. Anti-freeze additives ensure that the moisture does not affect the fuel quality.

Ensure you follow these tips to preserve your fuel for longer in the winter season. Contact Paul Murray Oil for emergency reserves if you need to stock up on fuel.