Diesel-powered generators operate on diesel fuel and provide a reliable backup electricity supply during power outages. They can also provide sustained power in places without connection to a power grid. As diesel fuel has a limited shelf life and many factors can affect its lifespan, it’s important to store the fuel correctly. How long does diesel last in a generator? How can you prolong the lifespan of your fuel? Read on and you will find the answer.
According to research, diesel fuel can last for 6-12 months under ideal conditions. This is a rough estimate and some can be stored for longer under the best conditions. Per NFPA 110, the storage life of diesel is 1.5 to 2 years and it’s recommended that fuel tanks should be sized so that the fuel is consumed within the storage life, or provision should be made to replace stale fuel with fresh fuel.
Generally, factors such as temperature, humidity, and fuel quality can affect the lifespan of diesel fuel. To ensure optimal performance and longevity of your diesel, you should use high-quality fuel and store it in a cool and dry place. The storage temperature should not get above 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The fuel treated with biocides and/or stabilizers can be stored for a longer period.
Diesel fuel can degrade over time and lose its effectiveness, making it difficult to start your diesel engine and potentially causing damage to fuel system. Fuel contamination can also cause premature shutdown for standby engine generator sets. Several factors that affect diesel fuel longevity include:
Exposure to oxygen reduces the lifespan of diesel fuel because diesel can react with oxygen in the air and result in oxidation and the formation of harmful contaminants. Oxidation can corrode the tank and the unwanted gum, sludge, and sediment produced could clog filters. Fuel oxidation may be caused by poor storage conditions like extreme temperature fluctuations or direct sunlight exposure. Leakage in the tank also increases the chances of fuel oxidation. As soon as diesel fuel leaves the refinery, the oxidation process can occur if there is a small amount of air trapped inside.
Please note that the diesel should be stored in a dry and cool place. High temperatures can accelerate diesel fuel degradation, shortening the storage duration considerably. Low temperatures can cause the fuel to gel, which could also affect the performance of diesel generator. Therefore, it’s suggested that you store the diesel generator in well-ventilated, shaded areas to minimize exposure to environmental stressors.
Water contamination is also the main factor that affects the shelf life of diesel fuel. Diesel can be exposed to water due to condensation, leaks, or poor storage conditions. The presence of water in diesel fuel can break down the diesel and cause microbial growth and corrosion. Dirt, rust, and other particles can also contaminate the diesel fuel and lead to corrosion and damage to the fuel system components. Diesel fuel could become dark and stratified due to fuel contamination.
As mentioned above, water contamination contributes to the growth of microbes. Microbial growth can also occur in diesel fuel when it is stored for extended periods. These microorganisms can degrade the fuel quality, clog fuel filters, restrict the flow of fluid, corrode the tanks, and produce harmful byproducts that can damage the fuel system.
Additionally, factors such as fuel quality, air circulation, fuel stabilizers, generator usage, maintenance practices and diesel fuel monitoring and testing also influence diesel fuel longevity.
To prolong the lifespan of the diesel fuel, you can follow the tips below to maintain your generator’s diesel:
For any diesel engine to function properly for a long period of time, it needs to be well maintained and it must be supplied with clean, high quality fuel. High-quality fuel ensures efficient operation of your diesel generator, reduces maintenance costs, and extends the generator's lifespan. The contaminants that mingle with stored fuel degrade its performance and quality. Always purchase clean and high-quality diesel fuel from reputable suppliers for your diesel generator.
It is important to implement proper storage to maintain optimal fuel conditions. If possible, store the fuel in a dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. You can build some kind of canopy or enclosure around an above ground tank to reduce exposure to the sun as well as reduce exposure to water sources. It’s also a good idea to invest in an underground storage tank to let the fuel last longer.
If the fuel stored in the tank is more than 6 months old, you’d better drain and refuel your generator with fresh fuel. Before filling the fuel tank, you need to clean it thoroughly with a detergent solution or a cloth to remove all the debris, rust, and dust. Avoid cleaning the tank or containers with water or other substances. A clean tank free from contaminants will be benefit to longer storage of diesel fuel.
It’s important to monitor and check the fuel regularly for any signs of contamination or degradation. Keep an eye on your tank to avoid water or sediment buildup. Regular monitoring and testing of diesel fuel stored in generators helps preserve fuel quality and generator performance.
Using stabilizers, biocides, water controllers and other additives can help extend the shelf life of diesel fuel. Stabilizers and additives can prevent the formation of sludge and deposits. Biocides help prevent the growth of bacteria and fungus that can thrive in the water-diesel interface. Additives, like antioxidants, and fuel stability treatments maintain the quality of the diesel fuel. You can add them to the fuel to prolong the fuel’s shelf life.
Generally, the diesel fuel in a generator can last for 6 to 12 months if it is stored correctly. Factors such as oxidation, temperature, water contamination and microbial growth can affect the shelf life of diesel fuel. To prolong the lifespan of fuel, you should use clean and high-quality diesel and store it in a dry and cool place. Remember to clean the tank before refueling and regularly check the diesel fuel for any signs of contamination or degradation. Treat the fuel with biocides and stabilizers to to prolong the life of the stored fuel.
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