Why Do I Need a Diesel Fuel Stabilizer for Bulk Tanks?

Diesel fuel in bulk tanks can sit for weeks, months, or longer before it is used. During that time, fuel can be affected by oxidation, water contamination, heat, microbes, and sediment formation.

Why Stored Fuel Changes

Fuel storage problems are often caused by a combination of time, oxygen exposure, temperature swings, water, and contamination. As fuel ages, it may darken, form gums or sediment, plug filters, and perform poorly.

Best Practices for Bulk Tanks

• Keep tanks as clean and dry as possible.
• Reduce water entry from condensation, leaks, or poor caps and vents.
• Inspect and drain water separators when needed.
• Use a fuel stabilizer before long-term storage problems develop.
• Rotate fuel when possible instead of letting it sit indefinitely.

Where Preserve Fits

Opti-Lube Preserve is designed for customers who need fuel stability for stored diesel. It is a good choice for bulk tanks, standby equipment, seasonal equipment, and fuel that may not be used quickly.

Need help choosing? Start with Opti-Lube diesel fuel additives or review our FAQ for dosing, storage, and compatibility questions.

Fungicides and Biocides in Diesel Fuel

Microbial growth in diesel fuel is often called diesel bug. It is commonly described as algae, but the problem usually involves bacteria, fungi, or other microbes that grow where water and fuel meet.

Why Water Matters

Microbes need water to grow. If a tank has water at the bottom, the fuel/water interface can become a place for microbial growth. This can lead to slime, sediment, plugged filters, corrosion, and fuel quality problems.

What a Biocide Does

A diesel biocide is designed to kill microbial contamination. It can be useful when contamination is present, but it is not a substitute for good tank maintenance. Dead microbes and debris may still need to be filtered or removed.

Prevention

• Keep fuel tanks clean and dry.
• Drain water when needed.
• Use proper filtration.
• Inspect stored fuel regularly.
• Use stabilizer and treatment products appropriate for the storage situation.

Need help choosing? Start with Opti-Lube diesel fuel additives or review our FAQ for dosing, storage, and compatibility questions.