Winter Fuel Preparations: How to Choose the Right Blend to Prevent Gelling at Low Temperatures

Winter temperatures bring a unique challenge for farmers and ranchers relying on diesel for heating, machinery, or trucking. When the temperatures drop, fuel can start to gel, causing blockages and equipment failures. Preparing your fuel blend properly is essential to keep your operation running smoothly throughout the cold months. This guide explains how to select the right winter fuel blend and avoid the costly problems caused by fuel gelling.

Winter Weather

Why Fuel Gelling Happens in Winter

Fuel gelling occurs when diesel or heating oil begins to solidify as temperatures fall. This happens because the paraffin wax in the fuel crystallizes and clumps together, thickening the fuel and eventually blocking fuel lines and filters. When fuel gels, engines and heating systems can stall or fail to start, leaving you without heat or power in freezing conditions.

The temperature at which fuel starts to gel depends on its composition. Standard diesel or heating oil without additives can gel at temperatures just below freezing. To prevent this, fuel suppliers offer winter blends with additives and different fuel grades designed to flow smoothly at lower temperatures.

Understanding Fuel Grades and Additives

Winter fuel blends typically combine two grades of fuel:

• X or D grade fuel: This is the base heating oil or diesel fuel (Ruby Fieldmaster [farm] or CF Roadmaster [highway]).

• #1 fuel: A lighter, more refined fuel that resists gelling better than X or D grade.

  
  

Cold flow additives are chemicals mixed into the fuel to lower the temperature at which wax crystals form, improving flow and preventing blockages.

By adjusting the ratio of X or D grade fuel to #1 fuel and adding cold flow additives, suppliers create blends that remain fluid at specific low temperatures.

Choosing the Right Blend for Your Climate

Selecting the correct winter fuel blend depends on the lowest temperatures you expect in your area. Below is a guide showing the different blends and the temperatures they start to 'gel up':

• 100% X or D grade with cold flow additive: flows down to ................. 0°F

• 90% X or D + 10% #1 with cold flow additive: flows down to ............. -3°F

• 80% X or D + 20% #1 with cold flow additive: flows down to ............. -6°F

• 70% X or D + 30% #1 with cold flow additive: flows down to ............. -9°F

• 60% X or D + 40% #1 with cold flow additive: flows down to ............. -12°F

• 50% X or D + 50% #1 with cold flow additive: flows down to ............. -15°F

• 40% X or D + 60% #1 with cold flow additive: flows down to ............. -18°F

• 30% X or D + 70% #1 with cold flow additive: flows down to ............. -21°F

• 20% X or D + 80% #1 with cold flow additive: flows down to ............. -24°F

  
  

For example, if your area regularly experiences temperatures around -10°F, a blend with 70% X or D grade and 30% #1 fuel with additives will keep your fuel flowing without gelling.

Practical Tips for Ordering and Using Winter Fuel

• Plan ahead: Order your winter blend before the coldest weather arrives. Fuel suppliers may have limited availability during peak demand.

• Know your local climate: Use historical temperature data to choose a blend that matches your coldest expected temperatures.

• Use cold flow additives: Even if you use a winter blend, additives provide extra protection against gelling.

• Store fuel properly: Keep fuel tanks full to reduce condensation and moisture, which can worsen gelling.

• Maintain equipment: Regularly check and replace fuel filters and keep fuel lines clean to prevent blockages.

  
  

Signs Your Fuel May Be Gelling

Watch for these symptoms that indicate fuel gelling:

• Engine sputtering or stalling during cold starts

• Reduced fuel flow or pressure

• Difficulty starting heating systems

• Fuel filters clogging more frequently

  
  

If you notice any of these signs, switch to a winter blend with a higher percentage of #1 fuel or add more cold flow additive.

Benefits of Using the Correct Winter Fuel Blend

Choosing the right winter fuel blend offers several advantages:

• Reliable equipment operation: Prevents downtime caused by fuel blockages.

• Improved fuel efficiency: Smooth fuel flow helps engines run better.

• Reduced maintenance costs: Less frequent filter changes and repairs.

• Peace of mind: Confidence that your heating or machinery will work in extreme cold.

  
  

Final Thoughts on Winter Fuel Preparation

Preparing for winter means more than just bundling up. Selecting the right fuel blend tailored to your local temperatures is critical to avoid fuel gelling and keep your systems running. Use the temperature guide to choose a blend with the right mix of X or D grade and #1 fuel plus cold flow additives. Order early at Schuyler COOP, store fuel properly, and maintain your equipment for the best results.

Schuyler COOP is always here to help with all your fuel needs. Call to schedule your delivery (402)352-2554.