Diesel fuel is critical to the operation of backup power systems, machinery, and transportation fleets. Over time, however, fuel stored in tanks can become contaminated with dirt, water, microbes, and other impurities that can cause engine failure and other costly problems at mission-critical facilities like data centers, hospitals, and military bases.
Diesel fuel polishing is a process that removes these contaminants to ensure your fuel remains in optimal condition.
But how do you know when it’s time to polish your diesel fuel? Here are 5 warning signs that indicate your diesel fuel needs polishing and routine maintenance.
1. Generator or Engine Stalling or Misfiring
What’s Happening:
If you notice that your diesel-powered generators or equipment are stalling, misfiring, or experiencing erratic operation, this is a clear sign that your fuel may be contaminated. Contaminants like water, sludge, and particulates can clog fuel injectors, fuel lines, and filters, which disrupt fuel flow and cause engine misfires or complete failure.
Why It’s a Problem:
These issues can be caused by water contamination or microbial growth in the fuel. Microbial growth (bacteria, fungi, and algae) thrives in the water-fuel interface and creates sludge that clogs injectors and filters. Water also leads to poor combustion, further impacting performance.
Solution:
Fuel polishing will remove water, sludge, and contaminants from the fuel, restoring its quality and improving engine performance.
2. Cloudy or Discolored Fuel
What’s Happening:
If your diesel fuel appears cloudy, discolored, or has a visible layer of water or sludge at the bottom of the tank, it’s a clear indicator that your fuel is contaminated. Cloudiness is often caused by water droplets or microbial growth suspending in the fuel, which affects the fuel’s quality and performance.
Why It’s a Problem:
Cloudy fuel typically indicates a significant level of contamination that can damage engine components and reduce fuel efficiency. The presence of water can also cause corrosion in the fuel system, leading to long-term damage.
Solution:
Fuel polishing will help remove water, particulates, and microbial sludge, restoring the fuel’s clarity and ensuring it meets the specifications required for optimal engine performance.
3. Unusual Odor from Fuel Tank
What’s Happening:
A strong, sour, or musty smell coming from your diesel fuel storage tank is often a sign of microbial contamination. Microbial growth, which thrives in the water-fuel interface, produces sulfur compounds and organic byproducts that cause a foul odor.
Why It’s a Problem:
Not only does microbial contamination affect the fuel’s performance, but it also leads to the formation of fuel sludge, which can clog filters, damage injectors, and result in engine failure.
Solution:
Fuel polishing will eliminate microbial growth and remove the contaminants causing the odor. Regular polishing can prevent the build-up of sludge and restore fuel quality.
4. Fuel Filter Blockages
What’s Happening:
If your fuel filters are clogging more frequently than usual or you’re experiencing poor fuel flow, it’s a warning sign that your fuel has accumulated particulate contamination such as dirt, dust, and rust. Clogged filters reduce engine performance and can even cause complete shutdowns if not addressed.
Why It’s a Problem:
Over time, particulate matter in diesel fuel builds up and clogs filters, causing increased strain on the fuel system and engine. If left untreated, these contaminants can damage critical components like injectors and fuel pumps, leading to costly repairs.
Solution:
Polishing your diesel fuel will effectively remove particulate contamination, reduce filter blockages, and protect your engine from further damage.
Fuel Polishing Made Easy
PFP offers professional fuel polishing and tank cleaning services to help remove water, sludge, particulates, and microbial contamination from your diesel fuel. Our expert technicians will visit your facility and perform routine diesel fuel polishing services using state-of-the-art equipment to ensure your fuel is ready for optimal performance when you need it most.
Don’t wait for a fuel failure—contact PFP today to schedule a fuel inspection and polishing service that will keep your engines and systems running smoothly.
Fuel needs polishing? We'll come to you.
Our mobile fuel polishing services are designed to keep your emergency power systems compliant, reliable, and ready—right where you are.
