How to prevent water contamination in the fuel

Contamination by water in the fuel is one of the most common problems that affect the engine, causing premature wear on components, corrosion, loss of power when operating, reduction of an equipment lifetime, etc. Especially in machinery that runs on diesel.

Diesel, like other fuels, contains particles of water in suspension, however, unlike gasoline, its amount of water is much higher due to the nature of its refining processes. Therefore, there will be a tendency for this liquid to accumulate both in internal and external tanks.

To avoid this, we list a series of recommendations to prevent damage caused by water accumulation, and they will be the following:

-Don’t store diesel for long periods. During extended storage, water usually condenses on exposed internal container surfaces.

-If you carry out fuel storage, fill the containers, so the probability of water condensation on the internal walls of the container is minimized.

-Read the guidelines outlined in the manual, most of the machinery manufacturers recommend draining the water separator daily or after use if the equipment has been inactive for long periods.

-Regularly check the dashboard on your equipment. If “water in fuel” is on, it will be required to drain the fuel water separator filter.

-Change the fuel filters as required by the equipment or according to the periods indicated in the manual, remember to use only those suggested by the manufacturer, since generic brands tend to have shorter useful life or lower efficiency, although not this is always applicable.

-Use fuel conditioners recommended by the machine manufacturer.

-Take fuel samples directly from the equipment tank for subsequent analysis and include your external tanks, so you will be able to know the source of the excess water.

-Perform periodic draining and cleaning services of the fuel tank in your machinery. Remember to follow the recommendations in the manual because incorrect and inefficient maintenance can lead to water accumulation.

-Some manufacturers recommend the replacement of filters for every change of oil in the engine.