Fuel plays a crucial role in running industries and various types of machinery. Among the different fuel options available, red diesel is widely used for non-road applications due to its cost-effectiveness and lower tax rates. This fuel is commonly used in agricultural vehicles, construction machinery and heating systems.
However, buying and using low-grade red diesel can lead to compliance issues, particularly in areas like Bradford, where regulations are very strict. Therefore, you should always partner with reliable red diesel suppliers in Bradford who deliver high-quality and legally compliant fuel.
Many users make some mistakes when handling, storing, or using red diesel. These mistakes not only lead to unnecessary expenses but also cause severe damage to equipment. In this post, we will explore these mistakes and tell you how to avoid them.
7 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Red Diesel
1. Using Red Diesel for Unauthorised Purposes
One of the biggest mistakes you can make is using red diesel for applications where it is not legally permitted. It is strictly made for off-road use, such as in agricultural machinery, construction equipment, and backup generators. Using it in regular vehicles is illegal and can result in hefty fines and legal action.
You should always ensure that red diesel is used only for its intended purposes. If you’re unsure whether your equipment qualifies for its usage, check with local regulations or consult with your fuel supplier. You must also keep purchase records and receipts to prove that you are using it legally.
2. Poor Fuel Storage Practices
Many users do not store red diesel properly. It can lead to fuel degradation, contamination, and even safety hazards. Exposure to moisture, dirt, and changing temperatures can cause the fuel to break down. It makes the diesel less efficient and potentially harmful to machinery.
You can avoid these risks by storing red diesel in clean, sealed tanks made from high-quality materials that prevent contamination. Try to keep the storage area dry and away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Apart from that, you should regularly inspect fuel tanks for leaks or water accumulation.
3. Ignoring Contamination Risks
Contaminated fuel can damage engines and reduce performance. Red diesel can get contaminated with water, dirt, and microbial growth. If left unnoticed, this can lead to filter blockages and engine failures. Water contamination is particularly dangerous as it promotes bacterial growth, which can clog fuel lines and damage the system.
To avoid this mistake, you should regularly check fuel for signs of contamination. Change in color, foul smell, or visible particles are some common symptoms. If contamination is detected, you should immediately contact professionals for fuel testing and treatment instead of using the fuel.
4. Using Low-Quality Diesel
Sometimes, you may opt for affordable but low-quality red diesel without realising its negative effects. Poor-quality fuel often contains excessive impurities that can damage engines, reduce efficiency, and increase maintenance costs over time.
You should purchase red diesel from reputable suppliers who provide clean and high-quality fuel. Checking for proper certifications and ensuring that the supplier follows industry standards can also help regarding this. Reliable suppliers conduct regular fuel testing to maintain quality.
5. Not Maintaining Fuel Equipment Properly
Even if you use high-quality red diesel, failing to maintain the fuel system can cause serious problems. Dirty filters, clogged injectors, and poorly maintained fuel tanks can reduce performance and increase repair costs.
You can schedule regular maintenance checks for all fuel-related equipment to avoid this mistake. Try to replace fuel filters and clean fuel lines after regular intervals. You should also conduct routine inspections to identify leaks or blockages before they lead to major breakdowns.
6. Not Choosing a Reliable Supplier
It’s one of the most common mistakes. You often make it just because you don’t consider the importance of selecting a trustworthy red diesel supplier. Unreliable suppliers may provide substandard fuel, which leads to engine issues and financial loss.
You should always look for suppliers with a good reputation, positive customer reviews, and proper certifications. This is particularly important in areas like London, where counterfeit products are common. Choosing trusted red diesel suppliers in London ensures high-quality fuel and reliable service.
7. Overlooking Seasonal Adjustments
You may not realise that red diesel behaves differently in cold and warm temperatures. In winter, it can become thicker and lead to poor engine performance. Meanwhile, in the summer, excessive heat can increase the risk of contamination. Overlooking seasonal adjustments can result in serious issues and operational inefficiencies.
The best way to avoid this mistake is to use winter-grade red diesel in colder months to prevent thickening and filter clogging. Meanwhile, storing fuel in a cool area and using additives to minimise the risk of contamination are effective approaches to keep diesel safe in the summer.
Using red diesel efficiently and legally requires proper knowledge and precautions. By avoiding the aforementioned mistakes, you can save money, improve equipment performance, and stay compliant with regulations.
Leave a Reply