When the temperatures drop, fuel systems often feel the impact first. Whether you're running diesel-powered machinery, generators, delivery trucks, or agricultural equipment, cold weather can slow you down if you're not prepared. 

Understanding how cold affects fuel performance is the first step toward protecting your operations through the winter months.

What Happens to Fuel in Cold Temperatures?

In freezing conditions, diesel fuel can begin to gel, thickening into a waxy substance that doesn’t flow easily through filters or lines. This can clog your fuel system, prevent starts, and bring work to a halt. 

Gasoline engines can also suffer in the cold due to condensation in the tank, which can lead to poor combustion or even frozen fuel lines.

Low temperatures also reduce battery performance, which puts even more pressure on your fuel system to deliver clean, efficient power on the first try.

Steps You Can Take to Protect Fuel Performance

The good news? There are simple, proactive steps you can take to keep your equipment running strong in the cold.

• Use cold-weather diesel additives that prevent gelling and improve flow during winter. At Otte Oil, we supply winterized fuels and can advise you on the right blend for your needs.
  
  
• Keep tanks full to reduce condensation and avoid water buildup, which can lead to ice or microbial growth.
  
  
• Store fuel properly in temperature-controlled environments when possible, especially for generators or backup systems.
  
  
• Schedule preventative maintenance before winter to ensure filters, lines, and storage tanks are in top shape.
  
  

At Otte Oil, we work with farms, commercial fleets, and job sites across the region to ensure winter doesn't disrupt their supply chain. From treated diesel to prompt, reliable delivery, we help keep your fuel systems winter-ready. Reach out to the Otte Oil team and let’s build a plan that works no matter what the forecast says!

‍