What should I do with bug-contaminated diesel that failed a generator fuel test?
In brief
With bug-contaminated diesel that failed a generator fuel test, decide whether the fuel can be polished on site or must be replaced; if it is replaced, the old fuel is collected and the tank cleaned before refilling. Often partly. Call 07950 582635 or send an enquiry.
What diesel bug in diesel means here
The microbes form slime and sludge that block filters and injectors, and produce acids that corrode tanks and fuel systems. Engines lose power and stall, and standby generators can fail when they are needed. Standby generator fuel sits for long periods, gathers water and grows diesel bug, and can fail the routine tests that hospitals, data centres and telecoms sites run.
Storing it until collection
Leave it in the tank until the swap is scheduled, keeping the generator's resilience plan in mind. Failed generator fuel is usually recoverable after dewatering and filtering.
Preventing diesel bug in diesel next time
Keep water out and drain it off regularly, keep tanks reasonably full, turn stored fuel over where possible, and test fuel in long-stored tanks such as standby generators.
How City Fuel Services handles waste diesel
Every load of waste diesel is assessed before anything is booked. Tell us the quantity, the containers and any contamination; we confirm the terms, collect with a suitable vehicle, and take it to a permitted facility on a consignment note.
Terms used in this answer
- Bund
- A wall, tray or outer case around a fuel container that holds any leak. For oil and fuel stored at a business, bunds for tanks, bowsers and IBCs are sized at 110% of the container.
- Uplift
- The fuel trade's word for a collection: pumping fuel out of a tank or container and taking it away.
| Problem | Diesel bug in Diesel |
|---|---|
| Situation | From a standby generator |
| Priority | Plan it: the generator has to stay available, so swaps are scheduled around temporary supplies. |
| Fuel | Diesel |
| Also called | DERV (diesel engine road vehicle), road diesel, white diesel |
Related questions
- What should I do with diesel contaminated with diesel bug?
- What should I do with diesel that failed a generator fuel test?
- How can you tell if diesel has diesel bug?
- What paperwork do I need for diesel that failed a generator fuel test?
Official guidance: GOV.UK: hazardous waste.