With the constant fluctuations in diesel prices, purchasing a large supply can protect your business against rising expenses and shortages. However, when buying the fuel in advance, you need to take precautions to store it safely until it's ready for use. Here are a few suggestions for storing your company’s supply properly.

How to Store Your Diesel Fuel

1. Don’t Buy Too Much

Diesel begins to degrade within a month, producing byproducts that can clog filters and leave deposits in combustion chambers. Even under the best conditions, the fuel will only last for about 12 months, so don’t buy more than you can use in a year.

For most businesses, delivery every six months is an optimal schedule. This protects you from oil price spikes while reducing the waste and expense of expired fuel.

2. Use Proper Storage Tanks

Diesel is corrosive, so it can only be stored in standard 55-gallon drums for short periods. If you’re going to be keeping a several-month supply, you’ll need metal or polyethylene tanks specially formulated to safely store fuel without degrading.

These tanks are available in both above-ground and buried models. Above-ground options are easier to maintain and repair, but underground storage provides more insulation against cold temperatures.

3. Maintain the Correct Temperatures

When temperatures rise above 85 degrees, diesel oxidizes more quickly, creating the ideal conditions for microbes that can cause dangerous contamination. Minimize sun exposure by storing above-ground tanks under a shelter or placing them inside a shed.

Diesel that gets too cold will thicken into a gel-like consistency, which combusts unevenly and may leave debris inside of your heater burner. Installing an underground tank can keep your fuel from getting too cold in the winter. Ideally, the temperature should be around 70 degrees.

To get reliable diesel delivery for your business, contact Main Energy in Palmyra. This company provides fuel to commercial clients throughout upstate New York. They pride themselves on delivering exceptional service and easy payment plans to ensure you never run out of fuel. Visit them on Facebook for more tips and advice, or call (315) 597-5200 to schedule a delivery.