Stored diesel goes through a natural oxidation process. Exposure to light, heat, and oxygen can cause chemical breakdowns, leading to insoluble particles, gums, and resins.
The fuel's stability decreases with age, which can increase the risks of poor combustion, injector fouling, and blocked filters.
You'll often find FAME (Fatty Acid Methyl Esters) in modern diesel formulations. FAME is compliant with EN590 standards, but it's also hygroscopic (it absorbs water).
Unfortunately, this means that there's a higher risk of microbial growth and water contamination. This problem is common when the fuel turnover is low, as it increases the chances of water contamination and microbial growth.
Damaged seals, poor vent designs, and condensation can cause water to enter your fuel system. Even trace amounts of water can affect the fuel supply, leading to microbial contamination, corrosion, and reduced lubrication.
Also known as diesel bug, microbial growth causes a spectrum of problems for your fuel supply and generator. When microbes have an optimal environment to thrive, they produce sludge and acidic by-products. The contamination causes injector damage, blocked filters, and generator failure.
Sludge is a common problem for generators because it can block filters and cause the engine to shut down. Rust, microbial contamination, oxidation by-products, and dirt can settle to the bottom of your fuel tank for a long time. But when they're disturbed, the sludge is drawn into your fuel system.
Our engineers specialise in conducting fuel sampling services to ensure compliance with UK laws. We'll visit you on-site and perform our professional fuel sampling using established protocols. The service includes:
We'll also select sampling locations that may go unnoticed during a routine inspection.
Every sample we take is sent to an accredited laboratory for testing. Standard tests include:
Once we complete testing, we'll send you a comprehensive report confirming your fuel quality and clearly explaining any issues. Each report contains risk grading, a full breakdown of the test results, and recommended actions.
Depending on the results of your test, we'll also make recommendations for treating contaminated fuel and ensuring safer long-term management. This may include:
Fuel services that remove contaminants from your supply and replace it with new diesel.
Fuel polishing
Full tank cleaning solutions
Long-term management plans, including fuel storage tanks.
A generator maintenance package that flags potential problems before they worsen.
Unfortunately, fuel contamination rarely occurs due to a single factor. There are many possible contributors, with the most common including:
Condensation that forms inside partially filled tanks
Water ingress that occurs through seals, vents, or poor refuelling practices
Microbial growth
Temperature fluctuations and improper storage
Fuel storage without regular treatments or turnovers
Modern diesel fuels with increased FAME content
Fuel testing should be part of your generator maintenance plan. That way, you can identify problems before a costly failure. The most common signs that you need to test the fuel include:
When the generator is slow cranking or struggles to start
Darkened, discoloured, or cloudy fuel
Frequent blockages in the fuel filters
Increased exhaust smoke]
Inconsistent power outputs and engine knocking
Sludge or water in the tanks or bowls
Standby generators that remain unused for over six months, or fuel that's been stored for over a year
At Solent Power, we understand that operational efficiency is vital for your business, while a seamless power supply gives you peace of mind at home.
As an authorised distributor of diesel generators, we also provide a range of services to identify, treat, and prevent fuel degradation.
When you choose our fuel sampling/testing services, you get:
Certified experts
Access to accredited testing facilities
A nationwide service
Fast turnarounds
Detailed and actionable reports
Same week fuel treatments
Ongoing generator maintenance services
Please get in touch with our expert team today to discuss your needs.
Some fuel supplies should be tested annually, while others may require frequent testing. We can advise on the best testing schedule for your needs.
If your diesel is stored in ideal conditions, it can remain stable for up to 12 months when untreated. However, FAME-containing fuels are more prone to degradation and may degrade more quickly without treatment.
Diesel bug is also known as a microbial contamination. It occurs when fungi and bacteria grow at the fuel-water interface, forming a characteristic sludge. When diesel bug occurs, it can damage fuel systems.
When you don't regularly test your fuel supply, it can lead to a range of issues. These include injector failure, corrosion, blocked filters, and complete generator failure. In worst-case scenarios, you may need to replace the generator and any equipment or appliances it damages.
No, not always. Once we test your fuel and get the results, we'll advise on the best course of action. Fuel polishing can restore fuel quality in some cases and may be more cost-effective than replacing the fuel supply.
Yes, we sample fuel from small portable generators, residential generators, and large industrial models.
We complete the sampling process during the site visit. Laboratory analysis typically takes a few working days, depending on the level of testing we recommend.
Yes, we do. If your critical systems are experiencing malfunctions or failures, we can provide rapid response testing.
Solent Power Ltd (Company Number 12622565) is a company registered in England and Wales. Our registered office is located at Station yard, Bowes Hill, Rowlands Castle PO9 6BP. VAT No. 363504018