"Bugs" in fuel

What are "bugs" in fuel?

The "bugs that contaminate diesel fuel are microscopic fungi, bacteria and yeasts. They live in your tank and use the water and diesel as a food source. As they grow, these contaminants form sludges and slimes that can bring your engine to a screaming halt.

Where do they come from?

The "bugs" are naturally occurring micro flora that exist in the air, soil and water around us. They enter the fuel tank with air and moisture through the normal breathing of your tanks, so they are almost impossible to keep out. The "bugs" (bacteria and fungi) need water to survive and as we move into the "wet" season, the possibility of water contamination in fuel increases, thus increasing the problem from "bugs".

Steps you can take to maintain diesel quality.

1. Inspect dip and fill points regularly. These areas can accumulate water and allow it to enter the tank. Check to make sure the caps seal properly.
2. Do not clean or hose down vehicles directly above underground tanks, or where the runoff water will flow over the tank.
3. Minimise condensation in vehicles and tanks by keeping the tanks topped up with fuel.
4. Inspect the fuel regularly. It should be clear and bright. Any haze in the fuel could be due to water being held in suspension in the fuel. This may indicate microbial or fungi contamination.
5. Remove any water from the tanks on a regular basis.
6. If your fuel is contaminated by fuel microbes or water, use a fuel biocide such as BC-250 or FT-400 to help eliminate them and assist in water separation.

If you have…

• Need to change fuel filters more often lately.
• Noticed any black slime on filters.
• Suddenly lost power in your engine.
• Had an engine stop for no apparent reason.
• Had any damage to injectors or injector pumps.
• Noticed that your fuel has turned hazy

…BC-250 or FT-400 could help

How does BC-250 or FT-400 help?

• Helps separate water from your fuel for easier removal.
• Cleans your injection pumps and injectors.
• Maintains the cleanliness of your fuel system
• Kills fungal and bacterial contamination
• Is safe and easy to use

Where can I obtain BC-250 or FT-400?

From your local Dermody depot. For more information contact your local Dermody office. Dermody Petroleum Pty Ltd are South Australian agents for BC-250 and FT-400 fuel treatment systems as part of our complete fuel system service.

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