2024-2025 Winter Fuel Program – Blending Begins November 3rd

As winter approaches, we want to inform you of our blending schedule for the upcoming season:

• Tank Wagon / LTL Deliveries (bulk tank fills and direct-to-unit fueling): Starting November 3rd, we will stop bio blending (B14) and begin distributing Ultra-Low Sulfur #2 Diesel (ULSD) with winter additives. This will continue until Spring 2025.
• Transport Load Deliveries (B11, B14, ULSD): Unless otherwise requested, we will begin blending with winter additives on November 3rd.

Important Notice: Please avoid adding additional winter additives to pre-blended fuel. Overtreating diesel may lead to clogged filters, reduced engine performance, and additive fallout.

IL Sales Tax Exemption Bio Blend Levels

• December 1st – March 31st: Bio blend level will revert to B11 for sales tax exemption. Transport load orders (4,000+ gallons) and certain specific gallon orders can receive B11 during this period.
• Effective April 1st: The bio blend level for sales tax exemption will increase to B17.

Winter Blend Ratios

 

In the event of extended single-digit or sub-zero temperatures, Al Warren Oil Company, Inc. plans to implement the following blend of ULSD #2 and ULSD #1 with winter additives, depending on product availability.

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Why Diesel is Impacted by Cold Weather

Diesel fuel contains paraffins, which can precipitate into wax crystals at low temperatures. As temperatures drop, these crystals grow and block fuel filters, causing fuel starvation, engine power loss, and stalling. Despite these issues, waxes play a key role by enhancing cetane levels, improving cold starting.

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What Are Cold-Flow Improvers (Winter Additives)?

Cold-flow improvers modify the shape of wax crystals, allowing fuel to flow through filters even at lower temperatures. Since weather can be unpredictable, cold-flow additives provide an added safety margin for winter operability. For extreme cold, #1 Diesel fuel blending is also available.

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Winter DEF Handling Tips from Al Warren Oil

Managing Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) during winter requires special attention, as DEF freezes at 11°F. Here are some tips:

• Storage Considerations: Frozen DEF expands by up to 7%. To avoid damaging storage tanks, keep them less than full.
  • Expert Tip: Use insulated, DEF-specific bulk storage tanks. Never store DEF in tanks used for other products. Tanks should be rinsed with distilled or de-ionized water, or on-spec DEF before switching contents.
• In-Vehicle DEF Handling: Frozen DEF won’t prevent your vehicle from starting—most modern SCR systems have heating elements to thaw DEF quickly.
  • Recommendation: Never add substances to thaw DEF. Purity is essential for DEF to function properly in reducing harmful emissions.
• Transfer & Dispensing: Use a closed-loop system to transfer DEF from drums or bulk tanks. This prevents contaminants from entering the fluid.
  • Best Practice: Use dedicated pumps, hoses, and nozzles specifically for DEF to ensure it meets ISO 22241 standards.
• Cleaning & Maintenance: Clean DEF tools with distilled or de-ionized water. Rinse with DEF to ensure no contaminants are left.
  • Tip: Never use tap water—it can introduce minerals that compromise DEF quality.