When Winter Storms Hit, Winter Additives Keep Fuel Flowing

Recent winter storms have been a reminder of how quickly cold weather can disrupt operations. When temperatures drop and freezing conditions settle in, fuel systems are often the first to feel the impact. Diesel that performs well in mild weather can create challenges in the cold, leading to unexpected downtime and equipment strain.

Widespread cold, especially when temperatures drop into the low teens or single digits, can cause diesel fuel to gel. In northern states, diesel is often treated for winter conditions by default. In southern regions, however, fuel treatment practices can vary by supplier and location, creating uncertainty for fleets that experience sudden cold snaps.

Pre-Treated Diesel

Pre-treated diesel is blended with cold flow additives that lower the Cold Filter Plugging Point (CFPP), helping prevent gelling and maintain fuel flow as temperatures fall.

Cold flow additives also improve fuel operability by enhancing flow and supporting more efficient combustion in cold conditions. This can translate into smoother engine operation, improved cold starts, and reduced strain on batteries and starter motors. Better combustion can also support stronger engine performance and lower emissions, while reducing friction that contributes to long-term wear and maintenance costs. Although winterized fuel carries an upfront cost, the reduction in downtime and operational disruptions often offsets that investment over the course of the season.

Depending on your region, when temperatures are expected to fall below -10°F, blending with kerosene may be necessary to maintain fuel operability. Because winter blending requirements vary by region, confirming seasonal fuel specifications with a fuel supplier is an important part of winter planning.

Winter Additives and Advance Planning

Beyond pre-treated fuel, winter additives, such as Arsenal Cold Pro, play a key role in cold-weather readiness. These additives are designed to prevent wax crystallization, manage water content, and keep fuel flowing through filters during prolonged cold. Ordering winter additives in advance through a fuel provider allows for consistent treatment across tanks and equipment before winter weather arrives.

If there is uncertainty around whether fuel is being treated with winter additives or kerosene, or if on-site additive supplies are running low, speaking with your additives supplier helps close those gaps before conditions deteriorate.

Emergency Additives for Unexpected Cold Snaps

Even with strong preventive measures in place, winter weather can still bring surprises. Keeping emergency additives on hand, such as Red Alert, provides an additional layer of protection when temperatures drop faster than expected, storms arrive earlier than forecast, or cold hits regions not used to low temperatures. Re-liquefiers and de-icers can help restore fuel flow in gelled systems, while water-dispersant additives help remove moisture and prevent ice formation. These products are not a replacement for winter fuel preparation, but they can significantly reduce downtime during emergency situations.

Plan Ahead to Reduce Winter Costs

Just as route planning supports operational efficiency, preparing fuel systems for winter helps avoid costly breakdowns and delays. Programs such as Mansfield's Arsenal ColdPRO are designed to improve cold-weather fuel performance through consistent treatment, reduced reliance on kerosene, and nationwide fuel testing support.

With the right winter fuel strategy in place, combining pre-treated diesel, additives, testing, tank maintenance, and emergency preparedness, operations are better positioned to stay reliable throughout the season. Taking action before the next storm arrives helps protect equipment, control costs, and maintain continuity when conditions are at their toughest. Contact Mansfield Today!