5 Fuel Storage Tips That Matter Most When Temperatures Drop

When winter sets in, fuel storage tanks face a very different set of challenges than they do the rest of the year. Cold temperatures, snow, ice, and constant freeze-thaw cycles can quietly affect fuel quality, tank components, and overall safety. For businesses that rely on on-site fuel storage, winter tank care isn't optional; it's what keeps operations running when conditions are toughest.

The good news? Most winter fuel issues are preventable. With the right storage practices and a solid maintenance plan, fuel tanks can perform reliably all season long. The key is knowing what to watch for and acting before small problems turn into shutdowns.

1 - Start With the Basics: Keep Storage Tanks Full - and Monitored

Have you checked your tank levels lately? One of the simplest and most effective winter strategies is keeping storage tanks as full as possible. A near-full tank leaves less empty space for air, which reduces the opportunity for moisture to form as temperatures swing between day and night.

Condensation is one of the biggest winter threats to fuel storage. That moisture can lead to water contamination, corrosion, microbial growth, and fuel breakdown. Over time, water settles at the bottom of the tank, creating issues that often stay hidden until fuel quality is already compromised.

This is where monitoring becomes just as important as keeping tanks full. Efficient fuel inventory management helps ensure fuel levels stay within an optimal range throughout the winter. goes beyond basic tracking. It's a strategic approach that allows fuel-dependent operations to manage fuel stocks, usage, and ordering more effectively. In many cases, a fuel supplier can monitor and manage inventory on your behalf, saving time and reducing administrative burden.

2 - Winterizing Your Fuel

Cold weather doesn't just affect tanks; it affects the fuel itself. Diesel contains natural paraffin wax, which normally flows without issue. But as temperatures drop, wax molecules start to clump together. First, fuel becomes cloudy (the Cloud Point). If temperatures continue falling, larger wax particles form and clog filters. That critical point, when filters plug and operations stop, is known as the Cold Filter Plug Point (CFPP).

Why does CFPP matter? Because that's when trucks won't start, equipment won't run, and fuel simply won't flow.

Winter additives, also known as cold-flow improvers, are designed to prevent this. They lower the CFPP and help fuel continue moving through filters and engines in cold conditions. Using the right additive can make the difference between smooth winter operations and emergency calls during a cold snap.

And what happens if temperatures drop unexpectedly? Even well-maintained tanks can face sudden challenges. That's where packaged additive kits come in. Having cold-flow enhancers, emergency de-icers, and water dispersants on site can mean the difference between staying operational and shutting down when fuel stops flowing.

3 - Inspect Tanks More Often in Winter

How often are storage tanks inspected once winter hits? Cold weather accelerates wear and tear, turning minor issues into costly disruptions if they go unnoticed. What looks manageable in October can worsen quickly once freezing temperatures, snow, and ice set in.

Winter inspections should focus on leaks, corrosion, and rust, especially around seams, fittings, and supports. Valves and vents deserve extra attention, as they can freeze or become blocked by snow and ice. Snow buildup itself is another concern; added weight can strain tank structures and secondary containment. Keeping tank areas clear throughout the season also ensures safe access for deliveries and maintenance crews, even after heavy snowfall.

4 - Keep Regular Testing Schedules

A proactive fuel management plan goes a long way during winter. Establishing a regular testing schedule helps detect early signs of gelling risk, water contamination, or microbial growth. A 2015 EPA study showed that 83% of fuel tanks have corrosion or microbial growth, yet many tank owners aren't aware until issues become severe.

Testing results help determine the right treatment plan. If fuel quality is good, adjusting winter additive blends based on regional weather forecasts may be enough. If corrosion or microbial growth is already present, additional steps, such as biocides or fuel polishing, may be needed to remove water and sediment and restore fuel quality.

5 - Consider Pre-Treated Fuel

Another option to simplify winter fuel management is switching to winterized, pre-treated fuel. Receiving fuel that's already treated for regional conditions reduces the risk of gelling and takes some of the guesswork out of winter preparation. It also helps protect engines and storage systems before cold weather reaches its worst.

Starting in October, Mansfield Energy switches customers in applicable regions to ColdPRO winterized fuel, designed to safeguard fuel supply through consistent treatment and regional forecasting. Mansfield's Arsenal ColdPRO program focuses on improving cold-weather performance while minimizing unnecessary kerosene use and supporting nationwide fuel testing.

Stay Ahead of Winter

Winter doesn't have to bring fuel headaches. With full tanks, properly treated fuel, frequent inspections, and a clear fuel management plan, storage systems can stay reliable all season long. Working with experienced fuel partners can also help ensure the right strategies are in place before cold weather creates problems.

Mansfield's Arsenal ColdPRO is a program to improve your fuel's cold-weather performance, offering consistent and accurate treatments and performing nationwide fuel testing. With the right strategy in place, you can keep your fleet running smoothly throughout the winter season, regardless of where you operate. Contact us today!