How does biodiesel perform in cold weather? Can I use biodiesel in the winter?
Any diesel engine can use biodiesel, but there are some specific instances where B100 is not recommended. All diesel fuels tend to ‘wax’ at cold temperatures. For this reason, petroleum diesel is often ‘winterized’ by blending in kerosene or other additives. Typically, unwinterized diesel is usable down to about 20°F. Winterized diesel can be good down to 0°F or below. Biodiesel tends to crystallize at a slightly higher temperature, typically 20-40°F. For this reason, B100 is not recommended for use in very cold climates. Often, gelling and crystallization depend on what kind of feedstock was used to make the biodiesel. Saturated feedstocks will produce saturated methyl esters, which can gel at lower temperatures than unsaturated methyl esters. Biodiesel made from feedstocks such as coconut oil, soy bean oil, and animal fats have poor cold weather performance. Biodiesel made from feedstocks such as vegetable and canola oil perform better.Regardless of what source your biodiesel is from
