How to Use Biodiesel Fuel Safely

Compared to other diesel alternatives, properly made biodiesel is safer to use, handle and transport. It's less toxic than table salt and as biodegradable as sugar. Its high flash point and relative lack of explosive vapors make it much less dangerous in the event of a car crash. Use biodiesel safely and get the most bang for your buck with this "green" fuel.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Use biodiesel in any diesel engine with no modification required unless the owner's manual advises against it. If you're unsure, a mixture of b20 (20 percent biodiesel) is deemed safe for most automobiles.

2. Check whether your fuel lines are rubber; if they are, replace them with synthetic lines. Biodiesel can cause leaking in rubber fuel lines. This is generally not a problem in vehicles manufactured after 2000.

3. Add biocides monthly to your fuel tank. Biodiesel absorbs moisture from the air in half-empty fuel tanks, causing bacterial growth to accelerate.

4. Clean fuel tanks prior to introducing biodiesel. Biodiesel blends greater than b20 can have a solvent effect on tanks and lines, cleaning built-up deposits and contaminating the fuel with particulate matter which then clogs the fuel filter. Using a low-blend, high-quality biodiesel will also help minimize this problem.

5. Purchase only the amount of chemicals you need if making your own batch of biodiesel. Methanol, a common ingredient in biodiesel, is extremely dangerous to store at your home. Limit your supply to no more than two 5-gallon containers.