With ever increasing fuel costs it is understandable that motorists are looking to save costs wherever possible. This unfortunately has led to several drivers looking to cut corners to save costs, whilst this may save a small amount of money initially it can lead to bigger potential problems further down the line.
Some hauliers have been caught trying and save costs through the use of AdBlue Eliminators. This practice is illegal and during random roadside tests carried out between August 2017 and February 2018, the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) found that of the 10,237 trucks checked, 293 contained a cheat device that switches off the use of AdBlue. This resulted in licences being removed from a number of companies and fine issued.
Rather than try and save money through this kind of scheme we have some advice on how to buy, store and use AdBlue for your business and save money too..
Do you know why is Adblue needed?
AdBlue is an exhaust fluid and is the most recognised and readily available brand name of of Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF). AdBlue is used to meet legal emission standards (Euro 6) which is designed to improve the air quality in the UK. AdBlue use is mandatory for all vehicles registered after September 2016.
Whilst you are driving AdBlue is sprayed on the exhaust fumes which then breaks down harmful particles in the exhaust, leaving nitrogen and water which are released into the atmosphere through the exhaust system reducing the harmful emissions by 2.5 times
Is it safe to use?
AdBlue is non-toxic, although you should still be careful when filling up as it is corrosive and can cause irritation to the skin, eyes and lungs, so you should always wear glove and only fill up outdoors.
Be aware that if AdBlue comes in contact with the vehicle’s paintwork, it can cause permanent damage so make sure that you immediately rinse the area with water.
How much do you need to use?
You only need a small amount of AdBlue for each journey and a full tank is likely to last you several thousand miles. Depending on the vehicle and how you drive the consumption can be anywhere between 1 litre every 600 miles and as much as 1 litre every 350 miles. These means most commercial uses will need to fill up on a regular basis.
AdBlue can be bought in five and ten litre tubs, at service stations at the pump or it can be ordered and shipped to your site. The latter is likely to be the most economic for a number of reasons, with the volatile fuel market it’s not an easy to make sure that you are getting a good deal. The huge disparity in pricing between the cost on fuel cards and the forecourt price, can lead to confusion and reactive purchasing can cause your costs to spiral. The most effective way to purchase AdBlue for your business is via barrels, IBCs or bulk loads. Driving Down’s current prices for these products can be found here
Can you store AdBlue?
AdBlue degrades over time, stored at temperatures of around 24°C, it will last around two years but with the fluctuating temperatures in the UK it is not recommended that you store it for longer than 1 year. Understanding how much you will need over the next 12 month can help you to buy bulk better.
What happens if I run out of AdBlue?
Most vehicles are fitted with warning systems just in the same way that you get a low diesel warning. If your tank runs dry while you’re driving, the engine’s power and performance will drop to limit emissions but then once you stop, you won’t be able to restart your vehicle until the tank has been topped up.
Tips for AdBlue Users
- There are some poor-quality products on the market that don’t meet the requirements and can damage your vehicle. ONLY buy AdBlue from a reputable supplier with a licence from VDA as specified by ISO 22241.
- When you need to refill, wear gloves and use a correct dispenser
- Wash away all spillages with water
- DO NOT get water in the AdBlue tank
- AdBlue can freeze at anything below -10°C but it doesn’t damage it and can be used when thawed
- Do not store AdBlue in direct sunlight, as it may cause it to degrade
- Don’t poor AdBlue into your regular fuel tank
- Only store AdBlue for 1 year
- Putting anything other than AdBlue in the AdBlue tank may damage the tank and your vehicle, call an expert to have it drained professionally.
- Calculate your AdBlue use for the year and then either buy in bulk or via IBC to save money on this year’s journeys
