You may know that diesel fuel can freeze and gel at low temperatures, but what about DEF? This is a question we get all the time. The short answer is yes, diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) can freeze. However, depending on your climate, you may not need to worry about it.
Should You Worry About DEF Freezing?
Unlike water which freezes at 32 degrees Fahrenheit, DEF has a freezing point of 12 degrees Fahrenheit. Depending on where your equipment is geographically located, this may not be a concern because temperatures that stay under 12 degrees for a prolonged period of time are not common in most parts of the US. In addition, if DEF does freeze, it will NOT cause harm to the product, and once it thaws out, it will be safe to use.
How to Prevent DEF from Freezing
If you’re located somewhere where freezing is a viable concern, there are a few ways to winterize DEF fluid:
- Keep snow off and away from your DEF storage unit.
- Keep your DEF storage unit off the ground. If you have a 330-gallon tote, you’re in luck because they come built in with a ground spacer.
- Build a wind barrier made of plywood around your DEF storage container.
In cases of extreme cold weather, you may want to consider investing in a 110V heater blanket. These can range in price and typically start around $1,500.
Lastly, the product in the hose is far more likely to freeze than the product in the storage unit. If your hose is frozen, simply detach it and bring it into a warmer area until it has thawed, and you should be good to go.
If you’re interested in learning more about our DEF delivery services or DEF equipment available for purchase, contact our team today! Also check out our comprehensive guide about how to store DEF to prolong its shelf life.