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Importance of Proper DEF Storage
DEF is a high-quality product. With that in mind, keeping your DEF supply in top condition is important. DEF is sensitive to temperature and light; it should be stored between 20 degrees Celsius (68 degrees Fahrenheit) and 25 degrees Celsius (77 degrees Fahrenheit). It should also be kept out of direct sunlight for extended periods.
DEF is sensitive to moisture; if exposed to excessive humidity over long periods, DEF may clump together or become sticky when agitated by an automatic nozzle at the pump station.
This can cause damage to your vehicle’s emission control system, which could result in poor fuel economy as well as poor engine performance/power loss due to increased exhaust emissions from unburned hydrocarbons entering into combustion chambers through intake ducts leading directly into engines’ cylinders where they are burned along with air/fuel mixture which creates power needed by pistons when they move up while driving down roadways at high speeds on highways all across America!
Factors Impacting DEF Storage
Several factors can impact the quality of your DEF storage. The most obvious is temperature, but humidity and air quality are important in keeping your supply in top condition.
Generally, it would help if you stored your DEF at a temperature between 40 degrees Fahrenheit (4 C) and 140 degrees Fahrenheit (60 C). If you live in an area with extreme temperatures that fall outside this range–either colder or hotter than normal–it’s best to keep your product indoors until the climate returns to normal.
Regarding humidity levels, there are no hard-and-fast rules for storing DEF; however, keeping it dry will help prevent any potential damage from occurring due to moisture buildup over time. You should also avoid storing your supply near open windows or doors where excess moisture may enter the room, which is kept during warm months when high heat indexes are common outside.
Choosing the Right Storage Containers
Several types of DEF containers are available, each with its advantages and disadvantages.
Plastic Bottles
These are cheap but last only a short time, and there are more efficient ways to store your supply. They can be difficult to handle and transport, especially if you’ve got a large amount of DEF you need to move around regularly. Plus, plastic bottles aren’t as sturdy as other options (like metal cans), so they may crack or break during transit–potentially spilling their contents on your floor!
Metal Cans
Metal cans offer greater durability than plastic bottles; however, there are some drawbacks here, too: metal cans also tend to be heavier than other options (which means more effort is required when transporting), plus they’re more expensive than plastic bottles!
The upside? You’ll never have any issues with leaking or cracking–and if anything does happen while transporting these containers by truck or rail car across state lines…well…it won’t matter much since all those extra precautions taken during production mean nothing bad will happen anyway 🙂
Soft Drinks
These are a great option for storing your DEF in a more portable container. They’re relatively easy to transport (though they can be heavy) and pretty cheap, too. The only downside is that soft drink containers offer less protection than other options.
Storage Location and Placement
The first thing to consider is the location of your storage unit. If you’re storing your DEF in an outdoor location, ensure it’s protected from heat and sunlight by placing it under a tree or other shade source. Additionally, try to keep it as far away from water sources (such as rain) so that no moisture can reach the container or supply inside it. 
If you’re storing your DEF indoors, then there are still certain precautions you’ll have to take when deciding where exactly within your building or garage this should go:
Place containers on pallets so they don’t touch concrete floors; concrete absorbs moisture, which could cause rusting over time!
Ensure adequate ventilation around each container; if not enough air gets into them, they could start foaming up due to pressure buildup within their walls, which means less room for storage space!
Maintenance and Handling Practices
The first step in protecting your supply of DEF is to inspect it regularly. Regular inspections will help you detect any leaks or damage to the storage equipment, which can be caused by improper handling and pouring practices.
To help ensure that you’re keeping your supply in top condition, follow these best practices when handling and pouring DEF:
- Use the correct equipment for storing and handling the product. Always use safety glasses when working with DEF and other chemicals or materials that may be hazardous to eyesight (e.g., acids).
- Protect yourself from exposure by wearing protective clothing such as chemical-resistant gloves and aprons if necessary; make sure that these items are made out of materials compatible with whatever substances they come into contact with (e.g…., fluorinated polymers).
Extending DEF Shelf Life
There are several methods for extending the shelf life of DEF, including:
- Storing it in a cool, dry place.
- Rotating your inventory so that you’re always using the oldest supply first. This is known as the “first-in/first-out” (FIFO) principle and is used by businesses everywhere to manage their inventories of perishable goods like food and beverages.
- Avoid exposure to sunlight or extreme heat when storing your DEF containers at home or in an outdoor shed or garage during hot weather like summertime!
FAQ
What is DEF Storage, and Why is Proper Storage Important?
Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) is a solution used in modern diesel engines to reduce emissions. Proper storage is crucial as DEF can degrade when exposed to high temperatures, direct sunlight, or contaminants, affecting its effectiveness in reducing emissions.
How Should DEF be Stored to Maintain its Quality?
DEF should be stored in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area. Ideal temperatures for storage range between 12°F (-11°C) and 86°F (30°C). Additionally, DEF containers should be tightly sealed to prevent contamination.
Can DEF Freeze? How Does Freezing Affect its Quality?
Yes, DEF can freeze at temperatures below 12°F (-11°C). However, freezing does not harm its quality. Upon thawing, the solution retains its original properties without any adverse effects on its effectiveness.
What Precautions Should be Taken While Handling DEF?
When handling DEF, avoid contact with dirt, dust, or other contaminants. Use dedicated equipment for DEF to prevent cross-contamination. If spillage occurs, clean it immediately with water, as other chemicals might compromise its integrity.
Conclusion
DEF is a valuable resource, and it’s important to store it properly. By following the guidelines in this article, you can ensure that your DEF storage remains in top condition and ready for use whenever necessary. Contact us for more information on DEF storage solutions.
