Advantages of red diesel for back-up generators

With winter fast approaching, many industrial, agricultural and construction sites, especially in rural areas, will be starting to think about the back up generator. In place to prevent total loss of power during heavy winter weather and power cuts, the backup generator can be an important source of power and heat throughout winter months. If you have a diesel generator, you should consider using red diesel to power this, for a number of important benefits. But what are the advantages of red diesel for back-up generators? And how can you use red diesel effectively? Well, here at Compass Fuel Oils, we are the UK’s leading providers of red diesel. We deliver both in bulk and in barrels within 1 to 3 days, across the whole of the UK, including places that are notoriously difficult to access. And this is our guide to everything you should know about back up generators and red diesel.

Why should you choose a diesel generator?

A diesel generator can be a great option. Especially for remote rural areas that can be worst affected by the snow and winter weather. A diesel generator is capable of working effectively in subarctic weather conditions, so the UK winter provides no challenge at all! But using red diesel, instead of normal diesel, can help you make the most of this

What are the advantages of red diesel for back-up generators?

So when it comes to back up generators, why should you opt for red diesel? Well, there are a number of benefits to using red diesel, including:

  • Being cost effective- red diesel is cheaper than other diesel alternatives, because it has 40% less fuel duty. This means that you can save money on your fuel, even when you take into consideration the maintenance costs for your generator.
  • Efficient fuel consumption- another advantage of red diesel is that this offers a highly efficient method of fuel consumption. This means that you will get more heat from a smaller amount of fuel, so you can save even more money, and conserve fuel too.
  • Safer for your property- red diesel can be a safer option for your property, as this fuel does not come with the added risk of poisonous vapour leaks, like natural gas generators. And red diesel is generally less flammable than other fuel sources too.

Top considerations for using red diesel for back up generators

So to ensure that you receive these benefits from using red diesel to power your back up generator, what should you consider? Well, there are several things to bear in mind including:

  • Generator maintenance- your fuel can only burn efficiently if your generator is kept in good working order. For any diesel generator, regular maintenance can be an important concern.
  • Fuel consumption- make sure you order enough fuel so that you wont be left short should disaster occur. During the winter season, fuel consumption will generally be higher than average, so it can be a good idea to prepare for this.
  • The right grade of red diesel- winter and summer grades of red diesel differ, and you need to make sure you have the right grade of red diesel for the season. Using summer red diesel in winter moths can crystallize and cause damage to your generator.

For more information or advice, get in touch with the UK’s leading red diesel experts, here at Compass Fuel Oils.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Deliveries

  • What areas do you deliver to?

    We deliver to most regions in the UK. To check if we service your area, please use our delivery postcode checker or contact our support team 01772 619 461 

  • What is the minimum order quantity for delivery?

    The minimum order quantity varies depending on the fuel type. For most orders, it is 500 litres, but smaller deliveries may be available upon request for example barrels of 205l fuel.

  • How long does delivery take?

    Standard deliveries typically take 3–5 working days. We also offer express delivery options for urgent orders.

  • What should I do if my tank is overfilled or damaged during delivery?

    Please report any issues to our customer service team immediately. We will investigate and resolve the issue promptly.

  • Can I change or cancel my delivery?

    Yes, you can modify or cancel your delivery by contacting us at least 24 hours before the scheduled delivery time.

  • Do you charge a delivery fee?

    Standard delivery is included in the fuel price for most orders. Express deliveries or orders below the minimum quantity may incur additional fees.

  • What types of vehicles are used for delivery?

    We use a fleet of fuel tankers suitable for residential, commercial, and agricultural deliveries. For restricted access locations, we may send a smaller vehicle.

  • What if my delivery is delayed?

    While we strive to deliver on time, delays can occur due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. If your delivery is delayed, we will notify you as soon as possible.

  • What should I do to prepare for a delivery?

    Ensure your tank is easily accessible, remove any obstructions, and secure pets or gates. If your tank has a lock, please make sure it is unlocked.

  • How will I know when my delivery will arrive?

    You will receive a notification with an estimated delivery date once your order is confirmed. On the day of delivery, our driver may contact you directly.

  • Do I need to be present during the delivery?

    In most cases, you don’t need to be present as long as your tank is accessible and ready for filling.

  • What happens if I’m not available during the delivery?

    If you’re not available, our driver can deliver the fuel to your tank as long as it is accessible and safe to do so. If access is restricted, we will contact you to reschedule.

  • Can I schedule my delivery?

    Absolutely. You can choose a preferred delivery date during the order process. We’ll do our best to accommodate your request.

  • Do you offer same-day or next-day delivery?

    Yes, same-day and next-day delivery options are available in select areas. Additional charges may apply.

Payments

  • What currency are payments processed in?

    Payments are processed in GBP (British Pounds). If you are paying from outside the UK, your bank may apply conversion fees.

  • Is my payment information secure?

    Absolutely. We use industry-standard encryption and secure payment gateways to protect your payment details.

  • Can I request an extension on my payment due date?

    Yes, payment extensions may be available upon request. Please contact our billing team to discuss options.

  • Do you offer refunds?

    Refunds are processed in accordance with our refund policy. Please contact our support team for further assistance.

  • How can I update my payment details?

    You can update your payment details by contacting our customer service team. 

  • Can I split my payment across multiple methods?

    Unfortunately, we do not support splitting payments across multiple methods at this time.

  • What should I do if my payment is declined?

    If your payment is declined, double-check your payment details and try again. If the issue persists, contact your bank or our support team for assistance.

  • How do I receive my invoice or receipt?

    Invoices and receipts are sent to your registered email address or by letter.

  • Is there a surcharge for using a credit card?

    No, we do not charge additional fees for payments made using a credit card.

  • Do you offer credit terms for businesses?

    Yes, we provide credit terms for eligible business customers. Please contact our sales team to discuss account setup and terms.

  • Can I set up a direct debit or recurring payment?

    Yes, you can set up direct debit or recurring payments to ensure timely and hassle-free billing.

  • What payment methods do you accept?

    We accept a variety of payment methods, including credit/debit cards, direct bank transfers. For business customers, we also offer account-based billing.

  • I paid for my order by card, I received less fuel than I paid for due to the tank being full, what happens now?

    We have a couple of options available, we can refund your payment card, this takes 3-5 working days from the date we process your refund. Alternatively, we can leave the credit sat on your account and adjust this amount from the payment for your next order.