Biodiesel is still relatively unknown, and due to this lack of education many myths, inconsistencies and “old wives tales” have emerged. Some things must be cleared up and we should understand that biodiesel fuel is neither experimental, inconsistent or likely to lead to damage or failure, as it has been around for more than eight decades since it was first invented!

Independent studies show that biodiesel performs equally as well as petro diesel, yet represents a significant benefit to both the health of the population and the environment as a whole. Numerous tests have been performed and all are consistent. US Departments of Energy, Agriculture and the EPA have all analysed, tested and returned positive feedback.

Recently, the EPA has called on powers given to it by the Clean Air Act of 1990 and said that greenhouse gases are hazardous to human health. We are now likely to see big consequences for traditional energy sources and fuels and those that emit high levels of carbon. Biodiesel is the only fuel alternative to have passed rigorous tests imposed by the Clean Air Act.

Performance related tests have been conducted over more than 50,000,000 miles and have shown that biodiesel is comparable to petro diesel in all types of diesel engined vehicles. It must be noted that biodiesel can be used in regular diesel engines with no modification whatsoever. The fuel can be blended with regular diesel or can be used in place. Biodiesel gives better lubricity and can result in longer life and less wear within the engine.

Among all alternative fuels, bio diesel scores the highest in terms of energy performance.

For those who live in colder climes, in the northern parts of the United States or Canada, for example, cold weather is a big consideration. While biodiesel will react to cold extremes, just as conventional diesel does, the same method should be used to prepare your vehicles during those cold snaps and no additional measures are required. In these cases, indoor storage or fuel heating should be considered.

Some people believe that biodiesel can cause filtration problems, but this is only likely when the fuel is first added to a regular diesel engine. As biodiesel is a solvent, it may help to dislodge deposits which exist in pipes or on tank walls. Consequently, the fuel filter should be replaced the first-time biodiesel is used and there should be no issues from then on.

While making biodiesel may be a little more expensive than buying conventional petro diesel, this should be more than negated by an increase in the quality of the fuel used and better overall performance. This enhanced lubricity can lead to longer engine life. As you increase the blend of biodiesel, carbon emissions are reduced more and more. If proper precautions are taken when making homemade biodiesel, the fuel can represent a great way to reduce the all-important carbon footprint. Take the leap, and make a change for the better by helping the environment, for this generation, and for all the generations that follow!