Are There Really Bugs in My Fuel?

Microbial Growth in Fuel: Are There Really Bugs in My Tank?

If you've ever wondered whether fuel can get contaminated by microbes, the answer is yes! Fuel storage tanks are susceptible to bacterial and fungal growth, leading to clogged filters, corrosion, and equipment failure. These contaminants, often referred to as H.U.M. Bugs (Hydrocarbon Utilizing Micro-organisms), thrive in the water-fuel interface and feed on the hydrocarbons in the fuel.

What Are Micro-Organisms in Fuel?

The most common fuel-contaminating organisms are:
✔ Cladosporium resinae (fungus)
✔ Pseudomonas aeruginosa (bacteria)

These microbes enter fuel systems through vents, standing water, transportation contamination, or during fuel delivery. Once inside, they multiply quickly — doubling in population every 20 minutes — and form slimy, gel-like mats that cause serious fuel system damage.

Why Your Tank Needs Frequent Cleaning

What Do Fuel Microbes Do?

Microbial contamination can cause:
✔ Clogged fuel filters, lines and gauges
✔ Corrosion of pumps, injectors and tank walls
✔ Degraded fuel quality and poor fuel economy
✔ Unexpected equipment failures and downtime

When microbial growth goes unchecked, it accelerates fuel breakdown, increases maintenance costs, and leads to emergency equipment failures. This is a major risk for backup generators, aviation fuel systems, and commercial fleets.

How to Detect Fuel Microbial Contamination

There are two primary ways to check for microbial contamination in fuel:

1. Visual Inspection

  • Foul-smelling, black, brown, green, or reddish buildup on fuel filters, hoses, and tank linings.

  • Slime or sludge buildup in the tank bottom sample.

2. Analytical Laboratory Testing ($200–$700 per test)

  • Identifies bacterial and fungal species present in fuel.

  • Measures severity of microbial contamination.

Petrolux LLC uses tank bottom sampling, the industry standard approved by EPA, ASTM, and other regulatory agencies, to provide accurate contamination assessments.

Preventing and Treating Microbial Contamination in Fuel

What Causes Microbial Growth in Fuel?

  • Water Contamination: Water enters tanks through vents, condensation, and fuel transfers, providing an ideal environment for microbes.

  • Poor Fuel Turnover: Stored fuel deteriorates faster than frequently cycled fuel, increasing contamination risks.

  • Inadequate Filtration: Without routine fuel polishing, microbial colonies thrive and spread.

How to Prevent Fuel Microbial Contamination

  • Regular Fuel Sampling and Testing: Sample quarterly or at least every six months to detect contamination early.

  • Use Fuel Additives and Biocides: Anti-microbial treatments slow microbial growth.

  • Implement a Maintenance Plan: Petrolux LLC’s fuel filtration and tank cleaning services prevent long-term contamination.

What Types of Fuels Are Susceptible to Microbial Contamination?

While diesel fuel is the most vulnerable, microbial contamination affects a wide range of petroleum-based and synthetic fuels, including:

  • Diesel Fuel

  • Jet Fuel (JP4, AVGAS)

  • Gasoline

  • Hydraulic Oil

  • Synthetic Oils and Cutting Oils

  • Insulating Fuels and Select Solvents

The Solution: Fuel Filtration and Routine Tank Maintenance

The only effective way to eliminate microbial contamination is through a comprehensive filtration and tank cleaning process. Petrolux LLC offers a one-step fuel filtration and tank cleaning system, removing sludge, water, and microbial growth while preserving fuel quality.

Suspect microbial contamination in your fuel? Contact Petrolux LLC today for expert tank cleaning and contamination prevention solutions!

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