Seven Myths and Facts about Biodiesel

Myth - Biodiesel is just vegetable oil thinned-out with methanol.
Fact - Biodiesel is called methyl-ester and is made from vegetable oil in a chemical conversion process called "transesterification."

Myth - Using biodiesel requires some engine conversion.
Fact - There is no conversion required to use biodiesel directly. On pre-1990 vehicles, you should replace natural rubber fuel lines with modern synthetics. If you have questions, consult with your mechanic.

Myth - Biodiesel will ruin my engine or void my warranty.
Fact - Properly made biodiesel will actually run cleaner and smoother than petroleum diesel.  Simply follow the instructions that come with your FuelMeister.

Myth - Oil used for making biodiesel must be heated to react.
Fact - As long as the oil is in a liquid state, you can make biodiesel. Heating will make the reaction happen faster. All liquids should be no less than 70F.

We HIGHLY recommend heating the oil to 120F prior to making it into biodiesel. We sell a band heater that goes around a metal 55 gallon drum and also an Oil Pre-Heater Kit which has the band heater and insulation for the drum and for the FuelMeister II. Please see the Order Form page for prices.

Myth - All home-made biodiesel must be "washed" before it can be used.
Fact - Biodiesel which has had all the glycerin and methanol removed can be used with confidence, especially in simpler diesel devices like generators, tractors, and home heating furnaces. Washing biodiesel removes the trace soaps (which petroleum diesel also has) and is recommended if you want to be extra cautious about your biodiesel.

We HIGHLY recommend washing and drying your biodiesel prior to using or storing. The water wash lid comes with your FuelMeister II or FuelMeister II Dual. We sell a Fuel Drying Kit to dry your biodiesel after washing. Please see the Order Form page for prices.

Myth - Vegetable oil must be very clean to be used for making biodiesel.
Fact - Putting your oil through a simple strainer (i.e., window screen mesh) is sufficient. The smaller food particles will fall out in the glycerin and be drained off.

Myth - Once I start using biodiesel I can't go back to petroleum diesel.
Fact - You can use biodiesel just like petroleum diesel and mixed in any ratio.

If you have any questions, please feel free to call us.  We are here to answer any questions that you may have both during your evaluation of the FuelMeister, and after your purchase.  We are committed to providing the best customer service before, during, and after the sale.