All DEF systems require heating elements to prevent DEF fluid from freezing at temperatures less than 12 degrees Fahrenheit. DEF Heating Pots are designed to quickly return DEF to liquid form, ensuring proper flow through the lines and pump unit.
Does DEF fluid need to be heated?
DEF should be stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, out of direct sunlight. While the optimum storage temperature is up to 77 deg F (25 deg C), temporary exposure to higher temperatures has little to no impact on the quality of DEF.
Does the block heater heat the DEF tank?
The DEF tanks also has a built in heater that will warm the DEF fluid above freezing. However the truck must be running for that feature to be on, plugging in the block heater will not activate the DEF tank heater.
What temperature does DEF heater come on?
After engine start, exhaust flow begins to heat the Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR). When the SCR reaches 302°F (150°C) and the DEF temperature is in an acceptable range, the DEF control unit will command the DEF pump to start its priming process.
Are DEF lines heated?
DEF hoses and couplings are electronically heated to prevent freezing.
16 related questions foundIs DEF flammable?
Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) is an automotive grade of 32.5% urea mixed with 67.5% demineralized water. It's non-hazardous, non-toxic and non-flammable. DEF is used in Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) systems to change dieselpowered bus, car and truck NOx emissions to nitrogen and water.
Why does DEF need to be heated?
DEF fluid is a urea based product, it freezes at -11°C (12.2°F). The heating element (6) is used to prevent the fluid from freezing while the engine is running.
Can DEF freeze while driving?
The freezing point of DEF is 12 degrees Fahrenheit and -11 degrees Celsius. If you're driving in low temperatures, it's important to leave some room in the DEF tank. If the DEF tank is completely full, when it freezes, the water in it will expand and could crack the tank.
Will DEF freeze in my truck?
Diesel Exhaust Fluid or DEF Fluid
Whether in storage tanks or in equipment, DEF can freeze and possibly cause issues. As temperatures drop below 12°F, DEF will begin to solidify and not work as intended.
How hot should a DEF tank get?
Improper DEF storage can lead to contamination and compromise the SCR system. DEF's shelf life is about two years when properly stored at an optimal temperature of around 75 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit.
Do you use more DEF in cold weather?
Keeping your DEF tank less than full in cold temperatures is a good idea. If DEF freezes in the machine, do not put any additives in the tank to help it melt, API says. DEF needs to remain pure for it to work correctly. Instead, the heating element in the DEF tank will thaw it while the machine is running.
How long does a DEF tank heater last?
If the DEF is stored at ambient temperatures of 75 F with no major periods of exposure to heat over 86 F then the batch of DEF will last roughly two years. If a package of DEF is exposed to periods of heating the fluid will last approximately one year.
Does DEF freeze Duramax?
DEF freezes at approximately -11 degrees celsius, so the tank and DEF system are designed to freeze in cold climates. If DEF is frozen, the vehicle will still start as it always has.
What happens if DEF gets too hot?
DEF shelf life is reduced when temperatures are not properly regulated and reach above 86 degrees Fahrenheit. This can cause the DEF to decompose, making it unusable or even harm your vehicle.
How corrosive is DEF?
DEF in non-toxic, non-flammable and is not dangerous. It is actually less hazardous than other fluids such as antifreeze, engine oil or diesel. It is corrosive to copper, brass, zinc and aluminum as well as carbon steel.
What is the point of DEF fluid?
What is the Purpose of Diesel Exhaust Fluid? In 2010, the EPA required diesel engines to reduce their production of (NOx) nitrogen oxides. That reduction is accomplished with the additive Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF). This fluid reduces NOx and air pollution.
Can I pee in DEF tank?
Please do not urinate in your DEF tank, the SCR system will be damaged and it will cost thousands of dollars to repair. Here at Transliquid Technologies we specialize in providing the best quality of Diesel Exhaust Fluid.
Is it better to keep your DEF tank full?
Because it's 2/3 water, it begins to turn slushy at 12 degrees Fahrenheit and will freeze solid. One thing to keep in mind is DEF will expand when frozen, so it's best not to fill containers completely full to avoid damage to them. After it has been frozen, DEF can be thawed and used with no issues.
Does DEF expire?
Storing DEF in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place is recommended to maximize shelf life. It will degrade over time, but if stored at temps between 10 degrees and 90 degrees, DEF has an expected shelf life of one year. You can extend the shelf life to two years by storing at a temperature that stays around 75 degrees.
Can you store DEF outside?
If you store DEF outside, it must be kept out of direct sunlight and stay under shade. If it is kept in direct sunlight for any sustained period of time, it begins to lose its urea potency. DEF must be stored below 86°F or in the coolest area of your storage facility.
Can you put water in DEF tank?
The DEF will be diluted by the added water, but depending on the ratio of water to DEF, the solution may still contain enough urea to deal with the NOX via an increase in the injection rate.
How do you winterize a DEF fluid?
Push the DEF pump switch to "Trailer Fill". Allow the pump to run while squeezing the nozzle handle for 30 seconds. Unhook the quick coupler from the nozzle WHILE THE PUMP IS RUNNING. This will evacuate the DEF fluid from the nozzle.
What happens if I put DEF in my diesel tank?
What happens if DEF is put into the fuel tank? Typically, if DEF is introduced to the fuel tank, the truck will run poorly or even fail to start. Repairs to the fuel system can be costly. Components that have been contaminated with DEF will show crystallization after drying for a few hours as seen in Photo 1.
How toxic is DEF fluid?
Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) is not toxic, harmful or dangerous. In fact, of all the fluids used in a truck, such as diesel, engine oil, brake fluid, antifreeze and windscreen wash, DEF is the least hazardous.
Does DEF ruin engine?
DEF is corrosive and, as you are about to see, causes severe damage to the fuel system. Early symptoms include hard starting, rough idle and smoking exhaust, and a DEF-contaminated engine may not start at all. The recommend repair is to replace the entire fuel system, from tank to injectors.
