DEF Tank: Facts to Know

If you don’t protect your truck’s components during winter, the effects of cold weather can lead to unexpected downtime and costly repairs. For example, frozen airlines and gelling diesel fuel are always a challenge for medium- and heavy-duty trucks when temperatures start to drop.

With all of the modern products available for today’s semi trucks, there is one practical solution you can rely on to get you through the cold: DEF Insulated Tank Covers.

What are DEF Tanks?

A DEF Tank is a container that holds diesel exhaust fluid, which is a non-toxic mixture of deionized water and automotive-grade urea that turns NOx into harmless nitrogen gas and water vapor.

While many modern DEF tanks come equipped with built-in heaters, extreme temperatures can still push your truck’s systems to their limits. Assuming the DEF ratio is correct, any frozen fluid should melt evenly, which keeps the Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system functioning properly. However, contaminants like water, dirt, and dust can get into the tank, causing uneven freezing and risking damage to the pump and injectors.

When winter comes around, driver depend on products that keep their truck running efficiently, no matter the temperature. DEF Tank Covers add an extra layer of protection to help prevent any issues when the cold is at its worth.

DEF Tank Covers

Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) insulated tank covers protect the integrity and functionality of the DEF. They help to maintain the fluid’s temperature, keeping it stable and in a fully liquid state. Without a steady flow of DEF, the SRC system cannot process frozen fluid which can derate the engine. This limits its power until it thaws. A clean, consistent flow of DEF helps improve fuel economy, lowers maintenance costs, and stays compliant with emissions standards. If your DEF tank goes unprotected, the fluid may not consistently stay liquid, leading to clogs and downtime.

Most insulated tank covers are custom fit for trucks like Kenworth, Peterbilt, or any Paccar OE DEF tanks. They’re compatible on vehicles with or without fairings, plus they allow for full access to the blue filler cap without removing the entire cover. The best part — they’re easy to install and go on in minutes.

They also offer protection against more than just freezing temperatures. The cover acts as a barrier against road dirt, debris, and other grime that can get in and contaminate the DEF. But their benefits extend beyond winter. During warm weather, they reduce DEF evaporation by blocking out heat.

A Smart, Preventative Maintenance Musts

Downtime, lost revenue, and emergency repairs are expensive in any season. While they’re not essential, DEF insulated tank covers are a smart investment in your engine’s longevity and performance. Using a cover versus going without one can be the difference between optimal efficiency and frequent, expensive repairs. You can have easier engine starts, fewer derates, less downtime, and lower repair costs. Protect your truck, save money, and cut downtime with this cost-effective preventative maintenance solution.