Crown Oil Fuel Efficiency Checklist

Cut Costs, Reduce Waste, Boost Performance

Fuel is one of the biggest controllable expenses across construction, agriculture, transport and manufacturing. With a few smart changes, you can unlock major savings while protecting your equipment and improving site safety.

Our practical checklist gives you simple, actionable steps you can implement straight away.

1. Fuel handling and quality tips

Avoid fuel degradation

• Have stored fuel tested every 6 months and polished as required
• Use additives for long-term storage
• Arrange annual Fuel System Inspections
• Keep tanks full to reduce air space and moisture buildup
• Keep container lids sealed to block debris and water

Avoid cross-contamination

• Clearly label tanks and dispensing equipment
• Train all operators on proper refuelling procedures
• Clean and empty dispensing equipment after each use

Prevent spills and wastage

• Store fuel only in approved containers
• Position tanks away from potential ignition sources
• Place barrels on drip trays to contain leaks
• Keep a spill kit nearby for quick response and reduced clean-up costs

2. Tank maintenance practices

Optimal tank positioning

• Locate tanks away from direct sunlight to reduce heating and evaporation
• Provide shade and good ventilation where possible
• Ensure tanks sit on a solid, level base to minimise contamination

Maintenance and cleanliness

• Inspect tanks monthly for cracks, rust and leaks
• Remove water build-up with regular fuel polishing and professional tank inspections
• Replace damaged hoses, caps or filters immediately
• Use the release valve periodically to decant sludge from the tank bottom

Security checks

• Fit lockable lids or secure fencing to prevent theft
• Install CCTV or anti-theft lighting to make your site less vulnerable
• Use telemetry to detect unusual fuel drops
• Consider a fuel marker, such as Diesel Defender

3. Improve vehicle and machinery efficiency

Routine maintenance

• Check tyre pressures
• Clean or replace air filters
• Avoid unnecessary idling
• Service machinery on schedule

Operator best practice

• Use smooth acceleration
• Select the correct gear
• Avoid overloading
• Turn off engines during long waits

Potential savings: Studies suggest up to 15-20% reduction in fuel consumption through better operator behaviour alone.

Equipment and vehicles

• Upgrade where possible: Modern engines and machinery use advanced technology that significantly reduces consumption and operating costs
• Maintain existing assets: Regular servicing prevents excessive fuel use caused by worn or faulty parts

4. Operational process improvements

Optimise delivery scheduling

• Combine deliveries across multiple sites
• Use planned deliveries to avoid last-minute callouts
• Only order what you need to avoid overbilling or repeat visits

Streamline routes

• Use software or apps to map the most efficient journeys
• Reduce cold starts and unnecessary travel
• Use appropriate vehicles for route length and load

Group fuel-intensive tasks

• Limit repeated engine warm-ups
• Use machinery for longer, steadier periods instead of short bursts

5. Use technology for smarter fuel management

Telemetry (remote tank monitoring)

Telemetry automatically measures fuel levels and sends data to a remote dashboard or device, giving you real-time visibility of your tank.

Benefits:

• Prevents fuel shortages
• Reduces emergency deliveries
• Improves usage visibility
• Detects leaks or theft early

Fuel management systems

• Track fuel consumption through your supplier
• Improve accountability
• Reduce waste
• Provide accurate audit trails

6. Switch to cleaner fuels (e.g. HVO)

While this guide focuses on efficiency, switching fuels can deliver immediate carbon and productivity gains.

Why HVO boosts efficiency

• Burns cleaner → reduced engine wear
• Superior storage stability → less degradation, fewer tank issues over time
• Improved cold flow → fewer winter fuel problems
• Up to 90% lower net CO₂ → meet your environmental targets

Use our carbon calculator to see your potential savings.