How to Maintain Diesel Particulate Filters and Make Them Last

How to Maintain Diesel Particulate Filters and Make Them Last

Diesel particulate filters (DPF) are an essential component of diesel engines as they help to reduce harmful emissions. Maintaining DPF ensures optimal performance and longevity. In this article, we will provide you with essential tips on maintaining your DPF and making it last.

What is a Diesel Particulate Filter?

A diesel particulate filter (DPF) is a device that is fitted to a diesel engine to help reduce the number of harmful emissions that are released into the atmosphere. The DPF works by trapping and removing harmful particulate matter from exhaust gases. However, over time, the DPF can become clogged, leading to a drop in engine performance.

Drive at High Speeds

Driving at high speeds is one of the best ways to clean your diesel particulate filter (DPF). When the engine operates at high speeds, the exhaust gas temperature increases, which can help burn off any trapped soot in the DPF. We recommend regularly driving at high speeds for at least 20-30 minutes to keep the DPF clean.

Running diesel truck

However, it's important to note that driving at high speeds is not always practical or feasible. If you are driving in an urban area with heavy traffic or short distances, driving at high speeds may not be possible. In these cases, there are other methods you can use to keep your DPF clean.

One alternative method is to perform a DPF regeneration. A DPF regeneration is a process that involves heating the DPF to a high temperature to burn off any trapped soot. This process can be performed by your vehicle's onboard computer system or manually by a professional mechanic. Performing a DPF regeneration can help to keep your DPF clean and functioning correctly.

It's also worth noting that driving at high speeds alone may not be enough to keep your DPF clean. If you drive at high speeds but still experience DPF blockages, there may be underlying issues with your vehicle's engine or fuel system. In these cases, having your vehicle inspected by a professional mechanic to identify and address any underlying issues is essential.

Regularly Check Engine Oil

Contaminated engine oil can clog the DPF and reduce effectiveness. Diesel engines can produce a high amount of soot, which can contaminate the engine oil. Therefore, it is essential to check and change the engine oil regularly. We recommend checking your engine oil every 5,000 miles or as advised by your vehicle manufacturer.

When checking your engine oil, it's vital to ensure that the oil level is within the recommended range and that it is free from contaminants. If the oil level is low, top it up to the recommended level. If the oil is contaminated or discoloured, it may be time to change the oil. We recommend using high-quality engine oil that is recommended for use with your vehicle.

Use High-Quality Fuel

Poor-quality fuel can increase the amount of soot produced by the engine, which can lead to DPF blockages. Therefore, it is recommended to use high-quality fuel to reduce the risk of DPF blockages. We recommend using fuel with a cetane rating of 50 or higher, as this can help to reduce soot production.

In addition to using high-quality fuel, it's crucial to ensure that the fuel system is functioning correctly. A malfunctioning fuel system can lead to incomplete combustion, increasing the amount of soot the engine produces. We recommend regularly inspecting your fuel system by a professional mechanic to ensure it is functioning correctly.

DPF

Regular DPF Cleaning

If your DPF becomes clogged, it is essential to have it cleaned by a professional. Regular DPF cleaning can ensure optimal performance and longevity. The frequency of cleaning depends on several factors, such as driving conditions, fuel quality, and vehicle usage. We recommend having your DPF cleaned at least once a year.

When cleaning your DPF, it's important to ensure it is performed correctly. Improper cleaning can damage the DPF and reduce its effectiveness. We recommend having your DPF cleaned by a professional facility who are experienced in cleaning DPFs.

DPF Back Pressure Sensor

Keeping an eye on diagnostic readings from the DPF back pressure sensor is an effective way to monitor the health of your diesel particulate filter. A back pressure sensor measures the pressure difference between the inlet and outlet of the DPF, which can indicate when the DPF needs cleaning or replacement.
If the back pressure sensor indicates that the DPF is reaching its maximum allowable pressure, it must be cleaned or replaced immediately. Ignoring this warning can lead to further engine damage, decreased performance, and increased emissions.

Additionally, the DPF back pressure sensor can help diagnose underlying engine or fuel system issues that may contribute to DPF blockages. By monitoring the pressure difference over time, a professional mechanic can identify and address any underlying issues, which can help prevent future DPF blockages.

Diesel Particulate Filter

Choosing the Right Supplier

When it comes to maintaining your diesel particulate filter, choosing a reputable and trustworthy supplier is essential. The right supplier can provide high-quality products, expert advice, and reliable service to ensure your DPF functions correctly.

When choosing a supplier, it’s important to look for a company with a proven track record of delivering high-quality products and services. The right supplier should have a wide selection of DPF, DOC filters, and other related products and knowledgeable staff who can provide expert advice and support.

With years of experience in the industry, DPF Canada is a leading supplier of aftermarket DPF’s and DOC’s. The company offers a wide range of high-quality products from leading brands and expert advice and support to help you maintain your DPF and keep your engine running smoothly.

In addition to providing high-quality products and expert advice, DPF Canada also offers reliable and convenient service. The company operates an online shopping platform, which allows you to search for your DPF or DOC part number, convert to USD or CAD currencies, and to quickly check stock on any listed part prior to purchasing. DPF Canada makes it easy to access the service and support you need, no matter where you are located.

Conclusion

Maintaining your DPF is crucial for the longevity and optimal performance of your diesel engine. Regular cleaning, high-quality fuel, and regular maintenance are essential to ensure that your DPF is functioning correctly. By following these tips, you can ensure that your DPF lasts longer and reduces harmful emissions.