Diesel is still the predominate source of power when it comes to vehicles in Ireland and in cold weather particular attention needs to be paid to diesel filtration. 

When the temperature drops sharply, diesel is more prone to the formation of paraffins that can prematurely clog the diesel filter. Changing it regularly ensures that the fuel flows smoothly, even in very cold temperatures.

A clogged filter can mean increased fuel consumption and  damage to the engine. Signs that the filter is becoming clogged include: 

• Decreased vehicle performance and efficiency, such as loss of power or difficulty accelerating.
• Poor starting 
• Engine warning light 
• Increased fuel consumption 

Generally the diesel filter of a car or LCV should be serviced every 15,000 to 30,000 kilometres, or at least once a year. When choosing a replacement it is vital to choose a filter with high water separation capacity, such as those in the UFI Filters range. This vital in winter as water residue in the fuel can freeze, causing damage to the engine's injection system. High-quality UFI Filters are manufactured from specific materials:

• Polymer fibres in FormulaUFI.Extreme, such as the filters 60.H2O.00 or 26.052.00 for Stellantis applications.
• Cellulose coupled with synthetic fibres or glass in FormulaUFI.H2O, such as the filter 26.038.00 for the Volkswagen Group's most popular engine, the EA 288 EVO 1.6- and 2.0-litre units.
• To enhance the performance of FormulaUFI.Extreme, materials are often combined in different layers with hydrophobic barriers in the FormulaUFI.Stratiflex, like the filters of the 26.H2O filter family.

The UFI Filters Group has pioneered the development of high water separation filters in DFM deep filtration media with filters that are compatible with new-generation biodiesel.  Technological developments have also led to the integration of various functions within the filter. Modules supplied by UFI Filters as original equipment can be fitted with electronic sensors to monitor temperature and water presence, and with an electric heater to aid cold starts.

UFI Filters filtration systems, thanks to their original equipment know-how, are equipped with the most advanced materials that are resistant to 'bad fuel' and biodiesel, and are manufactured with the best raw materials and technologies. Buying a substandard product in order to save on price can lead to serious damage to the injection system, resulting in the risk of vehicle downtime, and the associated financial loss, especially for those who use the vehicle for work.

UFI diesel filters are available from stockist nationwide.