What Fuel Does Reefer Trailer Use?
Reefer trailers, also known as refrigerated trucks, require two types of fuel for their operation.
Trailer fuel - which is used to power the refrigeration unit mounted on the trailer. This fuel is stored in a separate reefer tank located on the trailer itself.
Tractor fuel - which is used to power the truck that pulls the reefer trailer. This fuel is typically diesel fuel and is stored in a fuel tank attached
to the tractor.
The reefer unit consumes a significant amount of fuel, contributing to the overall fuel consumption of the truck and trailer combination. It is worth mentioning that the fuel used in the reefer unit is subject to fuel taxes, just like the fuel used in the truck engine. However, reefer diesel fuel often contains a dye that distinguishes it from
on-road diesel fuel, as it is primarily used in
off-road equipment.
The
amount of reefer fuel needed can vary depending on factors such as:
For instance, a reefer truck transporting perishable goods over a long distance may require larger gallons of fuel compared to a shorter trip. It is crucial for truck drivers and fleet managers to keep track of the fuel levels and ensure that both the tractor and reefer units are adequately fueled to prevent any disruptions in the transportation of temperature-sensitive goods.
When it comes to fuel efficiency, refrigerated trailers consume more fuel compared to regular trailers. The cooling system in these trailers needs fuel to work and keep the temperature at the right level. To power the cooling system, it uses electricity, which is produced by the trailer's engine.
On average, a refrigerated trailer can consume approximately 1 gallon of fuel per hour. However, this number can increase significantly in extreme climatic conditions or if the trailer is transporting a heavy load.
While refrigerated trailers do consume more fuel compared to regular trailers, their efficiency can be enhanced through proper maintenance and monitoring of various variables that affect fuel consumption.
