Marine diesel fuel often looks clean, but even a small amount of water in your tank lets bacteria, mould and yeast—known as diesel bug—take hold. These microbes grow where fuel meets water, forming slimy layers that clog filters, foul injectors and sap engine power. When your boat suffers from diesel bug, you face sudden breakdowns, expensive repairs and time spent out of the water. Prevent these headaches by using Diesel Bug Treatment NZ and Diesel Bug Additive NZ from Marine16.
Diesel Bug Treatment NZ is a powerful biocide designed to destroy harmful microbes before they damage your engine. Its advanced formula mixes evenly in diesel and in any water layer, reaching every corner of your tank. For routine protection, a single 100 ml dose treats up to 2 000 L of fuel at a preventive level (50 ppm). If you find heavy contamination, simply increase to 100 ml per 100 L (1 000 ppm) and watch filters clear. Available in sizes from 100 ml bottles to 25 L drums, Diesel Bug Treatment NZ adapts to vessels of all sizes, from small runabouts to large commercial workboats.
For long-term peace of mind, Diesel Bug Additive NZ remains active for over twelve months, even under extreme temperature swings. Organisations such as the RNLI, the Royal Marines, Sea Start and River Canal Rescue rely on this additive for its rapid action and reliable shelf life. Voted the top microbial control solution by Practical Boat Owner magazine, Diesel Bug Additive NZ saves you time and money by reducing the need for frequent treatments, keeping fuel clean and engines running smoothly.
Using both products is straightforward and safe. Measure the correct dose for your tank, pour directly into the diesel, then run the engine for at least five minutes to ensure full mixing. There is no risk of engine damage if you add a little extra, so when in doubt, err on the high side. Regular dosing prevents filter blockages, maintains injector performance and lowers maintenance costs over time.
Stopping diesel bug starts with removing the water bugs need to grow. Inspect your tank every six months and drain any accumulated water. If your tank lacks a drain plug, Marine16’s Diesel Dipper® tool makes water removal quick and easy without hauling your boat out of the water. Keeping your fuel dry is your first and most effective defense against contamination.
For a complete fuel care regimen, combine Diesel Bug Treatment NZ with Marine16’s Diesel Fuel Complete. This all-in-one formula cleans injectors, stabilises stored fuel against oxidation and prevents future microbial growth. For total system protection, choose the KILL-CLEAN-PROTECT pack, which bundles Diesel Bug Treatment NZ, Diesel Injector Cleaner and Diesel Fuel Complete in one convenient kit.
Every batch of Diesel Bug Treatment NZ and Diesel Bug Additive NZ meets New Zealand’s strict environmental and safety standards. Marine16 performs rigorous quality testing and provides local technical support, so you can be confident that your fuel care plan is both compliant and effective. With these trusted products, your vessel spends more time on the water and less time in the yard.
Maintain a healthy fuel system by following a simple routine: inspect and drain water every six months, add Diesel Bug Treatment NZ or Diesel Bug Additive NZ based on tank volume, run the engine briefly to mix and repeat at each service interval. Consistent use preserves engine life, boosts reliability and ensures uninterrupted voyages.
Don’t wait for a blocked filter or stalled engine to spoil your plans. Contact Marine16 today to order Diesel Bug Treatment NZ or Diesel Bug Additive NZ, and sail with confidence on bug-free fuel.