How to Choose the Right Fuel Filter

Choosing the right fuel filter is an important part of keeping a fueling system running properly. Fuel filters help remove contaminants such as dirt, dust, and water before they reach pumps, injectors, and other equipment.

But not every fuel filter is designed for every application. When choosing a filter, there are a few important things to consider.

Know Your Pump's Flow Rate

Start by determining how much fuel your pump moves. Pump volume is typically measured in gallons per minute (GPM).

Your filter needs to be rated for the flow rate of your pump. Using a filter that isn't designed to handle your system's flow can restrict fuel flow and affect performance.

Identify the Product Being Filtered

The type of fuel you're filtering is another important consideration. Different fuels can require different filtration options.

Common fuels include:

• Gasoline
• Diesel
• Biodiesel
• E10
• E85

Always make sure the filter you choose is compatible with the specific fuel being filtered.

Determine What You Need to Remove

Not every fuel filter removes the same contaminants. Consider what you're trying to remove from the fuel.

Particulate filters are designed to remove contaminants such as dirt and dust.

Hydrosorb filters remove both particulate and water, making them a good option when water contamination is a concern.

Alcohol monitoring can help detect phase separation in ethanol-blended fuels such as E10 and E15.

BadgerFilter Fuel Filters

BadgerFilter offers fuel filtration options for a variety of fueling applications. Choosing the right BadgerFilter starts with knowing your fuel type, required flow rate, and the contaminants you need to remove. BadgerFilter options can help provide particulate filtration and keep unwanted contaminants from reaching downstream equipment. When selecting a filter, be sure to check the filter's specifications and compatibility with your fueling system.

Cim-Tek Fuel Filter Options

Cim-Tek also offers several filter series designed for different fueling applications. Understanding the differences between the series can help narrow down your options.

Cim-Tek 200 Series

The 200 Series is typically rated as 18 GPM or less and is commonly used with pickup truck applications, 12-volt pumps, small-volume 115-volt pumps, and rotary hand pumps.

These filters are available in two options:

• Particulate
• Hydrosorb

Hydrosorb filters are available with either a drain or no drain. Thread sizes range from 1 inch to 1-3/8 inch 12 UNF.

Cim-Tek 300 Series

The 300 Series is commonly seen in service station applications and is rated at approximately 25 GPM.

Options include:

• Particulate
• Hydrosorb
• Alcohol Monitor

The alcohol monitor option uses a 1 inch 12 UNF thread with a ¾ inch inside diameter.

Cim-Tek 400 Series

The 400 Series is typically used with Gilbarco Advantage systems and is rated at 25 GPM.

It is available in:

• Particulate
• Hydrosrb
• Alcohol Monitor

The 400 Series uses a 1 ½ inch 16 UNF thread, also known as a 1 inch inside diameter.

Cim-Tek 800 Series

The 800 Series is commonly found in service station and truck stop setups. It is generally rated at 40 GPM, with options available across approximately 30 to 80 GPM depending on the filter.

Options include:

• Particulate
• Hydrosrb

The 800 Series uses a 1 ½ inch 16 UNF thread.

Choosing the Right Fuel Filter

With so many filter options available, choosing the right one starts with knowing your application.

Before selecting a filter, ask:

What is my pump's flow rate?

What type of fuel am I filtering?

What contaminants do I need to remove?

Do I need particulate filtration, water separation, or alcohol monitoring?

What filter series and connection size does my equipment require?

Once you know these details, you can narrow down your options and select a filter that is designed for your application.

Check out our video on how to choose the right Fuel Filter!

Need help finding the right fuel filter? JME has a variety of fuel filtration options for different fueling applications. Give us a call at 1 (800) 333-3331 or contact us. The JME team can help you understand what fuel filter you may need!