| Type | Best For | Flow Rate | Power | Price | Pros/Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manual | Occasional small transfers | 2-5 GPM | Hand-operated | $50-$150 | ✔ Cheap, no power needed ✖ Slow, labor-intensive |
| 12V/24V DC Electric | Most common solution | 5-15 GPM | Vehicle battery | $150-$500 | ✔ Portable, good flow ✖ Requires charged battery |
| 110V/230V AC Electric | Stationary setups | 10-30 GPM | Wall outlet | $300-$800 | ✔ Powerful, consistent ✖ Not portable |
| Pneumatic | Hazardous locations | 8-20 GPM | Air compressor | $400-$1,200 | ✔ Explosion-proof ✖ Needs air supply |
Best Overall: Fill-Rite FR1212
Type: 12V DC Electric
Flow: 12 GPM (45 LPM)
Features: Thermal overload protection, 10' hose included
Price: $400-$550
Budget Pick: Tera Pump TRF-550
Type: Manual Rotary
Flow: 5 GPM
Features: Steel construction, 5' discharge hose
Price: $89
Industrial Grade: GPI GDM-30
Type: 115V AC Electric
Flow: 30 GPM
Features: Stainless steel, meter compatible
Price: $700-$900
Explosion-Proof: FLUX FLEXI-FLO EX
Type: 24V DC ATEX Certified
Flow: 8 GPM
Features: Safe for flammable environments
Price: $1,100-$1,500
A. Safety Features
✔ Grounding wire - Prevents static sparks
✔ Explosion-proof rating (ATEX/UL) if pumping in hazardous areas
✔ Auto shut-off to prevent overflows
B. Material Compatibility
Aluminum housing - Standard for diesel
Stainless steel - For biodiesel or corrosive additives
Viton® seals - Best resistance to diesel degradation
C. Viscosity Handling
Regular #2 diesel: ~3-5 cP (easy to pump)
Winter blend/WVO: Up to 50 cP (may need pre-heating)
Drum adapter kit - Secures pump to 2" bung opening
10-15' reinforced hose - Oil-resistant, kink-free
Filter/water separator - Protects engines from contaminants
Nozzle with auto-stop - EPA-compliant spill prevention
Always ground the drum before pumping
Replace filters every 50-100 hours of use
Store pumps vertically to prevent seal deformation
Use fuel stabilizer if storing diesel long-term
Pro Tip: For biodiesel (B20+), choose stainless steel pumps - aluminum can corrode from methanol content.
Need Help Choosing? Answer:
Where will you use it? (field, warehouse, etc.)
How often will you transfer diesel?
Need explosion-proof certification?
Preferred power source?
I'll recommend the perfect model for your needs.