Always keep a spare fuel container with you full of fuel a minimum of 1 gallon and the max should probably be 5 gallons. Use fuel once a month and refill with fresh gasoline so you don't create bad gas (pun intended) keeping spare fuel will save you or family and friends from being stuck in a bad place. Especially all who are traveling for a solar eclipse. If you're into that sort of thing.
Keeping spare fuel around is always a good idea. It has multiple uses especially in an emergency. For example, let's say you are at a camp site with family and friends and unfortunately the campfire wood is a bit damp a little bit of fuel helps start a fire much easier. (Be extremely careful as I'm sure you already know fuel is extremely flammable, obviously since you are using it as a ignition source.) but honestly there are some things you may not know like the U.S. Department of Energy has set the maximum shelf life for gasoline at six months when stored properly. This doesn’t mean your gas will go bad after six months. Most experts agree that as long as fuel is kept fresh and free of contaminants, it can last up to three years. Also, Gasoline can be stored for up to 6 months without significant loss to its combustibility. If you want to extend the shelf life to a year, consider adding a fuel stabilizer to the gasoline before storage. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
Proper Storage: Store gasoline in a plastic or metallic sealed container to prevent contact with moisture. Moisture can lead to contamination and affect the fuel’s quality.
Ethanol-Blended Gas: Most gasoline sold in the U.S. contains ethanol (usually E10 gas with 10% ethanol). Ethanol-blended gas has a shelf life of about 3 months due to its quick oxidation. Higher ethanol content (E15, E20, or E85) will expire sooner than E10 gas1.
Pure Gasoline: Gasoline without ethanol (pure gasoline) lasts at least 6 months when stored properly. Unlike ethanol-blended gas, pure gasoline is hydrophobic and doesn’t absorb water or humidity, minimizing contamination issues1.
Remember that gasoline can form a gum-like substance over time, which can clog up fuel lines and engines. While the U.S. Department of Energy sets the maximum shelf life at six months, with proper storage and free of contaminants, gasoline can last up to three years23. Dispose of expired gas safely and effectively when needed.
Storing fuel for more than a year? Have a generator or piece of equipment you don’t know the next time you will use it? Have no worries -STA-BIL Storage is a fuel stabilizer gasoline additive meant just for what you’re looking for. STA-BIL Storage keeps gas fresh for up to 24 months. This eliminates the need to drain fuel before storing your equipment and ensures quick easy starts the next time you go to fire it up. This product is highly effective in all gasoline, including ethanol and non-ethanol blended fuels. Whether using 87, 91, or 93 octane gas ethanol or non-ethanol blended gas still goes bad. This product is great for bulk gas storage in your gas tank or gas can, as well as collector cars, small engines, generators, and boats. Treat rate is 1oz to 2 ½ gallons of gas. If using with small engine equipment it is best to add STA-BIL Storage to your gas can. This way every piece of equipment you fill with that can is treated. Make sure to add STA-BIL while the gas is fresh. Best practice is to add STA-BIL when you are at the pump.
To sum it up gasoline is as helpful as it is dangerous, Gasoline, while serving as a valuable fuel for engines, can be dangerous if handled carelessly or used improperly. Gasoline-related burns are a preventable problem, often associated with misuse. Let’s explore some statistics:
Annual Estimates:
Gas Station Fires:
In the United States, more than 5,000 gas station fires are reported annually.
These fires result in 48 civilian injuries, 2 civilian deaths, and approximately $20 million in property damage2.
Static Electricity and Gas Pump Fires:
Static electricity can also lead to fires at gas stations. Over 150 refueling fires have been documented due to static electricity discharge3.
Remember, understanding the explosive nature of gasoline and practicing safe handling can help prevent these injuries and protect both people and property. Stay informed and take necessary precautions!
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