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Gasoline

What You Need to Know About Gasoline Storage

Gasoline is a highly flammable fuel made from crude oil. It’s refined through fractional distillation and delivered to gas stations via pipelines. In the U.S., stations typically sell three grades based on octane rating: regular, midgrade, and premium. Names like unleaded, super, or super-premium are just brand variations of these grades.

What Equipment Does Gasoline Fuel Power?

Gasoline’s main use is as fuel for spark-ignited internal combustion engines, particularly in vehicles. It is most commonly used in:

  • Vehicles: cars, SUVs, trucks, motorcycles
  • Recreational equipment: boats, ATVs, small aircraft
  • Emergency gear: portable generators, compressors, pressure washers
  • Tools for work and home: chainsaws, blowers, lawnmowers, and other landscaping or construction equipment

Ethanol-Blended vs. Ethanol-Free

Ethanol-blended

Many gas stations sell ethanol-blended gasoline (like E10). It is a renewable fuel produced from plant-based materials like corn or sugar cane through a process of fermentation and distillation. Though it has some benefits, ethanol can absorb moisture and may degrade faster in storage.

Ethanol-free

When available, ethanol-free gasoline is often preferred for longer-term storage, small engines, and backup generators because it prevents moisture absorption and phase separation, avoids carburetor gumming and corrosion, and has a longer shelf life for storage.

Reasons to Store Gasoline for Emergency Preparedness

Is gasoline Storage for you?

If you rely on a portable gasoline-fueled generator for emergency power, keeping a small, well-managed supply on hand can help you get through short-term outages. It can also fuel your vehicle for evacuation or supply runs, or power tools for cleanup and recovery.

While powerful, gasoline is a volatile fuel. Learn more about storing gasoline safely.

PROS
  • Easy to find at nearly every station.
  • One fuel can power both vehicles and small engines.
  • Works well for short-term generators use.
CONS
  • Highly flammable and must be stored and handled with great care - see storage requirements for more information.
  • Has a short shelf life - degrades relatively quickly, (3–12 months depending on stabilizers).
  • Can form gum or varnish that clogs carburetors and injectors in small engines if old.
  • Ethanol-blend gasoline can absorb moisture and may separate over time in storage.
  • Local laws often restrict large above-ground storage - verify that it is legal to store gasoline in your area.

TIP: Rotate your stored gasoline regularly so it stays fresh. Use older gasoline in your vehicle or small engines during normal use, then refill your storage containers with fresh fuel. If your area uses different seasonal blends, consider rotating before winter so you aren’t storing old seasonal gasoline.

Storage Containers
  • Use approved red containers labeled for gasoline (yellow is for diesel).
  • Ensure containers have an airtight, secure cap to reduce evaporation, limit fumes, and prevent spills.
  • Choose containers with pour spouts and venting for safe fueling.
  • If using plastic containers, make sure they are made of durable, fuel-rated HDPE designed to resist hydrocarbon permeation.
  • Metal fuel cans are also an option; an approved interior coating can help protect against corrosion.
  • Never use improvised or food/drink containers for gasoline.
  • Regularly inspect cans for cracks, bulging, rust, or leaks and replace damaged containers immediately.
Storage Conditions
  • Store gasoline outside of living spaces - garage, shed, or outbuilding - not inside your home.
  • Keep containers in a cool, dark, dry location away from direct sunlight and heat.
  • Avoid temperature swings that increase pressure inside containers.
  • Maintain at least 50 feet of distance from ignition sources such as furnaces, water heaters, pilot lights, heaters, and open flames.
  • Ensure ventilation to prevent fume buildup.
  • Label all containers with “Gasoline” and the fill date so there’s no confusion with diesel or other liquids.
  • Store gasoline out of reach of children and pets.
  • Keep an ABC fire extinguisher nearby and train household members to use it.
Simple Rotation Strategy
  • Label containers with “Gasoline” and the fill date.
  • Use the oldest gasoline first in vehicles or small engines during normal use.
  • Refill containers with fresh gasoline and update the date.
  • Rotate untreated fuel every 3–6 months; stabilized fuel every 6–12 months.
  • Because gasoline degrades and can form varnish and deposits, it’s better to rotate consistently rather than push the limits of shelf life.
  • If your region uses different seasonal blends, consider rotating before winter so your stored fuel matches current conditions.
Shelf-Life

Gasoline doesn’t store well over long periods, especially without stabilizers.

  • Untreated gasoline: 3-6 months
  • With stabilizer: 6-12 months
  • Signs of bad fuel: sour or varnish-like odor, dark/cloudy appearance, particles, rust, or visible water separation.
  • Disposal: Contact local waste management for safe disposal. Never dump gasoline on the ground, in drains, or trash.

Equipment That Uses Gasoline

Would you like to use gasoline as backup fuel? Learn more about gasoline-compatible equipment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Learn more about using gasoline as emergency fuel.

  • Gasoline can typically be stored for 3 to 6 months. With a fuel stabilizer, this can be extended, but rotation is still necessary. Diesel lasts longer—about 6 to 12 months under similar conditions.

  • Gasoline degrades over time, even with stabilizers. Regular rotation—such as adding old fuel to your car and replacing it with fresh fuel—helps ensure stored gasoline remains usable when needed.

  • Use containers specifically designed for gasoline—typically red cans made of durable HDPE plastic or metal. They should have airtight seals, controlled pour spouts, and safety venting features.

  • Gasoline should be stored in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated area, away from living spaces and at least 50 feet from any ignition source. Never store it inside your home.

  • Many cities restrict above-ground gasoline storage in larger quantities. Check local laws and regulations before storing gasoline at home to ensure compliance and safety.