FUEL SUPPLIES

I needed to fuel my vehicle today so I rotated my stored gas supplies by putting that in my vehicle and then refilling my supplies at the pump. This way my stored supplies will last longer and be usable if needed.

How much fuel do you need to store? That is something only you can decide. Why are you storing fuel, how many contaners do you have and can you safely store it?  How many days do you need to store it for? Power outage verses end of the world? If you have a generator, then how long will you need to run your generator and how much gas does it take to run it for that time? Do a test, run your generator for 4 hours, under a load, and see how much fuel is used.

If you are using your generoatr ofr your refrigerator and to charge cell phones, etc, then you might not need as much as you think. Refrigerators will keep cold for about 4 hours if you don't open the door, if you freezer is full, food should stay frozen for about 8 hours. So you can run the generator for the refrigerator about every 2 to 3 hours.

I tend to store about 20 to 30 gallons for the generators. It is a good idea to also use a fuel stabilizer when storing fuel for longer than 30 days. There are a few places on Oahu that sells fuel without ethanol, which is bad on hoses and carburetors and tends to last longer when stored.

Don't forget 2 cycle oil if needed for generators or other tools. 

Store gasoline in approved containers and well away from ignition sources and where children can't reach it. Add a fuel stabilizer as well.

Store the container:

• At least 50 ft. away from pilot lights and ignition sources such as the heat, sparks and flames from a water heater, space heater or furnace.
• On the floor in a place where children can't reach it.
• In a garage or shed rather than in the house, out of direct sunlight.
• On concrete, place a piece of plywood under the container.

When you buy gasoline to store for your generator, always add a fuel stabilizer right away. Stabilizers contain antioxidants and biocides to prevent compounds and microbial growth from forming on the gas.

You need to think about storage security. If your neighbors know you store gas and they can't get it at the gas pumps because the power is out, then they are coming to knock on your door. If you put some aside for that then that would be great. Help people out if you can.

I recommend getting an extra replacemnt spout or two for your fuel cans. The one that come with the cans have cracked on me several times. Here is a link to one that seems to be good. 

 

Remember,  a generator without gas is like a rifle without ammunition. 

 

Be Ready, Be Prepared!