Fuel evaporation is a common yet often overlooked issue. Like many other liquids, gasoline has a tendency to evaporate or, in other words, transition into a gaseous state. By reading this article, you’ll discover how gas evaporation occurs and how to prevent it from happening.
Does Gas Evaporate in Cold or Hot Weather?
Gas evaporates in cold weather but at a significantly lower rate compared to warmer weather. Higher temperatures increase the kinetic energy of the fuel molecules, making it easier for them to break free and be released into the atmosphere. This is harmful not only to your finances but to your health and the environment.
What Is the Gasoline Evaporation Rate?
Gasoline evaporates when exposed and does so very quickly, often within 3 to 24 hours. However, it depends on how much is exposed. A small amount of spilled gas can evaporate within 1 to 3 hours.
Tips for Preventing Gas Evaporation
Here is how you can prevent gas evaporation from happening to gas in your gas can, vehicle, or lawn equipment.
Store in a Cool, Shaded Area
Keep your gas cans out of direct sunlight and in a cool place. Additionally, park vehicles and store equipment in a garage or shaded area to reduce fuel evaporation.
Use Fuel Stabilizer
Add a fuel stabilizer to your gasoline. This solution of antioxidants and lubricants repels water and limits evaporation. Since it’s a preventative measure, it works best when added to new gasoline. Depending on the product you use, a stabilizer can lengthen gasoline’s shelf life to 1 to 3 years.
Put on a Cap
Ensure the gas can cap or the fuel cap on your vehicle and equipment is tightly closed after refueling. Even a small gap can allow fuel vapors to escape and introduce dust and debris. Inspect your cap for signs of wear and replace if necessary.
EZ-POUR® Has You Covered
With EZ-POUR®, you can keep your gas cans functioning properly and make filling up your vehicles and lawn equipment a breeze! Our base caps and solid base caps allow you to pour, store, and transport fuel easily and without worry. Plus, our spouts feature flexible nozzles, helping to prevent spillage while reaching even the most difficult engines.
Our replacement spout and vent kits have just what you need. Find EZ-POUR® products nearest you with our retail locator map, or shop online and have your order delivered right to your door! And, if you ever need assistance, our knowledgeable team is more than happy to help.