You’ve invested in a versatile dual-fuel generator and you’re maintaining it like a pro. But there’s one more critical piece of the preparedness puzzle: fuel storage.
Using stale gasoline or a poorly maintained propane tank is a surefire way to have your generator sputter and fail during an emergency. Proper fuel storage is about safety, efficiency, and peace of mind.
Here’s your definitive guide to storing both gasoline and propane the right way.
Part 1: Storing Gasoline for Your Generator
Gasoline is volatile and begins to degrade surprisingly quickly. Here’s how to manage it.
- Use the Right Containers
Only use containers approved for gasoline. They are typically red and made of HDPE plastic with clear labeling.
Ensure the container has a tight-sealing cap to prevent evaporation and water contamination.
- Treat Your Fuel with a Stabilizer
Why? Modern ethanol-blended gasoline can begin to oxidize and form gum and varnish in as little as 30 days. This gunk clogs your carburetor jets and fuel lines.
How-To: Add a high-quality fuel stabilizer (like Sta-Bil) to fresh gasoline before you pour it into your storage container. Shake well to mix. This can extend the life of your gas to 12-24 months.
- Practice Fuel Rotation (The FIFO Method)
FIFO = First In, First Out. Use your oldest stored gasoline for your car or lawnmower, and replace it with a fresh, stabilized batch for your generator.
Label your containers with the date you purchased the fuel. This prevents the guesswork of how old your gas is.
- Ideal Storage Conditions
Location: Store in a well-ventilated, detached shed or garage away from your living space. Never store gasoline in your house or basement.
Environment: Keep containers in a cool, dry place, out of direct sunlight and away from any potential ignition sources (water heaters, furnaces).
The "Ready for Storage" Generator Procedure:
If you won't be using your generator for over 30 days, you have two choices:
Drain the Entire System: Run the generator until it stalls to use up all the fuel in the carburetor and tank. This is the best method for long-term storage.
Stabilize and Fill: If you prefer a "ready-to-go" tank, fill the tank with fresh, stabilized gasoline and run the generator for 5-10 minutes to ensure the treated fuel has circulated through the entire carburetor.
Part 2: Storing Propane Tanks for Your Generator
Propane is much more stable than gasoline, but the tanks require careful handling.
- Tank Inspection & Safety
Always inspect your propane tanks before connecting them. Look for dents, rust, or significant damage on the tank or valve.
Check the expiry date. Propane tanks have a date stamped on the collar (usually valid for 12 years). You'll need to get them re-certified after that.
- Safe Storage Location
Never store a propane tank indoors. This is an absolute rule. A leaking tank can fill an enclosed space with explosive gas.
Store tanks upright and off the ground in a well-ventilated, outdoor area like a shed or a shaded, secure spot on your patio.
Keep them away from high heat (grills, direct sunlight for extended periods) and flammable materials.
3. Managing Multiple Tanks
It’s wise to have at least one full backup tank ready to go. A standard 20-lb tank will run a typical mid-sized generator for about 10 hours at 50% load.
Label tanks as "FULL" or "EMPTY" to avoid confusion during a stressful power outage.
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