The recent fuel crisis has led to many drivers panic buying diesel and petrol. Filling stations in several areas of the country have reported empty pumps or have been forced to enforce spending caps to manage their supply. Despite retailers and the government asking drivers only to buy what they need.
Some drivers have been filling cans in local petrol stations to stock up on their fuel and store at home. This means they have a supply ready. However, this could leave them with problems in the future. In this blog, we will discuss the expiry date of fuel and the recommended time until the fuel goes out of date or is no longer useful. So, if you’re looking to store fuel at home but are concerned about it being a waste of money, this blog will be useful!
Does Petrol Go Out Of Date?
Although petrol is made out of crude oil, buried for millions of years, petrol and diesel have a short life span. According to RAC, petrol has a shelf life span of around six months if stored in an appropriate sealed container at 20 degrees. However, if the fuel is kept at 30 degrees, it can last around three months as the more heat fuel is exposed to, the quicker it will expire.
If the container is not tightly sealed, it will not last long, and there’s a fire risk due to the flammable gas escaping. In contrast, diesel can remain useful for six to twelve months before becoming clumpy. This can clog up filters and cause issues with your engine.
Is It Safe To Drive With Old Fuel?
If used within six months, petrol and diesel will be safe; however, you should be prepared for any issues if stored longer. However, problems are more likely if you have less than half a tank. If you have a tank full of old fuel, especially diesel, you should have it drained by a local garage or an expert mobile service. If you feel as if your petrol of diesel has expired, it is recommended to top it up with fresh fuel from a petrol station.
Can Old Fuel Damage My Engine?
Old fuel can damage your engine; however, that depends on what type of fuel you use and how old it is. For example, if you use old petrol, you may experience poor starting and loss of performance. However, suppose the petrol has experienced oxidation. In that case, it could lead to deposits and other elements clogging up the internal mechanisms within your engine, which can cause serious damage. In addition, diesel decomposition can lead to blocked fuel filters and a blocked fuel injection system, which could result in expensive repairs.
Contact Us
Total Tanks are an online supplier of fuel, oil and water storage tanks for all installation requirements. Whatever fuel storage solution you need, we will have the correct tank to suit your needs and prevent your fuel from becoming a waste. Contact us today for any questions or queries you have!
