How to Use a Gas Can

How to Clean a Gas Can

Before you fire up your food truck generator, you'll need to retrieve fuel in a clean gas can. If you haven't used the gas can recently, it's a good practice to remove any residue, dirt, or contaminants that may have accumulated over time.

To clean a gas can, you will need a bucket, mild detergent or dish soap, a long-handled brush or sponge, and clean water. Make sure the gas can is empty and all fuel has been used or properly disposed of. Also, always work in a well-ventilated area away from any open flames or sources of ignition. Here are some steps to follow when cleaning a gas can:

1. Remove the spout and cap: Most gas cans have removable spouts and caps. Take them off and set them aside for cleaning separately.

2. Rinse the gas can: Start by rinsing the gas can thoroughly with clean water to remove any loose debris or dirt.

3. Prepare the cleaning solution: Fill the bucket with warm water and add a small amount of mild detergent or dish soap. Mix it well to create a soapy solution.

4. Scrub the interior: Dip the long-handled brush or sponge into the soapy solution and scrub the interior of the gas can thoroughly. Pay special attention to the areas where fuel may have come into contact, such as the bottom and sides. Use a back-and-forth motion to dislodge any residue or build-up.

5. Clean the spout and cap: While the gas can is soaking, clean the spout and cap using the same soapy solution. Scrub them with a brush or sponge to remove any dirt or fuel residue. Rinse them well with clean water.

6. Rinse the gas can: Once you have scrubbed the interior and the spout and cap, rinse the gas can again with clean water. This will help remove any remaining soap residue.

7. Dry the gas can: After rinsing, allow the gas can to air dry completely. Make sure there is no standing water left inside before storing or using it again.

8. Reassemble and store: Once the gas can is dry, reattach the spout and cap. Ensure they are securely tightened. Store the gas can in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures.

How to Fill a Gas Can

If you fill up a gas can at the gas station, you may run into trouble with the automatic shut-off feature on the gas pump. This can occur if the gasoline splashes too much inside the can and the sensor on the pump is alerted that the can is full (even if it's not). You can avoid this frustration by taking your time and filling slowly.

Before filling, make sure you are using a gas can that is specifically designed for storing and transporting gasoline. Look for cans that are made of durable materials, such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE), and have a tight-sealing cap. Follow these steps to safely fill your gas can:

1. Position the Gas Can: Place the gas can on the ground, away from any sources of ignition, such as open flames or electrical equipment. Make sure the gas can is stable and won't tip over during the filling process. Never fill a gas can from the bed of a truck or from inside your vehicle.

2. Ground Yourself: Touch a metal part of your vehicle or any other grounded object to discharge any static electricity before touching the gas can or the gas pump.

3. Remove the Gas Can Cap: Open the gas can by unscrewing the cap or removing the spout, depending on the type of gas can you are using. Keep the cap or spout in a clean and safe place, away from the gasoline.

4. Insert the Nozzle: Insert the gas pump nozzle into the gas can's opening. Make sure it is securely inserted to prevent any leaks or spills.

5. Fill the Gas Can: Press the trigger on the gas pump nozzle to start the flow of gasoline into the can. Fill the gas can slowly and avoid overfilling. Leave some space at the top to allow for the expansion of the gasoline. Pay attention to any automatic shut-off mechanisms on the gas pump, which will stop the flow of gasoline when the can is full.

6. Close the Gas Can: Once the gas can is full, carefully remove the nozzle from the can. Close the gas can tightly by screwing the cap back on or reattaching the spout.

How to Store Gas Cans

Filled gas cans have the potential to become a fire hazard, so proper storage is imperative. Gasoline should be stored in containers that are specifically designed for storing flammable liquids. These containers should be made of a material that is resistant to corrosion and leakage, such as metal or high-density polyethylene (HDPE). It is also important to ensure that the container is properly labeled and stored away from any potential sources of ignition.

How Long Can Gas Be Stored?

On average, gasoline can be stored for about 3 to 6 months without any significant degradation. However, with the addition of fuel stabilizers, the shelf life of gasoline can be extended to up to 1 year. Fuel stabilizers are chemicals that help prevent the oxidation and breakdown of gasoline over time.

The degradation process can be accelerated by exposure to air, moisture, and heat. That's why it is crucial to store gasoline in a tightly sealed, approved container in a cool and dry place to minimize degradation. Regularly inspecting stored gasoline is also recommended. If gasoline appears discolored, has a foul odor, or contains sediment, it should not be used as it may have degraded and can cause damage to engines or equipment.

Where to Store Gas Cans?

Remember that gas is extremely flammable and expands with heat. When storing a can of gas, keep it somewhere cool, dry, and well-ventilated. Recommended storage locations include sheds, detached garages, and other outbuildings. Use a fire-proof safety cabinet to house your gas cans where they will be secure and out of harm's way.

Storing gas in a utility room, basement, or attached garage puts the entire business or house in danger if the fuel catches fire. These areas also often include a furnace and other electrical equipment that can serve as an ignition source.

Can Gas Cans Be Stored Outside?

Storing filled gas cans outdoors is generally not recommended unless housed in an outbuilding or shed. The location must be cool, dry, and shielded from direct sunlight.