Looking for "where to buy ethanol-free gas near me" is the real challenge.
Since 1908, ethanol has been a fuel source made from corn and was even used to power the first Model T.
In the past, it was also a component of moonshine whiskey. More recently, consumers have been requesting ethanol-free fuel, which may seem surprising given the prevalence of ethanol in gas stations today.
Before 2003, it was used as a fuel additive to oxygenate fuel. But most states banned it due to contamination and associated health and environmental risks.
Ethanol was then used as a replacement and has since become the primary fuel offered by public gas stations.
Due to various laws and regulations, such as the Renewable Fuel Standard Program, Energy Policy Act, Clean Air Act, and Alternative Motor Fuels Act.
Today, almost every gas station has gasoline blended with ethanol, with the percentage indicated by the E number.
For instance, E10 indicates a gas mixture containing 10% ethanol and 90% gas. This fuel blend is available at most gas stations, but locating gasoline free of ethanol is not easy.
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Contents
Top 6 Places to Buy Ethanol-Free Gas Near Me
1. Gas stations
Many gas stations carry ethanol-free gas. It may not be labeled as such. You can check with your local gas stations to see if they carry it.
2. Marine supply stores
Ethanol-free gas is commonly used for boats and marine equipment, so marine supply stores often carry it.
3. Home improvement stores
Some home improvement stores, such as Lowe's and Home Depot, carry ethanol-free gas for outdoor power equipment.
4. Online retailers
Some online retailers, such as Pure-Gas.org, provide a directory of gas stations that carry ethanol-free gas.
5. Airport FBOs
Airport fixed-base operators (FBOs) often carry ethanol-free gas for small airplanes.
6. Apps
Another option is to use Apps like GasBuddy and Pure Gas, which have a filter to find ethanol-free gas stations.
Issues Caused By Pumping Ethanol-Blended Fuel In a Car
As much as environmental enthusiasts are clamoring for ethanol-free gas, it can pose several issues to engines:
1. Decreased Fuel Efficiency
Ethanol-blended fuels can have a lower energy content than pure gasoline, resulting in decreased fuel efficiency and increased fuel costs.
2. Corrosion and Engine Damage
Ethanol can absorb water, leading to corrosion and rust in the fuel system, fuel lines, and engine.
For example, E10 gas, for instance, absorbs up to 50 times more water than standard gasoline.
To prevent alcohol and water-related engine problems, it is recommended that you replace the gas in your fuel tank every 2-3 weeks.
Additionally, ethanol can damage plastic and rubber components in the fuel system, leading to leaks. This can potentially cause serious problems for small engines.
3. Poor Engine Performance
Ethanol-blended fuels can cause poor engine performance, including difficulty starting, rough idling, and reduced acceleration.
4. Increased Emissions
Ethanol can increase emissions of certain pollutants, such as nitrogen oxides and particulate matter, contributing to air pollution and environmental damage.
5. Incompatibility With Older Vehicles
Ethanol-blended fuels may not be compatible with older vehicles, leading to fuel system damage and other issues.
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How You Can Avoid Damage From Gas That Contains Ethanol
Now that you understand the potential risks associated with ethanol-containing gasoline, here is how to avoid damage from this fuel:
Regular Refill Your Tank
Regularly refilling the gas tank helps prevent water from settling at the bottom of the tank and causing damage to the engine.
Use Additives
Another option is to use additives that can counteract the effects of ethanol in gasoline.
These additives help balance the fuel mixture by removing ethanol and cleaning your engine, improving fuel efficiency.
For example, HEET Gas-Line Antifreeze & Water Remover can displace water in the gas tank. Diesel Formula STA-BIL Fuel Stabilizer can also prevent water buildup in diesel engines.
Tips For Using E10 Gas
It is important to follow certain tips to ensure the smooth operation of engines and machinery using E10 gas.
- Firstly, do not let the gas sit in your tank for too long, as it has a shelf life of only 90 days.
- Replacing the gas in your tank every two to three weeks is recommended to avoid performance issues.
- Alternatively, use e-free gas for your small machinery like weed eaters if possible.
- Additionally, it is important to keep your equipment and engines well-tuned and replace worn plastic and rubber parts to avoid any potential hazards.
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Wrapping Up
Several options are available if you're looking to buy ethanol-free gas near you. You can use websites, mobile apps or inquire directly with gas stations in your area.
While ethanol fuel may not harm car engines, it may cause damage and expensive repairs to outdoor power equipment.
Ethanol-free gas is known to be better for certain types of small engines. However, using ethanol-free gas in small-engine outdoor power equipment like lawnmowers, chainsaws, trimmers, etc., is not recommended.
It's important to be mindful of the potential negative effects of ethanol-blended fuel.
Remember to keep your equipment well-maintained and replace worn parts as needed.
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