Gasoline is a volatile and corrosive substance, but there are some really good plastic gas cans available that are perfectly safe to use. As a matter of fact, most gas cans are plastic. However, you need a container that is specifically designed and labeled for gasoline. Don’t use anything like a gallon milk jug, for example, which is totally unsafe.
Steel gas cans tend to rust on the inside due to condensation and may contaminate the gas, so make sure you check the inside of a steel gas can regularly when it’s empty. Many vehicle gas tanks are made of heavy plastic.
But let’s take a closer look at gasoline containers’ safety:
Yes, gasoline containers are safe, provided that they are well taken care of.
Gas containers can become a safety hazard when they’re improperly stored or filled. If they have gas or vapor leaks, they can ignite and cause an explosion. This could cause anything from severe burns to expensive car or garage repair bills, depending on how and where the accident happened.
Steel gas cans tend to rust on the inside due to condensation and may contaminate the gas, so make sure you check the inside of a steel gas can regularly when it’s empty.
– Richard McCuistian, ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician
Filling a gas container isn’t as simple as filling a water bottle. Spills, for example, can have hazardous consequences. Follow these steps to ensure an efficient top-up.
Here are some tips to reduce the likelihood of leaks, spills, and other accidents while topping up a gas container.
Once your gasoline containers are filled and ready to go, it’s time to load them onto your vehicle.
When storing containers filled with any liquid, it’s important to keep them upright in either your truck bed or your trunk depending on which storage compartment your vehicle has. This way, it will be less likely to spill or leak from the lid.
Before loading the container inside your vehicle, make sure the lid is properly sealed. Store it someplace away from heat and direct sunlight to prevent the gasoline vapors from expanding.
If you want to dispose of old or contaminated gasoline in your vehicle, you’ll need to siphon it and store it in a gasoline container. You can’t pour gasoline down a drain, pour it on the ground, or throw it into a trash can. Instead, you must bring it to a facility capable of disposing of it. If it’s a lot of gas, be prepared to pay about $10 a gallon to have it disposed of.
The exact nature and location of these disposal facilities vary depending on where you live. Keep a sharp eye out for community programs in your area dedicated to disposing of hazardous waste.
Here are some commonly asked questions about gasoline containers.
If the gas container is left someplace hot, the vapors inside it expand. Metal gasoline containers are less likely to expand.
Containers for gasoline are usually made of thick metal or high-density polyethylene (HDPE). This is because gasoline tends to corrode less durable materials.
Gasoline can typically be stored in a sealed container for up to six months without significant degradation. Just make sure to keep it someplace clean, sealed, dry, and away from sunlight and heat.
Yes, gasoline takes the shape of its container because it’s liquid.
Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.