Having a generator for backup power is great for keeping the lights on during power outages. However, you need to have enough stored gas on hand to run the generator for extended periods of time. Running out of gas mid-outage can leave you in the dark. So how much gas should you have stored for your generator? Here are some quick answers:
– Store at least enough gas to run the generator for 24 hours at 50% capacity. This will provide enough fuel to get through a full day.
– For occasional long outages, store enough gas to run the generator for 3-5 days.
– In hurricane or natural disaster prone areas, store 7-14 days worth of fuel.
– Calculate gas needs based on generator size – a 5kW generator uses 0.5 gal/hr at 50% load.
– Store gasoline stabilizer with the gas to keep it fresh for up to 2 years. Rotate stored gas into your car every 6-12 months.
Storing the proper amount of gasoline for your generator takes some planning but ensures you have power when you need it most. Keep reading for more details on how much gas to store, proper storage methods, gas maintenance, and problems to avoid.
How Much Gasoline to Store for Your Generator
Determining how much gasoline you should store for your generator depends primarily on two factors:
– Size of your generator
– Runtime needed during an outage
Most homeowners need enough gasoline to run their generators for at least 24 hours in a typical outage. But longer runtimes may be needed if you experience frequent long storms or live in an area prone to multi-day outages.
Here are some guidelines on how much stored gas you should keep based on your generator size and typical outage length:
For Occasional Short Outages
If your area only sees occasional power outages lasting 6-12 hours at a time, target having enough gasoline to run the generator at 50% capacity for 24 hours. This will provide sufficient power for lights, appliances, charging electronics, and other necessities to get through the night and next day until power is restored.
Some gasoline runtime guidelines for short outages:
– 2,000-3,000 watt generator: 12-18 gallons of gas
– 3,500-5,000 watt generator: 18-25 gallons
– 6,500-8,000 watt generator: 25-35 gallons
These gasoline amounts give you a 24 hour runtime “cushion” in a typical outage scenario. Make sure to check your generator manual for actual gasoline consumption rates at 50% operating capacity.
For Frequent or Long Outages
If you experience frequent multi-day power outages in your area, have a larger gasoline storage amount on hand. For long outage preparedness, target having enough fuel to run the generator at 50% load for 3-5 days minimum.
Use these estimates for longer outages:
– 2,000-3,000 watt generator: 30-45 gallons
– 3,500-5,000 watt generator: 45-60 gallons
– 6,500-8,000 watt generator: 60-100+ gallons
Having 5 days worth of gasoline can provide sufficient electricity for lighting, refrigeration, and electronics during an extended power loss. Adjust your fuel storage upwards if you experience frequent hurricane-force weather or 10+ day winter storms.
Natural Disaster Prone Areas
In coastal regions or other areas prone to natural disasters like hurricanes, blizzards, tornadoes, and floods, it is smart to store even larger quantities of gasoline for your generator – ideally 7-14 days worth depending on your needs and generator size.
Even a powerful storm can knock out electricity for 1-2 weeks until utility teams can fully repair and restore downed power lines across a region. Having 2-3 weeks of generator run time will ensure you can weather the long outage. Size your gas storage accordingly.
Calculate Generator Gasoline Consumption
To most accurately estimate your gasoline needs, calculate the actual fuel consumption of your generator model when operating at 50% capacity for 1 hour. Most generator manuals provide gasoline consumption specs at various load levels.
For example, a 5,000 watt generator may consume around 0.5 gallons of gasoline per hour when operating at 50% load. You would need about 12 gallons stored to operate it for 24 hours straight.
Do the math based on your generator’s actual gasoline usage per hour and desired runtime. This will give you the most precise fuel storage number to target.
Gasoline Storage Location and Containers
Once you know approximately how much generator gasoline you need on hand, the next key question is where and how you should store it safely and effectively. There are several good options for safely housing your gasoline reserves:
Outdoor Shed
An outdoor shed, barn, or detached garage can make an ideal storage spot, providing the gasoline vapors vent to the exterior and don’t accumulate inside. Store the gasoline cans off concrete floors if possible.
Well-Ventilated Garage Bay
If you don’t have an outdoor shed, a garage bay that is isolated from living spaces but still has good exterior ventilation can work. The key is avoiding gasoline vapor buildup indoors where it can be accidentally ignited. Open windows provide necessary ventilation.
Secure Exterior Cabinet
Lockable, weather-resistant outdoor cabinets are made specifically for safely housing flammable liquids like gasoline outside the home. They are typically made of steel and allow for ventilation to dissipate fumes.
Basement or Interior Room
Storing your gasoline reserve inside in a basement, utility room, or closet is not recommended. Gasoline fumes can leak out of containers and concentrate in enclosed interior spaces, creating a major fire hazard. Outside or detached from living areas is best.
Gas Cans
Store your gasoline in specially designed fuel containers, not old food or drink containers that can leak. 5-gallon gasoline cans with self-venting spouts are very convenient and safe. Make sure any can you use is clearly labeled “Gasoline” to avoid accidents.
Red cans are ideal for gasoline versus yellow for diesel or other colors. Place cans on a tray or absorbent mat to contain any drips or leaks. Store cans upright.
Maintaining Your Gasoline Supply
To ensure your gasoline is ready to use when you need it, follow these maintenance tips:
Use Fuel Stabilizer
Treat all stored gasoline with a quality fuel stabilizer like STA-BIL to prevent oxidation and evaporation that degrades gas over time. Follow instructions on keeping the additive ratio correct. Stabilized gas can last 1-2 years when stored properly.
Rotate Gas Supply
Use your stored generator gasoline periodically and replace it with fresh fuel. Run your generator monthly and refill the tank with new gasoline. Pour any gasoline older than 1 year into your car fuel tank to use it up. Then replenish your generator supply.
Check for Leaks
Inspect cans occasionally for any signs of leaks, cracks, or damage that could cause gasoline to leak. Clean any fuel residues that accumulate on can exteriors to prevent corrosion. Fix or replace any compromised containers.
Control Environment
Avoid storing gasoline where it will experience large temperature swings. Keep cans out of direct sunlight and away from external heat sources. Stable conditions keep gasoline from degrading as quickly.
Label Cans
Always label cans clearly as “Gasoline” and include the date you added the fuel. This lets you know the age of the contents. Mark cans as “Empty” once used to prevent accidental misuse.
Gasoline Safety Tips
Gasoline requires safe handling practices to avoid fire hazards, health risks, environmental impact, and other dangers:
Use Proper Storage
Store gasoline securely in approved containers, away from ignition sources, living spaces, and environmentally sensitive areas like wells or groundwater. Vapors are flammable and toxic.
Prevent Static Electricity
Static electricity can ignite gasoline vapors, causing explosion hazards. Always ground containers when filling by resting on a bare concrete or earth surface, not in trucks or on trailers.
No Indoor Storage
Never store gasoline inside an attached garage or occupied building space. Vapors pose major health and fire risks if confined indoors and accidentally ignited by a pilot light, heater, electric spark, cigarette, etc.
Limit Quantity Stored
Only keep the necessary amount of gasoline needed for generator runtime. Excess quantities create unnecessary environmental and fire risks if spilled, leaked, or ignited in an accident.
Handle With Care
Take precautions when transferring gasoline to avoid spills, splashes, environmental contamination, and skin/eye contact which can cause irritation. Use funnels and spouts designed to prevent spills and vapor release.
Warning Signs of Gasoline Problems
Watch for these common signs that your stored gasoline may have quality issues that prevent optimal generator performance:
Clogged Fuel Lines/Filters
Gum, varnish, and other contaminants can plug up fuel lines and generator carburetor jets. Replace old gas if your generator has hard starting or runs rough.
Shorter Generator Runtime
As gasoline oxidizes and evaporates in storage, it loses energy density and gives shorter runtime per volume. Top off the tank more frequently if you notice faster burn rates.
Darker Fuel Color
Fresh gasoline has a light amber color. As it degrades, the color darkens to a brown, red or varnished appearance signaling oxidation issues.
Dirt or Debris
Floating particles or oily film on stored gasoline indicates contamination problems. Water or dirt can cause damage during generator operation.
Poor Fuel Economy
If your vehicles get worse gas mileage after using old stored gasoline, it likely has reduced octane and lubricating qualities. Replace the fuel.
Gas Can Rust/Corrosion
Rust spots or corrosion on gas can exteriors may mean there is also debris accumulation internally that can clog fuel lines. Rust also risks puncturing cans.
Rotten Egg Odor
A “rotten egg” stench indicates sulfur content in old gasoline. This can damage engine components. Drain cans completely if this odor is present.
Conclusion
Having an ample gasoline storage plan ensures your generator is ready for the next power outage. Follow these guidelines on quantity, storage methods, maintenance, and safety for optimal preparedness. With a proper fuel reserve and precautions, you can keep the lights on and maintain comfort even in prolonged emergencies when electricity is cut. Stay powered up and safe.
