Ethanol fuel, or ethyl alcohol, is an alcohol additive that is commonly used in nearly all gasoline in the United States. This gas, composed of 90% gasoline and 10% Ethanol, is sometimes referred to as E10. Do not use any fuel containing greater than 10 percent ethanol (E10) in small engines. Most outdoor power equipment was not built, designed or warranted to run on fuel greater than E10, and using higher ethanol blends can damage or destroy it. 

What to buy...

E10 can be used in all current power equipment, however, we recommend using at least 91-octane E10 gasoline.

Storing Gas – Not so Simple!

Because today's gasoline contains ethanol, an alcohol, it absorbs water if exposed to air. In many cases, the operator is unaware that their gasoline has become contaminated with water, and unintentionally pours it into their unit.

Always vigorously shake the fuel mixture immediately before pouring. If you don't shake your mixture, you may unintentionally pour a damaging concentration of water into your unit.

Other ways to prevent absorption of water into gasoline include...

Purchase only enough fuel to last about 30 days. This helps assure that you are always using fresh gasoline.

In order to store the fuel with as little exposure to air as possible, avoid containers with vent caps. Look for containers that are air tight and that also provide tight seals around the cap. We recommend No-Spill brand fuel cans.

Fuel stabilizers can be helpful in extending the life of the product while also defending against the absorption of moisture. For maximum benefit, fuel stabilizers must be added to your gasoline at the time of purchase.

While using a stabilizer extends the life of the gas, fuel from the pump should never be stored for more than 90 days.

2-Cycle Fuel Notes

Using only premium, synthetic, ISO-EDG rated, two-stroke oil will help reduce the risk of engine failure and poor engine performance by helping to prevent the fuel from becoming stale.

Proper fuel mixing tips: Always mix the gasoline and oil in a clean container intended for fuel. Always start by filling half the amount of the gasoline to be used, add the entire amount of oil, mix (agitate) the fuel mixture, add the remaining amount of gasoline. Mix to the correct ratio as specified by the manufacturer. Only mix enough fuel that will be used within the next 30 days.

VP Pre-Mixed fuel 50:1 is readily available in many size containers. No ethanol. No measuring. No mixing. Ready to use.

Long-term Storage

Purchasing high-octane, ethanol free fuel and or ethanol free pre-mixed fuel is the best choice for storage of up to 2 years. You may also choose to drain the fuel tank and run the unit until it's dry.