So, you’ve got some gasoline on you, and you’re wondering to yourself, does gasoline freeze in a plastic container? We’re covering that question and a lot more today, so keep reading.
Gasoline can freeze in a plastic container if it is left in extremely cold temperatures. This is because gasoline is a liquid, and when it gets cold enough, the molecules in the liquid will slow down and start to form a solid. The freezing point of gasoline is -40 degrees Fahrenheit.
With the proper knowledge of how to store gasoline and what to do if your gas freezes, you’ll be much more prepared in cold weather.
Let’s dive in.
Does Gasoline Freeze in a Plastic Container?
Yes, gasoline can certainly freeze in a plastic container. Gasoline plastic containers do not prevent gas from cooling – they will not keep the gasoline warm.
The gasoline will freeze into a gel-like substance at -40 degrees Fahrenheit and continue to freeze until -60 degrees.
Now, there are a few things you need to know about how gas freezes before we get into how to store gasoline.
By the way, here’s how much kerosene to include with diesel.
How Does Gas Freeze?
Gas freezes into a gel-like substance, not an absolute solid. The way it freezes depends on the type of gas as well since there are often additives and mixtures in the gas that can make it a harder or softer gel substance.
Many oil refineries add up to 10% ethanol, for example, and ethanol certainly won’t freeze in average weather – its freezing point is -173.5°F.
Ethanol is an anti-freezing component, so depending on how much of that is in your gas, it can decrease its freezing point further.
If you’re worried that your gas might have frozen, pick it up and slosh it around. If you hear splashes, it’s good to use.
How to Store Gasoline Containers?
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, gasoline should be stored in containers that are approved by the American Society of Testing and Materials.
Gasoline containers should be made of metal or heavy–duty plastic and should have a capacity of no more than 5 gallons. The container should be kept in a cool, dry place, away from heat or open flames.
You should store gasoline in an airtight, sealed container. It will be optimal if the material is resistant to corrosion. Materials such as stainless steel or aluminum are great options. The container should be stored in a cool, dark place.
Of course, you’ll also want to store some gasoline in your vehicle. It’s reccomended not to store over 10 gallons of gas at a time, and it should be stored in a cool, dry place without sunlight. For most of us, this will be in the trunk of our vehicle.
If you’d like to know whether a little gas is okay to include in diesel, click here.
What to Do If You Have Frozen Gas?
If you have frozen gas in a container, you’ll definitely want to wait for it to thaw a little. If you’re near your home, you can store it in there for a little while until it makes a splashing noise when you shake it.
You’ll want to avoid very hot places like furnaces or stoves, as it is still highly flammable and could lead to an explosion.
If you aren’t near your home, you’ll want to make sure you have an anti-freeze on you. These will take several hours to fully effect, but it will get the job done.
You do not want to put any frozen gas in your engine as it will not make it to the engine in its gel form.
Does Gas Go Bad?
No, gas does not go bad. It is a hydrocarbon and will not spoil or rot like food. Gasoline will evaporate over time, however, so it is possible for gas to “go bad“ in the sense that it will no longer be effective as a fuel.
The evaporation process is accelerated by heat and exposure to air, so it is best to store gasoline in a cool, dark place.
Gas can also oxidize if it isn’t sealed in an airtight container. This will deteriorate the quality of the gas.
That’s why it’s so important to store gas properly, in a cool, dry place, with a self-sealed container.
With gas prices skyrocketing, you’ll also need pristine prepper finance – so in this guide, you’ll learn all about prepper finance.
Final Words
So, does gasoline freeze in a plastic container? Yes, gasoline does freeze at about -40 degrees Fahrenheit. You should properly store your gasoline to prevent this from happening.
This means that you store it in a cool dark place and in a container that is self-sealed – and a plus if it’s self-venting (Amazon link). You should also be sure to carry a bottle of anti-freeze (Amazon link) with you as a backup solution.
Do you have any questions or thoughts on the question – does gasoline freeze in a plastic container? If so, let us know in the comments. Happy prepping!
