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Choose fuels by job and by how long they keep

Each fuel stores differently. Match fuel to equipment and to how long it must sit, so you do not end up with a stock that has gone stale.

How

1. Petrol (gasoline): Briggs & Stratton says it can start to deteriorate in as little as 30 days without treatment, and that stabilised fuel can be stored for up to 24 months. Use ethanol blends no higher than E10 in small engines, as that maker advises.
2. An Oak Ridge National Laboratory study found that sealed untreated petrol still met specification after 12 months, and two of three stabilisers improved oxidation stability. Storage results depend on sealing and temperature.
3. Diesel: Donaldson notes fuels can begin to oxidise in as little as 2 months, and that oxidation rates roughly double with each 10 C rise. Keep diesel cool, dry and treated for long storage.
4. Propane (LPG): it does not degrade in the cylinder, so it suits long storage, provided the cylinder and valve stay in good condition (Ferrellgas).
5. Wood: your own renewable fuel for heat and cooking (see the thermal module). Firewood processing is covered in continuity-13.
6. Spread risk. US health care fuel guidance suggests mixing fuel types or using dual-fuel generators to hedge against a shortage of one fuel.

Sources

1. Fuel recommendations for small engines. Briggs & Stratton, accessed 2026-11
2. Assessment of the effectiveness of three aftermarket gasoline fuel stabilizers. US DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (Oak Ridge National Laboratory), accessed 2026-11
3. Diesel fuel doesn't last forever. Donaldson Company, accessed 2026-11
4. Propane's shelf life makes it the envy of gasoline and diesel. Ferrellgas, accessed 2026-11
5. Utility failure tip sheet: fuel. US HHS ASPR TRACIE, accessed 2026-11

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