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Stabilise, rotate and log every litre

Stored fuel only counts if it still works. Treat it, use the oldest first and keep a simple log so nothing sits past its date.

How

1. Add stabiliser to petrol when you fill the can, as Briggs & Stratton advises, then run each engine for a couple of minutes so treated fuel reaches the carburettor.
2. Write the fill date and treatment on every can with a paint pen.
3. Rotate: use the oldest can in vehicles, mowers or the generator, then refill and re-treat. Donaldson calls this 'turn and burn'.
4. Inspect diesel tanks for water and contamination, and use good filters (Donaldson). CISA notes bad fuel is often the leading cause of generator failures.
5. In cold climates plan anti-gel additives for stored diesel, as US health care fuel guidance suggests.
6. Set a reorder point well before you fall below your autonomy target, as that guidance recommends, rather than waiting for empty cans.
7. For engines stored more than 30 days, Champion advises draining the carburettor or running the engine dry.

Sources

1. Fuel recommendations for small engines. Briggs & Stratton, accessed 2026-11
2. Diesel fuel doesn't last forever. Donaldson Company, accessed 2026-11
3. Ten Steps of Resilient Power. US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), accessed 2026-11
4. Utility failure tip sheet: fuel. US HHS ASPR TRACIE, accessed 2026-11
5. Portable generator maintenance schedule and checklist. Champion Power Equipment, accessed 2026-11

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