Fuel with No Ethanol: What You Need to Know

Ethanol-free fuel, commonly known as “pure gas,” has become a popular choice for many drivers, boaters, and equipment owners. But what is ethanol-free fuel, and why are so many people interested in it? This blog will walk you through the benefits, potential drawbacks, and practical considerations of using fuel with no ethanol. Let’s dive in!

What is Ethanol-Free Fuel?

Ethanol-free fuel is gasoline that doesn’t contain ethanol, a type of alcohol often blended with gasoline. Regular gasoline in the U.S. typically contains around 10% ethanol (E10) to reduce emissions. Ethanol is derived from renewable resources like corn, so it’s eco-friendly but isn’t always the best for certain engines or long-term storage.

Why Do Some Engines Need Fuel with No Ethanol?

Ethanol can be corrosive, attracting water and potentially causing issues in certain engines, especially small engines or engines used infrequently. Let’s look at who might benefit most from ethanol-free fuel.

Who Should Use Ethanol-Free Fuel?

Ethanol-free fuel is ideal for:

• Boats and Marine Engines: Ethanol attracts moisture, which can lead to water contamination in boat engines.
• Classic or Vintage Cars: Older vehicles may not have the modifications needed to handle ethanol fuel safely.
• Lawn Equipment and Small Engines: Ethanol-free gas prevents clogging and gumming in engines that sit idle for long periods.
• Off-Road and Recreational Vehicles: Snowmobiles, dirt bikes, ATVs, and similar vehicles benefit from ethanol-free gas due to the high-performance demands on these engines.

Advantages of Using Fuel with No Ethanol

1. Prevents Engine Corrosion

One of the main issues with ethanol is that it attracts moisture, leading to water contamination and corrosion in fuel systems. Ethanol-free fuel eliminates this risk, making it a safer choice for engines that aren’t run frequently.

2. Better Fuel Efficiency

Some people report improved fuel efficiency with ethanol-free gas. Ethanol contains less energy than gasoline, so ethanol-blended fuel (like E10) may slightly reduce miles per gallon (MPG). Using pure gas, you may get a bit more mileage out of each tank.

3. Longer Shelf Life

Ethanol-free fuel has a longer shelf life, making it ideal for vehicles or equipment that are stored for extended periods. Ethanol-blended fuel can degrade within a few months, whereas pure gas can last much longer, reducing maintenance needs.

4. Improved Performance for High-Performance Engines

In high-performance engines or older engines not made for ethanol blends, pure gas can help achieve peak performance.

Disadvantages of Using Ethanol-Free Fuel

1. Higher Cost

Ethanol-free gas usually costs more per gallon than regular E10 fuel. For daily drivers who fill up frequently, the additional cost might outweigh the benefits.

2. Limited Availability

Not all gas stations carry ethanol-free fuel, so finding a convenient location might be challenging depending on where you live.

3. Not Necessarily Eco-Friendly

Ethanol is added to fuel partly to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Using ethanol-free fuel might result in a slight increase in emissions, which could be a consideration for environmentally-conscious users.

How to Find Ethanol-Free Fuel Near You

• Use Apps and Websites: Tools like Pure-Gas.org help users find nearby stations with ethanol-free fuel.
• Ask Local Repair Shops: Mechanics, especially those specializing in boats or small engines, often know where to find ethanol-free fuel.
• Check Local Marinas: Marinas frequently sell ethanol-free gas for boats, making them a reliable option if you’re close to the water.

FAQs

What is the main difference between ethanol-free fuel and regular gasoline?

Regular gasoline typically contains around 10% ethanol, while ethanol-free fuel contains none. Ethanol-free fuel is ideal for small engines, vintage cars, boats, and any equipment that may suffer from ethanol-related issues.

Does ethanol-free gas go bad?

Ethanol-free fuel has a longer shelf life than ethanol-blended fuel, which is why it's commonly used for storage in seasonal equipment like lawnmowers and boats.

Is ethanol-free fuel better for my car?

If you drive a modern vehicle, regular gasoline is likely fine. Ethanol-free fuel is generally better for small engines, recreational vehicles, and classic cars that may be more sensitive to ethanol’s effects.

Why does ethanol-free gas cost more?

Ethanol is cheaper to produce than gasoline, so adding it to fuel brings down the price. Ethanol-free fuel lacks this subsidy, making it more expensive.

Where can I find ethanol-free gas near me?

Websites like Pure-Gas.org or local marinas are great places to start. You can also check with repair shops that specialize in small engines or boats.