How Long Does Diesel Fuel Last In A Container?

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When kept in ideal conditions, diesel fuel has a shelf life of somewhere between six and twelve months. 

But, unfortunately, it has a shelf life of only twelve months, even in the best possible conditions, before it needs to be treated with fuel stabilizers and biocides to ensure that it will continue to exist.

How Long Does Diesel Fuel Last in a Plastic Container?

Diesel fuel stored in a plastic oil drum has a number of advantages, despite the short amount of time it may be kept and the possibility of degradation of the polyethylene plastic substance.

It rapidly deteriorates when diesel fuel comes into touch with certain metal alloys, such as zinc or copper. 

It’s possible to store diesel in metal barrels, but you’ll want to be sure the metal won’t react with the fuel. You won’t have this problem if you store your liquids in a plastic drum.

In addition to these advantages over metal containers, the fact that diesel fuel can be stored securely in plastic drums for up to six months is another reason why plastic drums are so often used for this purpose.

 

How long does Diesel fuel last in a Metal Container?

Keep your fuel in a plastic container that can be easily transported or a metal jerry can with a secure lid if you plan to keep it in your home. Make sure you buy one labeled as compatible with gasoline or diesel.

Diesel has a shelf life of six to twelve months before it becomes “gummy,” at which point it might clog filters and create engine problems if used.

 

Does it Last Longer in an Airtight Container?

When kept in an airtight container at a temperature of 20 degrees, diesel fuel has a shelf life of six months. 

In the event that temperatures continue to climb, that window of chance will be reduced to just three months. The normal shelf life of diesel is between six and twelve months, or until it begins to develop a “gummy” consistency.

 

Where Should You Keep the Container?

It is recommended that diesel fuel be kept in a ventilated, fireproof building and located far away from any potential ignition sources, such as a shed or garage. 

It is never a good idea to store it outside, not even when the temperatures are at their lowest. 

Keep it locked up since children should not have access to it under any circumstances because of how hazardous it is.

 

Types of Containers You Shouldn’t Keep Diesel in

Diesel gasoline in plastic drums will eventually degrade. Eventually, the diesel will react with the plastic polymers inside, even if the drum is made of HDPE. Leaks will develop when the material deteriorates. Diesel fuel can also deteriorate to the point that it is no longer usable.

It rapidly deteriorates when diesel fuel comes into touch with certain metal alloys, such as zinc or copper. It’s possible to store diesel in metal barrels, but you’ll want to be sure the metal won’t react with the fuel.

Because of this, many kinds of metal containers, including barrels, corrode with time. As a result, diesel’s quality could decline in storage owing to corrosion.

 

Final Thoughts on How Long Does Diesel Fuel Last In A Container

Diesel can be stored for up to twelve months if stored correctly at the correct temperature. It is not recommended to store diesel fuel in your home, so an outbuilding would be the best option for storing your diesel fuel. 

However, you should carefully consider what type of container you use for diesel fuel as it can have a reaction to certain metals and even plastic over time.

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