Mercedes Mullins
When you're in a hurry, it can be tempting to keep your engine running while you pump fuel. However, this is illegal in many places, and for good reason. Gasoline is highly flammable, and while it's hard to ignite in liquid form, it can spark in a vapour state. When you start pumping gas, vapours are emitted, and with the engine running, a large amount of heat and electricity are produced. As a result, the vapours can ignite, causing a flash fire. While the risk of a massive fire is relatively small, it's not worth taking the chance, especially as gas stations are public places with other people and cars nearby.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Possibility | Yes, it is possible to pump fuel with the car turned on |
| Safety | It is generally unsafe due to the risk of flash fires |
| Legality | It is illegal in many places |
| Engine type | The risk is higher for gasoline engines than for diesel engines |
| Climate | The risk is higher in cooler, drier weather |
| Other risk factors | Smoking, using a phone, re-entering the vehicle |
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What You'll Learn
The dangers of static electricity when pumping fuel
Static electricity is a real danger when pumping fuel. While it is rare, it can ignite gasoline vapors at the pump. This is because static electricity can cause sparks, which can then ignite the gasoline vapors. Bob Renkes, executive vice-president at the Petroleum Equipment Institute, explains that there are seven or eight times when a person refueling a vehicle can dissipate their static electricity, and all it takes is one spark to cause a fire.
The real risk, according to Renkes, is for motorists who re-enter their vehicle once the refueling process has begun. This is because a person who re-enters a vehicle can acquire a static charge of thousands of volts, caused by friction between two electrically dissimilar materials, such as clothing and seat upholstery. If this charge is not discharged through the person's shoes or by touching a piece of metal, it can jump from their hand to the nozzle, igniting the gas vapors and starting a fire.
To avoid this danger, it is recommended that people do not re-enter their vehicles during refueling. If they must, they should touch a piece of metal away from the filling port before touching the nozzle. It is also a good idea to stop using your phone while pumping gas, as it can be a source of electrical charges and start a fire.
While the likelihood of a fire caused by static electricity is very low, it is still important to take precautions to ensure safety when refueling a vehicle.
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The risks of leaving your engine running while pumping fuel
Leaving your engine running while pumping fuel can be dangerous and is highly discouraged in most states. Here are some risks associated with this practice:
Fire Hazards
The primary risk of leaving your engine running while pumping fuel is the potential for a fire or explosion. Gasoline vapors are highly combustible and can ignite when they come into contact with heat or electricity. While modern vehicles have safety features to mitigate this risk, there is still a chance of a flash fire occurring if gasoline vapors are exposed to an ignition source, such as a spark or open flame.
Health Hazards
Running engines produce a large amount of heat and electricity, which can increase the emission of harmful gas vapors during refueling. These vapors can contain toxic fumes, which are hazardous to human health. Inhaling these fumes can cause serious health issues, especially for children or individuals with respiratory conditions.
Environmental Impact
The release of gasoline vapors into the atmosphere during refueling can also have a negative impact on the environment. Modern cars are equipped with onboard refueling vapor recovery (ORVR) systems, which help to capture and contain these vapors, reducing their release into the atmosphere. However, leaving your engine running may interfere with the proper functioning of these systems, leading to increased emissions and a higher environmental impact.
Legal Consequences
In many states and countries, it is illegal to refuel a vehicle with a running engine. Regulations, such as the International Fire Code, prohibit the practice to prevent accidents and reduce fire hazards. Failing to comply with these regulations can result in legal consequences, including fines or other penalties.
Vehicle Damage
Leaving your engine running while pumping fuel can also potentially damage your vehicle. Overfilling your gas tank can lead to issues such as damaging the charcoal canister and increasing harmful emissions. Additionally, if your car has faulty spark plugs, the unburnt fuel can make its way into the catalytic converter, causing it to overheat and break down over time.
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How to avoid fires when pumping fuel
Pumping fuel is a highly sensitive process that requires utmost care and caution. Fire accidents at the gas pump are often caused by easily avoidable mistakes committed by the driver while fuelling. Here are some ways to avoid fires when pumping fuel:
Turn off the engine
It is recommended to turn off the engine while fuelling. Although the likelihood of a fire occurring while fuelling with the engine on is very low, it is still illegal in many places. Running engines produce a large amount of heat and electricity, and when gas vapours come into contact with them, they can ignite and cause a flash fire.
Avoid smoking
Smoking near a gas pump is extremely dangerous and can lead to flash fires. Make sure no one is smoking in the gas station to minimise the risk of fire.
Discharge static electricity
Static electricity is a common cause of gas pump fires. To avoid this, discharge any static electricity buildup by touching a metal part of your vehicle or the gas pump before fuelling. This is especially important if you need to re-enter your vehicle during fuelling.
Avoid using electronic devices
Cell phone batteries can explode and create static electricity, which can cause a fire. It is best to avoid using any electronic devices, including phones and music players, while pumping fuel.
Be cautious when filling portable containers
When filling a portable gasoline container, always place it on the ground and keep the pump nozzle in contact with the container. Do not fill containers inside a vehicle, in the trunk, or on the bed of a pickup, as static electricity can build up and create a spark.
Avoid overfilling
Do not try to top off your fuel tank after it automatically shuts off. Overfilling can cause gasoline to spill and increase the risk of a fire.
Be aware of your surroundings
Always be fully present and aware of your surroundings while pumping fuel. Small mistakes, such as a loose nozzle or spilling fuel, can lead to dangerous flash fires.
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The legality of pumping fuel with your engine running
The act of pumping fuel with the engine running is a safety hazard and is illegal in many places. In the United States, it is illegal in most states, including California, which has regulations stating that "no internal combustion engine fuel tank shall be refilled with a flammable liquid while the engine is running."
The primary risk of pumping fuel with the engine running is the potential for a flash fire to occur. Gasoline is a highly flammable substance, and while it is challenging to ignite in liquid form, it can spark in a vaporous state at temperatures as low as --9.4 degrees Fahrenheit. Gas vapors are emitted as soon as the pump is engaged, and with the engine running, a significant amount of heat and electricity are produced. Consequently, when gas vapors come into contact with heat or electricity, they can ignite, leading to a flash fire.
To mitigate the risk of flash fires at gas stations, it is recommended to turn off the engine before pumping fuel. Additionally, it is crucial to avoid smoking near the gas pump, as cigarettes increase the risk of flash fires. Other safety precautions include disconnecting any charging devices, avoiding the use of cell phones, and ensuring proper grounding to discharge any static electricity buildup before touching the pump.
While some argue that the risk of a fire is minimal, it is essential to consider the potential consequences. Gas stations are public places, and a fire could put other people and nearby vehicles at risk. Therefore, it is always safer to turn off the engine and follow the safety guidelines provided by the gas station to ensure a safe fueling experience.
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How to safely transport extra fuel
Transporting extra fuel in your car can be dangerous if not done properly. Here are some tips to ensure you do it safely:
Firstly, it is important to use the correct container for transporting fuel. Cheap plastic containers can be used for short distances, but for off-road, high-speed, or long-distance travel, a more robust container is necessary. The most common solution for transporting extra fuel is a jerrycan, a five-gallon steel container developed by the German military during World War II. Jerrycans are robust, impermeable, and have a vast ecosystem of mounts and accessories available, making them a secure and versatile option. Modern jerrycans are also made from polyethylene (plastic), which is very strong but should still be regularly examined for damage on long trips.
When transporting jerrycans, it is important to secure them properly to prevent them from becoming dangerous projectiles in the event of a crash. They should be placed in dedicated jerrycan holders, preferably at the rear of the vehicle, or on a roof rack if that is not possible. However, placing heavy loads on the roof will raise the centre of gravity and adversely affect vehicle handling. Another option is to use a long-range fuel tank, which can add 40 gallons or more of fuel capacity to your vehicle and guarantee spill-free, safe, and convenient transportation of fuel. These tanks can be fitted with fuel lines and taps for mess-free fuel transfer.
It is also important to consider the safety hazards of transporting fuel. Fuel should never be stored in the cabin of the vehicle, as fumes can affect the occupants. Instead, store jerrycans in the tub or bed of the vehicle, away from potential ignition sources such as electrical items. When filling up your jerrycans, always do so with the container on the ground, and keep the nozzle in contact with the container to avoid static electricity ignition of fuel vapors. Only use red, approved gasoline containers, and ensure they have a flash-arresting screen at the outlet to prevent external ignition sources from igniting the gasoline.
Finally, be aware of the shelf life of gasoline, which is typically three to six months. After this time, it becomes less combustible and can separate, reducing its octane value and causing engine issues. Regularly check your fuel tanks for damage and leaks, especially when travelling in remote areas where you are relying on your fuel capacity.
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Frequently asked questions
No, it is not safe to pump fuel with your engine running. Gasoline is a highly flammable substance, and while it's hard to ignite in liquid form, it can spark up at -9.4 degrees Celsius in a vaporous state. Gas vapors are emitted as soon as you grab the pump and start refilling your tank. With the engine running, a large amount of heat and electricity are produced, and when gas vapors come into contact with heat or electricity, they ignite.
The main risk of pumping fuel with your engine running is the possibility of a flash fire. While the risk of a massive fire is relatively small, gas stations are public places, and you could put other people and cars nearby in danger. In addition, it is illegal in many places to pump gas with your vehicle running.
Before pumping fuel, make sure to turn off the engine and unplug any charging devices. If you need to go back inside while pumping gas, discharge any static electricity buildup by touching any metal part outside your vehicle. Do not smoke or use your phone while pumping gas, as these can also increase the risk of flash fires.
