Metal Vs Plastic Containers: What's The Better Way To Store Gas?

Many people have a container of gas at home, in the garage, or inside a garden shed. Often it's for a lawn mower or other garden machinery, a generator, or maybe just as a backup in case the car runs short. Some people even use gasoline to kill weeds, although you should think twice about that.

Having a safe way to transport and store your gas is absolutely vital. Small spills and even leaking vapor are serious fire hazards (they are also one of the reasons your garage smells like gas). However, there are both metal and plastic containers that comply with the relevant safety standards, so which is the better way to store your gas? Both materials have their advantages and disadvantages, and what you use your gas for will have a big impact on your choice. Plastic is cheaper and lighter, while metal is better at resisting damage, heat, and cold. Either way, you should always use a container specifically designed for this purpose. Further, it should be clearly marked by either the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) or the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) label.

Gasoline is quite a volatile liquid, and as well as the obvious flammability, you may have noticed gas cans swell or shrink. Approved models, both plastic and metal, are designed to cope with this and remain safe. Plastic gas cans are more affordable than metal ones, and the weight difference can be considerable. However, metal is stronger and is more likely to survive if it is accidentally dropped or struck by something.

Although certain chemicals can attack plastics, the big enemy of metal is rust. It's quite common to see patches on older steel gas cans, and eventually it could eat right through. To prevent this, or at least delay it as long as possible, basic models have a durable powder coating. Galvanized steel provides even greater protection. Metal cans are also less affected by extremes of heat and cold.

So, how the container will be used has a major impact on whether metal or plastic is best. If it only goes to and from the gas station, the garage, and the backyard, then an approved plastic can is safe, and it will save you money. If you regularly throw it in the back of the truck and drive out to the jobsite, a metal gas can is better as it can survive in a tough environment.