Did you know that more than 87 million adults partook in recreational boating in America in 2019?
Boat owners need to be aware of the different fuel types available to them and what is best for their boats.
Boat fuel can be confusing with all of the different types and options available. It’s important to know which type of fuel is best for your boat to keep it running smoothly.
But don’t worry. Keep reading because we’ve created a guide to help you understand octane levels and ethanol percentages so you can make the best decision for your boat.
Ethanol-Free Gasoline
Ethanol-free gasoline is the preferred fuel for boats. Ethanol can damage boat engines and other parts, so it’s best to avoid it if possible. If you can’t find ethanol-free gas, use the lowest ethanol blend you can find.
E10 Fuel
E10 fuel is a gas that contains up to 10% ethanol. This is the most common type of gas available, but it’s not ideal for boats. The ethanol can damage boat engines, so it’s best to avoid this fuel if possible.
E15 Fuel
E15 fuel is a gas that contains up to 15% ethanol. This fuel is even worse for boats than E10 fuel and should be avoided if at all possible. The ethanol can damage boat engines, so it’s best to use another type of fuel if possible.
Oil and Gas Mixtures
Oil and gas mixtures are commonly used in boat engines. The oil helps lubricate the engine, while the gas provides the fuel needed to power the engine. These mixtures come in different ratios, so be sure to use the correct mixture for your engine.
Diesel Fuel
Diesel fuel is a type of fuel that is made from petroleum. It’s commonly used in truck and car engines, but it can also be used in boat engines. Diesel fuel is less flammable than gasoline, so it’s a safer option for boats. Diesel fuel also has a higher energy density than gasoline, so it can provide more power for a given volume.
However, diesel engines tend to be less efficient than gasoline engines, so they typically consume more fuel. As a result, diesel-powered vehicles tend to have higher emissions than gasoline-powered vehicles.
Marine Gas Oil and Marine Diesel Oil
Marine gas oil and marine diesel oil are specially formulated to resist corrosion and wear in boat engines. These oils contain additives that help protect engine parts from damage, making them an ideal choice for boaters. While regular gasoline and diesel fuels can also be used in boat engines, they may not provide the same level of protection against wear and tear.
For this reason, many boaters prefer to use marine gas oil or marine diesel oil in their engines. These oils can help ensure that your boat engine runs smoothly and efficiently, regardless of the conditions.
If you don’t know how to drain a boat fuel tank, check out this guide.
Choose the Right Boat Fuel Tanks for You
Boat fuel type is one of the most important things you can focus on to keep your vessel in good condition. By understanding octane and ethanol levels and their effects on your boat, you can make sure that you are using the best fuel for your needs.
For more information about boat fueling, check out our blog for more tips like this.
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