When it comes to the world of DIY, Murphy’s Law will always hold true: If it can happen, it will. And for every project you take on, there are a hundred potential snags that could be easily avoided by taking the slightest bit of precaution.
Most people consider a gas can to be completely irrelevant. That is until it’s too late. But overflowing your lawnmower because a shoddy canister won’t provide optimal flow? Given the cost of gas these days, that little irrelevancy is ultimately going to put a dent in your wallet.
Let’s look at four of the best gas cans currently available on the market, and just what to look for when shopping around.
No-Spill 1405 2-1/2-Gallon Poly Gas Can Review
The spill-proof nozzle allows for up to 3 gallons per minute; which compared to other brands with only 1.5 gallons, makes it the fastest pouring nozzle on the market.
Even on-road vehicles and boats can be easily filled by a separate flexible spout extension, and the attached dust cover helps keep your spout clog-free.
RotopaX RX-2G Gasoline Pack Review
The sure seal gasket guarantees your spout will not leak or vibrate loose, and its three-layer molding makes RotopaX the only EPA and CARB compliant brand on the market.
The only downside is the lack of a self venting ability, which means that with any change in weather or altitude you’re going to have to manually vent it at least once a day. But this is a solid investment that will easily last you a lifetime, and well worth the cost.
SureCan – Gas Can with Rotating Spout – 5.0 Gallon Review
With a flow rate of two gallons per minute and internal venting, this is one of the fastest dispensing high gallon gas cans I’ve ever used.
It works well on both small-sized as well as larger vehicles (although the flow isn’t as quick with the latter) and is one of the more efficient EPA compliant models if you’re looking at larger projects.
Scepter ECO Jerry Can with Child Resistant Closures Review
Lightweight, EPA compliant and with internal venting, these cans, however, come with one drawback; the pour flow is drastically lengthier than many of its other counterparts.
Still, given both the price and other functionality, it’s a minor drawback in comparison.
Plastic Gas Can Buying Guide – How to find the best plastic gas can for your needs.
In comparison to metal canisters, plastic cans are not only a more affordable option but considerably easier to transport. And while it may seem metal is a natural choice for durability, new and innovative technologies from manufacturers are equally as enduring and rugged while still being green friendly and efficient.
So what are some factors to watch out for when choosing a plastic gas can?
Ease of use and Portability: If you’re taking a long road trip on your bike, there’s nothing more awkward than needing a third pair of hands to help refuel when you’re stranded in the wilderness.
And there’s nothing more awkward than buying a container and finding that it can’t be easily mounted. So you’re going to have to take some time and look at designs to see which vehicles your canister is best suited for. It’ll ultimately save you frustration in the end.
Durability: That $9.99 canister that holds up to 4 gallons? There’s a reason why it’s so cheap. The slightest impact, and it’ll split open like a cardboard milk carton.
The stronger the material, the better (polyethylene is always a wise choice); but other factors – no-spill nozzles, flow control options, and automatic locking – can help ensure a minimum of fuel waste.
Always be certain your brand is EPA and CARB compliant as well, high fume permeation is one of the most environmentally hazardous threats facing fuel storage today.
Price: You’ll find dependable 2 gallon gas canisters ranging from $17.99 to $24.99 and 5 gallon models ranging from $25.99 to $44.99 The more frequent your needs are, the more often you’re going to need cans and replacements; and the larger the vehicle, the greater the need for flexibility and optimization.
Shop around. Read reviews carefully and always take your own specifications into need over anyone else’s.
