Higher ethanol blends harm the environment, causing air pollution and reducing fuel efficiency. Many are switching to ethanol-free recreational fuel. REC-90 is an ethanol-free gasoline with a 90 octane rating, ideal for small engines and recreational vehicles.
You might be wondering, what is recreational fuel?
Recreational fuel is a special type of gasoline for recreational vehicles and equipment. Unlike regular gasoline, rec fuel is ethanol-free, which helps prevent engine problems and improves performance. It’s ideal for small engines such as outboard motors, jet skis, lawnmowers, snowblowers, chainsaws, generators, pumps, and other small engine equipment.
Many consumers prefer non-ethanol recreational fuel for boats, motorcycles, ATVs, and classic cars due to its enhanced performance.
This article explores rec fuel, its types, applications, pros and cons, and guidance on selecting the best fuel for your equipment.
What is Recreational Fuel?
Recreational fuel, or REC-90 gasoline, is an ethanol-free fuel optimized for vehicles like motorcycles and boats, as well as small engines in equipment such as lawn mowers and snowblowers.
With an octane rating of 90, REC-90 resists engine knocking better than regular unleaded gas. Unlike standard gasoline, which may contain ethanol, recreational gasoline is purified to eliminate ethanol, resulting in a clean 90-octane fuel suitable for outdoor power equipment.
Types of Recreational Fuel
Here are some common types of recreational fuel:
1. Ethanol-Free Gasoline
Ethanol-free gas is ideal for small engines in recreational vehicles like ATVs, motorcycles, and lawn mowers, as it prevents moisture attraction, corrosion, and engine damage.
2. High-Octane Racing Fuels
High-octane racing fuels are formulated for optimal performance in high-performance engines, including racing cars and motorcycles. With octane ratings often exceeding 100 (110 to 118 octane or higher), they can endure higher compression ratios and temperatures without detonation.
3. LPG or Propane
Avgas is a specialized form of recreational fuel used in piston-engine aircraft, available in grades like 100LL (low-lead).
Formulated for aviation engines, it ensures high reliability and consistent performance at different altitudes and temperatures while resisting vapor lock.
Additives in avgas prevent icing and corrosion, essential for aircraft safety and engine longevity.
Common Uses of Recreational Fuel in Different Engines
Whenever we hear about a new fuel, we often think about its uses. Since we are discussing recreational fuel, you might be wondering, what is recreational fuel used for?
” Recreational fuel is utilized for various purposes across different types of engines and equipment. Its ethanol-free composition makes it suitable for engines sensitive to ethanol and requiring consistent performance. Some marine engines, like outboard motors, jet skis, and boats use REC-90 because it helps avoid fuel system problems that can happen with ethanol blends. The primary reason for using non-ethanol REC-90 fuel in marine engines is its ability to prevent the buildup of deposits, which can lead to poor engine performance over time, especially with lower octane levels.
Small engines found in lawnmowers, snowblowers, and chainsaws also prefer recreational fuel for its clean-burning properties and minimal impact on engine components. Moreover, REC-90 has applications in off-road vehicles like ATVs, classic cars, and even certain types of aviation engines.
Benefits of Using Recreational Fuel
Ethanol-free fuel offers many advantages over regular gasoline. Here are some prominent benefits of using recreational fuel:
- Recreational fuel prevents moisture absorption and fuel system corrosion, which are common issues with ethanol-blended fuels.
- It reduces maintenance costs by lowering the risk of engine damage and corrosion.
- Non-ethanol REC-90 fuel burns cleaner than ethanol-blended fuels, making it an environmentally friendly fuel. Ethanol production involves higher energy consumption, which leads to increased carbon emissions.
- Recreational fuel has a longer shelf life because it doesn’t absorb moisture.
- It is the preferred choice for boat owners, as it reduces the risk of engine problems in water by preventing deposits from building up.
Cons of Using Recreational Fuel
REC-90 also has some disadvantages:
- Rec fuel is more expensive because it requires additional refining to remove ethanol.
- It is not readily available to customers.
- Rec fuel has a lower energy content than ethanol-blended gasoline.
How to Choose the Right Recreational Fuel for Your Equipment
Understanding octane is vital when selecting recreational fuel like REC-90. However, octane alone doesn’t guarantee the best choice; other factors are crucial.
Verify engine compatibility before choosing recreational fuel. It’s essential to opt for ethanol-free options, such as REC-90, to prevent issues associated with ethanol blends. Check local regulations for any specific ethanol-free fuel requirements. Consider the intended use of recreational gasoline to ensure proper application.
Ensure adequate supply of recreational fuel to avoid shortages. To find recreational fuel nearby, visit gas stations that offer ethanol-free options. Marinas in harbor or lakeside areas also provide access to pure gasoline.
In the United States, fuel stations offer three grades of fuel: regular, midgrade, and premium. Recreational fuel falls into the midgrade category. REC-90 gasoline is almost always more expensive per gallon than regular gasoline because it does not contain inexpensive oxygenates. The cost of REC-90 fuel varies from state to state and city to city. On average, the price of midgrade fuel (octane rating 89-90) is $3.970, which is slightly higher than the average price of regular fuel, which is $3.519.
Legal and Safety
It’s imperative to follow regulations for the safe storage and handling of recreational fuel to prevent accidents and environmental harm. Following fuel safety precaution is very important to reduce the risk of danger and lower the cost. Once you have the required quantity of recreational fuel delivered, keep it in a cool, dark place away from sunlight. Fill the storage container completely to minimize air exposure and also add a stabilizer to maintain fuel quality.
People also have several questions about using REC-90 fuel in a car, such as can I put recreational fuel in my car? Or, what happens if I accidentally put non-ethanol gas in my car?
” As far as the compatibility of recreational fuel with a normal car engine is concerned, it is primarily designed for use in marine engines and other recreational equipment. However, using it in standard car engines does not cause harm. In fact, some drivers prefer ethanol-free fuels for better gas mileage and engine performance. But, to be on the safer side, you should avoid using it in your vehicles because it might not be effective for heavy engines in the long run.
Consider REC-90 for Your High-Performance Fuel Needs
REC-90 is a high-octane, ethanol-free fuel designed for marine equipment and high-performance recreational engines. It provides better fuel economy, less engine wear, and minimal water absorption compared to ethanol blends.
Additionally, REC-90 has a longer shelf life. Carefully assess your equipment’s needs to ensure this fuel is appropriate.
Looking for Recreational fuel for your equipment?
Fuel Logic delivers premium quality recreational fuel for your equipment. Continue the fun and excitement without any hassle using our premium recreational fuel.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1: Is recreational fuel the same as regular?
No, recreational fuel is not the same as regular gasoline. It is ethanol-free and has specific properties suited for recreational vehicles and equipment engines. Moreover, it has a specific octane rating of 90, which also sets it apart from other fuel types.
Q2: Is recreational fuel good for lawnmowers?
Recreational fuel is ethanol-free, making it ideal for lawnmowers and outdoor power equipment. Ethanol-containing fuels can cause damage in small engines, as they burn hotter and may lead to costly repairs.
Q3: Can you mix recreational gas with regular gas?
Mixing recreational fuel with regular gasoline is not recommended. Recreational fuel is non-ethanol with a different octane rating than regular gas. Mixing ethanol and non-ethanol fuel can damage your engine over time. Incorrect proportions or prolonged use may cause permanent damage to the engine and fuel system. It’s best to use each fuel type separately, following the manufacturer’s recommendations, including any needed fuel stabilizer.
Q4: What does premium recreational gas mean?
Premium gas is a higher octane fuel with an octane rating of 91 to 94, unlike standard recreational fuel with a rating of 90. Premium recreational gasoline is ethanol-free and serves the same purposes as REC-90.
Q5: Where to buy REC-90 fuel?
Multiple gas filling stations, both mobile and traditional, offer REC-90 fuel. But an important consideration is whether you have the time and access to a nearby fueling station that can meet your fueling needs. If not, why not choose a fuel delivery company that provides hassle-free fuel delivery?
Looking for the best rec 90 gas near me? Fuel Logic is a reputable fuel delivery agency with a proud history of serving numerous customers across the US.
Whether you need off-road diesel fuel or diesel exhaust fluid, Fuel Logic is your dedicated service partner.
We also specialize in bulk fuel delivery, including bulk gasoline delivery.
Call us now and place your order. We sell and deliver fuel to your business address and assist in resolving any fuel storage and handling issues you may encounter.
For any queries, our esteemed customer service agents are ready to help you.
