what is Recreational Fuel

What Is Recreational Fuel and How Is It Different from Regular Gasoline?

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.

what is recreational fuel used for

This article explores rec fuel, its types, applications, pros and cons, and guidance on selecting the best fuel for your equipment.

Key Takeaways

  • Choosing the right recreational fuel for small engines, such as lawn mowers and chainsaws, can significantly impact performance and longevity.
  • Using ethanol-free gasoline, like those available at rec90gas.com or pure-gas.org, can help avoid issues associated with ethanol blends, including poor performance and risk of engine damage.
  • Regular unleaded gas, often containing up to 10% ethanol (E10), may not be suitable for all equipment due to the effects of ethanol on fuel systems.
  • Proper storage of fuel in sealed containers with fuel stabilizers can extend shelf life and prevent old gas contamination, ensuring optimal performance when needed.

What is Recreational Fuel?

ethanol free gas

Recreational fuel, or REC-90, is an ethanol-free fuel for motorcycles, boats, and small engines like lawn mowers and snowblowers.

With a higher octane rating of 90, REC-90 prevents engine knocking better than 87 octane gasoline. Unlike ethanol gas, recreational gasoline is purified to ensure a clean fuel suitable for outdoor power equipment.


Types of Recreational Fuel

Here are some common types of recreational fuel:

1. Ethanol-Free Gasoline

what is rec 90 fuel

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

what octane is recreational fuel

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.

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.

It’s crucial to adhere to regulations for the safe storage and handling of recreational fuel to prevent accidents and environmental harm. Following fuel safety precautions reduces risks and costs. Store recreational fuel in a cool, dark place, filling the fuel tank completely to limit air exposure, and consider adding a stabilizer to maintain fuel quality.

Many people question the use of REC-90 fuel in cars, asking if recreational fuel or ethanol-free gas can be used.

” Recreational fuel is mainly designed for marine equipment and small engines, but it can be used in standard car engines without causing harm. Some drivers prefer non-ethanol options for better gas mileage and performance. However, it’s advisable to avoid its use in regular vehicles as it may not be suitable for heavy engines long-term.

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?

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.

author avatar
Eliot Vancil Author, Chief Executive Officer
CEO of Fuel Logic LLC, leads a Dallas, Texas-based company specializing in comprehensive fuel management solutions, including delivery of various diesel types and gasoline nationwide. His diverse professional path includes roles such as Proprietor of Beaumont Hotel & Spa and a former CEO of Network Logic, where he oversaw IT support and services for Texas businesses.
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