The Guide to a Safe Refueling Practice for Boats

Before a day on the water, there are plenty of things to do to get ready, including making sure you have gas in your boat. Understanding a safe refueling practice for boats is essential, as it helps reduce the risk of harm and keeps your boat in good shape, too.

Just like having life jackets and fire extinguishers, knowing how to refuel your boat correctly is a big part of being prepared. Here's what you need to know to protect yourself, your passengers, and your vessel.

What Can Go Wrong If a Boat Is Refueled Improperly?

Refueling a boat may seem simple, but doing it improperly can lead to serious consequences and an increased risk of injury. Here are some of the most significant risks to be aware of.

Fuel Spills and Environmental Damage

Overfilling the tank can cause fuel to spill into the water. Not only does that make a mess and waste fuel, but it can also cause harm to the environment and marine life. Additionally, you may face fines when fuel from your boat gets into the waterways.

Along with those considerations, improper fuel handling can also contaminate your bilge, which can later leak into the water. In short, you could send a trail of fuel through the areas you travel, further increasing problems with contamination.

Fire and Explosion Hazards

Fuel vapors are highly flammable.

If ventilation is poor and a spark ignites the fumes, it can lead to an explosion. Smoking or using electronic devices near the refueling area increases the risk of accidental ignition, so it's important not to smoke or use electronics when fueling your vessel. 

Engine Damage from Water in Boat Gas Tank

Water entering the fuel tank can cause engine misfires, rough running, or even complete failure. Repairing an engine exposed to water through the fuel system isn't always easy and can be expensive. 

Ethanol-blended fuels absorb moisture over time, leading to phase separation, where water settles at the bottom and damages the engine. If you're facing water in boat gas tank issues, your vessel may be out of commission for a long time. You don't want to miss out on summer fun because of something that's easy to avoid!

Clogged Fuel System and Performance Issues

Dirt, debris, or old fuel in the tank can clog fuel filters and injectors, reducing engine efficiency. You should avoid using contaminated fuel or neglecting to clean the tank regularly, as this can lead to corrosion and long-term engine damage.

Your boat may run fine for a while, but when the tank is clogged with too much debris, it can cause significant clogs and render it inoperable.

Carbon Monoxide Buildup

Refueling in an enclosed area without proper ventilation can lead to dangerous levels of carbon monoxide. Breathing in carbon monoxide can cause dizziness, nausea, or even death in extreme cases, so you must ensure good airflow when fueling your vessel.

How to Refuel Your Boat Safely

The good news is that you can significantly reduce risk by safely refueling your boat. With a few tips and tricks, you'll be ready to fuel your vessel anytime without increasing the chances of a problem.

Here's what to do.

Choose the Right Fuel

Always use the correct fuel type recommended by your boat manufacturer. Using something else could lead to clogs, poor operation, and other issues.

Also, ethanol-blended fuels above 10% (E10) should be avoided, as they can cause engine damage and long-term problems that can be expensive and time-consuming.

Exercise Safety Precautions Before Refueling

Before you refuel your boat, turn off the engine and all electrical equipment. Don't smoke or use open flames near the fueling area.

If possible, have all your passengers exit the boat in case something goes wrong. Depending on where you're refueling, though, passengers may need to remain onboard.

A Safe Refueling Practice for Boats Includes Proper Refueling Techniques

It may seem obvious, but we'll mention it anyway: use the right techniques when adding fuel to your boat.

Keep the fuel nozzle in contact with the tank to prevent static sparks and reduce the risk of fires and explosions. Also, be sure not to overfill the tank, leaving room for fuel expansion. 

If you spill fuel, wipe it up immediately and dispose of fuel-soaked rags properly.

Focusing on a safe refueling practice for boats will reduce the risk of harm and make your time on the water safer and more enjoyable.

Prevent Water Contamination in Your Gas Tank

Always use a fuel stabilizer to prevent water buildup, and keep your fuel cap sealed tightly to avoid water intrusion. When inspecting and maintaining your boat, check the fuel lines and connections for leaks. 

Boat Gas Tank Cleaning and Maintenance

Your vessel's gas tank is mostly self-regulating, but you'll want to drain and clean it to remove sediment buildup periodically. As part of good boat gas tank cleaning, you can use a fuel-water separator to filter out contaminants. 

If you suspect water in your fuel or see any evidence of it, drain the tank and replace the fuel before running the engine. Doing this will help keep the engine safe and reduce the chances of damage.

Conduct Post-Refueling Checks

After adding fuel, ventilate the boat thoroughly before starting the engine. You don't want to leave fuel vapors in the boat where they can build up and create an explosion risk.

Check for fuel odors, and if you find them, investigate the boat for leaks. Then, start the engine and monitor it for any performance issues. 

Stay Safe Before and While Hitting the Water With a Boat Education Course

Boats need fuel to go! Apply the tips we shared today to safely put gas in your boat or PWC (personal watercraft) before hitting the water.

Along with knowing a safe refueling practice for boats, responsible boaters also understand boating etiquette, navigation, and more. You can learn those things and feel more prepared by taking a boat education course through Boat-Ed! Our online courses cover everything you need to know to boat safely and meet your state's or Transport Canada's requirements for boater education.

Enjoy your summer on the water (safely)!
Take the Boat-Ed safety course for your state or choose our course for Canadians, then carry your boater education card with you every time you launch.