Everything you need to know about using E10 Fuel
17th May 2023
Everything you need to know about using E10 Fuel
You’re probably used to seeing and filling up your tank with E10 fuel at the petrol station. But do you know what E10 stands for, why it was introduced or how to manage it for your petrol-powered equipment?
What is E10 petrol?
E10 fuel is an eco-friendlier petrol, which was introduced in September 2021 to reduce carbon dioxide emissions in the UK. The government changed the standard grade of petrol from 95% octane and 5% ethanol (known as E5) to a mix that contains 10% renewable ethanol – E10.
This change has the potential to cut transport CO2 emissions by up to 750,000 tonnes a year, which is great news for the environment.
Is all petrol-powered equipment compatible with E10?
All current Draper petrol products are compatible with E10 petrol. However, some older petrol engines may face performance issues using E10 and we recommend checking whether the equipment is E10 certified and asking the manufacturer if you’re in any doubt.
If E10 fuel isn’t suitable then you could opt for Super Unleaded Petrol from the forecourt or long-lasting Aspen, which is available from most garden centres. Always read the label and follow the instructions provided before use.
There’s no need to worry if you mistakenly top up with E10 as the engine won’t suffer any damage. Just make sure that you fill up with the more suitable grade of petrol next time.
Rest assured that all current Draper petrol products are compatible with E10 fuel.
Why is it important to use a fuel additive or stabiliser?
Draper Tools recommends using an additive or stabiliser with E10 petrol so the fuel can be safely stored in the fuel tank for longer.
Due to the increased ethanol level, E10 petrol is hygroscopic. This means it attracts and mixes with moisture from the air, which accumulates in the engine and causes the petrol to deteriorate more quickly. If E10 petrol is stored in a machine’s fuel tank for extended periods, this build-up of water can form a corrosive gum that rusts the fuel system from the inside.
That sounds bad, but there shouldn’t be any problems with E10 fuel when it is drained regularly (no later than four weeks) or correctly used with an additive or stabiliser.
What’s the best way to use E10 fuel safely?
Additives and stabilisers are widely available and extend the length of time that E10 petrol can be stored safely in a fuel tank. You can buy additives and stabilisers from DIY stores, garden centres and online retailers. Always read the label and follow the instructions for use of any additive or stabiliser, because the lifespan of its effectiveness will vary.
To reduce the risk of damage to the engine, get into the habit of draining the fuel from the tank every 3-4 weeks or certainly within the time limit specified by any additives or stabilisers added to the fuel. If you’re not planning to use the machine within that time, drain the fuel tank before putting it into storage.
When buying petrol, always consider the manufacturer’s recommended maximum storage period and choose your fuel quantities appropriately.
Are there alternatives to petrol?
Yes: if you decide the maintenance involved with E10 fuel isn’t for you, you could opt for corded electric or cordless garden equipment that run with Lithium-ion rechargeable batteries. Draper Tools also sells a wide variety of electric lawn mowers, hedge trimmers, chainsaws, leaf blowers and more. Explore our website for full details of what’s available and visit your local Draper stockist or online retailer to find the equipment that’s right for you.
