As a result of enhanced and stricter British Columbia Low Carbon Fuel Standards along with more aggressive Federal Fuel Standards, effective immediately the premium gasoline products at our locations will now contain ethanol. As of May 31, 2022 our premium gasoline will contain up to a 10% ethanol content. Please note that our regular gasoline products have contained up to 10% ethanol for several years now.

This change is occurring throughout Northern and Central British Columbia and not only affects Co-op Gas Bars and Cardlocks, it also impacts our competitors locations as well.

If have any questions or concerns, please contact your local petroleum or gas bar location of Four Rivers Co-op

ETHANOL BLENDED GASOLINE — FAQ

Is ethanol safe for my vehicle?

Yes, most modern gasoline engines can utilize gasoline that contains up to 10% ethanol. If you are unsure if ethanol blended fuel is compatible with your vehicle, check your owner’s manual or speak to your vehicle manufacturer.

Do I need to modify my engine for use with ethanol blended gasoline?
Unlikely, since most modern gasoline engines can utilize gasoline that contains up to 10% ethanol. Modern vehicles have computer- controlled air/fuel systems, which adjust for ethanol automatically. For older vehicles that use carburetors, a slight adjustment to air/fuel ratios may be necessary.

If I fill up with ethanol blended gasoline, can I switch back to regular gasoline?
Yes.

Will I notice a difference in gas mileage?
Most drivers will not notice any difference. Ethanol blended gasoline contains slightly less energy than conventional gasoline, however it burns more efficiently, which helps compensate for the difference.

Do I still need gas line antifreeze if I use ethanol blended fuel?
No. Ethanol, like all alcohols, absorbs water. This eliminates any condensation inside the engine that could freeze and cause problems.

Does ethanol plug fuel filters?
Ethanol does not plug filters. However, it does act as a solvent, loosening residues such as rust, varnish, and dirt that can accumulate in equipment. These are the materials that can clog your fuel filter, especially during your first fill with an ethanol-blend. If you notice a change in your engine performance after filling up with ethanol blended gasoline, check your fuel filter, as it may need to be replaced.

Can I use ethanol blended gasoline in my lawnmower, snowmobile and outboard motors?
Most new small engines are compatible with ethanol blended gasoline. Manufacturers have made their new engines ethanol-friendly due to the increasing availability of ethanol in North America. Consumers are encouraged to consult the equipment’s owner’s manual and/or contact the equipment manufacturer to determine if ethanol blended gasoline can be used.

ETHANOL BLENDED GASOLINE — PREPARATION GUIDE

As a result of provincial and federal mandates, your local Co-op may receive gasoline blends that contains up to 10% ethanol. While you can continue to be assured that Co-op gasoline will be of the highest quality, because of ethanol’s affinity for water and its solvent nature, there are steps that you can take to prepare for use of ethanol blended gasoline. We encourage you to begin preparing for receipt of ethanol blended gasoline immediately.

STORAGE TANKS

• Check for Water
Checking for any presence of water in storage tanks is an important process to ensure optimal fuel performance and storage tank maintenance. Water finding paste, which can be purchased from your local Co-op, can be applied to the end of a dip stick to check for water.

• Removal of Water
It is important to remove any water that is found in storage tanks. If water is not removed, it may be absorbed into the ethanol, which can impact the quality and performance of the fuel.

• Storage Filters
Ethanol acts as a solvent, loosening residue such as rust, varnish, and dirt that may accumulate over time in fuel storage systems. Ensuring that storage systems are equipped with filters can help reduce the risk of equipment maintenance and down time. It is important to check storage filters regularly and replace them as required.

EQUIPMENT

• Equipment Specifications and Requirements
Most modern gasoline engines can utilize gasoline that contains up to 10. In some cases, older engines with carburetors may require an adjustment to air/fuel ratios, to run smoothly.
For more information on your engines requirements and specifications, please consult the owner’s manual or original equipment manufacturer.

• Check for Water
Equipment that is not continually operated throughout the year has a greater chance of having water in the fuel system. Checking for any presence of water in fuel tanks is an important process to ensure optimal fuel performance and equipment maintenance. Water finding past, which can be purchased from your local Co-op, can be applied to the end of a dip stick to check for water.

• Fuel Filters
Ethanol acts as a solvent, loosening residue such as rust, varnish and dirt that may accumulate over time in fuel systems. Clean fuel filters can help reduce the risk of equipment maintenance and down time. It is important to check equipment fuel filters regularly and replace them as required.