Are E-85 Pumps Safe?

Summary:

Ethanol Pumps have not yet been approved by UL

Additional Credits and Funding:

Editor: Mark Brush

Tones:

Authoritative, NPR NewsMagazine-y

Description:

The E-85 (ethanol fuel) pumps at your local gasoline station have not been certified as safe by Underwriters Laboratories. UL indicates the fuel can be corrosive to many of the gaskets and seals that are used in pumps for gasoline.

UL is concerned the fuel could leak, leading to fires or explosions.

Additionally, some underground storage tanks can be damaged by the ethanol fuel.

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