Don’t let any one other than the State Fuel Enforcement Division test your Gasoline for an Octane rating.
Beware of companies who use Portable Octane Testers like a Zeltex on your gasoline. While it may seem impressive for someone to show a Octane number, the results can be misleading and you can open up a can of worms, because technically you or customers are required to report any irregularities. A little misguided knowledge, can cost you thousands in fuel disposal in replacement costs.
A true Octane level must be confirmed by an actual octane engine at the State Laboratory before determination of non-compliance is issued. While state fuel inspectors use Zeltex units, it is only for screening at the retail level, not for a definitive determination. Only testing performed at the state’s certified laboratory is taken into consideration. Put another way, the state will not recognize an octane test performed at a private lab. Furthermore no lab in Md, DC or VA tests for octane and the average costs of labs in PA and NJ is $850.
Causes of low octane fuel are the following:
- Pump nozzle/pump manifold blend calibration
- Phase separation from water contamination
- Driver delivery error
- Fuel terminal fault (very rare)
Please let me know if you have any questions on the above or need a tank sampled or cleaned.