Best Generator Auxiliary Fuel Tanks for Portable Power on the Go
Shopping for a generator auxiliary fuel tank requires matching capacity, compatibility, and safety features to your power needs. This guide highlights five reliable options and explains who each is best for. Whether you need a compact spill-resistant tank for a portable generator or a larger, long-running fuel source for boating or camping setups, the right tank helps extend run time without frequent refueling.
| Product | Capacity | Best For | Notable Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Attwood 8806LP2 | 6 gallons | Small portable setups | EPA certified; built-in vacuum vent valve |
| VEVOR Marine Tank | 14.53 gallons | Medium to long runs on boats | Visible gauge; two-way vent cap |
| Sportpules Universal 5 Gallon | 5 gallons | Generator and lawn equipment | Includes accessories in cap; durable HDPE |
| Scepter 12 Gallon Portable | 12 gallons | Outboard boats and longer trips | Built-in fuel gauge; two-way vented cap |
| JJing Universal 7 Gallon | 7 gallons | Honda and clone generators | Venting note; dimensions pre-check |
Attwood 8806LP2 EPA Certified 6 Gallon Portable Fuel Tank
Best for compact, portable setups where space is limited. Attwood emphasizes EPA and CARB compliance, making this tank suitable for regional regulatory requirements. The cap includes a built-in vacuum valve, eliminating the need for manual venting and reducing spill risks during transport and refueling. Choose this for small generators or marine use where size matters and reliability is key.
Who it’s best for: homeowners with small generators, off-grid campers, and boaters needing a lightweight, compliant fuel container. Caution: ensure venting remains appropriate for your refueling environment; even with a vacuum valve, overpressure situations can occur if sealed improperly.
VEVOR Marine Tank 14.53 Gallons
Best for boaters needing longer-running fuel without frequent top-offs. This tank features a visible gauge to monitor fuel levels and a 9.8 ft long hose for flexible routing. Its two-way vent cap helps manage pressure during fueling and use. Built from high-density polyethylene for durability, it’s suitable for outboard motors and larger craft. Avoid long-term exposure to direct sunlight to minimize aging and expansion risks.
Who it’s best for: fishermen, deck boat owners, and multi-day boat trips where extended fuel on board improves ease of operation. Limitation: compatibility notes indicate a Yamaha connector match is common; verify your motor’s inlet fittings before purchasing.
Sportpules Universal 5 Gallon Gas Tank
Best for portability and easy storage of fuel for generators and lawn tools. This 5-gallon tank is designed for straightforward transport and practical use in a variety of small power setups. It’s built from high-density polyethylene to resist impacts and rough handling. Consider this option when you need a compact, ready-to-go fuel source that’s simple to handle.
Who it’s best for: home improvement crews, portable generators for tailgating or outdoor events, and small equipment enthusiasts. Caution: the product notes highlight that the accessories come with the cap; ensure you have all parts needed for a complete setup before use.
Scepter 12 Gallon Portable Marine Gas Can
Best for longer boating runs where more fuel on board is advantageous. The Scepter can offers a 12-gallon capacity with a two-way vented cap to handle air flow during refueling and use, helping prevent vapor buildup. It includes a built-in fuel gauge for quick level checks and a compatible pickup. This tank is suitable for diesel and ethanol-blended fuels in specific configurations. It is EPA/CARB-compliant, which is important for regulated regions.
Who it’s best for: boaters needing significant on-board fuel without frequent refills, especially on longer trips. Caution: fuel compatibility varies; verify your fuel type before filling to avoid damage or performance issues.
JJing Universal 7 Gallon Generator Tank
Best for older or larger Honda-style generators and clone units that require a larger 7-gallon capacity. The tank includes pre-installed fuel gauge and rubber grommets; however, note that it does not include a vent valve—so this may not be ideal in situations where venting is needed during refueling or use. Dimensions and mounting compatibility should be checked prior to purchase to ensure a proper fit.
Who it’s best for: owners of Honda EC6500/EM6500 and similar clones who need a larger, readily available fuel source. Caution: this tank lacks a vent valve; if venting is essential for your setup, explore an alternative with venting built in.
Buying Guide: How To Pick The Right Generator Auxiliary Fuel Tank
What capacity do you need?
Matching capacity to your run time and fuel availability is essential. Small generators often run on 5–6 gallons, while longer operations or boats may benefit from 12–14 gallons. Consider typical fuel consumption and desired refuel intervals.
Is venting required for your setup?
Vented caps prevent pressure buildup and vapor release during use. Some models include built-in venting, while others require separate vent valves. If your generator or environment demands frequent venting, choose a tank with a vented cap or plan for proper venting options.
What about compatibility and fittings?
Check inlet/outlet sizes, hose lengths, and connector types. Some tanks list compatibility with specific engine brands or require adapters. Ensure the hose length matches your installation to avoid leaks or strain on fittings.
Material and durability considerations
Most portable tanks use high-density polyethylene (HDPE) for impact resistance and light weight. UV exposure can age plastic, so store tanks out of direct sunlight when possible. Look for corrosion resistance and secure caps or grommets to minimize spills and leaks.
Regulatory compliance and safety
EPA and CARB compliance is important for legal and environmental reasons in many regions. Tanks with built-in vents and proper seals reduce vapor emissions. Always follow local regulations for fuel storage and handling.
Portability and storage
Foldable or compact designs ease transport and storage when not in use. For boats, consider tanks with built-in gauges for quick fuel checks and gauges that stay legible in bright sunlight.
What if I need a precise fit?
Some tanks require exact mounting hole patterns and dimensions. Double-check the provided measurements before ordering to avoid returns or misfits. If in doubt, measure your generator’s mounting area and compare with product specs.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do generator tanks need to be vented? Not always. Some models include vented caps to relieve pressure; others require separate vent solutions. Check the product specs and your generator’s ventilation needs.
- Can I use diesel in a gasoline tank? Some tanks are rated for diesel or ethanol-blended fuels, but many are designed for gasoline only. Verify fuel compatibility before filling.
- What size tank is best for a 5,000–7,500 watt generator? A 5–7 gallon tank is common for portable units in this range, but verify your generator’s fuel consumption per hour to estimate run time accurately.
- Are these tanks EPA/CARB compliant? Several models advertise EPA/CARB compliance, which is important for regulated areas. Confirm compliance in product listings if this matters to you.
- Will these tanks fit all generators? Not necessarily. Mounting dimensions, hose fittings, and vent options vary. Always match tank dimensions and fittings to your specific generator model.
- What maintenance is required? Regularly inspect seals, caps, and hoses for cracks or leaks. Store away from sunlight when not in use and drain fuel if storing long-term to avoid degradation.