FAQS

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  • Can I buy a can from No-Spill®?

    Yes, we sell directly on our website. Go to Shop Now to see our products.

  • Does your gas can expand or contract?

    Does your gas can expand or contract?

    Yes—and this is completely normal. What you are seeing is not a defect, but a direct result of basic physics. All substances expand when heated and contract when cooled. In the case of a gas can, the primary cause of this movement is not the liquid fuel itself, but the vapor (fumes) inside the container.

    Gas fumes are highly sensitive to temperature changes and expand and contract much more than the liquid gasoline. When temperatures rise, the fumes expand and create internal pressure. When temperatures drop, those fumes contract, which can create a vacuum effect inside the can.

    Why are gas cans designed this way?

    Modern gas cans are built to meet extremely strict environmental regulations. Manufacturers are required to design containers that prevent hydrocarbon emissions from escaping into the atmosphere. If a can leaks vapors, it can result in heavy fines and the loss of certification to manufacture gas cans.

    The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the California Air Resources Board (CARB) enforce some of the strictest emission standards in the world. Current regulations allow for approximately 0.3 grams of emissions per gallon per day, and the certification testing process can take up to three months.

    As part of this process, gas cans and their nozzles must be able to withstand internal pressures of around 10 PSI without leaking. This means modern gas cans are intentionally sealed much tighter than older designs.

    How is this different from older gas cans?

    Older gas cans were vented directly to the atmosphere. They typically had:

    • A rear vent cap
    • Open-flow nozzles
    • Continuous airflow in and out of the container

    While this made pouring easier, it also allowed fuel vapors to escape freely, contributing to air pollution. Modern designs eliminate these vents to comply with environmental laws, which is why pressure buildup and contraction are now more noticeable.

    Can expansion and contraction be prevented?

    No. This behavior cannot be stopped because it is governed by the laws of physics. As long as there are temperature changes, the gas vapors inside the container will expand and contract.

    How can you minimize expansion and contraction?

    As much as possible, keep your gas can full of liquid gas, not fumes. Keep the gas can out of direct sunlight and away from temperature swings. You can always equalize the pressure in your NO-SPILL® can simply by pressing the button. Other cans require multiple actions.

    What makes NO-SPILL® different?

    Our cans are engineered with safety and performance in mind. Unlike many standard nozzles that tighten under pressure, our patented nozzle system is designed to safely release excess pressure when activated.

    In addition, we perform strict quality control testing during manufacturing. During every production shift, a can is pulled from the line and tested at 20 PSI for a full 2 minutes to ensure it meets our durability and safety standards.

    Important safety information:

    • Never store fuel containers near an ignition source
    • Always follow all warnings and instructions printed on the can
    • Do not expose the container to extreme heat for extended periods

    When should you replace your gas can?

    It is important to understand that contraction creates more stress on a container than expansion. If a gas can contracts to the point where its walls or corners become permanently deformed or misshapen, the structural integrity may be compromised.

    If this occurs, the can may no longer be able to safely handle internal pressure when temperatures rise again, and it should be replaced immediately.

    Bottom line: Expansion and contraction are normal, expected behaviors in modern sealed gas cans. With proper storage and handling, your container will perform safely and effectively as designed.

  • How does the Auto-Stop™ feature work?

    More details on the Auto-Stop™ feature can be found on our Features page.

  • What can I do if my can or nozzle breaks and it wasn't my fault?

    Please visit our Warranty page for help with product issues.

  • What can I do if my nozzle is leaking?

    Please visit our Warranty page for help with product issues.

  • Where can I return my can if I want a refund?

    Returns should be processed where your purchase originated.

  • Can I use a No-Spill® can to fill my car or truck?

    No-Spill cans are not intended for refueling on-road motor vehicles. However, Car usage available accessory called the Flexible Spout Extension can be purchased to aid in fueling motor vehicles.

  • How do I become a dealer?

    Dealer inquiries can be directed to sales@nospill.com.

  • What is the best way to care for and store my No-Spill® cans?

    Start by reading our safety page and all the warning labels on the can and nozzle. Then make sure you regularly perform two important steps:

    1. Frequently press the green button to release trapped fumes when the can is stored and prior to pouring from the nozzle.
    2. Store the can with a full level of fuel. Fumes expand and contract drastically with temperature changes, so the fewer fumes in the can the better. The goal is safety and good maintenance of your purchase.
  • What certifications do No-Spill® cans have?

    Environmental approvals:

    • USA EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) certification requirements include containing all fuel and fumes except 0.3 grams per gallon per day. The EPA has many other regulations, but containing fuel and fumes is their focus.
    • CARB (California Air Resources Board), which is similar to EPA requirements.

    Physical can approvals:

    • ASTM (American Society for Testing & Materials) Worldwide voluntary standards for many products. Gas can testing includes pressure testing, drop testing, handle pull, chemical resistance, ultra violet resistance, etc.
    • ANSI (American National Standards Institute) worldwide standards, which is similar testing to ASTM.

    Child-resistant/Senior-friendly:

    • USA CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) sets standards here. All gas cans sold in US must be tested and conform.
  • What US Patents cover No-Spill® containers and flame mitigation devices?
    US Patents All of our containers and flame mitigation devices may be covered by one or more of the following US Patents: 9,174,075; 10,029,132; 10,307,625; 10,792,525; and US D920789

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