The terms fuel pump and fuel dispenser are often confused, but they refer to different functions. A fuel pump is the mechanical device that lifts fuel from an underground storage tank and pushes it toward the nozzle. A fuel dispenser, however, includes the pump plus many additional systems—flow meters, hoses, nozzles, electronic controls, and displays—that allow customers to safely receive the correct amount of fuel and see the price.
In other words, the pump is only one part of the dispenser. A fuel dispenser is the complete package that ensures accuracy, compliance with government regulations, integration with payment systems, and protection from fraud. For station owners, investing in a high-quality fuel dispenser is more valuable than just having a pump, because the dispenser provides the entire fueling solution.