You’ve got a yard to mow, but the gas can in your garage is looking a little dusty. Is that old gas still good to use in your lawn mower? We’ll explore the dangers of using old gasoline, how to tell if your gas is too old, and what to do if you find yourself with a stash of stale fuel.
In short, using old gasoline in your lawn mower is not recommended. Old gas can cause problems like engine sputtering, difficulty starting, and even damage to your engine. However, the severity of these issues depends on the age of the gas and the type of engine. This article will delve deeper into the specifics of gasoline degradation and its impact on lawn mower performance.
Why Old Gas is Bad for Your Lawn Mower
Gasoline is a complex mixture of hydrocarbons that break down over time. This breakdown process, called oxidation, happens when gasoline is exposed to air, heat, and light. As gasoline ages, it loses its volatility (its ability to easily vaporize), which is essential for proper combustion in your lawn mower engine.
How Old Gas Affects Your Engine
- Difficult Starting: When gasoline loses its volatility, it becomes harder to ignite. This means your lawn mower may take longer to start, or it may not start at all.
- Engine Sputtering: Old gas can cause your lawn mower to sputter or misfire, especially when you accelerate or change speeds. This can lead to uneven power delivery and a jerky mowing experience.
- Engine Damage: The deposits left behind by degraded gasoline can gum up your engine’s fuel lines, carburetor, and fuel injectors. This can hinder fuel flow, reducing your mower’s performance and even leading to engine damage.
How to Determine if Your Gas is Too Old
While there’s no definitive “expiration date” for gasoline, the general rule of thumb is that gasoline stored for more than three months should be considered unusable. However, several factors can affect the rate of degradation, including:
- Storage Conditions: Gasoline stored in a cool, dark, and airtight container will last longer than gas stored in a hot, sunny spot.
- Fuel Stabilizer: Adding a fuel stabilizer to your gasoline can slow down the oxidation process and extend its shelf life.
- Gas Quality: Higher-octane gas tends to be more stable than lower-octane gas.
Signs of Old Gas
- Color: Old gasoline can become discolored, appearing yellowish or brown.
- Smell: Stale gas has a distinctive, pungent odor that is stronger than fresh gas.
- Sediment: A layer of sediment or sludge may form at the bottom of the gas container.
- Engine Performance: If your lawn mower is experiencing any of the issues mentioned earlier, it’s a good indication that your gasoline might be old.
What to Do With Old Gas
If you have old gasoline that you don’t want to use in your lawn mower, you have a few options:
- Dispose of it Properly: Never pour gasoline down the drain or into the ground. This can contaminate the environment. Check with your local waste management facility or hazardous waste disposal center for proper disposal instructions.
- Use it for Other Purposes: Old gas can be used for certain tasks, like cleaning metal parts or clearing cobwebs. However, always wear gloves and eye protection when handling gasoline, and work in a well-ventilated area.
- Run it in a Different Engine: If the gas isn’t too old, you might be able to use it in a small engine that won’t be negatively impacted by the reduced quality.
Can I Mix Old Gas with New Gas?
It’s generally not recommended to mix old gas with new gas. The old gas will still contain degraded components that can negatively impact the quality of the fresh gas. It’s best to use fresh gas whenever possible.
Tips for Keeping Gas Fresh
Here are some tips to help you keep your gasoline fresh:
- Store it Properly: Store gasoline in a tightly sealed, plastic or metal container in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated area.
- Use a Fuel Stabilizer: Add a fuel stabilizer to your gasoline to help prevent oxidation and extend its shelf life.
- Don’t Overfill the Tank: Overfilling the gas tank can lead to condensation, which can accelerate the degradation of gasoline.
- Use Fresh Gas Regularly: If you don’t use your lawn mower frequently, it’s a good idea to drain the old gas and refill the tank with fresh gas every few months.
Conclusion
Using old gas in your lawn mower can lead to a variety of problems, from difficulty starting to engine damage. While it might seem tempting to use up that old gas, it’s always best to use fresh gas whenever possible. By following the tips for keeping gasoline fresh, you can help ensure that your lawn mower runs smoothly and efficiently. Remember, a little preventative maintenance goes a long way in keeping your lawn mower in top condition.
FAQ
Can old gas damage my lawnmower?
Yes, old gas can damage your lawnmower. Over time, gasoline degrades and forms a gummy residue. This residue can clog the fuel lines, carburetor, and other parts of the engine, leading to problems with starting, running, and overall performance. In severe cases, it can even cause permanent damage that requires expensive repairs.
How long can gasoline sit before it goes bad?
Generally, gasoline starts to degrade after about 3 months. However, the exact time depends on several factors, including storage conditions, the type of fuel, and the presence of stabilizers. Gasoline stored in sealed containers in a cool, dark place will last longer than gasoline stored in open containers exposed to sunlight and heat.
What are the signs of bad gas in a lawnmower?
There are several signs that indicate bad gas in your lawnmower. These include difficulty starting, inconsistent running, sputtering, smoking, and a decrease in power. You might also notice a foul odor coming from the engine or a buildup of residue in the fuel tank.
How do I know if my gas is bad?
If you’re unsure about the age of the gas in your lawnmower, it’s always a good idea to use fresh gas. If you suspect the gas is old, you can check its color and smell. Fresh gas is typically clear or slightly yellow, while old gas can be cloudy or discolored and have a strong, pungent odor.
What should I do if I have bad gas in my lawnmower?
If you believe you have bad gas in your lawnmower, the best course of action is to drain the fuel tank and replace it with fresh gasoline. Before draining, make sure to wear appropriate safety gear and perform the task in a well-ventilated area. You can then use a fuel stabilizer to prevent the new gas from degrading quickly.
Can I use a fuel stabilizer to extend the life of my gas?
Yes, using a fuel stabilizer can help extend the life of gasoline in your lawnmower. Fuel stabilizers prevent the breakdown of fuel molecules, reducing the formation of gum and varnish that can cause engine problems. You should add a fuel stabilizer to your gasoline tank before storing your lawnmower for extended periods.
How do I avoid using old gas in my lawnmower?
The best way to avoid using old gas is to regularly check the age of the gas in your lawnmower and replace it as needed. You can also store your gas in a sealed container in a cool, dark place to extend its shelf life. Consider using a fuel stabilizer if you plan on storing your lawnmower for longer periods.