The rumble of a lawn mower engine on a sunny Saturday morning is a familiar sound for many homeowners. But what happens when you find a stash of old gasoline in the garage? Is it safe to use in your lawn mower? The short answer is: it’s best to avoid using old gasoline in your lawn mower. This article will delve into the reasons why, exploring the potential dangers and problems associated with using old fuel, and offering alternative solutions.
Why Old Gasoline is a Problem for Your Lawn Mower
Old gasoline, which is gasoline that has been sitting around for an extended period, undergoes a chemical process called degradation. This degradation results in a number of issues that can negatively impact your lawn mower’s performance and longevity.
1. Loss of Volatility:
Gasoline is a volatile substance, meaning it easily evaporates. Over time, the lighter, more volatile hydrocarbons in gasoline evaporate, leaving behind heavier, less volatile components. This makes the fuel less combustible and harder to ignite, resulting in:
- Difficult Starting: You may find it takes longer to start your lawn mower, or it may sputter and stall.
- Reduced Power: The engine may lack power, leading to inconsistent performance and difficulty cutting through thick grass.
2. Gum and Varnish Formation:
As gasoline ages, it can develop gum and varnish, sticky residues that can clog fuel lines, fuel filters, and carburetor jets. This can lead to:
- Engine Stalling: The fuel system becomes restricted, preventing a proper fuel flow to the engine, causing it to stall.
- Engine Damage: If the buildup is severe, it can damage the engine’s internal components, leading to costly repairs.
3. Water Contamination:
Gasoline is not water-soluble. However, when gasoline sits for a long time, it can absorb moisture from the air, leading to water contamination. This water can:
- Rust and Corrosion: Water in the fuel tank can cause rust and corrosion in the fuel lines, tank, and engine components.
- Engine Problems: Water can prevent proper combustion, leading to engine sputtering, misfiring, and even engine damage.
What Happens to Old Gasoline?
To understand why old gasoline is a problem, it’s essential to know what happens to it over time. The degradation process involves a series of chemical reactions:
- Evaporation: Lighter hydrocarbons evaporate first, leaving a denser, less volatile fuel.
- Oxidation: Oxygen reacts with the fuel, forming compounds that lead to gum and varnish formation.
- Condensation: Moisture from the air condenses in the fuel tank, leading to water contamination.
The rate of degradation depends on various factors like storage conditions (temperature, sunlight), the type of gasoline, and the presence of additives.
How Long Does Gasoline Last?
There’s no definitive answer to how long gasoline lasts. However, general guidelines suggest that:
- Stabilized Gasoline: Gasoline treated with stabilizers can last up to 6 months.
- Unstabilized Gasoline: Unstabilized gasoline should be used within 30 days to avoid significant degradation.
Important Note: These are just guidelines. The actual lifespan of your gasoline can vary depending on the factors mentioned above.
Alternatives to Using Old Gasoline in Your Lawn Mower
If you have old gasoline, it’s best not to use it in your lawn mower. Instead, consider these alternatives:
- Use it in a Small Engine: You can use old gasoline in a small engine like a weed trimmer or leaf blower, where the fuel requirements are less stringent.
- Mix it with Fresh Gasoline: If you have a small amount of old gasoline, you can mix it with fresh gasoline to dilute the degraded components. However, this is not recommended for long-term storage.
- Dispose of it Properly: The safest option is to dispose of old gasoline properly. Contact your local waste management authority for instructions on how to dispose of hazardous materials.
Final Thoughts on Using Old Gasoline in Your Lawn Mower
Using old gasoline in your lawn mower can lead to a variety of issues, including poor performance, engine damage, and costly repairs. The best course of action is to avoid using it altogether and find a suitable alternative.
Remember, a little bit of preventive maintenance goes a long way in keeping your lawn mower running smoothly. By using fresh fuel, storing gasoline properly, and performing routine maintenance, you can ensure your lawn mower operates efficiently and reliably for years to come.
FAQs
1. How long can gasoline sit before it goes bad?
While gasoline can technically last for years in airtight containers, it’s best to use it within 3 months for optimal performance. After that, gasoline starts to break down, forming gum and varnish that can clog your lawnmower’s fuel system.
The rate of deterioration depends on factors like storage conditions, fuel additives, and the type of gasoline. If you’re unsure about the age of gasoline, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and use fresh fuel.
2. What are the signs of bad gasoline?
There are a few telltale signs that your gasoline has gone bad. It might have a strong, pungent odor, and its color might have changed to a yellowish or brownish hue. You may also notice a separation of layers in the fuel, with a distinct layer of sediment at the bottom.
Furthermore, if your lawnmower struggles to start, runs poorly, or sputters and dies frequently, bad gasoline could be the culprit. It’s always a good idea to check your fuel if you encounter any of these symptoms.
3. Can I mix old gasoline with fresh gasoline?
While technically possible, it’s not recommended. Mixing old and new gasoline can create a less stable fuel blend that may be more prone to gum and varnish formation. It’s best to use only fresh gasoline for optimal performance and to prevent long-term damage to your lawnmower’s fuel system.
The best approach is to use up your old gasoline in a separate application, like a gas-powered pressure washer, or dispose of it properly.
4. Is it safe to use old gasoline?
While old gasoline may not be ideal for your lawnmower, it’s generally considered safe to use, but it can significantly impact the performance and longevity of your equipment. It might work for a short time but may cause problems down the line.
The biggest risk is the formation of deposits in the carburetor and fuel lines, leading to engine problems and costly repairs.
5. Can I add fuel stabilizer to old gasoline?
While fuel stabilizer can help extend the shelf life of gasoline, it can’t fully reverse the damage caused by prolonged storage. If the gasoline is already showing signs of deterioration, stabilizer won’t make it usable for your lawnmower.
It’s best to avoid using old gasoline and focus on using fresh fuel with stabilizer for optimal performance and longevity.
6. What should I do with old gasoline?
It’s not recommended to dispose of gasoline down the drain or in the trash. The best way to get rid of old gasoline is to take it to a local recycling center or hazardous waste disposal facility. They have the proper equipment and procedures for handling gasoline safely and responsibly.
You can also contact your local waste management agency for guidance on proper disposal.
7. How can I prevent gasoline from going bad?
The best way to prevent gasoline from going bad is to use it within a few months and store it properly. Keep it in airtight containers, away from heat and direct sunlight, and add a fuel stabilizer to help prevent deterioration.
You can also consider using a fuel tank additive that helps prevent corrosion and gum formation, keeping your lawnmower running smoothly.