The warm weather has arrived, and it’s time to fire up the lawnmower for those weekly cuts. But what if you haven’t used your mower since last fall? You might be wondering: “Does gas go bad in a lawnmower?” This is a common question, and the answer is a bit more nuanced than you might think. This article will delve into the reasons why gas degrades, the effects of using old gas, and provide helpful tips on how to prevent and address this issue.
In short, yes, gasoline does go bad over time. It’s a complex mixture of hydrocarbons that are prone to oxidation and evaporation, leading to a decrease in its ability to combust properly. This can result in engine problems, starting issues, and even damage to your lawnmower.
Understanding Gasoline Degradation
The Science Behind It
Gasoline is a volatile substance. It contains additives like stabilizers to prevent degradation, but these additives have a limited lifespan. Over time, exposure to air, heat, and sunlight causes the gasoline to oxidize and break down. This process forms gum and varnish, which can clog fuel lines, carburetor jets, and other critical engine components.
The Effects of Old Gas
Using old gas in your lawnmower can lead to several issues:
- Difficult Starting: The degraded gas may not ignite properly, making it difficult to start your lawnmower.
- Engine Performance Problems: The gum and varnish in the old gas can clog fuel lines and restrict fuel flow, resulting in poor engine performance, stalling, and uneven running.
- Engine Damage: In severe cases, the buildup of deposits from degraded gas can lead to permanent damage to your lawnmower’s engine, requiring costly repairs or even replacement.
How Long Does Gas Last in a Lawn Mower?
There’s no definitive answer to this question, as the lifespan of gasoline depends on various factors. However, here’s a general guideline:
- Fresh Gasoline: Properly stabilized gasoline can last for 3-6 months in a sealed container.
- Unstabilized Gasoline: Unstabilized gasoline can begin to degrade within a few weeks, especially if exposed to heat and sunlight.
- In a Lawn Mower: In a lawnmower, gasoline can degrade even faster due to the presence of oxygen and heat from the engine.
How to Prevent Gas From Going Bad in Your Lawn Mower
1. Use Stabilized Gasoline
The most effective way to prevent gas from going bad is to use gasoline with a stabilizer added. These stabilizers help prevent oxidation and extend the shelf life of the gasoline. You can find stabilized gasoline at most gas stations, typically labeled as “fuel stabilizer” or “marine gas.”
2. Store Gasoline Properly
Proper storage is crucial. Keep gasoline in sealed, airtight containers in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
3. Empty the Tank Before Storing
If you’re not going to use your lawnmower for an extended period, it’s best to empty the fuel tank to prevent the gasoline from degrading in the tank.
What to Do If You Have Old Gas in Your Lawn Mower
1. Run the Engine Until Empty
If you’ve recently discovered that you have old gas in your lawnmower, running the engine until the tank is empty can help remove some of the degraded fuel. However, this may not eliminate all the gum and varnish buildup.
2. Use Fuel System Cleaner
A fuel system cleaner can help remove deposits and restore the fuel system’s performance. Follow the instructions on the cleaner’s bottle carefully.
3. Drain and Replace the Fuel
If your lawnmower has been sitting for a long time, it’s best to completely drain the fuel tank and replace it with fresh, stabilized gasoline. You can also use a fuel filter to catch any remaining debris.
4. Consider a Fuel Additive
Fuel additives can help prevent fuel degradation and improve fuel efficiency. These additives are often available at auto parts stores.
Preventative Measures for Long-Term Storage
If you plan to store your lawnmower for a long period, it’s important to take extra precautions to protect the fuel system:
- Empty the Fuel Tank: Completely empty the fuel tank and run the engine until it stalls. This will eliminate any remaining fuel in the lines and carburetor.
- Add Stabilizer: Before storing, add a fuel stabilizer to the fresh gasoline in the tank. This will help prevent the fuel from degrading during storage.
- Run the Engine: Start and run the engine for a few minutes to circulate the stabilized fuel throughout the system.
Conclusion
Keeping your lawnmower in peak condition requires proper fuel management. By using stabilized gasoline, storing fuel properly, and taking preventive measures for long-term storage, you can avoid the hassles of old gas and ensure your lawnmower runs smoothly for years to come. Remember, preventing fuel degradation is far more efficient than dealing with the consequences of old gas in your lawnmower.
FAQs
Here are 7 frequently asked questions about gas going bad in a lawn mower:
1. How long does gasoline last in a lawn mower?
Gasoline can last for up to 3 months in a lawn mower if stored properly. However, it’s best to use it within a month for optimal performance and to avoid potential engine problems.
Factors that can affect the lifespan of gasoline in a lawn mower include temperature, storage container, and the presence of additives.
2. What happens when gasoline goes bad?
When gasoline goes bad, it loses its volatility and starts to form deposits. These deposits can clog the fuel system, leading to engine problems like difficulty starting, poor performance, or even stalling.
The gasoline can also develop a gummy residue that can stick to the carburetor and other fuel system components, further hindering the engine’s operation.
3. What are the signs that gasoline has gone bad?
There are several signs that indicate gasoline has gone bad in your lawn mower. These include:
- Difficulty starting: The engine struggles to turn over or takes a long time to start.
- Rough running: The engine sputters, hesitates, or runs unevenly.
- Loss of power: The lawn mower loses power and struggles to mow the lawn.
- Engine stalling: The engine suddenly stops while mowing.
- Presence of a strong odor: The gasoline may have a strong, pungent odor that is different from fresh gasoline.
4. How to prevent gasoline from going bad in a lawn mower?
To prevent gasoline from going bad, use a fuel stabilizer and store it in a cool, dry place.
Fuel stabilizers are additives that help prevent the oxidation and degradation of gasoline, extending its shelf life. Store the gasoline in an airtight container to prevent moisture and air contamination.
5. Can I use old gasoline in my lawn mower?
While it is possible to use old gasoline, it’s not recommended. The old gas may cause performance issues and damage your lawn mower engine in the long run.
The best practice is to use fresh gasoline whenever possible. If you do need to use old gas, try running the engine for a few minutes to help burn off some of the old gas before starting a mowing session.
6. How do I get rid of old gasoline?
It’s best to properly dispose of old gasoline instead of pouring it down the drain or into the environment.
You can take it to a local hazardous waste collection center or a gas station that accepts old gasoline. Be sure to check your local regulations on the disposal of gasoline.
7. How to clean out old gasoline from a lawn mower?
Cleaning out old gasoline from a lawn mower can be done by draining the fuel tank and replacing it with fresh gasoline.
It’s also a good idea to run the engine for a few minutes to help clear out any remaining old gasoline from the fuel lines and carburetor. If you have a carburetor with a bowl, drain it as well. If you suspect the old gas has caused significant damage, consider taking your mower to a qualified technician for inspection and cleaning.