The warm weather has arrived, and you’re itching to get your lawn looking pristine. But when you pull your trusty lawn mower out of storage, you find a tank full of gas from last season. Is it still good? Can you risk using it, or will you end up with a sputtering engine and a frustrated you? This article will answer all your burning questions about gasoline, its shelf life, and how to keep your lawn mower running smoothly.
In short, yes, gasoline does go bad. Over time, the volatile components in gasoline evaporate, leaving behind a sticky residue that can clog your mower’s fuel system. The longer gas sits, the more likely it is to degrade, potentially leading to engine problems. This article will explore the factors that affect gas longevity, the signs of bad gas, and steps you can take to prevent gas from going bad in your lawn mower.
Understanding the Chemistry of Gasoline Degradation
Gasoline, a complex mixture of hydrocarbons, is designed to be volatile. This volatility allows the fuel to easily vaporize and burn in the engine. However, this same volatility also makes it susceptible to degradation over time.
The Process of Oxidation
The primary culprit behind gasoline degradation is oxidation. When gasoline is exposed to air, it reacts with oxygen, forming gum and varnish. These byproducts are sticky and can clog fuel lines, fuel filters, and even the carburetor, ultimately preventing the proper flow of fuel to the engine.
Factors Affecting Gasoline Shelf Life
Several factors can influence how quickly gasoline degrades, including:
- Storage Conditions: Proper storage is crucial. Exposure to sunlight, heat, and moisture accelerates oxidation.
- Fuel Additives: Some additives, like stabilizers, can help slow down the degradation process.
- Fuel Quality: Lower-quality gasoline, often found at discount gas stations, may contain less-stable hydrocarbons and degrade faster.
- Ethanol Content: Ethanol, commonly added to gasoline, absorbs moisture from the air, further accelerating degradation.
Signs of Bad Gas in Your Lawn Mower
Now that you understand why gas goes bad, you need to know how to spot the signs:
Difficulty Starting
A common symptom of bad gas is a difficult start. The engine may sputter, cough, or refuse to fire up entirely. The clogged fuel system is preventing fuel from reaching the combustion chamber efficiently.
Loss of Power
If your lawn mower starts but lacks power, it could be a sign of bad gas. The gum and varnish in the fuel system can restrict fuel flow, leading to a lean fuel mixture and a sluggish engine.
Engine Knocking
A knocking sound coming from the engine might indicate that the fuel mixture is too lean due to restricted fuel flow.
Fuel Smell
A strong fuel smell might indicate that gasoline is leaking from a clogged fuel line or carburetor.
How to Prevent Gas From Going Bad
It’s much easier to prevent gas from going bad than to deal with the consequences. Here are some steps you can take:
Use Fresh Gas
Always try to use fresh gasoline in your lawn mower. If you’re storing your mower for an extended period, it’s best to drain the tank before storing.
Add Fuel Stabilizer
A fuel stabilizer, available at most hardware and automotive stores, can extend the shelf life of gasoline. It works by slowing down the oxidation process and preventing the formation of gum and varnish.
Store Properly
Store your gas in a cool, dry, and dark place. Avoid storing gasoline in direct sunlight or near heat sources.
What to Do if You Have Bad Gas
If you suspect you have bad gas in your lawn mower, don’t panic! Here’s what you can do:
Drain the Tank
The simplest solution is to drain the old gas from the tank. You can do this by opening the fuel valve and letting the gas drain into a container. Make sure to dispose of the old gas properly, as it’s not environmentally friendly.
Clean the Fuel System
If you’ve already used the bad gas, you might need to clean the fuel system. This can involve removing the fuel filter and carburetor and cleaning them with a specialized cleaning solution. You can find kits specifically designed for this purpose at most auto parts stores.
Consider a Fuel System Treatment
Using a fuel system treatment can help dissolve and remove any gum and varnish buildup. These treatments are available in liquid and additive form and are typically added to the fuel tank.
Conclusion
Gasoline, while essential for powering our lawn mowers, has a limited shelf life. Understanding the factors that affect gasoline degradation and taking steps to prevent it can save you time, money, and frustration. By using fresh gas, adding fuel stabilizer, storing properly, and addressing bad gas promptly, you can keep your lawn mower running smoothly season after season. So, before you fire up your mower, check your gas! You’ll be glad you did.
FAQs
Does gas go bad in a lawnmower?
Yes, gasoline can go bad in a lawnmower. Over time, gasoline will evaporate and oxidize, which can lead to the formation of gums and varnish. This can clog the fuel system and make it difficult for the engine to start or run properly. The amount of time it takes for gasoline to go bad depends on several factors, including the type of gasoline, storage conditions, and the presence of stabilizers.
How long does gas last in a lawnmower?
Gasoline can last for several months if stored properly. However, it’s generally recommended to use gasoline within 30 days. After that, it’s a good idea to use a fuel stabilizer to prevent the gasoline from breaking down. Stabilizers help to protect the fuel from oxidation and evaporation.
What are the signs of bad gas in a lawnmower?
There are several signs that indicate bad gas in a lawnmower. These include: difficulty starting the engine, the engine running rough, the engine sputtering, and the engine dying unexpectedly. If you notice any of these signs, it’s likely that the gas in your lawnmower has gone bad.
Can I use old gas in my lawnmower?
It’s generally not recommended to use old gas in your lawnmower. Using old gas can damage your engine and lead to costly repairs. If you have old gas, it’s best to dispose of it properly.
How do I prevent gas from going bad in a lawnmower?
To prevent gas from going bad in your lawnmower, it’s important to use fresh gasoline and to store it properly. Always use fuel stabilizers to protect the gasoline from breaking down. Store the gasoline in a sealed container in a cool, dry place.
What should I do if I have bad gas in my lawnmower?
If you have bad gas in your lawnmower, the best course of action is to drain it and replace it with fresh gasoline. This will help to prevent any damage to your engine. You can drain the gas by removing the fuel line and letting it drain into a container. Once the gas has been drained, you can refill the tank with fresh gasoline.
Can I use ethanol-free gasoline in my lawnmower?
Using ethanol-free gasoline in your lawnmower is a great idea. Ethanol-free gas will not attract moisture and will last much longer than gasoline containing ethanol. If you are concerned about gas going bad, ethanol-free gas is your best option.