The warm weather is finally here, and you’re ready to tackle that overgrown lawn. But when you pull out your trusty lawn mower, you realize the gas tank is full. You haven’t used it since last fall, so you wonder: is that gas still good? This is a common dilemma for many lawn mower owners. We’ll explore the lifespan of gasoline, the factors that affect its degradation, and what you can do to ensure your mower starts up smoothly.
In short, yes, gasoline does go bad over time. The exact lifespan depends on a few factors, but generally, gasoline can start to degrade after just a few months, especially in hot weather. This article will break down why gasoline goes bad, how to tell if it’s still good, and what you can do to prevent your mower from having a bad start.
Why Does Gasoline Go Bad?
Gasoline is a complex mixture of hydrocarbons, which are unstable molecules. When exposed to air, these molecules react with oxygen, forming a process called oxidation. This oxidation leads to the formation of gums and varnish, which can clog fuel lines, fuel injectors, and the carburetor, ultimately hindering the performance of your lawn mower engine.
Factors Affecting Gasoline Degradation
There are a few key factors that accelerate the degradation process:
- Exposure to Air: The more air that comes into contact with the gasoline, the faster it oxidizes. This is why it’s important to keep your gas tank full and avoid leaving it partially empty for extended periods.
- Temperature: Heat speeds up chemical reactions. This means that gasoline stored in hot environments will degrade faster than gasoline stored in cooler environments.
- Light: Ultraviolet light from the sun also accelerates the oxidation process. Storing your gasoline in a dark, cool place can help prolong its lifespan.
- Additives: Gasoline contains additives that help to prevent gum and varnish formation, but these additives gradually lose their effectiveness over time.
How Long Does Gasoline Last?
The lifespan of gasoline depends on the factors mentioned above. However, a general rule of thumb is that fresh gasoline can last for about 3-6 months. After that, it’s likely to start degrading and could cause problems for your mower. In very hot climates, or if the gasoline is stored improperly, it might degrade even faster.
How To Tell If Your Gasoline is Bad
There are a few visual and olfactory clues that can indicate that your gasoline has gone bad:
- Color: Fresh gasoline is typically clear or slightly yellow. If it’s cloudy, brown, or has a reddish tint, it’s likely contaminated with water or has started to oxidize.
- Smell: Fresh gasoline has a distinctive, pungent smell. If it smells stale, rancid, or like varnish, it’s a sign that it’s gone bad.
- Consistency: If the gasoline appears thick or sticky, it’s a sure sign that gum and varnish have formed and it’s no longer suitable for your mower.
What To Do If Your Gasoline is Bad
If you suspect your gasoline is bad, the best course of action is to drain it completely and replace it with fresh gasoline. Here’s how to do it:
- Safety First: Always work in a well-ventilated area and avoid smoking.
- Locate the Drain Plug: Your lawn mower will have a drain plug on the bottom of the gas tank.
- Prepare a Container: Have a suitable container ready to catch the old gasoline. A large, airtight plastic container is ideal.
- Drain the Tank: Carefully loosen the drain plug and allow the gasoline to flow into the container.
- Dispose Properly: Old gasoline should never be poured down the drain or into the soil. Contact your local waste management agency for proper disposal instructions.
Preventing Gasoline Degradation: Tips for Storing Gasoline
- Keep It Full: A full gas tank will have less air exposure, which helps to slow down oxidation.
- Store in a Cool, Dark Place: A garage or shed that is away from direct sunlight and heat is ideal.
- Use a Fuel Stabilizer: Fuel stabilizers are additives that help to prevent gum and varnish formation and extend the life of gasoline. They are available at most hardware stores and auto parts retailers.
- Don’t Mix Old and New Gas: Never mix old and new gasoline together. The old gas will contaminate the fresh gas and shorten its lifespan.
- Use Fresh Gas: If you’re storing gasoline for a long time, it’s best to use a fuel stabilizer and replace it every 6 months.
- Consider Ethanol-Free Gasoline: Ethanol attracts moisture, which can lead to phase separation and water contamination in your fuel tank. Ethanol-free gasoline is available at some gas stations and is a good option for long-term storage.
The Bottom Line
While gasoline does go bad, proper storage and maintenance can help extend its lifespan. By using fresh gasoline, keeping your tank full, and utilizing fuel stabilizers, you can ensure that your lawn mower is ready to tackle the yard whenever you need it.
FAQs
Does Gasoline Go Bad in a Lawn Mower?
Yes, gasoline does go bad in a lawn mower. It’s a common misconception that you can just leave gas in your mower all year round and expect it to work perfectly fine when you need it. Gasoline deteriorates over time due to a process called oxidation. This process leads to the formation of gum and varnish, which can clog your mower’s fuel lines, carburetor, and other engine parts.
This can lead to starting problems, poor engine performance, and even permanent damage to your mower. To avoid these issues, it’s important to use fresh gasoline and to store it properly if you’re not going to be using your mower for a while.
How Long Does Gasoline Last in a Lawn Mower?
Gasoline typically starts to deteriorate after 30 days, and it’s best to use it within 6 months. However, the rate of deterioration can be influenced by several factors, including storage conditions, fuel stabilizer, and the type of gasoline.
For example, gasoline stored in a sealed container in a cool, dry place will last longer than gasoline stored in an open container in a hot, humid environment.
What are the Signs of Bad Gasoline in a Lawn Mower?
There are a few tell-tale signs that the gasoline in your lawn mower has gone bad. These include:
- Difficulty Starting: If your mower takes longer than usual to start or doesn’t start at all, it could be a sign of bad gasoline.
- Rough Running: If your mower runs poorly or has trouble maintaining a consistent speed, this could also be a sign of bad gasoline.
- Fuel Smell: If you notice a strong, pungent smell of gasoline coming from your mower, it could be a sign that the gasoline is old and has started to break down.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to drain the old gasoline and refill your mower with fresh fuel.
How to Prevent Gasoline from Going Bad in a Lawn Mower?
There are a few things you can do to prevent gasoline from going bad in your lawn mower. These include:
- Use Fresh Gasoline: Always use fresh gasoline in your lawn mower. Don’t use leftover gasoline from your car or other vehicles.
- Store Gasoline Properly: If you’re not going to be using your mower for a while, it’s important to store the gasoline properly.
- Add Fuel Stabilizer: Fuel stabilizer helps to slow down the oxidation process and extend the life of gasoline.
How to Store Gasoline for a Lawn Mower?
Storing gasoline properly is essential to prevent it from going bad. Here are some tips for storing gasoline:
- Use a Sealed Container: Store gasoline in a sealed container to prevent evaporation and moisture absorption.
- Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Avoid storing gasoline in direct sunlight or in extreme temperatures.
- Label the Container: Label the container with the date you stored the gasoline to keep track of how long it has been stored.
What Happens if I Use Bad Gasoline in My Lawn Mower?
Using bad gasoline in your lawn mower can cause several problems, including:
- Clogged Fuel Lines: Gum and varnish can accumulate in your fuel lines, restricting fuel flow and causing starting problems.
- Damaged Carburetor: Bad gasoline can also damage your carburetor, which can lead to poor engine performance and even engine failure.
Can I Use Old Gasoline for My Lawn Mower?
It’s generally not recommended to use old gasoline in your lawn mower. Even if the gasoline doesn’t cause immediate problems, it can still contribute to the buildup of gum and varnish over time, leading to long-term engine issues. It’s always best to use fresh gasoline in your lawn mower to ensure optimal performance and longevity.