The warm weather has arrived, and your lawn is starting to look a little wild. It’s time to fire up the lawnmower and tackle that overgrown grass. But wait! Before you can start mowing, you need to fuel up your trusty machine. Filling up a lawnmower with gas might seem like a simple task, but there are a few important steps to ensure you do it safely and effectively. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, covering everything from choosing the right fuel to preventing spills and ensuring a smooth start.
The Basics of Filling a Lawn Mower with Gas
Putting gas in your lawnmower is a straightforward process, but it requires some basic safety precautions. You’ll need the right type of fuel, a clean container, and a safe space to refuel. It’s also essential to understand the specific requirements of your lawnmower model. The information in this guide will equip you with the knowledge to refuel your mower confidently and safely.
Choosing the Right Fuel
Understanding Fuel Types
The first step in filling your lawnmower is choosing the right fuel. Most modern lawnmowers run on a blend of gasoline and ethanol. The ethanol percentage can vary, so it’s crucial to check your owner’s manual for the recommended fuel type.
Recommended Fuel for Lawn Mowers
- Gasoline with ethanol: Most modern lawnmowers run on gasoline blended with ethanol. The recommended ethanol percentage is typically between 10% and 15%.
- Pure gasoline: Some older lawnmowers might require pure gasoline, especially if they were manufactured before the widespread use of ethanol blends.
Avoiding Old Fuel
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is using old or stale gasoline. Ethanol-blended gasoline can degrade over time, leading to engine problems. For optimal performance, use fresh gasoline and avoid storing it for extended periods.
Safety First: Refueling Your Lawn Mower
Preparing for Refueling
Before you begin refueling, it’s essential to take safety precautions.
- Turn off the lawnmower: Ensure the engine is completely off and has cooled down.
- Move to a well-ventilated area: Refuel your lawnmower in an open area, away from any flammable materials or heat sources.
- Wear protective gear: It’s always a good idea to wear safety glasses and gloves when handling gasoline.
The Refueling Process
- Locate the fuel tank: The fuel tank is usually located on the side or top of the lawnmower. Look for a cap with a symbol of a gas pump or the word “fuel.”
- Remove the cap: Carefully unscrew the fuel cap and set it aside.
- Pour the fuel: Use a clean gas can to pour fuel into the tank. Avoid overfilling the tank.
- Tighten the cap: After pouring the fuel, securely tighten the fuel cap.
Avoiding Spills
Preventing spills is crucial when refueling your lawnmower.
- Pour slowly and carefully: Avoid pouring too quickly, which can lead to spills.
- Check for leaks: After pouring the fuel, inspect the tank and surrounding areas for any leaks.
- Clean up spills immediately: If you do have a spill, clean it up immediately with a cloth or absorbent material.
Starting Your Lawn Mower
Priming the Engine
Once your lawnmower is fueled, you can start the engine.
- Locate the primer bulb: The primer bulb is usually located on the carburetor. It’s a small rubber bulb that you press to prime the engine.
- Prime the engine: Press the primer bulb several times to fill the carburetor with fuel. The number of presses will vary depending on your lawnmower model.
- Check the choke: Some lawnmowers have a choke lever. Make sure the choke is in the “choke” position.
Starting the Engine
- Turn the ignition key: Turn the ignition key to the “on” position.
- Pull the starter cord: Slowly pull the starter cord until you feel resistance. Then, give it a quick, strong pull.
- Adjust the choke: Once the engine starts, gradually move the choke lever to the “run” position.
Troubleshooting Starting Problems
If your lawnmower won’t start, check the following:
- Fuel level: Ensure the fuel tank has enough fuel.
- Spark plug: A faulty spark plug can prevent the engine from starting.
- Air filter: A clogged air filter can restrict airflow to the engine.
Maintaining Your Lawn Mower
Regular Maintenance
Proper maintenance is crucial for keeping your lawnmower in optimal condition.
- Change the oil: Change the oil regularly, as recommended in your owner’s manual.
- Clean the air filter: A clean air filter ensures proper airflow to the engine.
- Check the spark plug: Replace the spark plug if it’s worn or damaged.
Storage Tips
- Empty the fuel tank: Empty the fuel tank before storing your lawnmower for long periods.
- Add fuel stabilizer: If you can’t empty the tank, add fuel stabilizer to prevent the fuel from degrading.
- Store in a cool, dry place: Store your lawnmower in a cool, dry place to prevent rust and corrosion.
Conclusion
Putting gas in your lawnmower is a simple task, but it’s essential to do it safely and correctly. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your lawnmower is ready to tackle even the toughest grass. Remember to use the right fuel, take precautions to prevent spills, and perform regular maintenance to keep your mower running smoothly for years to come.
FAQs
What kind of gas should I use for my lawn mower?
Most lawn mowers use regular unleaded gasoline, typically with an octane rating of 87. However, it’s always best to consult your lawn mower’s owner’s manual for specific fuel recommendations. Using the wrong type of gasoline can damage your mower’s engine.
While you can find gas specifically marketed as “lawn mower gas,” this is simply regular unleaded gasoline with a stabilizer added. It’s not necessary to use this type of gas, but it can be helpful if you only use your mower occasionally and want to prevent the fuel from going bad.
How much gas should I put in my lawn mower?
The amount of gas you should put in your lawn mower depends on the size of the fuel tank. Most lawn mower tanks hold between 1 and 2 gallons of gas. It’s generally a good idea to avoid filling the tank completely, leaving some space for the fuel to expand as it heats up.
If you’re unsure how much gas your mower can hold, it’s best to err on the side of caution and fill it only halfway. You can always add more gas later if you need it.
Can I use old gas in my lawn mower?
It’s not recommended to use old gas in your lawn mower, as it can cause problems with the engine. Old gas can gum up the carburetor and fuel lines, leading to difficulty starting and poor performance.
If you have leftover gas from last season, it’s best to use it up in another gas-powered tool, like a weed trimmer or generator. If you have a significant amount of old gas, you can try adding a fuel stabilizer to help extend its shelf life.
What do I do if I spill gas on my lawn mower?
If you spill gas on your lawn mower, immediately wipe it up with a clean cloth or paper towels. Be sure to dispose of the soaked materials properly, as gasoline is flammable.
After you’ve cleaned up the spill, it’s a good idea to let the gas evaporate completely before starting your mower. This will help to prevent any potential fire hazards.
How often should I change the oil in my lawn mower?
The frequency with which you should change the oil in your lawn mower depends on how often you use it. For a typical lawn mower, it’s recommended to change the oil every 25 hours of operation, or at least once a year.
Checking and changing your mower’s oil regularly is essential for maintaining its performance and longevity.
Why is my lawn mower not starting?
There are a few reasons why your lawn mower might not be starting. The most common reason is a lack of fuel. Make sure the fuel tank is full and that the fuel lines are clear. You may also need to prime the carburetor by pressing the primer bulb several times.
Another possibility is that the spark plug is fouled. Check the spark plug and replace it if necessary. If the spark plug is clean and the lawn mower still won’t start, you might have a problem with the ignition system.
How can I prevent my lawn mower from running out of gas while I’m mowing?
To prevent your lawn mower from running out of gas while you’re mowing, it’s important to pay attention to the fuel gauge. If you’re running low on gas, stop mowing and refuel before continuing.
It’s also a good idea to have a spare gas can on hand in case you need to refuel your lawn mower while you’re in the middle of mowing. This will save you the hassle of having to stop and go back to your garage.