The crisp scent of freshly cut grass, the satisfying hum of the engine, and the feeling of a well-maintained lawn – it’s all part of the joy of lawn mowing. However, sometimes this idyllic experience can be disrupted by a stubborn lawn mower that refuses to start. One of the culprits behind this frustrating issue can be bad gas. This article delves into the telltale signs that your lawn mower gas has gone bad and how to identify and deal with this common problem. We’ll explore the causes of gas degradation, the symptoms to watch out for, and the steps you can take to prevent and remedy the situation.
In short, you’ll know your lawn mower gas is bad if it’s been sitting for a long time (more than 3 months), you notice the fuel smelling like varnish, or your mower experiences problems starting, running rough, or stalling.
How Long Can Gas Sit in a Lawn Mower Before It Goes Bad?
Gasoline, unlike wine, doesn’t improve with age. It’s a complex mixture of volatile hydrocarbons, and over time, these components break down and evaporate, leaving behind a gummy residue. This residue can clog fuel lines, carburetors, and other vital parts of your lawn mower, hindering its performance.
Here’s a general rule of thumb: Gas stored in a lawn mower for more than 3 months is likely to go bad. The exact timeframe varies depending on factors such as storage conditions (temperature, exposure to sunlight), fuel stabilizer use, and the type of gasoline used.
Signs That Your Lawn Mower Gas Has Gone Bad
If your lawn mower is exhibiting any of the following symptoms, it might be time to suspect bad gas:
H2: Difficulty Starting
Hard Starting or No Start:
One of the most obvious signs of bad gas is difficulty starting your lawn mower. The engine might crank but not fire up, or it might sputter and cough before dying. This is because the deteriorated gas can’t ignite properly, causing a lack of combustion.
Engine Stalling:
If your mower starts but stalls after a short while, especially when accelerating, this could also indicate bad gas. The engine is likely running on a mixture of good and bad fuel, leading to inconsistent combustion and stalling.
H2: Rough Running
Sputtering and Backfiring:
Bad gas can lead to sputtering and backfiring, which is a loud popping noise coming from the engine. This is because the engine is struggling to burn the deteriorated fuel properly.
Uneven Engine Speed:
A lawn mower engine running on bad gas may exhibit uneven or erratic speed, fluctuating between high and low RPMs. This is caused by inconsistent combustion due to the degraded fuel.
H2: Other Visual Cues
Fuel Smell:
If the gasoline in your mower has been sitting for a while, it might smell like varnish or have a slightly sour odor. This is a clear indication of fuel degradation.
Fuel Line Issues:
Visual inspection of the fuel lines might reveal signs of gumming or clogging. If you see any residue or blockage in the fuel lines, it’s a strong indicator of bad gas.
Why Does Gas Go Bad?
Here’s a breakdown of the reasons why gasoline deteriorates over time:
H3: Evaporation:
The most significant cause of gas degradation is evaporation. The volatile hydrocarbons in gasoline evaporate rapidly, leaving behind heavier molecules that are harder to burn. This process is accelerated by heat and sunlight.
H3: Oxidation:
Oxygen in the air reacts with the hydrocarbons in gasoline, leading to oxidation. This process creates gum and varnish-like residues that can clog fuel lines and engine parts.
H3: Water Contamination:
Water can seep into fuel tanks through condensation or leaks, causing the gasoline to separate and form layers. This can lead to engine problems and corrosion.
How to Deal with Bad Gas in Your Lawn Mower
If you suspect bad gas is causing problems with your lawn mower, here’s what you can do:
H3: Drain the Fuel Tank
The first step is to drain the old gas from your lawn mower’s fuel tank. Be sure to do this outdoors, away from any open flames or sources of ignition. Here’s how:
- Safety First: Wear protective gear, such as gloves and eye protection.
- Locate the Drain: Find the fuel tank’s drain plug, usually located at the bottom.
- Remove the Plug: Carefully remove the drain plug.
- Drain the Fuel: Let the gas drain into a suitable container.
- Replace the Plug: Once the tank is empty, replace the drain plug tightly.
- Proper Disposal: Dispose of the old gas safely at a designated fuel recycling center.
H3: Clean the Fuel System
After draining the bad gas, you’ll need to clean the fuel system to remove any residual residue:
- Remove the Fuel Lines: Carefully disconnect the fuel lines from the carburetor and fuel tank.
- Clean the Fuel Lines: Use a fuel line cleaner or compressed air to flush out any remaining debris.
- Clean the Carburetor: If your mower has a carburetor, you can clean it yourself or take it to a qualified mechanic.
- Reconnect the Fuel Lines: After cleaning, reconnect the fuel lines to the carburetor and fuel tank.
H3: Fill with Fresh Gas
Once the fuel system is clean, fill the tank with fresh, high-quality gasoline. It’s best to use gasoline with a higher octane rating (87 or higher).
H4: Consider Adding a Fuel Stabilizer:
Adding a fuel stabilizer to the fresh gas can help prevent it from going bad in the future. Fuel stabilizers are readily available at most automotive and hardware stores.
H3: Start and Run the Mower:
After filling the tank with fresh gas, start the mower and let it run for a few minutes to allow the new fuel to circulate through the system.
Preventing Bad Gas in Your Lawn Mower
Here are some tips to help prevent gasoline from going bad in your lawn mower:
H3: Use Fuel Stabilizer:
Fuel stabilizers are chemical additives that slow down the deterioration process of gasoline. Add a fuel stabilizer to your gas tank before storing your lawn mower for extended periods.
H3: Store Gas Properly:
Store gasoline in airtight containers, in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. This will help minimize evaporation and oxidation.
H3: Don’t Overfill the Tank:
Leave some space in the fuel tank to allow for expansion and prevent pressure build-up.
H3: Run the Mower Regularly:
Running your lawn mower regularly helps to keep the fuel system clean and prevent the gas from sitting for too long.
H3: Consider Ethanol-Free Gas:
Ethanol-free gasoline is less prone to deterioration than gasoline that contains ethanol. If you live in an area where ethanol-free gas is available, consider using it for your lawn mower.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you’ve drained the bad gas, cleaned the fuel system, and your lawn mower still won’t start or run properly, it’s best to seek professional help. A qualified mechanic can diagnose any underlying problems and make necessary repairs.
Conclusion: Keep Your Mower Running Smoothly
Bad gas can be a real pain for any lawn mower owner. Understanding the signs of bad gas, the causes of fuel degradation, and the steps to take can help you avoid this common problem. By taking preventative measures, like using fuel stabilizer and storing your gas properly, you can keep your lawn mower running smoothly and enjoy a well-manicured lawn for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about gasoline going bad in lawn mowers:
How long does gasoline last in a lawnmower?
Gasoline can last up to 3 months in a lawnmower if stored properly. However, it’s generally recommended to use gasoline within 30 days for optimal performance and to avoid potential problems. Factors like temperature, humidity, and the presence of stabilizers can affect the lifespan of gasoline.
If you store gasoline for a longer period, it’s crucial to use a fuel stabilizer to prevent the formation of gum and varnish that can clog the engine’s fuel system.
What are the signs of bad gas in a lawn mower?
There are several signs that indicate your lawn mower’s gasoline is going bad. You might notice that the engine struggles to start, runs poorly, or stalls frequently. You could also see a decrease in power, smoke from the exhaust, or difficulty starting the mower. If the gasoline has gone bad, it can create deposits that affect the fuel system and hinder its efficiency.
Another sign is a noticeable change in the gasoline’s appearance. If it’s discolored, has a strong odor, or has sediment at the bottom, it’s likely bad and should be replaced.
How can I prevent gasoline from going bad in my lawn mower?
Preventing gasoline from going bad is crucial for maintaining your lawn mower’s performance and extending its lifespan. The most effective way is to use fresh gasoline and avoid storing it for long periods. If you need to store gasoline for longer, use a fuel stabilizer specifically designed for small engines.
Always add the stabilizer to the fuel tank before filling it with gasoline. The stabilizer will prevent gum and varnish formation, ensuring the fuel remains usable for a longer period.
What should I do if I have bad gas in my lawn mower?
If you suspect your lawn mower has bad gasoline, it’s best to drain the fuel tank and refill it with fresh gasoline. You can siphon the gasoline out using a siphon pump or by tilting the mower and pouring it out. Before adding fresh gasoline, it’s a good idea to clean the fuel tank and fuel lines to remove any debris or deposits that might have formed.
If the problem persists after draining and refilling the tank, consider cleaning the carburetor or taking your mower to a qualified repair shop for professional service.
Is it safe to use old gasoline in my lawn mower?
Using old gasoline in your lawn mower can cause several problems. The gasoline can gum up the engine, leading to performance issues, starting problems, and potentially damaging the engine.
It’s best to avoid using old gasoline altogether and instead use fresh gasoline for optimal performance and to prolong the life of your lawn mower.
Can I mix old and new gasoline?
While it’s not recommended, you can technically mix old and new gasoline. However, it’s not advisable as it can still lead to problems with your lawn mower. The old gasoline can degrade the quality of the new gasoline, leading to the same issues as using old gasoline alone.
It’s best to stick to using fresh gasoline whenever possible to ensure smooth operation and prevent any potential problems.
What is the best way to dispose of old gasoline?
Old gasoline should not be poured down the drain or disposed of in the trash. Instead, it should be disposed of properly at a designated hazardous waste disposal facility.
You can usually find such facilities at local recycling centers or waste management facilities. Contact your local municipality for information on where you can dispose of old gasoline safely and responsibly.