The whirring of a lawnmower on a sunny Saturday morning is a familiar sound of summer. But before you fire up your engine, you might be wondering: should you be using non-ethanol gas? This seemingly simple question can spark a lot of debate, with passionate arguments on both sides. This article will delve into the pros and cons of using non-ethanol gas in your lawnmower, exploring the potential benefits, the downsides, and ultimately help you decide what’s best for your needs and budget.
In a nutshell, using non-ethanol gas in your lawnmower can be beneficial in the long run, especially if you only use it occasionally. Ethanol blends can lead to engine issues like gumming and varnish buildup, while pure gasoline offers cleaner burning and potentially longer storage life. However, non-ethanol gas is generally more expensive and can be harder to find than the widely available ethanol blends.
Why Ethanol is Used in Gasoline
To understand why non-ethanol gas is a potential solution, it’s crucial to understand why ethanol is added to gasoline in the first place. Ethanol, a biofuel derived from corn, is added to gasoline for several reasons:
1. Reducing Dependence on Fossil Fuels:
Ethanol production contributes to reducing our reliance on imported oil and supports American agriculture.
2. Promoting Environmental Benefits:
Ethanol is touted as a cleaner-burning fuel that can reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
3. Lowering Gasoline Costs:
Government subsidies make ethanol blending cost-effective for gasoline producers, contributing to lower overall gas prices.
While these goals are commendable, ethanol’s inclusion in gasoline is not without its drawbacks.
The Downsides of Ethanol in Your Lawn Mower
Ethanol’s presence in fuel can pose several problems for your lawnmower:
1. Attracts Moisture:
Ethanol is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the air. This moisture can then mix with the gas, creating water droplets that can lead to rust and corrosion within your engine.
2. Causes Gum and Varnish Buildup:
Ethanol breaks down over time, leaving behind sticky residues that can clog fuel lines, injectors, and carburetors. This can lead to engine performance issues and ultimately damage your lawnmower.
3. Reduces Storage Life:
Ethanol blends have a much shorter shelf life compared to pure gasoline. This means that gas stored for extended periods, even with stabilizers, is more prone to the problems mentioned above.
The Advantages of Non-Ethanol Gas
Non-ethanol gasoline, also known as pure gasoline, offers several advantages for lawnmower owners:
1. Cleaner Burning:
Pure gasoline burns more cleanly, minimizing carbon deposits and reducing the risk of engine damage.
2. Longer Storage Life:
Non-ethanol gas can be stored for longer periods without the risk of degradation, making it ideal for seasonal equipment like lawnmowers.
3. Fewer Engine Problems:
The absence of ethanol eliminates the issues associated with moisture absorption, gum buildup, and reduced shelf life.
Is Non-Ethanol Gas Worth the Cost?
While the benefits of non-ethanol gas are clear, it comes with a significant drawback – cost. Non-ethanol gas is typically more expensive than ethanol blends. In some areas, it can be significantly more costly, leading some users to question whether the extra expense is justified.
When Should You Use Non-Ethanol Gas?
The decision of whether to use non-ethanol gas depends on several factors:
1. Frequency of Use:
If you only use your lawnmower occasionally, non-ethanol gas might be the better choice. The longer shelf life will help prevent engine problems associated with ethanol blends.
2. Age of Your Equipment:
Older lawnmowers, especially those with carburetors, are more susceptible to ethanol’s negative effects. Using non-ethanol gas can help extend their lifespan.
3. Availability and Cost:
Non-ethanol gas may not be readily available in all areas, and its cost can be significantly higher than ethanol blends.
Alternatives to Non-Ethanol Gas
If non-ethanol gas is not readily available or too expensive, here are some alternatives:
1. Fuel Stabilizers:
Adding a fuel stabilizer to your ethanol blend can help extend its shelf life and prevent gum buildup.
2. Frequent Use:
Using your lawnmower regularly can help minimize the negative effects of ethanol. The frequent use will prevent the fuel from sitting for long periods, reducing the risk of degradation.
Conclusion
The decision of whether to use non-ethanol gas in your lawnmower is a personal one. While non-ethanol offers benefits like cleaner burning and longer storage life, its higher cost and limited availability may be a deterrent for some. Carefully consider your frequency of use, the age of your equipment, and the availability and cost of non-ethanol gas before making a decision. Remember, maintaining a well-tuned lawnmower with regular oil changes and proper storage can further mitigate the impact of ethanol and help your equipment last longer.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about the use of non-ethanol gasoline in lawn mowers:
1. What is non-ethanol gasoline?
Non-ethanol gasoline is gasoline that does not contain ethanol, a biofuel derived from corn. Ethanol is added to gasoline to improve its octane rating and to reduce emissions. However, ethanol can also cause problems for small engines like those found in lawn mowers.
Non-ethanol gasoline, also known as “pure gas,” is typically more expensive than regular gasoline. It is often sold at marinas and airports, where it is used in marine engines and aircraft.
2. Why is non-ethanol gas better for lawn mowers?
Ethanol can absorb water from the air, which can lead to corrosion and damage in the fuel lines and carburetor. Ethanol can also break down over time, forming a gummy residue that can clog fuel filters and injectors. This can cause problems with starting, running, and performance.
Non-ethanol gas does not have these problems. It is more stable and does not attract water. This means that it will last longer in your lawn mower’s fuel tank and is less likely to cause problems.
3. What are the downsides of using non-ethanol gas?
The main downside of non-ethanol gas is its cost. It is typically more expensive than regular gasoline. Also, non-ethanol gas may be more difficult to find. It’s not available at all gas stations, and you may have to travel to a specialty store or marina to purchase it.
While non-ethanol gas is less likely to cause problems in your lawn mower, it is not a guarantee. If your lawn mower has already been damaged by ethanol, non-ethanol gas may not be enough to fix the problem.
4. Does using non-ethanol gas increase my lawn mower’s lifespan?
While non-ethanol gas can help extend the life of your lawn mower’s engine, it is not a guaranteed solution. Other factors, such as proper maintenance and storage, play a significant role in the lifespan of your mower.
Regular maintenance, including cleaning or replacing the air filter, spark plug, and carburetor, can help to prevent problems caused by ethanol. Storing your mower properly during the off-season can also prevent damage from moisture and ethanol.
5. How long can I store non-ethanol gasoline in my lawn mower?
Non-ethanol gas can be stored in your lawn mower for up to a year without causing significant problems. However, it is always best to use fresh gasoline whenever possible. Over time, even non-ethanol gas can degrade and become less effective.
If you plan to store your lawn mower for an extended period, it is recommended to drain the fuel tank and run the engine until it stalls. This will help to prevent the formation of gum and varnish in the fuel system.
6. Can I mix ethanol gas with non-ethanol gas?
It is not recommended to mix ethanol gas with non-ethanol gas. This can create problems with the fuel blend and potentially damage your lawn mower’s engine. It’s best to use only one type of gasoline in your lawn mower.
If you must use a blend of ethanol and non-ethanol gas, use the highest quality fuel available and run the engine until it stalls to remove any remaining fuel from the tank.
7. Are there any other benefits of using non-ethanol gasoline?
Besides the advantages for your lawn mower’s engine, non-ethanol gas can also be beneficial for the environment. Ethanol production is a major contributor to agricultural runoff and water pollution. Using non-ethanol gas can help to reduce these environmental impacts.
However, it’s important to note that non-ethanol gas production still has its own environmental impacts, so it’s not a perfect solution. But for those concerned about the environment, non-ethanol gas can be a good alternative.