The warm weather is here, and it’s time to fire up the lawn mower and tackle those overgrown patches. But before you head to the gas station, you might be wondering about the fuel itself. Is regular gas with ethanol the best choice, or should you be using non-ethanol gas for your lawn mower? It’s a question that’s been debated among lawn care enthusiasts, and we’re here to clear up the confusion. We’ll dive into the pros and cons of each fuel type, examine the potential benefits of non-ethanol gas, and help you decide if it’s right for your mower.
In short, while non-ethanol gas offers some advantages, it’s not necessarily a “must-have” for every lawn mower. The decision comes down to your specific needs, usage habits, and mower type.
The Ethanol Debate: A Look at the Pros and Cons
Ethanol, a biofuel derived from corn, has become a standard addition to gasoline in many countries. While it’s promoted as a renewable and environmentally friendly option, it also presents some drawbacks when it comes to small engines like those found in lawn mowers.
Advantages of Ethanol-Blended Gas:
- Renewable Source: Ethanol is made from corn, a renewable resource, making it a more sustainable option compared to fossil fuels.
- Cost-Effective: Ethanol-blended gasoline is often cheaper than non-ethanol gas, making it a more budget-friendly choice for many consumers.
Disadvantages of Ethanol-Blended Gas:
- Fuel Degradation: Ethanol absorbs moisture from the air, which can lead to phase separation in the fuel tank and cause problems like clogged fuel lines, carburetor issues, and even engine damage.
- Reduced Performance: Ethanol can degrade over time, reducing its octane rating and leading to decreased engine performance. This can result in a loss of power, rough idling, and difficulty starting the mower.
- Corrosion and Wear: Ethanol can corrode certain metal parts in the engine, leading to premature wear and tear. This is particularly concerning for older mowers with older fuel lines and carburetor parts.
The Case for Non-Ethanol Gas: A Deeper Dive
While ethanol-blended gas remains the dominant fuel option, non-ethanol gas, also known as “pure gas,” has gained traction among lawn mower owners who value extended storage and optimal performance. Here’s why:
1. Longer Storage Life:
Non-ethanol gas is significantly more stable than its ethanol-blended counterpart. It resists moisture absorption, meaning it can stay fresh in your mower’s fuel tank for months without causing issues. This is particularly beneficial for seasonal users who only use their mowers a few times a year.
2. Reduced Engine Problems:
Using non-ethanol gas can help prevent the fuel-related problems often associated with ethanol, such as:
- Clogged Fuel Lines: Ethanol’s moisture absorption can lead to gum and varnish buildup, clogging fuel lines and restricting fuel flow.
- Carburetor Issues: Ethanol can also cause carburetor problems like sticking valves, gumming, and even corrosion. These issues can lead to poor performance, difficulty starting, and even engine stalling.
- Engine Damage: In severe cases, ethanol-related problems can cause significant damage to the engine, requiring costly repairs.
3. Improved Performance:
Non-ethanol gas provides a more consistent fuel source, resulting in:
- Smoother Operation: The consistent fuel burn leads to a smoother running engine, reducing vibrations and noise.
- Increased Power: A consistent fuel supply can enhance the engine’s power output, leading to improved mowing performance, particularly on inclines or thicker grass.
- Easier Starting: A clean fuel system with non-ethanol gas helps the engine start easier, even after sitting for extended periods.
When Non-Ethanol Gas Makes Sense:
Non-ethanol gas might be the best option for you if:
- You have an older mower: Older mowers are more susceptible to the negative effects of ethanol due to their older fuel lines and carburetor parts.
- You only use your mower seasonally: Storing your mower for extended periods can be easier with non-ethanol gas as it won’t degrade as quickly.
- You experience frequent engine problems: If your mower frequently exhibits issues like difficulty starting, rough idling, or reduced power, switching to non-ethanol gas could be a solution.
When You Can Probably Stick with Ethanol Gas:
Here are some situations where ethanol-blended gas might be a suitable option for your lawnmower:
- You use your mower frequently: If you mow your lawn weekly or even more often, the ethanol in gas likely won’t cause any issues before it can degrade significantly.
- Your mower is newer: Newer mowers often have more ethanol-resistant components and fuel systems, making them less prone to problems associated with ethanol-blended gas.
- Cost is a major factor: Non-ethanol gas can be more expensive than ethanol-blended gas, so if cost is a primary concern, using ethanol-blended gas might be more suitable.
Conclusion: A Balancing Act
The decision of whether to use non-ethanol gas in your lawnmower is ultimately up to you. While non-ethanol gas offers advantages like longer storage life, reduced engine problems, and improved performance, it might not be necessary for every situation. Consider your specific needs, usage patterns, and the age of your mower to make the best choice.
Remember, regular maintenance is essential for any mower, regardless of the fuel used. Keep your fuel tank full to reduce condensation and regularly clean your carburetor and fuel lines to ensure optimal performance. With proper care and attention, your lawnmower will serve you well, whether you choose ethanol-blended or non-ethanol gas.
FAQs
What is non-ethanol gas and how does it differ from regular gasoline?
Non-ethanol gasoline, also known as “pure gas” or “100% gasoline,” is gasoline that doesn’t contain ethanol. Ethanol is a biofuel made from corn, and it’s added to gasoline to reduce dependence on foreign oil. Regular gasoline typically contains 10% ethanol (E10).
The main difference between non-ethanol gas and regular gas is that non-ethanol gas is less likely to attract water and degrade over time. Ethanol is hygroscopic, meaning it attracts water molecules. When ethanol-blended gas sits in a storage tank, it can absorb moisture from the air, which can lead to phase separation and engine problems. Non-ethanol gas is more stable and less likely to experience these issues.
Why would someone use non-ethanol gas in their lawnmower?
Using non-ethanol gas in your lawnmower can offer several benefits. Ethanol can degrade rubber parts in your lawnmower, leading to fuel lines cracking, carburetor issues, and other problems. It can also attract moisture, which can cause rust and corrosion. Non-ethanol gas helps to avoid these issues, extending the life of your lawnmower and reducing maintenance costs.
Additionally, non-ethanol gas is more stable and doesn’t break down as quickly as regular gas. This means that it can be stored for longer periods without losing its effectiveness. This is particularly useful if you only use your lawnmower seasonally or if you store it for extended periods.
What are the downsides of using non-ethanol gas?
The main downside of using non-ethanol gas is that it’s typically more expensive than regular gas. This is because it’s less widely available, and there are additional costs associated with producing and distributing it. Non-ethanol gas is also often difficult to find, as it’s not sold at all gas stations.
Another potential downside is that non-ethanol gas can sometimes cause starting issues in older lawnmowers that are not designed to use it. This is because the fuel mixture might be too rich for the engine, leading to a lack of combustion. This issue is typically resolved by adjusting the carburetor.
Is non-ethanol gas better for all lawnmowers?
While non-ethanol gas can be beneficial for many lawnmowers, it’s not necessarily better for all. Newer lawnmowers are designed to use ethanol-blended gas, and using non-ethanol gas in them might not provide any significant benefits.
Additionally, using non-ethanol gas in older lawnmowers that aren’t designed for it could potentially cause issues like starting problems or reduced engine performance. It’s best to consult your lawnmower manual to see what type of gas is recommended for your specific model.
How long can non-ethanol gas be stored?
Non-ethanol gas can be stored for extended periods without significant degradation. It’s generally recommended to store it for up to a year, but it can remain usable for longer.
In contrast, regular gas containing ethanol can degrade and become unusable within a few months of storage. This is because the ethanol absorbs moisture from the air, causing phase separation and making the gas unusable. Non-ethanol gas avoids this issue due to its stable composition.
Where can I find non-ethanol gas?
Non-ethanol gas is not widely available at regular gas stations. It is more commonly found at marinas, airports, and specialty fuel retailers. You might also be able to find it at some hardware stores or garden centers.
If you’re having difficulty finding non-ethanol gas, you can try contacting local fuel retailers or searching online for retailers in your area. You can also consider using fuel stabilizers in your regular gas to help prevent degradation and extend its shelf life.
Should I use non-ethanol gas in my lawnmower?
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to use non-ethanol gas in your lawnmower depends on several factors, including the age of your mower, your usage patterns, and your budget. If you’re concerned about the long-term health of your mower, especially if you store it for extended periods, using non-ethanol gas may be beneficial.
However, if you use your lawnmower frequently and don’t experience any issues with regular gas, you may not need to switch. It’s always a good idea to consult your lawnmower manual for specific recommendations regarding fuel type.