The sun is shining, the birds are singing, and your lawn is desperately begging for a trim. But before you fire up your trusty mower, there’s one crucial question that needs answering: what kind of gas goes in your lawnmower? This seemingly simple question can lead to confusion, especially for new mower owners. Don’t worry, this article will break down everything you need to know about fueling your lawnmower, from the basics of gasoline to the nuances of different types of fuel. We’ll also address common questions like whether you should use regular gas or premium, and how to store your fuel safely. By the time you’re done reading, you’ll be a gas-powered lawnmower expert, ready to tackle any overgrown lawn with confidence.
The Short Answer:
Most modern gas-powered lawnmowers run on regular unleaded gasoline. This is the same fuel you’d put in your car, but it’s important to avoid using fuel that contains ethanol. We’ll delve into the reasons why in the next section.
The Basics of Gasoline
Gasoline is a complex mixture of hydrocarbons, the key ingredient in powering internal combustion engines like those found in your car, motorcycle, and, yes, your lawnmower. The process of refining crude oil into gasoline involves separating different hydrocarbons based on their boiling points.
Here’s a simplified explanation:
- Octane: This is a measurement of a gasoline’s resistance to knocking or premature detonation. Higher octane numbers indicate a greater resistance to knocking.
- Ethanol: A biofuel added to gasoline to reduce emissions and promote energy independence. However, ethanol can cause problems in small engines like those in lawnmowers.
Why Avoid Ethanol in Lawn Mower Fuel?
Ethanol, while beneficial in some ways, can be detrimental to small engines like those used in lawnmowers. Here’s why:
1. Ethanol Attracts Water:
Ethanol is hygroscopic, meaning it attracts and absorbs moisture from the air. This can lead to phase separation in the fuel tank, where the ethanol and gasoline separate, creating a watery, unusable mixture.
2. Ethanol Damages Rubber and Plastic:
Ethanol can degrade rubber and plastic parts in your mower’s fuel system, leading to leaks and malfunctions.
3. Ethanol Can Cause Engine Problems:
Ethanol can clog fuel lines, damage carburetor components, and lead to engine stalling or difficult starts.
Choosing the Right Gas for Your Lawn Mower
Now that we understand why ethanol is a problem, let’s talk about choosing the right gasoline for your lawnmower.
1. Regular Unleaded Gasoline:
This is generally the best option for most lawnmowers. It’s readily available, affordable, and provides the right blend of hydrocarbons for optimal performance. However, always check your owner’s manual to confirm your specific mower’s fuel recommendations.
2. Non-Ethanol Gasoline:
If you live in an area where ethanol-free gasoline is readily available, this is the ideal choice for your lawnmower. It’s free from the problems associated with ethanol, but can be more expensive and harder to find.
3. Premium Gasoline:
While premium gasoline has a higher octane rating, it’s generally not necessary for lawnmowers. Using premium gas in a lawnmower designed for regular gas won’t offer any performance benefits and could potentially cause engine issues.
Fueling Your Lawn Mower: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you’ve chosen the right gasoline, it’s time to fuel your lawnmower. Follow these steps for a smooth and safe process:
- Turn off the engine and allow it to cool down. Never add fuel to a hot engine.
- Find a well-ventilated area. Fuel vapors are flammable and can be dangerous.
- Open the fuel tank cap carefully. Release any pressure buildup slowly to avoid spills.
- Use a fuel funnel. This will help prevent spills and ensure you’re adding the fuel directly to the tank.
- Fill the tank to the “Full” line. Do not overfill the tank.
- Securely close the fuel tank cap. Ensure the cap is properly tightened.
- Dispose of any spilled fuel properly. Never pour gasoline down the drain or onto the ground.
Storing Gasoline Safely
Even if you use non-ethanol gasoline, proper fuel storage is essential for maximizing its lifespan and preventing problems. Follow these tips:
- Store gasoline in a designated, approved container. Look for containers specifically designed for gasoline storage, as they are made from durable and leak-proof materials.
- Keep gasoline away from heat and direct sunlight. Excessive heat can degrade the gasoline and make it more volatile.
- Store gasoline in a well-ventilated area. Store it in a garage or shed with proper ventilation to minimize the risk of fire hazards.
- Do not store gasoline indefinitely. While gasoline can last for months if stored properly, it’s best to use it within a year for optimal performance.
- Label containers clearly. Always label your gasoline containers clearly with the type of fuel and the date it was purchased.
Conclusion: Fueling Your Lawn Mower for Success
By understanding the basics of gasoline, choosing the right fuel for your lawnmower, and storing fuel properly, you can ensure your mower runs smoothly and efficiently for many seasons to come. Remember, using the right fuel is crucial for maintaining your mower’s performance and extending its lifespan. Always consult your owner’s manual for specific fuel recommendations and follow safe fueling practices. With a little knowledge and a few simple steps, you can conquer your lawn with ease, knowing you’re using the right fuel to power your mower.
FAQ
1. What kind of gasoline should I use in my lawn mower?
The type of gasoline you need for your lawn mower is specified in your owner’s manual. Most modern lawn mowers use regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher. However, older models or high-performance mowers might require premium gasoline with a higher octane rating. It’s essential to consult your manual for the correct fuel requirements.
Using the wrong type of gasoline can lead to engine problems, reduced performance, and even damage to your mower.
2. Can I use ethanol-blended gasoline in my lawn mower?
While most lawn mowers can tolerate some ethanol in their fuel, excessive ethanol can cause problems. Ethanol attracts moisture, which can lead to corrosion and fuel system problems. It can also degrade fuel over time, causing issues with starting and running.
Try to use gasoline with a lower ethanol content, ideally 10% or less. If possible, consider using pure gasoline without ethanol, which is sometimes available at specialty gas stations.
3. How long can I store gasoline in my lawn mower?
Gasoline starts to degrade after a few months, losing its potency and becoming difficult to ignite. To avoid problems, it’s best to drain the fuel tank and carburetor of your lawn mower before storing it for extended periods.
If you need to store gasoline for a longer time, consider adding a fuel stabilizer to prevent deterioration. Fuel stabilizers help to prevent gum and varnish buildup in the fuel system, ensuring that your mower starts easily the next time you use it.
4. Can I mix gasoline with oil in my lawn mower?
No, you should never mix gasoline with oil in your lawn mower. Modern lawn mowers have separate fuel and oil systems. Mixing them can lead to severe engine damage, as oil and gasoline are incompatible and can cause clogging and combustion problems.
Always use the correct type of oil for your lawn mower, as specified in your owner’s manual.
5. Should I use premium gasoline in my lawn mower?
Using premium gasoline in a lawn mower that doesn’t require it is unnecessary and wasteful. Premium gasoline has a higher octane rating, which is beneficial for high-performance engines that operate under high compression. Most lawn mowers are designed for regular unleaded gasoline, and using premium won’t provide any significant benefits.
However, if your lawn mower’s manual specifically recommends premium gasoline, then you should use it to ensure optimal performance and avoid potential problems.
6. How do I properly fill my lawn mower’s gas tank?
Filling your lawn mower’s gas tank is straightforward but requires caution. Always turn off the mower and let it cool down before refueling. Remove the cap from the fuel tank and slowly pour the gasoline into the tank, avoiding spills.
Do not overfill the tank, as this can lead to spills and potential fire hazards. Replace the fuel cap securely after filling the tank.
7. What should I do if I accidentally put the wrong fuel in my lawn mower?
If you accidentally put the wrong fuel in your lawn mower, immediately stop using it. Don’t start the engine or run it for any length of time. Contact a qualified mechanic or your lawn mower dealer for assistance.
They will be able to assess the situation, drain the incorrect fuel, and properly refill the tank with the appropriate gasoline. It’s best to address the issue promptly to minimize any potential damage to your lawn mower.