The smell of freshly cut grass, the satisfying hum of the engine, and the sense of accomplishment after a perfectly manicured lawn – these are all joys of lawn mowing. But before you can enjoy these perks, you need to fuel your trusty lawnmower. This brings us to the question: what kind of gas should you be putting in your lawnmower? This article will delve into the complexities of lawnmower fuel, exploring the different types of gasoline available, their pros and cons, and how to choose the best option for your machine.
In a nutshell, most lawnmowers run on regular unleaded gasoline. However, the type of gas you use can affect your mower’s performance, lifespan, and even your wallet. This article will break down the factors you need to consider when choosing gas for your lawnmower, including the type of engine, fuel additives, and storage considerations.
Understanding Lawn Mower Engines
Before we dive into the different gas options, let’s take a moment to understand the types of engines commonly found in lawnmowers:
- Small Engines: These are the most prevalent type, found in push mowers and many riding mowers. They typically use 4-stroke gasoline engines, which require a mixture of gasoline and oil.
- Larger Engines: These are found in high-performance riding mowers and zero-turn mowers. While they also use gasoline, they often have more advanced features like fuel injection and require higher-octane fuel.
Fueling Your Lawn Mower: The Basics
The majority of lawnmowers are designed to run on regular unleaded gasoline. This is the most readily available and affordable option. However, here’s a breakdown of the various types of gasoline to consider:
1. Regular Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane): This is the standard option and is suitable for most small engine lawnmowers.
2. Mid-Grade Unleaded Gasoline (89 Octane): This is sometimes recommended for lawnmowers with higher compression engines, as it provides a slightly higher energy content and better performance.
3. Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane): This is generally not necessary for most lawnmowers and could even be detrimental, as it can make the engine run too lean.
4. Ethanol-Free Gasoline: While ethanol can be beneficial in reducing emissions, it can also cause problems in small engines. Ethanol can attract moisture, leading to fuel degradation and clogging in the fuel system. Ethanol-free gasoline is becoming increasingly available and is a good option for lawnmowers that are not used frequently.
5. Fuel Stabilizers: These are additives that help prevent fuel from deteriorating over time. They are especially helpful if you don’t use your lawnmower often. Fuel stabilizers are available in liquid and tablet form and can be added to your gas tank.
Choosing the Right Gasoline: Key Considerations
Now that you understand the various gasoline options, let’s explore the key considerations when choosing the right fuel for your lawnmower:
1. Your Lawn Mower’s Manual
Always refer to your lawnmower’s owner’s manual. This is the most reliable source for determining the recommended type of gasoline for your specific model. The manual will often state the octane rating, recommended fuel additives, and any specific warnings or limitations.
2. Engine Type
As mentioned earlier, the type of engine in your lawnmower plays a role in determining the right gas. Small engines are generally fine with regular unleaded gasoline, while larger, high-performance engines may benefit from mid-grade or even premium gas.
3. Fuel Additives
Fuel additives can enhance the performance and longevity of your lawnmower’s engine. Look for additives that:
- Clean the fuel system: This helps prevent fuel deposits and ensures smooth engine operation.
- Stabilize the fuel: This prevents fuel from breaking down, especially important for storage.
- Protect the engine: Some additives offer lubrication and corrosion protection for your engine.
4. Storage Considerations
If you don’t use your lawnmower frequently, it’s essential to consider fuel storage. Here’s how to ensure your fuel stays fresh:
- Use Ethanol-Free Gasoline: This is the best option for storage as it doesn’t attract moisture and degrades less quickly.
- Add Fuel Stabilizer: If you can’t find ethanol-free gasoline, add a fuel stabilizer to your tank to prevent deterioration.
- Store the Gasoline Properly: Keep your gasoline in a clean, airtight container in a cool, dry place.
Common Gas-Related Lawn Mower Problems
Using the wrong type of gasoline or storing it improperly can lead to various problems with your lawnmower. Here are some common issues you may encounter:
1. Engine Stalling or Difficulty Starting
This could be a sign of fuel problems like clogged fuel lines, a dirty carburetor, or poor-quality fuel.
2. Poor Performance
If your lawnmower runs sluggishly or lacks power, it could be due to fuel issues such as a dirty air filter, low-quality gas, or a fuel system clogged with deposits.
3. Engine Knocking or Pinging
This usually indicates a problem with engine timing or that the octane rating of the gasoline is too low.
4. Fuel System Corrosion
Ethanol can attract moisture, which can cause corrosion in your fuel system over time. This can lead to engine damage and costly repairs.
Conclusion
Choosing the right gasoline for your lawnmower is essential for optimal performance, longevity, and trouble-free operation. By considering factors such as your lawnmower’s engine type, fuel additives, and storage considerations, you can make an informed decision that keeps your mower running smoothly and efficiently. Remember to always consult your lawnmower’s owner’s manual for specific recommendations and to keep your fuel fresh and clean. Happy mowing!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What type of gas should I use in my lawnmower?
You should use regular unleaded gasoline in your lawnmower. Avoid using premium gasoline, as it’s not designed for small engines and can actually cause problems. Stick to the recommended octane rating for your lawnmower, typically 87 or 89.
2. Can I use ethanol-free gas in my lawnmower?
While ethanol-free gasoline is often recommended for small engines, it’s not always necessary. Ethanol can attract moisture, which can lead to corrosion and damage, but most modern lawnmowers are designed to handle a small amount of ethanol. Check your owner’s manual for specific recommendations.
3. How old should the gas be?
Fresh gas is best for your lawnmower. Avoid using gasoline that’s more than 30 days old. Older gas can become stale and gum up your engine. If you’re storing gasoline for longer periods, add a fuel stabilizer to help prevent it from deteriorating.
4. Can I mix gas and oil for my lawnmower?
No, you should not mix gas and oil for your lawnmower. Lawn mowers have separate oil tanks, and mixing the two can cause serious damage to your engine.
5. What if I accidentally put the wrong type of gas in my lawnmower?
If you accidentally put the wrong type of gas in your lawnmower, immediately stop the engine and drain the tank. You can use a siphon to remove the gasoline, or you can simply run the engine until it runs out of fuel.
6. How do I store gasoline for my lawnmower?
When storing gasoline, make sure it’s in a sealed, approved container. Store the container in a cool, dry place, away from heat and direct sunlight. You should also add a fuel stabilizer to prevent the gasoline from going bad.
7. How often should I change the gas in my lawnmower?
It’s a good idea to change the gas in your lawnmower every 30 days, especially if you haven’t used it recently. This will help to prevent the gas from becoming stale and causing problems. If you are storing the lawnmower for an extended period, it’s a good idea to drain the gas tank completely.