Ever wondered what would happen if you poured kerosene into your lawn mower’s fuel tank? The thought might seem tempting if you’re facing a fuel shortage or looking for a cheaper alternative. However, the consequences of this action are far from benign. This article will delve into the dangers of using kerosene in a lawn mower, explaining the potential damage, safety hazards, and why it’s a practice best avoided.
In short, using kerosene in a lawn mower is a terrible idea. Kerosene is not designed for combustion engines like those found in lawn mowers. It lacks the necessary properties for efficient burning and can lead to severe engine damage, potential fires, and health risks.
Why Kerosene is a No-Go for Your Lawn Mower
The Chemistry of Combustion
To understand why kerosene is a bad choice, let’s look at the basics of combustion. Internal combustion engines, like those in lawn mowers, work by burning fuel and air in a controlled explosion to generate power. Gasoline is specifically formulated for this purpose, possessing the ideal volatility and combustion properties. Kerosene, on the other hand, is designed for different applications.
Kerosene’s Downfalls
- Lower Volatility: Kerosene is less volatile than gasoline. This means it doesn’t vaporize easily, making it harder to ignite and mix with air in the combustion chamber. The result is incomplete combustion, leading to reduced power and potentially damaging soot buildup.
- Lubricating Properties: Kerosene lacks the lubricating properties found in gasoline, which are crucial for protecting the engine’s moving parts. Using kerosene can cause excessive wear and tear on internal components, leading to costly repairs.
- Ignition Timing Issues: Kerosene burns slower than gasoline, requiring a different ignition timing for optimal combustion. Most lawn mowers aren’t designed to accommodate this delay, which can lead to engine misfires and even damage to the spark plug.
The Dangers Beyond Engine Damage
The risks of running a lawn mower on kerosene extend beyond potential engine problems.
Fire Hazard
Kerosene is a highly flammable substance. Spills or leaks while refueling can create a fire hazard, especially in the presence of hot engine parts or sparks.
Health Concerns
The fumes released by kerosene combustion are harmful to human health. Exposure can lead to:
- Respiratory problems: Kerosene fumes irritate the lungs and can cause coughing, wheezing, and even pneumonia.
- Skin irritation: Direct contact with kerosene can cause skin irritation, dryness, and even chemical burns.
- Long-term effects: Prolonged exposure to kerosene fumes has been linked to neurological problems and even cancer.
Conclusion: A Safer Approach
While the temptation to use alternative fuels might arise, using kerosene in a lawn mower is a risky and ultimately unwise choice. The potential damage to your engine, fire hazards, and health risks far outweigh any perceived cost savings. Instead, stick to the recommended fuel for your lawn mower, which is typically gasoline blended with ethanol. If you’re looking for ways to save money on fuel, consider buying gasoline in bulk, using a fuel stabilizer to extend its shelf life, or exploring more eco-friendly alternatives like electric lawn mowers.
Remember, a well-maintained lawn mower using the right fuel will provide you with reliable service and a safer experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is kerosene bad for lawn mowers?
Kerosene is a highly flammable liquid designed for different purposes than gasoline, which is what lawn mowers are designed to run on. Kerosene has a much higher flash point than gasoline, meaning it requires a much higher temperature to ignite. However, the fuel system of a lawn mower is designed to handle gasoline, which is a much more volatile substance. Using kerosene in a lawn mower can cause serious damage to the engine’s internal components, including the carburetor, fuel lines, and spark plugs. This damage can lead to poor performance, engine failure, and even fires.
Furthermore, kerosene is not formulated to provide the same level of lubrication as gasoline. This can lead to increased wear and tear on the engine’s moving parts, resulting in premature failure. Kerosene also tends to leave behind a sticky residue that can clog fuel lines and filters, further compromising the engine’s performance. Overall, using kerosene in a lawn mower is a recipe for disaster, as it can lead to significant damage, costly repairs, and even safety hazards.
What happens if I put kerosene in my lawn mower?
If you accidentally put kerosene in your lawn mower, the consequences can vary depending on the amount of kerosene used and the type of lawn mower you have. In some cases, the engine might not even start, as kerosene is not easily ignited by the spark plug. However, if the engine does start, you will likely notice a decrease in power, smoke coming from the exhaust, and a rough idle. This is because kerosene is not formulated to properly combust in a lawn mower engine, leading to incomplete combustion and the production of harmful byproducts.
If you continue to run your lawn mower on kerosene, you risk causing serious damage to the engine, including clogging fuel lines, damaging the carburetor, and fouling the spark plugs. This can result in costly repairs and even engine failure. Therefore, it’s crucial to immediately stop using kerosene in your lawn mower and take steps to rectify the situation. Consult your owner’s manual or a qualified mechanic for guidance on draining the fuel system and replacing the fuel with gasoline.
Can I use kerosene to clean my lawn mower?
While kerosene is a common solvent and is used for cleaning various machinery, it’s not recommended for cleaning your lawn mower. Kerosene is highly flammable, and using it to clean your lawn mower increases the risk of fire, especially if the engine is still hot. Furthermore, kerosene can damage the plastic and rubber components of your lawn mower, leading to premature wear and tear.
Instead, it’s recommended to use a specialized lawn mower cleaning solution or a mild detergent mixed with water. You can also use a toothbrush or a small brush to clean hard-to-reach areas. After cleaning, ensure you dry all parts thoroughly before reassembling your lawn mower. This will help prevent corrosion and ensure that your lawn mower remains in good working condition.
What are the signs that I have put kerosene in my lawn mower?
If you’re unsure whether you’ve put kerosene in your lawn mower, there are a few telltale signs to watch out for. The most obvious sign is a strong kerosene smell emanating from the engine and exhaust. You might also notice a decrease in engine power, a rough idle, and black smoke coming from the exhaust. The engine might also start and run for a brief period before stalling due to the lack of proper combustion.
Additionally, if you see a sticky residue around the engine or in the fuel line, it could be a sign that kerosene has been used. This residue can hinder the flow of fuel, leading to engine problems. If you suspect you’ve put kerosene in your lawn mower, it’s best to stop using it immediately and consult a mechanic to determine the extent of the damage and the necessary repairs.
What should I do if I accidentally put kerosene in my lawn mower?
If you accidentally put kerosene in your lawn mower, it’s important to act quickly to mitigate the damage. First, stop using the lawn mower immediately. Then, consult your owner’s manual or a qualified mechanic to find out how to safely drain the fuel system. This will involve draining the fuel tank and fuel lines, and replacing the old fuel with fresh gasoline.
You may also need to clean the carburetor and replace the spark plugs, as kerosene can leave a sticky residue that can clog fuel lines and foul spark plugs. It’s important to note that draining the fuel system and cleaning the engine components can be challenging, and it’s best to seek professional help if you’re not comfortable performing these tasks.
How can I avoid putting kerosene in my lawn mower?
The best way to avoid putting kerosene in your lawn mower is to be careful and attentive when refueling it. Always ensure you are using the correct fuel and that you are not confusing the gasoline container with another liquid, like kerosene. It’s also a good practice to label your fuel containers clearly and store them in a secure location where they can’t be confused with other liquids.
If you have multiple lawn care equipment that requires different fuel types, it’s crucial to store them separately and ensure you’re using the correct fuel for each machine. Additionally, be mindful of the surroundings when refueling your lawn mower, as spilling fuel can lead to accidents. Remember, a little extra care can go a long way in preventing accidents and ensuring the longevity of your lawn mower.
Can I use kerosene in my lawn mower if it’s old?
Even if you have an older lawn mower that you think might be able to handle kerosene, it’s still not recommended. Kerosene is not a suitable fuel for lawn mowers, regardless of their age. Although older lawn mowers might have different engine designs, they still rely on gasoline for optimal performance and longevity.
Using kerosene can cause similar damage to older lawn mowers as it does to newer ones, such as clogging fuel lines, damaging the carburetor, and fouling spark plugs. This can lead to costly repairs and ultimately shorten the lifespan of your lawn mower. Instead, stick to using gasoline and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for fuel type and maintenance to keep your lawn mower running smoothly for years to come.