The first warm days of spring are finally here, and the smell of freshly cut grass is in the air. Your lawn mower has been hibernating in the garage all winter, and you’re ready to get it fired up and give your lawn the attention it deserves. But before you head out to the gas station, you might be wondering: What kind of gas should I use for my lawn mower?
This article will answer that question and delve into the world of lawnmower fuel, exploring the different types of gasoline, their advantages and disadvantages, and how to ensure your lawn mower runs smoothly and efficiently. We’ll also provide some tips on how to store gasoline and keep your mower in top condition.
**In a nutshell, the best gas for your lawnmower is regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher. Avoid using gasoline with ethanol, as it can damage your mower’s fuel system. **
The Gas Station Dilemma: Choosing the Right Fuel
You pull up to the gas station, and there it is: a sea of pumps with various octane ratings, fuel blends, and additives. It can be overwhelming, especially when you’re just trying to fuel up your trusty lawn mower. So, how do you choose the right fuel?
Unleaded Gasoline: The Basics
Most lawn mowers run on unleaded gasoline, which is typically the most affordable option at the pump. Unleaded gasoline is gasoline that does not contain lead, a harmful substance that was once used to improve engine performance but is now known to cause environmental damage.
Octane Ratings and Their Importance
Octane ratings are a measure of a gasoline’s resistance to knocking or pinging, which is an uncontrolled combustion that can damage your engine. The higher the octane rating, the more resistant the fuel is to knocking.
- 87 Octane: This is the most common octane rating and is suitable for most lawn mowers.
- 89 Octane: A slightly higher octane rating, which can be beneficial for engines that are prone to knocking, especially in hot weather or under heavy loads.
- 91+ Octane: While higher octane ratings may offer some benefits, they are generally not necessary for lawn mowers.
Here’s a tip: Check your owner’s manual for specific recommendations on the appropriate octane rating for your lawn mower.
The Ethanol Problem: What You Need to Know
Ethanol is a biofuel that is commonly added to gasoline to reduce emissions and provide a renewable energy source. However, ethanol can be harmful to lawn mower engines.
Why Ethanol is Bad for Your Mower:
- Corrosion: Ethanol can attract moisture, which can lead to corrosion in your fuel system.
- Fuel Lines: Ethanol can break down the rubber and plastic components of your fuel lines, leading to leaks.
- Carburetor Problems: Ethanol can gum up the carburetor and affect fuel delivery.
- Short Storage Life: Ethanol-blended gasoline has a shorter shelf life than pure gasoline, and it can become stale and difficult to use.
Looking for Ethanol-Free Gasoline:
- Specialized Gas Stations: Some gas stations offer ethanol-free gasoline, typically marked as “non-oxygenated” or “100% gasoline.”
- Marine Gas Stations: Marine gas stations often sell ethanol-free gasoline, as it’s ideal for marine engines.
- Small Engine Retailers: Local small engine retailers may also offer ethanol-free gasoline.
Always check the pump label before fueling up your lawn mower to ensure you are using ethanol-free gasoline.
Fuel Stabilizers: Extending the Life of Your Fuel
Fuel stabilizers are chemicals that help to prevent the breakdown of gasoline over time. They are especially important if you are storing your lawn mower for extended periods.
How Fuel Stabilizers Work:
- Antioxidants: They prevent the oxidation of gasoline, which can lead to gum formation and varnish build-up.
- Moisture Absorbers: They help to remove moisture from the fuel tank, reducing the risk of corrosion.
- Fuel System Cleaners: Some stabilizers also contain cleaning agents that can help to remove deposits from the fuel system.
Using Fuel Stabilizer:
- Follow the Instructions: Carefully read and follow the instructions on the fuel stabilizer bottle.
- Add Before Storage: Add the stabilizer to the fuel tank before storing your mower for more than a month.
- Regular Use: If you use your lawn mower frequently, you may not need to use a fuel stabilizer.
Keeping Your Mower Running Smoothly: Fuel-Related Tips
Once you’ve chosen the right gasoline for your lawn mower, there are a few things you can do to ensure it runs smoothly and efficiently:
Storage: Properly Stashing Your Mower for the Off-Season
- Empty the Fuel Tank: Emptying the fuel tank before storing your mower for extended periods is the best way to prevent fuel degradation and related issues.
- Run the Engine Dry: If you’re not emptying the tank, run the engine until it’s out of fuel.
- Clean the Fuel System: Consider using a fuel system cleaner before storing your mower.
- Use Fuel Stabilizer: Add a fuel stabilizer to the tank if you are storing the mower for more than a month.
Maintenance: A Little TLC Goes a Long Way
- Change the Air Filter: A dirty air filter can restrict airflow and reduce engine performance.
- Inspect the Spark Plug: A worn-out spark plug can cause starting problems and reduce engine efficiency.
- Check the Fuel Lines: Inspect the fuel lines for leaks, cracks, or other damage.
- Clean the Carburetor: A dirty carburetor can restrict fuel flow and affect engine performance.
Conclusion: The Power of the Right Fuel
Choosing the right gas for your lawn mower is crucial for ensuring its smooth operation and longevity. By sticking to unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher, avoiding ethanol-blended fuel, and employing proper storage and maintenance practices, you can keep your mower running smoothly and efficiently for years to come.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about the type of gasoline to use for your lawn mower:
1. What kind of gas should I use in my lawn mower?
The best gas for your lawn mower is regular unleaded gasoline, with an octane rating of 87. Using a higher octane rating like premium unleaded won’t hurt your lawn mower but it’s not necessary and is a waste of money. Avoid using gas that’s older than 30 days, as it can degrade and cause engine problems.
2. What does octane rating mean?
Octane rating measures a fuel’s resistance to knocking or pinging, which is an uncontrolled combustion that can damage your engine. A higher octane rating is designed to prevent knocking in high-performance engines, but for a standard lawn mower, regular unleaded gas will be sufficient.
3. Should I add fuel stabilizer to my lawn mower gas?
Fuel stabilizer is a chemical that helps prevent gas from degrading, especially when it’s stored for long periods. If you’re not going to be using your mower for a few months, adding fuel stabilizer is a good idea. However, if you’re going to use your mower regularly, fuel stabilizer is not necessary.
4. What are some tips for filling my lawn mower gas tank?
When filling your lawn mower’s gas tank, be sure to do it in a well-ventilated area to avoid the risk of fumes. Use a gas can with a spout designed for filling lawn mower tanks to prevent spills. Fill the tank slowly to avoid overflowing.
5. What should I do if I accidentally put the wrong kind of gas in my lawn mower?
If you accidentally put the wrong type of gas in your lawn mower, it’s best to drain the tank as soon as possible. You can use a siphon to remove the gas or you can contact a local gas station or lawn mower repair shop for assistance.
6. Should I use ethanol-free gas in my lawn mower?
Ethanol-free gas is a good choice for lawn mowers as it’s less likely to cause problems like carburetor gumming or fuel line blockage. However, it can be more expensive and may not be available in all areas. If you can find it, it’s a good option, but regular unleaded is perfectly fine as well.
7. How often should I change my lawn mower’s air filter?
The air filter is important for keeping your lawn mower running smoothly. It should be changed at least once per season, or more frequently if you use your mower a lot. A dirty air filter can restrict airflow and cause your engine to run poorly.