The whirring of a lawnmower on a sunny Saturday can be the soundtrack to a well-maintained garden. But choosing the right fuel for your mower can be a confusing task. With so many options available, it’s easy to wonder, “What petrol should I use in my lawn mower?” This article will guide you through the ins and outs of fuel for your lawnmower, demystifying the options and helping you choose the best fuel for your machine. We’ll cover the basics of petrol for lawnmowers, discuss different fuel types, and explore the importance of fuel additives and storage practices.
A Quick Answer
For most modern petrol-powered lawnmowers, regular unleaded gasoline (87 octane) is the recommended fuel. This type of petrol is readily available and provides enough power for your mower without causing damage. However, it’s always best to consult your lawnmower’s owner’s manual for specific fuel recommendations, as some newer models might require higher octane fuel.
Understanding Petrol Basics
Before we delve into the different types of petrol, it’s important to grasp the fundamental principles of gasoline and its relevance to your lawnmower.
What is Petrol?
Petrol, or gasoline, is a highly flammable liquid made from refined crude oil. It’s a complex mixture of hydrocarbons, which are molecules containing hydrogen and carbon atoms. The specific composition of these hydrocarbons determines the petrol’s octane rating, a measure of its resistance to knocking or detonation.
Octane Rating: The Key to Performance
The octane rating of petrol is crucial for your lawnmower’s performance and longevity. A higher octane rating indicates a greater resistance to knocking. Knocking occurs when the fuel ignites prematurely in the engine’s combustion chamber, leading to engine damage.
Octane Explained: 87, 89, and 91
- 87 Octane (Regular Unleaded): This is the most common type of gasoline and is suitable for most lawnmowers. It provides adequate performance without causing issues in most engines.
- 89 Octane (Mid-Grade Unleaded): A slightly higher octane rating, often found in regions with higher temperatures or higher compression engines.
- 91 Octane (Premium Unleaded): Offers the highest octane rating and is generally recommended for high-performance engines or engines designed for it.
Fuel Additives: Enhancing Performance and Protection
Fuel additives are chemical compounds added to gasoline to improve its performance, stability, and protect engine components. Common fuel additives include:
- Detergents: Help clean fuel injectors and prevent the build-up of deposits.
- Antioxidants: Stabilize the fuel and prevent it from degrading over time.
- Corrosion Inhibitors: Protect metal components in the fuel system from rust and corrosion.
Fuel Options for Your Lawn Mower
With an understanding of petrol basics, let’s explore the fuel options you might encounter for your lawnmower.
Unleaded Gasoline: The Standard Choice
Regular unleaded gasoline (87 octane) is typically the recommended fuel for most lawnmowers. It’s readily available, cost-effective, and offers sufficient power for everyday use. However, it’s crucial to check your lawnmower’s manual for specific recommendations.
Premium Gasoline: A Performance Boost?
Premium gasoline (91 octane) is not typically required for most lawnmowers. It may provide a slight performance boost in some situations, but it’s not essential for basic operation. It’s usually more expensive than regular unleaded and may not be necessary for your mower.
E10 Fuel: A Renewable Option
E10 fuel is a blend of 10% ethanol and 90% gasoline. Ethanol is a renewable biofuel derived from corn or other plant sources. E10 is becoming increasingly popular as a more sustainable alternative to regular gasoline. However, some older lawnmowers may have fuel system compatibility issues with ethanol blends. It’s crucial to check your owner’s manual for E10 compatibility before using it.
Non-Ethanol Fuel: Preserving Your Mower
Non-ethanol fuel, also known as “pure gas,” is gasoline without any ethanol added. It’s a good option for storing lawnmowers for extended periods, as ethanol can degrade over time and cause fuel system problems. Non-ethanol fuel is generally more expensive than regular unleaded but offers improved storage stability.
Choosing the Right Fuel: Making the Informed Decision
Choosing the right fuel for your lawnmower depends on several factors:
1. Check Your Owner’s Manual:
The most crucial step is consulting your lawnmower’s owner’s manual. The manual will provide specific fuel recommendations, including octane rating and fuel type. It’s the best source of information for ensuring compatibility and optimal performance.
2. Engine Type and Age:
Modern lawnmowers are generally designed to run on regular unleaded gasoline. However, older models or high-performance engines might require higher octane fuel. It’s best to err on the side of caution and choose a slightly higher octane if unsure.
3. Fuel Availability and Cost:
Regular unleaded gasoline is typically the most readily available and cost-effective option. However, if you’re using your mower infrequently, consider non-ethanol fuel for storage stability.
4. Environmental Impact:
E10 fuel offers a more sustainable option compared to regular unleaded gasoline. If your lawnmower is compatible with E10, it can reduce your carbon footprint.
Fuel Storage and Maintenance: Essential Practices
Proper fuel storage and maintenance are essential for keeping your lawnmower running smoothly.
1. Storing Fuel Properly:
- Always store gasoline in a sealed, approved container.
- Store fuel in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area.
- Avoid storing fuel for extended periods, as it can degrade and cause fuel system issues.
- Use fuel stabilizer for long-term storage to prevent gum and varnish buildup.
2. Regular Fuel Changes:
- It’s recommended to change your lawnmower’s fuel every 30-60 days, or before storing it for an extended period.
- Drain the fuel tank before storing the mower for winter.
3. Fuel System Maintenance:
- Regularly clean and inspect the fuel filter.
- Ensure the fuel lines are free from cracks or leaks.
- Consider using a fuel system cleaner periodically to prevent deposits and ensure optimal fuel flow.
Conclusion: Fueling Your Garden Powerhouse
Choosing the right fuel for your lawnmower is crucial for its performance, longevity, and your overall gardening experience. By understanding the basics of petrol, considering your lawnmower’s specific requirements, and following proper fuel storage and maintenance practices, you can ensure a smooth and efficient operation every time you fire up your lawnmower.
FAQ
What type of petrol should I use in my lawnmower?
You should use unleaded petrol in your lawnmower. Unleaded petrol is specifically designed for modern engines and is less harmful to the environment. It is readily available at most petrol stations and is typically cheaper than leaded petrol.
Using leaded petrol in your lawnmower is generally not recommended. Leaded petrol can damage the engine components, especially the spark plugs, and is also harmful to the environment.
What octane rating should I use in my lawnmower?
The recommended octane rating for lawnmowers is 87 octane. This is the lowest octane rating available and is suitable for most petrol engines. You can find the recommended octane rating in your lawnmower’s owner’s manual.
Using a higher octane rating than recommended will not provide any benefit and may even be detrimental to your lawnmower’s engine.
Should I add oil to my lawnmower petrol?
You should not add oil to your lawnmower petrol. This is because lawnmowers have separate oil reservoirs for lubrication. Adding oil to the petrol will create a thick, sticky mixture that can clog the fuel system and damage the engine.
You should only add oil to the lawnmower’s engine oil reservoir, as instructed in the owner’s manual.
Can I use petrol with ethanol in my lawnmower?
Yes, you can generally use petrol with ethanol in your lawnmower. Most lawnmowers are designed to handle petrol with up to 10% ethanol. However, it is always best to check your lawnmower’s owner’s manual to see what the manufacturer recommends.
Ethanol can sometimes cause problems with older lawnmower models, such as clogging the fuel system or causing fuel lines to deteriorate.
Can I use petrol that has been sitting for a long time?
It is generally not recommended to use petrol that has been sitting for a long time. Petrol can degrade over time, especially in hot weather, and this can damage your lawnmower’s engine.
If you have old petrol, you can try to stabilize it with a fuel stabilizer, but it’s generally a good idea to use fresh petrol for your lawnmower.
How often should I change the petrol in my lawnmower?
You should change the petrol in your lawnmower every 30 days, or sooner if it has been sitting for a while. This will help to prevent the petrol from degrading and damaging your engine.
It’s also a good idea to run your lawnmower for a few minutes after you’ve changed the petrol, to ensure that all of the old petrol is flushed out of the system.
How do I store petrol for my lawnmower?
Store your petrol in a clean, airtight container in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing petrol in direct sunlight or in extreme temperatures, as this can cause it to degrade more quickly.
You should also label the container with the date you purchased the petrol, so you know how old it is.