The warm sun is out, the birds are singing, and your lawn is crying out for a trim. You grab your trusty lawn mower, eager to tackle the task, but then you hit a snag – you don’t know what kind of gas to use! This simple question can quickly turn into a frustrating puzzle, especially if you’re a new mower owner or haven’t used your mower in a while. This article will help you decipher the gas mystery, guiding you through the types of gasoline, the importance of fuel quality, and the best practices for storing your mower’s fuel.
In short, most lawn mowers use regular unleaded gasoline. However, the specific type of gasoline your mower needs may depend on its age, engine size, and specific manufacturer recommendations.
Decoding the Gasoline Labels: Unleaded, Premium, and Ethanol
Gasoline is rarely a “one-size-fits-all” solution. The label on the pump can seem like a foreign language, but understanding the basics is crucial for keeping your mower running smoothly.
Unleaded Gasoline: The Most Common Choice
The most common type of gasoline you’ll find at the pump is unleaded. This means it’s free from lead, a harmful additive that was once used to boost engine performance. Most lawn mowers, especially those built in the last decade, are designed to run on unleaded gasoline.
Unleaded 87 Octane: The Budget-Friendly Option
This is the most common and affordable unleaded gasoline available. It’s suitable for most lawn mowers, particularly those with smaller engines.
Unleaded 89 Octane: A Step Up in Performance
Higher octane gasoline offers slightly better performance and helps prevent knocking in high-compression engines. While many lawn mowers will operate fine on 87 octane, some newer models with larger engines might benefit from using 89 octane.
Premium Gasoline: When Your Mower Needs the Extra Boost
Premium gasoline, often labeled with a higher octane number like 91 or 93, is designed for high-performance engines. You might see your mower’s manual recommend premium gasoline if it has a high-compression engine, turbocharger, or supercharger.
Ethanol: A Friend or Foe?
Ethanol is a biofuel commonly blended with gasoline. The percentage of ethanol in gasoline varies, with most gas stations offering blends ranging from 10% to 15%. While ethanol helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions, it can also cause problems for some lawn mowers.
The Issues with Ethanol
- Fuel Degradation: Ethanol attracts moisture, leading to the formation of water droplets in the fuel system. This can cause corrosion and clog fuel lines.
- Engine Problems: Ethanol can corrode certain engine parts, particularly older carburetor components.
- Reduced Storage Life: Ethanol-blended gas tends to degrade faster than pure gasoline, leading to problems like gumming and varnish buildup.
Finding Ethanol-Free Gas
To avoid these issues, look for ethanol-free gasoline, which is typically available at marinas and airports. This type of gasoline is ideal for small engines like those found in lawn mowers, generators, and other outdoor equipment.
Checking Your Mower’s Manual for Fuel Recommendations
Before heading to the gas station, check your lawn mower’s owner’s manual. It contains specific information about the recommended type of gasoline and fuel-related maintenance procedures.
- Fuel Type: The manual will clearly state the type of gasoline your mower needs, whether it’s regular unleaded, premium, or a specific blend.
- Octane Rating: Look for the recommended octane rating, which will likely be either 87 or 89.
- Ethanol Content: If your mower’s manual specifies a maximum ethanol content, make sure the gas you purchase meets this requirement.
Fueling Your Mower: Best Practices
Once you’ve chosen the right gasoline, there are a few important steps to follow when fueling your lawn mower.
- Choose a Clean Container: Always use a clean, approved gas container to avoid contaminating your mower’s fuel.
- Fill Slowly: Fill the tank slowly to avoid spills and ensure the fuel line doesn’t overflow.
- Wipe Up Spills: Immediately clean up any spills to prevent ignition hazards and environmental damage.
- Don’t Overfill: Never overfill the gas tank. Leave a small space at the top to allow for fuel expansion.
Storing Your Mower’s Fuel: Avoiding Problems
Storing your lawn mower for the winter or a long period? It’s essential to handle fuel correctly to prevent issues.
- Use Fuel Stabilizer: Add a fuel stabilizer to your mower’s tank to prevent fuel degradation and gumming.
- Run the Engine: Run the engine for a few minutes after adding stabilizer to ensure it circulates through the system.
- Empty the Tank: If you’re not planning to use your mower for an extended period, it’s best to empty the gas tank completely. This helps prevent fuel from degrading and causing problems.
Troubleshooting Fuel-Related Issues
If your lawn mower is having fuel-related problems, here are some common issues and solutions:
- Stalling or Difficult Starting: This could indicate a fuel blockage or a problem with the carburetor.
- Smoke or Unusual Sounds: These symptoms might indicate fuel system problems or engine damage.
- Fuel Leakage: This could be a sign of a cracked or worn fuel line.
Conclusion: Understanding Gas is Key to a Healthy Mower
Understanding the type of gas your lawn mower needs and following proper fueling and storage practices are essential for keeping your mower running smoothly. By taking the time to learn about gasoline types, octane ratings, and ethanol content, you can avoid unnecessary maintenance headaches and ensure your lawn mower is always ready to tackle those overgrown patches of grass. Remember, a well-maintained mower will reward you with a beautiful, healthy lawn for years to come.
FAQ
What kind of gas should I use in my lawn mower?
Most lawn mowers use regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or 89. However, it’s crucial to check your owner’s manual for the specific gasoline requirements for your model. Some mowers may require premium gasoline, which has a higher octane rating, for optimal performance.
Using the wrong type of gas can cause engine damage or performance issues. Additionally, avoid using gas that is more than 30 days old, as it can deteriorate and lead to engine problems.
Can I use ethanol-blended gasoline in my lawn mower?
While ethanol-blended gasoline is widely available and typically less expensive, it can pose problems for lawn mower engines. Ethanol absorbs moisture, which can lead to phase separation in the fuel tank and clog fuel lines. It can also damage rubber and plastic parts in the fuel system.
Therefore, it’s best to use gasoline with a lower ethanol blend or even ethanol-free gas, if available. Consult your owner’s manual for specific recommendations regarding ethanol content.
What if I accidentally put the wrong gas in my lawn mower?
If you accidentally put the wrong type of gas in your lawn mower, it’s important to stop using the mower immediately. The best course of action is to drain the tank and refill it with the correct fuel. You may want to consider using a fuel stabilizer to prevent any remaining fuel from deteriorating.
While running the mower on the wrong type of gas may not cause immediate damage, it’s best to address the issue promptly to avoid potential problems in the long run. If you’re unsure how to drain the tank or are concerned about damaging your engine, consult a professional mechanic.
Should I add oil to my lawn mower gas?
Adding oil to your lawn mower gas is a common misconception. It’s crucial to understand that oil and gasoline are not compatible and mixing them can severely damage your mower’s engine. Oil doesn’t burn properly in the engine and can lead to carbon buildup, spark plug fouling, and other problems.
Always keep oil and gasoline separate and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for maintaining your lawn mower.
How often should I change the gas in my lawn mower?
It’s generally recommended to use gasoline that is less than 30 days old for optimal performance and to prevent fuel deterioration. However, older gas can still be used if it’s treated with a fuel stabilizer. Fuel stabilizers help prevent the breakdown of gasoline and extend its shelf life.
Regularly changing the gas in your lawn mower is a good practice, especially if you don’t use it frequently. This helps ensure that fresh fuel is always available for your mower.
How do I know if my lawn mower is running on the wrong type of gas?
If your lawn mower is running on the wrong type of gas, you might notice several symptoms, including:
- Engine sputtering or stalling: This can occur if the fuel mixture is too lean or too rich.
- Reduced power or performance: The wrong gas can lead to inefficient combustion, resulting in decreased power.
- Backfiring or knocking: These are signs of combustion problems that can be caused by the wrong fuel.
- Increased smoke or emissions: The wrong gas can result in more smoke and emissions from the exhaust.
If you experience any of these issues, it’s a good idea to check the type of gas you’re using and make sure it’s compatible with your lawn mower.
What should I do if my lawn mower is not starting?
If your lawn mower is not starting, there are several potential causes, including:
- Empty gas tank: Make sure the tank has enough gasoline.
- Old or bad gas: Old gas can deteriorate and prevent the engine from starting.
- Clogged fuel lines: Dirt or debris in the fuel lines can obstruct fuel flow.
- Spark plug issues: A fouled or damaged spark plug can prevent the engine from igniting.
- Battery problems: If your lawn mower uses a battery, it might need to be charged or replaced.
If your lawn mower won’t start, try troubleshooting these common problems before taking it to a mechanic. If you’re unsure how to diagnose the issue, it’s best to consult a professional.