The warm weather has arrived, and your lawn is starting to grow. It’s time to get your trusty lawn mower out of storage and get to work. But before you can start mowing, you need to make sure you have the right fuel.
The question of “What type of gas goes in a lawn mower?” might seem simple, but there are a few factors to consider. This article will explore the types of gasoline suitable for your lawnmower, discuss fuel additives, and provide tips for storing and using gasoline safely.
A Quick Overview
In short, most modern lawn mowers run on regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher. However, it’s crucial to check your owner’s manual for specific recommendations, as some models may require higher octane fuel.
Understanding Fuel Types
The type of gasoline you use in your lawn mower can significantly impact its performance and longevity. Here’s a breakdown of the most common options:
1. Regular Unleaded Gasoline
This is the most common and readily available type of gasoline. It’s generally suitable for most lawn mowers, and it’s typically the most affordable option. Regular unleaded gasoline usually has an octane rating of 87.
Why 87 Octane?
Octane rating measures a gasoline’s resistance to knocking or pinging during combustion. Higher octane fuels are designed to prevent knocking in high-performance engines. While you might be tempted to use higher octane fuel for your lawn mower, it won’t provide any noticeable benefit and could even be detrimental.
The Downside of Regular Unleaded
Regular unleaded gasoline does have some downsides. It can attract moisture, which can lead to engine problems. Additionally, it can degrade over time, becoming less effective and potentially damaging your engine.
2. Premium Unleaded Gasoline
Premium unleaded gasoline has a higher octane rating (typically 91 or 93) compared to regular unleaded. This makes it less likely to knock or ping in high-compression engines. However, for most lawn mowers, it’s not necessary and can be a waste of money.
When You Might Need Premium
You might consider premium unleaded for your lawnmower if:
- Your owner’s manual specifically recommends it.
- You’re using a high-performance engine.
- You experience knocking or pinging with regular unleaded.
3. Ethanol-Blended Gasoline
Many gas stations now sell gasoline blended with ethanol. Ethanol is a renewable biofuel that’s added to gasoline to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
The Pros and Cons of Ethanol
- Pros: Ethanol is a renewable fuel and can help reduce emissions.
- Cons: Ethanol can attract moisture, leading to fuel degradation. It can also damage certain older lawn mower engine parts, such as rubber hoses and seals.
Recommendations
Always check your owner’s manual for specific recommendations on ethanol-blended gasoline. Many newer lawn mowers can handle a small amount of ethanol (up to 10%), but older models may require pure gasoline.
4. Fuel Stabilizers
Fuel stabilizers are additives that help to prevent fuel degradation and extend its shelf life.
Why You Need Stabilizers
When gasoline sits unused, it can degrade and form deposits in your lawnmower’s engine. Fuel stabilizers help prevent this by reducing the rate of oxidation and preventing the formation of gums and varnishes.
Choosing a Stabilizer
Choose a fuel stabilizer specifically designed for gasoline. Look for stabilizers that are compatible with ethanol-blended gasoline if you’re using that type of fuel.
Filling Your Lawn Mower
1. Check Your Owner’s Manual
Always check your lawnmower’s owner’s manual for specific recommendations on the type of gasoline to use. This information will typically include octane requirements, ethanol tolerance, and fuel additive recommendations.
2. Choose the Right Gasoline
Based on your owner’s manual and the information presented in this article, select the appropriate type of gasoline for your lawnmower.
3. Use a Fuel Funnel
A fuel funnel helps prevent spills and ensures that you don’t overfill your lawnmower’s fuel tank.
4. Avoid Overfilling
Leave some space at the top of the tank to allow for expansion. Overfilling your tank can lead to spills and create safety hazards.
Fuel Storage and Safety Tips
1. Store Fuel Safely
- Store gasoline in an approved container with a tight-fitting lid.
- Keep it away from heat and sparks.
- Store gasoline in a well-ventilated area, ideally outdoors.
- Never store gasoline in a residential garage or near a water source.
- Check your container regularly for leaks and ensure it’s in good condition.
2. Handle Fuel with Care
- Always handle gasoline carefully and wear appropriate safety gear, such as gloves and eye protection.
- Never fill your lawnmower’s tank while it’s running.
- Allow the engine to cool down completely before refueling.
- If you spill fuel, clean it up immediately using a non-flammable absorbent.
Conclusion
Choosing the right type of gasoline for your lawnmower is crucial for optimal performance and engine longevity. By understanding the different fuel options available, taking the time to read your owner’s manual, and following safe fuel handling practices, you can keep your lawnmower running smoothly and efficiently for years to come.
FAQs
What kind of gas should I use in my lawn mower?
The type of gas you should use in your lawn mower is typically 87 octane unleaded gasoline. This is the most common type of gasoline available and is suitable for most small engines. However, it’s always best to check your owner’s manual as some lawn mowers may require higher octane fuel.
For example, if your lawnmower is equipped with a high-performance engine, it may require 89 or 91 octane gasoline. Using a higher octane fuel than recommended won’t hurt your engine, but it won’t provide any benefit either.
Can I use regular gas in my lawn mower?
Yes, you can usually use regular gas in your lawn mower. As mentioned above, most lawn mowers are designed to run on 87 octane unleaded gasoline. However, using higher octane gas won’t harm your engine, so if you have it available, you can use it.
However, using lower octane gas than recommended can lead to engine knocking or pinging. This occurs when the fuel ignites prematurely, causing damage to your engine. So, it’s best to stick with the recommended octane level for your lawn mower.
Is it bad to use old gas in my lawn mower?
Using old gas in your lawn mower can cause problems. As gasoline ages, it breaks down and forms deposits that can clog fuel lines, filters, and injectors. This can lead to poor engine performance, difficulty starting, and even engine damage.
If you have old gas in your lawn mower, it’s best to drain it and replace it with fresh gas. You can also use a fuel stabilizer to help prevent the gas from breaking down.
What happens if I put the wrong gas in my lawn mower?
Putting the wrong type of gas in your lawn mower can have negative consequences. If you use gasoline with a lower octane rating than recommended, it can lead to engine knocking or pinging. This can damage your engine and decrease its lifespan.
Using diesel fuel in a gasoline engine, or vice versa, is a serious mistake that can cause significant damage to your engine. If you’ve accidentally put the wrong type of fuel in your lawn mower, it’s crucial to contact a mechanic immediately to prevent further damage.
How do I know what kind of gas my lawn mower needs?
The best way to determine what type of gas your lawn mower needs is to consult your owner’s manual. It will specify the recommended octane level and any other important information about fuel requirements.
If you don’t have your owner’s manual, you can often find it online or contact the manufacturer directly. You can also look for a label on the lawn mower itself that may indicate the recommended fuel type.
Can I use ethanol-free gas in my lawn mower?
Yes, you can use ethanol-free gas in your lawn mower. In fact, it’s often recommended for small engines. Ethanol can attract moisture and cause problems with fuel lines and carburetors. This can lead to engine performance issues and difficult starts.
Ethanol-free gas is typically available at marinas and small engine dealerships. If you’re not sure where to find it, you can ask at your local gas station.
How do I store my lawn mower over the winter?
To store your lawn mower over the winter, it’s essential to prepare it properly. First, drain the fuel tank and carburetor to prevent any damage from old gasoline. You can also add a fuel stabilizer to the tank to help prevent gas from breaking down.
Next, change the oil and clean or replace the air filter. Lastly, make sure to store your lawn mower in a dry, cool location. By following these steps, you can ensure that your lawn mower is ready to go when you need it in the spring.