The warm weather has finally arrived, and your lawn is screaming for a trim. You pull your trusty lawnmower out of the shed, ready to tackle the task. But before you crank it up, a crucial question arises: what kind of gas should you be using?
Choosing the wrong fuel for your lawnmower can lead to engine problems, reduced performance, and even costly repairs. This article will delve into the world of lawnmower fuel, exploring the different types of gas available, their pros and cons, and how to choose the best option for your needs.
The Short Answer: Most modern lawnmowers run on regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher. However, some high-performance models may require premium gasoline with a higher octane rating.
Unleaded Gasoline: The Standard Choice
Unleaded gasoline is the most common fuel for lawnmowers, and for good reason. It’s readily available, affordable, and generally performs well in most engines.
Octane Ratings: Understanding the Numbers
The octane rating of gasoline refers to its resistance to knocking or pinging, which can damage your engine. Higher octane gasoline is more resistant to knocking, making it suitable for high-compression engines that generate more heat and pressure.
For most lawnmowers, regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 is sufficient. This is the standard grade of gasoline available at most gas stations. However, if your lawnmower’s manual recommends premium gasoline with an octane rating of 89 or 91, you should use that instead. Using gasoline with a lower octane rating than recommended can lead to knocking, decreased performance, and potential engine damage.
The Case for Ethanol-Free Gasoline
Ethanol is often added to gasoline to reduce emissions and increase fuel efficiency. However, ethanol can cause problems for small engines like those found in lawnmowers. It can corrode engine parts, attract moisture, and degrade fuel over time, leading to fuel system issues and starting problems.
Ethanol-free gasoline is a cleaner alternative that is specifically designed for small engines. It is typically available at marinas, airports, and some gas stations. While it may be slightly more expensive than regular unleaded, the benefits often outweigh the cost.
The Importance of Fresh Fuel
Regardless of the type of gasoline you choose, it’s crucial to use fresh fuel in your lawnmower. Gasoline degrades over time, especially in the presence of ethanol. Old fuel can gum up your fuel system, making it difficult to start your lawnmower and potentially causing engine damage.
Storing Your Lawn Mower for the Season
If you’re storing your lawnmower for an extended period, it’s best to drain the fuel tank and carburetor. You can also add a fuel stabilizer to the tank to help prevent fuel degradation.
Tips for Choosing the Right Gasoline
- Check Your Owner’s Manual: Your lawnmower’s manual will specify the recommended fuel type and octane rating.
- Consider Your Usage: If you use your lawnmower frequently, regular unleaded gasoline is likely sufficient. However, if you use it infrequently or in hot weather, ethanol-free gasoline may be a better choice.
- Look for Ethanol-Free Gasoline: If you want to avoid the potential problems associated with ethanol, try to find ethanol-free gasoline at marinas, airports, or some gas stations.
Maintaining Your Lawn Mower for Optimal Performance
Using the right type of gas is only one part of keeping your lawnmower running smoothly. Here are some additional tips for maintaining your lawnmower:
- Regular Maintenance: Regularly check and clean your air filter, spark plug, and other components.
- Sharpen the Blades: Dull blades can damage your lawn and put extra strain on your engine.
- Change the Oil: Changing your lawnmower’s oil regularly will help keep the engine running smoothly.
Conclusion
Choosing the right gas for your lawnmower is an important step in keeping your machine running smoothly and efficiently. By understanding the different types of gasoline available and following the recommendations in your owner’s manual, you can ensure that your lawnmower is properly fueled and ready to tackle your lawn care tasks. Remember, fresh fuel, regular maintenance, and proper care will keep your lawnmower running strong for years to come.
FAQs
What kind of gas should I put in my lawn mower?
The type of gas you should use in your lawn mower depends on its engine. Most lawn mowers have small, 4-stroke engines that run on regular unleaded gasoline. However, some older mowers or those with high-performance engines may require premium gasoline. Consult your owner’s manual to determine the appropriate fuel for your mower.
Always use fresh gasoline and avoid using fuel that has been sitting in your storage tank for more than 30 days. Older fuel can gum up the engine and cause performance issues.
What is the difference between regular and premium gasoline?
Regular gasoline has a lower octane rating than premium gasoline. Octane rating measures the fuel’s resistance to knocking or pinging. Higher octane fuels are designed to prevent knocking in engines with higher compression ratios.
Most modern lawn mowers do not have high-compression engines, so regular gasoline is sufficient. However, if your owner’s manual recommends premium gasoline, it’s essential to use it to ensure optimal performance and prevent engine damage.
Can I use gasoline with ethanol in my lawn mower?
Most lawn mowers can handle gasoline with up to 10% ethanol. However, high-ethanol blends (over 10%) can cause problems with fuel lines, carburetors, and other engine components. Ethanol can also absorb moisture, leading to corrosion and engine damage.
It’s best to use gasoline with the lowest ethanol content possible. If you’re unsure, consult your owner’s manual for recommendations.
Should I add fuel stabilizer to my gasoline?
Fuel stabilizer helps prevent the deterioration of gasoline over time. It’s especially important if you store your lawn mower for extended periods.
Adding fuel stabilizer to your gasoline will help to keep it fresh and prevent gumming and varnishing in the engine.
How do I properly store gasoline for my lawn mower?
Store gasoline in a sealed container in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area. Avoid storing gasoline near open flames or heat sources.
Always label the container clearly with the date and contents. It’s generally recommended to use up gasoline within 30 days of purchase. If storing for longer periods, consider adding fuel stabilizer.
Is it okay to use diesel fuel in my lawn mower?
No, you should never use diesel fuel in a gasoline-powered lawn mower. Diesel fuel is designed for diesel engines and has a different chemical composition. Using diesel fuel in a gasoline engine can damage the engine and lead to costly repairs.
Always ensure you are using the correct type of fuel for your lawn mower. Refer to your owner’s manual for specific recommendations.
Can I use E85 fuel in my lawn mower?
E85 is a blend of 85% ethanol and 15% gasoline. While some newer lawn mowers may be compatible with E85, most older models are not.
Using E85 in a lawn mower not designed for it can damage the engine and fuel system. Always check your owner’s manual for fuel recommendations and only use the approved fuel types.