Ever wondered why your trusty lawn mower isn’t performing as well as it used to? The answer might be in your gas can. Choosing the right gasoline for your mower isn’t just about filling up the tank—it’s about getting your machine to run smoothly, last longer, and look great. Let’s cut through the noise and get to the point of what your mower needs to run smoothly.
Why Does Gasoline Type Matter?
Your lawn mower’s engine is a finely tuned machine, and like any machine, it performs best when given the right fuel. Using the wrong type of gasoline can cause poor engine performance and wear and tear. Your mower might be hard to start, and its life could be shortened.
In short, the right gas keeps your mower running, and the wrong gas leaves you with an expensive paperweight.
Ethanol Content
You’ve seen the “Contains up to 10% Ethanol” stickers at the gas pump. Ethanol is great for cars but not so good for your lawn mower. Ethanol attracts water, which can cause corrosion in your mower’s fuel system. It can also degrade rubber and plastic components over time.
Another downside is that ethanol-blended fuels have a shorter shelf life. For most mowers, it’s best to stick with ethanol-free gasoline. Don’t exceed E10 (10% ethanol) if you must use an ethanol blend.
Octane Ratings
You might want to splurge on premium gas for your mower, thinking it’ll give you premium performance. But hold up—most mowers don’t need high-octane fuel. In fact, most mowers run just fine on regular unleaded gasoline (87 octane).
Always check your owner’s manual, though. Some high-performance mowers may require mid-grade (89 octane) or higher. Remember, using a higher octane than recommended won’t improve performance and is just a waste of money.
Why New Gas Matters
Gasoline doesn’t age like fine wine—it goes stale. Old gas can clog your mower’s carburetor and fuel lines, causing problems with starting and poor performance. To avoid this, buy gasoline you’ll use in 30 days.
If you need to store gas longer, use a fuel stabilizer. At the end of the mowing season, either use up all the gas or dispose of it properly. Your mower will thank you when spring comes around.
Do You Need Fuel Additives?
Walk down any automotive aisle, and you’ll see a plethora of fuel additives promising miracles. But do you really need them for your mower? The truth is most mowers don’t need additives if you’re using the right gas.
A fuel stabilizer can be helpful for long-term storage, especially if you live in an area with long, harsh winters. An ethanol treatment can help protect your engine if you use ethanol-blended gas. But remember, the best additive is proper maintenance and the right fuel.
The Bottom Line
The good news is that choosing the right gasoline for your mower doesn’t have to be complicated: just use ethanol-free gas where you can and use the octane rating recommended in your owner’s manual. Keep your gas fresh, and avoid using additives unless needed.
Your lawn mower is an investment in your home’s curb appeal. If treated right, it will keep your lawn looking sharp for years. With the right fuel, you will spend less time pulling the starter cord and more time enjoying a beautifully manicured lawn.
Need professional advice on mower maintenance or repairs? We at Mobile Mower Techs are a phone call away. Our expert technicians come to your door to ensure your mower is always running efficiently. Don’t let fuel issues put your lawn care to a stop. Reach us today for a tune-up or repair, and keep your mower running as smoothly as a freshly cut lawn!