Can old gas ruin a lawn mower?
Old gas can definitely ruin a lawn mower. It may seem like a small thing, but stale fuel can cause all sorts of problems and is actually one of the major contributors to mower breakdowns. Let’s take a closer look at why this is the case.
1. Difficulty starting: One of the most common issues caused by old gas is difficulty starting the lawn mower. As gasoline ages, it can become less volatile and lose its ability to ignite properly. This can lead to a mower that won’t start or requires multiple attempts to get it running. It can be frustrating and time-consuming, especially when you’re eager to get your lawn mowed.
2. Poor performance: Even if your mower does start with old gas, it may not perform at its best. Stale fuel can result in reduced engine power, sputtering, and uneven running. This can make it challenging to achieve a clean and even cut, leaving your lawn looking less than desirable.
3. Clogging of fuel system: Over time, the components of old gas can break down and form deposits that clog the fuel system of your lawn mower. These deposits can build up in the carburetor, fuel lines, and fuel filter, obstructing the flow of fuel and causing further starting and performance issues. In severe cases, it may require professional cleaning or even replacement of the affected parts.
4. Damage to engine: In addition to clogging the fuel system, old gas can also cause damage to the engine itself. As the fuel degrades, it can leave behind varnish-like deposits that can coat the internal components of the engine, such as the valves and piston rings. This can lead to reduced engine compression, increased friction, and overall decreased engine efficiency. Eventually, these deposits can cause permanent damage if left untreated.
5. Increased maintenance needs: Using old gas in your lawn mower can increase the frequency and cost of maintenance. The clogging and damage caused by stale fuel may require more frequent cleaning and repairs. This means more trips to the repair shop or spending more time and money fixing the issues yourself. Regularly using fresh fuel can help reduce the need for these extra maintenance tasks.
Personal experience: I once made the mistake of using old gas in my lawn mower without realizing the consequences. The mower struggled to start, and once it did, it ran very poorly. It was frustrating to deal with, and it took me a while to figure out that the issue was due to the stale fuel. I had to clean the carburetor and replace the fuel filter to get it back to running smoothly. Since then, I’ve made it a point to always use fresh gas in my mower and haven’t had any similar problems.
To avoid these issues and keep your lawn mower running smoothly, it’s important to use fresh gasoline. Here are some tips to ensure you’re using the right fuel:
– Use fuel stabilizer: If you anticipate not using your lawn mower for an extended period, it’s a good idea to add a fuel stabilizer to the gas tank. This will help prevent the fuel from deteriorating and keep it fresh for longer.
– Use ethanol-free gas: Ethanol, commonly found in gasoline, can absorb moisture from the air and cause fuel degradation. Using ethanol-free gas can help prevent this issue and keep your fuel fresh for longer periods.
– Drain old gas: If you have old gas in your mower, it’s best to drain it completely before refueling with fresh gas. This will prevent any old fuel from mixing with the new fuel and causing problems.
– Store gas properly: When storing gasoline for your lawn mower, make sure to use an airtight container and keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This will help maintain the fuel’s quality and prevent it from going stale.
Old gas can indeed ruin a lawn mower. It can cause difficulty starting, poor performance, clogging of the fuel system, damage to the engine, and increased maintenance needs. By using fresh gasoline and following proper fuel storage practices, you can help avoid these issues and keep your lawn mower running smoothly.
