Hey there, it’s your pal Jeff here. I’ve got a funny story for you about gas and lawn mowers. So, I was mowing my lawn the other day and I ran out of gas.
No big deal, right? I just went to the garage, grabbed a can of gas, and filled ‘er up. But here’s the thing – I didn’t realize that the gas in that can had been sitting in there for like, a year. And let me tell you, it was not a good time.
What Happens When Gas Goes Bad in a Lawn Mower?
Long story short, my lawn mower sputtered and died within minutes of me using that old gas. And it wasn’t just because I was out of gas – it was because the gas had gone bad.
You see, over time, gasoline starts to break down and form all kinds of nasty stuff, like varnish and gum. And when that gunk gets into your lawn mower’s engine, it can cause all kinds of problems.
How Long Does Gas Last in a Lawn Mower?
So, how long does gas last in a lawn mower before it goes bad? Generally, gas lasts about three to six months in a lawn mower (or other gas-powered equipment).
After that, it starts to break down and can cause problems. So, if you haven’t used your lawn mower in a while, it’s a good idea to drain the old gas out of the tank and fill it up with fresh gas before you start using it again.
How Can You Tell if Your Gas is Too Old?
But how can you tell if your gas is too old to use in your lawn mower? There are a few ways to check. First, you can try the “sniff test.”
Give the gas a good sniff – if it smells like chemicals or has a strong, unpleasant odor, it’s probably no good. You can also try the “float test.”
Pour a small amount of gas into a clear container, and see if any weird-looking gunk floats to the top. If you see any weird stuff floating around, it’s time to ditch that gas.
FAQ
Can Old Gas Damage a Lawn Mower?
Yes, old gas can definitely damage a lawn mower (or any other gas-powered equipment).
When gasoline starts to break down, it can form all kinds of gunk that can clog up the engine and cause serious problems.
Can You Mix Old and New Gas in a Lawn Mower?
Technically, you can mix old and new gas in a lawn mower. However, it’s generally not a good idea. The old gas can contain all kinds of gunk and contaminants that can clog up the engine and cause problems.
Plus, the old gas may not burn as well as fresh gas, which can lead to poor performance. It’s generally best to drain the old gas out of the tank and fill it up with fresh, high-quality gas instead.
How Do You Store Gas for a Lawn Mower?
If you want to store gas for your lawn mower (or any other gas-powered equipment), here are a few tips:
- Store the gas in a clean, approved container.
- Keep the container in a cool, dry place.
- Make sure the container is sealed tightly to prevent air from getting in.
- Add a fuel stabilizer to the gas to help extend its shelf life.
Conclusion: Don’t Let Your Gas Go Stale
In conclusion, gas doesn’t last forever in a lawn mower (or any other gas-powered equipment).
If you haven’t used your lawn mower in a while, make sure to drain the old gas out of the tank and refill it with fresh, high-quality gas before you start mowing.
And if you need to store gas for a while, make sure to follow the tips above to help extend its shelf life.
Now go out there and give your lawn the cut it deserves, my grass-cutting friend!