Your outdoor power equipment needs fuel to operate properly, that goes without saying. However, you need to make sure you know the right type of fuel to use in your machine and when to replace it. Our experts explain facts about fuel and how to reduce issues with your outdoor power equipment.
Tip #1 – Use gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher
Standard 87 octane gasoline is perfect for small engines like the ones found on lawn mowers. However, mid-grade or premium gas with an octane rating of 89 or higher can be used for engines that require the higher octane.
Read your owner’s manual for information on the proper fuel to use in your outdoor power equipment. Using the correct fuel in your outdoor power equipment is very important. If you do not use the proper fuel, your machine will suffer.
Tip #2 – Use fuel stabilizer
Many of us use fuel stabilizers in our machines when we store them for the off-season to have an easier time starting them when the time comes. This is a good practice. When these stabilizers are added to fuel they separate and create a thin film on top of the fuel to keep out air and moisture.
Try adding fuel stabilizer to your fuel the day it is purchased. This way, the fuel will stay fresh longer.
When purchasing fuel stabilizer, make sure to purchase the right one for your needs. There are specific stabilizers for gas that does and does not contain ethanol.
Tip #3 – Use ethanol –free gasoline (E0)
Gasoline without ethanol will reduce the amount of moisture the gasoline can absorb from the atmosphere. Many areas carry ethanol-free gas. Visit https://www.pure-gas.org/ to locate ethanol-free gas stations near you.
Tip #4 – Don’t use gasoline with more than 10% ethanol (E10)
Engines produced for use in outdoor power equipment are not designed for gasoline with more than 10% ethanol. Using higher ethanol fuel blends can lead to engine damage and performance issues. Read your Equipment Manual for information on the proper fuel to use in your machine.
Tip #5 –Purchase fuel and use it in 30 days
Fuel starts to go bad after 30 days so do not let it sit in your machine for longer than that. After 30 days, the volatile compounds in the fuel start evaporating, and this occurs whether the gas is in your outdoor power equipment or in the gas can.
Fuel Tips for Outdoor Power Equipment
