As more people become conscious of their environmental footprint, ethanol fuel has grown in popularity as an alternative to gasoline. However, when it comes to lawn mowers, there’s still a question of whether or not they can run on ethanol fuel. In this article, we’ll explore whether or not it’s safe to use ethanol fuel in your lawn mower and what potential risks you should be aware of.
What is Ethanol Fuel?
Ethanol fuel is produced by fermenting and distilling various sources of starches, such as corn, wheat, and barley. As an alternative to gasoline, ethanol fuel is renewable and more environmentally friendly. However, it’s important to note that ethanol fuel is not a perfect solution as it still has a carbon footprint and can contribute to deforestation if the sources of starches are not responsibly managed.
Can I Use Ethanol Fuel in My Lawn Mower?
In short, yes, you can use ethanol fuel in your lawn mower. However, it’s important to check your lawn mower’s owner manual to ensure that it’s compatible with ethanol fuel. Some older models may not be designed to handle alcohol-based fuels and could experience issues with damage or performance.
What Risks Should I Be Aware of?
One of the major risks of using ethanol fuel in your lawn mower is the potential for corrosion and damage to your engine. Ethanol fuel has a higher water content than gasoline, which can lead to rust and other corrosion issues, especially if your lawn mower sits for extended periods of time without being used.
Additionally, ethanol fuel can attract moisture from the air, which can cause the fuel to go bad and clog your fuel system. This can lead to starting issues and other performance problems.
While ethanol fuel can be a more environmentally friendly alternative to gasoline for your lawn mower, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks and check with your owner manual to ensure compatibility. If you do decide to use ethanol fuel, it’s recommended to use fuel stabilizers to help prevent moisture buildup and other potential issues.
