There are many variables that could trigger gas-powered equipment start-up issues and keep you from tending to your yard. However, one of the largest and most overlooked issues affecting the health and performance of outdoor power equipment is bad, old or stale fuel. This can happen when fuel is left sitting at the bottom of a gas tank for long periods of time, such as during the off-season. Over time, fuel can gradually become varnish, allowing clogs to form in the carburetor. And that can cause the machine to backfire, overheat or fail to start.
To prevent run-in with such problems, add a fuel stabilizer to the gas tank before storing your mower or gas-powered equipment for the season, or when it will not be used for long periods of time – more than 30 days.
Not only will a fuel stabilizer help the engine stay clean and run more smoothly, it may also prolong the life of your gas-powered equipment, whether it’s a mower, trimmer, snow blower or leaf blower.
As you begin to use fuel stabilizer as part of your equipment maintenance, always reference the instructions on the stabilizer container before adding it to fuel. To use, simply pour the fuel stabilizer into the gas tank and then run the engine for 2 minutes to circulate the stabilizer throughout the fuel system. After a couple of minutes, the stabilizer will be distributed through the fuel and the engine, and the fuel will remain fresh for up to 24 months.
