Lawn Mower Fuel Tips: How to Choose the Right Gas & Use Fuel Stabilizer

​Avoid engine trouble and extend the life of your outdoor equipment — the right fuel makes all the difference.

Whether you’re firing up your mower in the spring or running a generator during a storm, the gas you use matters. At Exit 18 Equipment, we service lawn mowers, trimmers, blowers, snow blowers, and generators — and fuel issues are one of the most common problems we see in the shop.
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Let’s break down how to choose the right fuel, when to use a fuel stabilizer, and how to avoid costly repairs.

​What’s the Best Gas for Lawn Mowers and Small Engines?

Use Fresh, Clean Fuel

Gasoline starts to break down in as little as 30 days. As it ages, it becomes less effective and can clog your carburetor with sticky deposits.

Fuel Tips:

• Only buy enough fuel for 30 days
• Store in a clean, sealed container
• Keep gas out of direct sunlight and heat
• Never use gas that smells sour or appears dark

Be Aware of the Ethanol Content

Ethanol is a common gasoline additive that absorbs moisture and can lead to corrosion in small engines.
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What to avoid:

• E15, E85, and other "flex fuel" blends
• Gas with more than 10% ethanol (E10)

What to choose:

• Regular 87 octane (E10 max)
• Ethanol-free fuel when available — especially for seasonal equipment.

Shop online and grab our recommended fuel here.

​Why Fuel Stabilizer Is Essential for Seasonal Equipment

If you’re storing fuel longer than 30 days — or putting your mower or snow blower away for the season — using a fuel stabilizer is key.

What Does Fuel Stabilizer Do?

• Keeps gas fresh for up to 12 months
• Prevents gumming and varnish in the fuel system
• Makes your equipment easier to start after storage

Our Recommended Products:

• Toro Premium Fuel Treatment – Part #131-657
• STA-BIL Storage Fuel Stabilizer – 8 oz
• STA-BIL Storage Fuel Stabilizer – 16 oz

These are compatible with 2-cycle and 4-cycle engines and safe for all brands we carry — Honda, Toro, Echo, Simplicity, Ferris, and more.

​How to Use Fuel Stabilizer

1. Add the stabilizer to your gas can (check label for dosage)
2. Shake or mix well
3. Fill the tank on your equipment
4. Run the engine for 5–10 minutes to circulate the treated fuel

Pro Tip: Do this before storing your machine for the season to prevent carburetor problems come spring.

​Avoid These Common Fuel Problems

At Exit 18 Equipment’s service shop in Georgia, VT, we see these fuel-related issues all the time:

• Hard starting after storage
• Gummed-up carburetors
• Moisture damage from ethanol blends
• Clogged filters and fuel lines
• Power loss or surging during use

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These issues are preventable — and avoiding them saves you money and downtime.

Good Fuel Habits Checklist

Keep this checklist handy or print it for your garage:
✔ Use Fresh Fuel

• Buy in small quantities
• Store in a sealed, labeled container
• Use within 30 days

✔ Avoid High Ethanol Blends

• Stick with 87 octane, max E10
• Use ethanol-free gas if possible

✔ Use a Fuel Stabilizer

• Treat fuel when you buy it
• Run equipment briefly to circulate
• Prevents gumming and moisture issues

✔ Prep Equipment for Storage

• Run treated fuel through engine
• Clean debris from engine housing
• Store indoors or under cover

Need Help? Ask Your Local Experts.

If you’re unsure what kind of fuel or stabilizer is best for your mower, generator, or trimmer, just ask us. At Exit 18 Equipment, we work on what we sell — and we’ll point you to the right solution without the upsell.
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We proudly serve customers across Franklin and Chittenden County with expert advice, factory-trained technicians, and genuine parts and service.