The Best Petrol for Your Lawn Mower: E5 vs E10 Explained Selecting the Right Fuel for Your Petrol Lawn Mower Selecting the appropriate fuel for your petrol lawn mower ensures that you’ll be getting the most out of your garden tool. The introduction of E5 and E10 petrol in the UK market has left numerous people unsure about the best fuel type to use for their mowers. Knowing how these fuels differ allows you to prevent engine issues and expensive maintenance fees. This guide details the differences between E5 and E10 petrol and their effects on lawn mowers while guiding you to choose the most effective fuel for lasting mower performance. Understanding Petrol Types for Lawn Mowers What is E5 Petrol? E5 petrol mixes up to 5% ethanol with regular unleaded fuel to form its composition. In the UK, this standard petrol type has been accepted for years and lawn mower manufacturers continue to suggest its use. Benefits of E5 petrol: A lower ethanol concentration results in less moisture absorption and protects the fuel system from corrosion. Its stability during storage makes E5 petrol perfect for seasonal lawn mower use. Most small petrol engines, as well as chainsaws and hedge trimmers, work well with this type of fuel. What is E10 Petrol? Since its launch in 2021 as the UK’s new fuel standard, E10 petrol carries up to 10% ethanol to assist in reducing carbon emissions. Downsides of E10 petrol for lawn mowers: Ethanol’s higher concentration in E10 petrol absorbs water, which causes fuel degradation and engine problems. E10 petrol causes additional corrosion threats to fuel lines, seals, and carburettors. E10 petrol possesses lower energy content than E5, leading to decreased performance levels. Older lawn mowers which predate the introduction of E10 should avoid using this fuel type. Which Petrol is Best for Lawn Mowers? The majority of lawn mower manufacturers advise using E5 petrol instead of E10. Modern lawnmowers function with E10 fuel, but older models and machines with carburettor engines tend to face operational problems when using it. Why E5 Petrol is the Better Choice Better Engine Protection: E5’s reduced ethanol content helps minimize wear on the engine’s internal components. Longer Shelf Life: The fuel retains its stability for three to six months, whereas E10 experiences quicker degradation. Reduced Risk of Moisture Absorption: Mowers that consume less water during operation experience fewer ignition difficulties and enhanced durability. More Efficient Fuel Consumption: E5 petrol produces marginally higher power output and efficiency compared to E10. Is E10 Fuel Acceptable for Operating a Lawn Mower? Yes, but with caution. You can use E10 in your lawn mower if its manual confirms E10 compatibility. To avoid problems caused by ethanol, it is advised to use a fuel stabiliser. Older mowers should not use E10 fuel because it could damage the fuel system over time. How Does Incorrect Petrol Usage Affect Engine Performance? Using E5 Instead of E10 Using E5 fuel in a lawn mower intended for E10 will not cause any problems. The use of E5 petrol will likely enhance engine performance and extend its lifespan. Using E10 Instead of E5 Harder Starting: Moisture building up in the mower can lead to starting difficulties. Rough Running or Power Loss: The carburettor performance becomes inconsistent because ethanol alters its function. Increased Corrosion: The metal components inside the fuel system degrade more quickly when exposed to E10, creating leaks and blockages. Fuel Breakdown: E10 petrol becomes stale more rapidly than E5 if it remains in the tank for extended periods, resulting in poor engine combustion. Consult your lawn mower manual or manufacturer’s website to find out which fuel they recommend to prevent these problems. Maintaining Your Petrol Lawn Mower Your lawn mower operates efficiently with proper maintenance, irrespective of the petrol type used. Store Petrol Correctly Keep fuel in an approved petrol container. Store the fuel container in a dry, cool area shielded from direct sunlight. Always refuel your lawn mower with fresh petrol at the start of each mowing season. Remove any residual fuel before storing your mower for an extended period to avoid fuel degradation. Use a Fuel Stabiliser The life of petrol extends when using fuel stabilisers, especially with E10. The stabiliser protects against rapid ethanol degradation. Check and Clean the Fuel System Perform regular inspections and clean the fuel filter. Replace fuel lines and carburettors when you detect clogging signs. Follow Manufacturer Guidelines To ensure proper fuel usage and maintenance, always consult your lawn mower’s user manual. Common Questions Regarding Petrol Usage for Lawn Mowers in the UK Can I Mix E5 and E10 Petrol? Although it is possible to combine E5 and E10 petrol, it is best to avoid doing so. Mixing these fuels creates an ethanol mixture of 5-10%, which may cause problems in engines not designed for E10. Does E10 Petrol Reduce Lawn Mower Performance? Slightly, yes. E10’s lower energy content compared to E5 may lead to a slight decrease in power output. Older engines with carburettors show more noticeable performance reductions when using E10 petrol. What is the Recommended Frequency for Replacing Petrol in My Lawn Mower? Petrol degrades after 30 days in storage. Always use fresh fuel for best results. Should I Use a Fuel Stabiliser in My Petrol Lawn Mower? Yes, especially when using E10. A stabiliser prevents ethanol from absorbing water and helps maintain fuel freshness. Conclusion E5 petrol stands out as the best fuel option for UK petrol lawn mowers. Its minimal ethanol content provides better fuel stability and lowers engine damage risks. Older lawn mower models and those equipped with carburettors should use E5 fuel instead of E10. For any further assistance, please get in touch with our friendly support team by clicking here.
