Can HEET be used in all types of lawn mowers. Lawn mower fuel stabilizer
Spring Lawn Mower Maintenance
Now is the time of year to fire up all the equipment that you have waited all winter to use. The seasons are changing, and so do other things—including small engines and the fuel that keeps them running. As the price of this new equipment increases (just check the price on lawn mower engine repair or replacement!), the cost of not caring for can hit your book hard. Performance Fuel Specialists wants to make lawn mower maintenance easy and save you some money doing it.
Unlike a dull mower blade or a missing line on your weed whacker, fuel system needs are not easy to see. The best way to fix a fuel problem is to keep them from ever occurring. Let’s look at some of the problems you may not have had just a few years ago.
Some Potential Lawn Mower Engine Maintenance Issues
Gasoline stability:
Gasoline constantly changes with new regulations and technology. Unfortunately, these changes are not always helpful, and one of the biggest problems is fuel stability. This is the ability of a fuel to maintain the quality that it had when it came from the refinery. Sure, it works well fresh, but letting it sit for a few months can create several issues: the buildup of varnish and sludge, as well as the loss of performance.
Newer equipment is more finely tuned for emissions, and this means it is more easily affected by poor fuel.
Ethanol:
While ethanol may be good at reducing our need for oil, it honestly is not a blessing for our engines. Issues with ethanol include corrosion, loss of power, decrease in fuel stability, poor performance and phase separation. This is when the ethanol settles out of the gasoline during storage, and then when your engine starts, it is fed straight ethanol and water. This process also removes most of the octane from the gasoline itself.
The result is a totaled engine with no warranty coverage. The corrosion also can destroy the rubber and metal components in the system, and is especially harmful as it sits in storage.
Condensation:
Water in the fuel tank occurs naturally with the fluctuation in temperatures. When it is warm, then cold, the condensation can build up inside your tank. Now as bad as this can be in the winter, it also can cause engine failure in your small engines. It is the water in the fuel that causes the ethanol to separate from the gasoline as mentioned above, and it takes only 0.5% water to remove 70% of ethanol as shown in figures 1 and 2 (red dye is added to water for visibility). This water/ethanol combination can not only destroy your engine but is extremely corrosive.
How to Prevent Small Engine Damage
Don’t let this list overwhelm you, there are a few simple things you can do to avoid these problems.
- Fill your gas can with fresh gasoline and add PFS Gas Plus to the can; a little extra to start will not hurt a thing. Top off your equipment tank with fresh fuel if possible. If your tank is full, you can add a squirt of our Gas Plus directly to your tank without any chance of overtreating. Before you start any small engine that has been sitting for even a few weeks it is best to manually shake the equipment well. This movement will cause any ethanol and water that may have separated to re-mix with the gasoline. It may save you an engine and a lot of trouble.
- After you have run you first tank of fuel through the engine, now is the best time to change your oil for the summer. Fresh fuel and PFS Gas Plus will clean out all the carbon and deposits in your engine—which is great news. But some of these deposits can find there way into your oil too, so let’s get rid of them. You were going to change your oil anyways, so let’s do it strategically by cleaning the fuel system first, which allows you to get the most out of your oil all summer.
- As the summer season sadly comes to an end, make sure to fill your fuel tanks completely with ethanol free fuel if available, and don’t forget the PFS Gas Plus. This will keep your fuel tank from creating condensation, eliminating the water problem. Also, by using ethanol free fuel for storage, you stop the chance of phase separation and the corrosion issue caused from ethanol. If ethanol free fuel is not available, rest easy, PFS Gas Plus fuel treatment has you covered.
- For those who are mechanically minded, you may choose to totally empty the fuel tank and fuel system including anything in the lines and carbs/injectors. Fill with fresh fuel and PFS in the spring and you’re ready to go!
How Can PFS Fuel Treatments Help You?
At PFS, WE ARE CHANGING THE WAY YOU TREAT YOUR FUEL.
Can HEET be used in all types of lawn mowers?
I’ll never forget the time I tried to use HEET in my lawn mower. For those of you who don’t know, HEET is a fuel additive that is designed to help prevent fuel lines and carburetors from gumming up. It’s often used in cars and trucks to help keep their fuel systems running smoothly.
So, when I noticed that my lawn mower was having some issues starting and running smoothly, I thought, “Hey, maybe HEET will help!” I figured it couldn’t hurt to give it a try.
Well, let me tell you, it was a mistake. As soon as I poured the HEET into the fuel tank and tried to start the lawn mower, it sputtered and died. I tried again and again, but no matter what I did, it just wouldn’t start.
I eventually had to take it to a mechanic to get it fixed, and it turns out that using HEET in a lawn mower was not a good idea. So, I thought I’d share my experience and some of the things I learned about using fuel additives in lawn mowers.
Can HEET be used in all types of lawn mowers?
The short answer is no, HEET (and other fuel additives) should not be used in all types of lawn mowers. In fact, it is generally not recommended to use any type of fuel additive in a lawn mower unless it is specifically recommended by the manufacturer.
Using fuel additives that are not specifically formulated for use in a lawn mower can cause a variety of issues, including problems with the fuel system and engine performance. It can also potentially void your lawn mower’s warranty, as using non-recommended additives can be considered improper maintenance.
So, if you’re considering using HEET or any other fuel additive in your lawn mower, it’s important to do your research and make sure it is safe and appropriate for your specific model.
What is the best fuel additive for lawn mowers?
The best fuel additive for lawn mowers is one that is specifically recommended by the manufacturer. This is because different lawn mowers have different fuel systems and may require specific additives to work properly.
In general, it is best to use a fuel stabilizer in a lawn mower to help prevent fuel from going stale and gumming up the carburetor. A fuel stabilizer can help to extend the shelf life of gasoline and keep it fresh, which can be especially useful if you don’t use your lawn mower very often.
There are many different brands of fuel stabilizers on the market, and it’s important to choose one that is compatible with your specific lawn mower. It’s also a good idea to follow the manufacturer’s recommended dosage and usage instructions to ensure that you are using the product properly.
Overall, it’s important to be careful when using any type of fuel additive in your lawn mower.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is generally not recommended to use fuel additives in a lawn mower unless they are specifically recommended by the manufacturer. Using non-recommended additives can cause problems with the fuel system and engine performance, and it can also potentially void your lawn mower’s warranty.
Instead, it is generally recommended to use a fuel stabilizer in a lawn mower to help prevent fuel from going stale and gumming up the carburetor. Be sure to choose a fuel stabilizer that is compatible with your specific lawn mower and follow the manufacturer’s recommended dosage and usage instructions.
And remember, if you’re ever unsure about what to use in your lawn mower, it’s always best to consult with the manufacturer or a trusted mechanic. Trust me, it’s better to be safe than sorry (and avoid a disaster like I experienced with my HEET mishap).
The Best Fuel Stabilizer, According to 11,300 Customer Reviews
Welcome to the Thomas guide to the best fuel stabilizer 2023. Thomas has been connecting North American industrial buyers and suppliers for more than 120 years. When you purchase products through our independent recommendations, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Starting up cars, trucks, or other engines that haven’t been used in quite some time can lead to fears of corroded parts, deflated tires, and fuel that has gone bad. The most troublesome is often how the fuel has held up, but fortunately, there is a category of products that can bring fuel back from its gummy, gelled-over state of being.

Fuel stabilizers are hailed for their ability to preserve gas that’s been sitting for a long time. They’re all similar in how they work, but some are made specifically for different fuel types, engines, seasons, and detailed problems. Here’s a brief synopsis of how they work, what they affect, and some of the best fuel stabilizers on the market.
How Fuel Stabilizers Work
If collector cars, or any vehicles or tools, including power machines like blowers, mowers, boats, or generators, haven’t been used in a while, fuel can start to degrade and separate. Stored fuel, whether it’s kept in storage containers or left sitting in the fuel tanks themselves, can degrade and become contaminated with things like excess water over time.
When left too long, the entire fuel system can be damaged and parts can get clogged or jammed up. To prevent this from happening, it’s best to add a stabilizer to the fuel prior to letting the vehicle or machine sit. Any machine that is destined to go unused for three months or longer should have a stabilizer added to the tank with the fresh fuel.
Both systems that use ethanol fuel and diesel fuel can benefit from a fuel stabilizer, but it’s best to ensure the product being considered is compatible before buying or using. There are also specialized marine fuel stabilizer options that are best suited for marine engines. It should go without saying, but always read the label prior to buying.
Do Fuel Stabilizers Affect Fuel Economy?
There is a common misconception that fuel stabilizers can improve fuel economy (aka fuel efficiency). Fuel stabilizers can keep fuel in a useable state, but they don’t have the power to make gas or your vehicle’s fuel system more efficient—in fact, no fuel additive really can. Fuel economy is based on the vehicle’s makeup and construction. It may affect gas mileage in a roundabout way as it can clear up blocks and sludgy fuel.
For cars and trucks struggling with fuel economy or having overall gas mileage trouble, it’s best to see a technician, mechanic, or another professional who can diagnose the problem. Proper maintenance in tandem with a good stabilizer prevents ethanol fuel problems (and diesel) down the road.
Do Fuel Stabilizers Affect Fuel Injectors and Fuel Systems?
Fuel stabilizers can positively affect fuel injectors and other parts of the system in two ways mainly. Firstly, by preventing old gas from degrading, gelling, or gumming up, they indirectly relate to healthier, functioning parts and thus better engine performance.
Secondly, some stabilizers can help lubricate and clean the inner workings of an injector or fuel tank. Rarely do they negatively impact engines and fuel tanks, but be aware of the type of fuel stabilizer being used, how old the gas is, and how much is being poured in to avoid too much fuel stabilizer.
Here is a list of the best fuel stabilizers, followed by a buying guide to help you select the best fuel stabilizer for your needs.
Thomas’ Top Picks for the Best Fuel Stabilizer 2023
The following fuel treatment options are rated highly by customers and will help stale fuel from ruining machines, vehicles, and other powered items.
Best Fuel Treatment for Motorcycles: Lucas Oil 10303 Fuel Stabilizer | Buy Now
Best Engine Restart Formula: Start Your Engines! Fuel System Revitalizer | Buy Now
Best for Diesel Engines: STA-BIL Diesel Fuel Stabilizer | Buy Now
Scroll down to see our top picks for the best fuel stabilizer according to happy buyers.
listed in this article were as shown in US on amazon.com (USA) and other retailers as of November 2022
Best Overall Fuel Stabilizer—STA-BIL 360 Protection Ethanol Treatment Fuel Stabilizer
With this STA-BIL fuel stabilizer added to a gas tank, stored gas will stay good for up to a year and gasoline engines will therefore be protected from sludge and corrosion.
The formula itself can last for up to two years and is a viable additive for everything from cars to generators to lawnmowers. For best results, it’s important to add STA-BIL prior to filling up a tank at a gas station or a gas storage container so it mixes properly.
“I have used it before with great results so I bought more for this upcoming winter weather,” explained a customer. “Using on an HD Motorcycle and two Yamaha Waverunners for the third year straight, and have never had issues with bad fuel when it comes time to pull them out of storage.”
Fuel type: Ethanol and non-ethanol blends
Amount: 32 fl. oz.
Gallons of fuel treated: up to 160
Best Fuel Stabilizer for Cleaning and Stabilizing—Star Tron Enzyme Fuel Treatment Concentrate
Star Tron’s Enzyme fuel treatment is more than just a fuel stabilizer. It’s made to clean out a fuel system and keep the fuel tank, gasoline engines, and injectors in tip-top shape.
It functions by decomposing contaminants into tiny particles, which are then removed when the engine burns fuel again. Any stress over an accidental heavy pour can dissipate, too, as systems can’t be overloaded or overdose with this formula.
“It especially works great for all engines that may sit for quite some time between uses, it keeps the gas from separating and varnishing,” described a customer. “I use it extensively in my 2-cycle engines to keep the small hoses soft for years—I typically get 2–3 years out of my trimmer fuel lines now as compared to 8–12 months without.”
Fuel type: Ethanol fuel
Amount: 128 oz.
Gallons of fuel treated: 2,048
Best Outdoor Power Equipment Fuel Stabilizer—Yamaha Yamalube ACC-FSTAB-PL-32 Fuel Stabilizer Conditioner
Gasoline engines that tend to sit around most are those in power tools and generators. Many lay inactive for seasons unused until they’re needed again, and to keep fuel fresh, Yamaha made Yamalube, an alcohol-free formula that’s superb for small engine equipment.
This is suitable for two- and four-stroke engines, whether it’s being used in a leaf blower, chainsaw, or trimmer. A handful of reviewers found this stabilizes fuel in boats successfully as well as Waverunners (and other watercraft).
“I can attest that this stuff was in the fuel tank of an older riding lawnmower, that was stored outside, for five months during the winter,” wrote a buyer. “Rain, snow, freezing weather, and then some hot weather as spring came. The lawnmower started right up. Perfect. No long cranking, no chugging. I didn’t even top-off the battery first.”
Fuel type: E10 ethanol
Amount: 32 oz.
Gallons of fuel treated: 96 gallons
Best Fuel Treatment for Motorcycles—Lucas Fuel Stabilizer
This Lucas fuel stabilizer is great for a variety of gasoline engines, but many reviewers rave about it when it’s used to store fuel for and in motorcycles. The alcohol-free formula performs well in both two- and four-cycle engines.
When mixed with fuel (fresh) it prevents it from degrading and won’t harm injectors or carburetors. Lucas also sells it in five and 55 gallon containers for businesses or mechanics that may need more than standard.
“Have a Harley with fuel injection that I sent to the UK,” began a reviewer. “It took over seven weeks to arrive and it cranked up the first time and ran with no problems. Love this stuff for long-term periods of time sitting without cranking up.”
Fuel type: All grades of gas
Amount: 32 fl. oz.
Gallons of fuel treated: 32 gallons
Best Long-Lasting Fuel Stabilizer—B3C Fuel Solutions Ethanol Shield Stabilizer
Most fuel stabilizer options stabilize fuel for up to a year or two years, but B3C’s stabilize fuel for three, really extending the life of fresh fuel. This strong formula has two additional components: antioxidants and a corrosion prevention system that works with all metals.
Some engines may also need higher octane fuel as they get older—this stabilizer is made to prevent that. And its lubricating texture is helpful for the functioning of upper cylinders.
“This is the best stabilizer I have used,” began a customer. “Had put it in my Honda power washer four years ago and finally had a real purpose to get it out again and I figured on rebuilding the carburetor. No way she started up on the first pull couldn’t believe it.”
Fuel type: Ethanol-based gasoline
Amount: 24 oz.
Gallons treated: 240 gallons
Best for Worn Down Power Tools—STA-BIL Fast Fix Small Engine Treatment
A smaller fuel system will get a lot from this fast-acting STA-BIL fuel stabilizer. Its size of it makes it an ideal portion for toolboxes and back-ups in garages. It works best in the gas tank of smaller machines like mowers, blowers, throwers, and generators.
This is a great antidote for rough idling engines, too, and prevents corrosion once it’s added to a fuel system. That being said, like any fuel stabilizer, it won’t fix old fuel. New gas will need to be added to a machine that’s not operating smoothly. That being said, it’s key for obliterating carbon deposits and gummy residue.
Many of the reviews emphasize how well it works with similar success stories of old machines getting a new life. “I had a snowblower that would never start for several years,” wrote a customer. “After using this product it started it right up and it has been running ever since.”
Fuel type: Ethanol blends
Amount: 4 Fl oz.
Gallons treated: 20 gallons
Best All-in-One Fuel Stabilizer—Royal Purple Max-Clean Fuel System Cleaner and Stabilizer
Royal Purple’s fuel stabilizer is actually three products in one. When it seeps through a fuel system (compatible with both gasoline and diesel engines), it helps keep fuel fresh, cleans out the components, and prevents rough, inconsistent idling.
It’s best suited for use in cars (2 or 4 cylinder) every 10,000 miles, but it’s just as capable of being used in fuel that’ll be stored for some time.
“I’ve been using this Royal Purple fuel system cleaner for years now and I’m very satisfied,” wrote one contributor. “My 14-year-old truck runs like new and I know this is a contributing factor.”
Fuel type: Ethanol blends
Amount: Two 20 oz. bottles
Gallons treated: 1 bottle per tank of gasoline (fresh)
Best Engine Restart Formula—Start Your Engines! Fuel System Revitalizer, Pack of 8
This isn’t a fuel stabilizer, per se, but it fits neatly in a similar realm. The STA-BIL revitalizer is meant for machines that are far past the point of stable fuel and may have engines that no longer run or start properly.
Like a fuel stabilizer, it’s capable of eating away at gummy, globby fuel, but it’s not primed to prevent degradation and keep fuel fresh for extended periods of time. After a thrower or mower has been dormant for some time, this can be sprayed directly into the tank to support start-up.
“I have an older Craftsman lawn mower up at a mountain cabin that sits for periods of time and is very stubborn to start—even cleaning the carburetor did not really help,” explained a reviewer. “I was going to trash it and buy a new one so I thought I’d try this stuff… The mower started on the second pull of the cord and ran like a champ. VERY happy with this purchase.”
Fuel type: Ethanol
Amount: Eight-pack of 2 fl. oz. each
Gallons treated: 1 can per fuel tank
Best for Diesel Engines—STA-BIL Diesel Fuel Stabilizer
Gasoline and diesel engines both require stabilizers if they sit for long periods of time. Diesel vehicles and tools that need old fuel to stay in working condition will get their money’s worth from STA-BIL’s diesel-specific version.
Aside from the general degradation of gas, this prevents diesel from getting dark and going bad. Similar to others, it’s equally as protective from corrosion, buildup, and sediment, too. Some stabilizers are fine when overused, but the same can’t be said for this one—just be cautious when reading measurements.
“I have used this product for over 30 years and year in and year out never had a fuel problem in the spring,” wrote a customer who uses it over winters. “I have used the gas stabilizer and the diesel stabilizer. Easy instructions for ratio-to-fuel in-boat.”
Fuel type: Diesel
Amount: 32 oz.
Gallons treated: 320 gallons
The Best Fuel Stabilizers 2023—Summary
Old gasoline can be saved for up to one year or more depending on the fuel stabilizer that’s added to old fuel. Professionals and car enthusiasts alike will appreciate the money, energy, and annoyance these products save and how much they can affect an engine’s power and start-up, and lead to less fuel waste.
To prevent phase separation or fuel oxidation in ethanol-blended fuel in a gasoline engine, B3C’s stabilizer (US27.99, Amazon) is a solid choice. A diesel engine on the other hand will appreciate the STA-BIL Diesel Fuel Stabilizer (US28.99, West Marine) fuel additive. To keep the fuel line healthy on a smaller machine, STA-BIL Fast Fix (US11.99, Amazon) is a worthy consideration.
Choosing the Best Fuel Stabilizer—Buying Guide
To prevent having to drain fuel or bad fuel from ruining an engine, fuel stabilization is key. By adding a fuel stabilizer, treated fuel can last longer and stay safe sitting dormant. But not all fuel stabilizers are created equal—here are several top products that are worth looking into.
We hope our review of the best fuel stabilizers has been helpful. For more suppliers of related products, including stabilizers, diesel fuel additives, and fuel oil conditioners consult our additional guides, or visit the Thomas Supplier Discovery Platform.
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Use Sea Foam Fuel Additive in a Lawn Mower to Stabilize Fuel
You’ve probably been stuck trying to start your mower the following mowing season only to find out it won’t start.
A big culprit to mowers not starting after sitting a while is stale gasoline. Gasoline does not have a long shelf life and needs to be used within 30 days unless you add a fuel stabilizer.
Sea Foam fuel stabilizer can be used in any gas or diesel combustible engine and fuel system. Sea Foam is a petroleum-based product without harsh chemicals making it safe to use in your engine or fuel system.
Below, we’ll cover how Sea Foam can help a mower’s motor and fuel system, as well as whether or not the solution should be used with your lawn mower and how much you should use.
This post may include affiliate links. Purchases made through these links may provide a commission for us, at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Follow all safety instructions provided in your equipment operator’s manual before diagnosing, repairing, or operating. Consult a professional if you don’t have the skills, or knowledge or are not in the condition to perform the repair safely.
Can You Use Sea Foam Fuel Additive in a Lawn Mower?
Sea Foam is a brand of fuel additive; Some of the improvements you can expect to see by using a Sea Foam product could be:
- Reduced moisture in the fuel
- Stabilizes fuel for up to two years
- Cleans carburetor liquifying deposits and residues built up on needles, seats, and float bowls.
- Improved performance
- Cleans intake valves
In addition to cleaning the built-up deposits and dirt from your combustion engines, using Sea Foam as a fuel additive has been shown to has also been shown to improve performance and extend the overall lifespan of engines.
Sea Foam has been on the market for over 70 years. Sea Foam is a petroleum-based product so you do not have to worry about the solution damaging your mower’s engine; it’s designed to prolong your motor’s life.
Why Use Sea Foam in a Lawn Mower?
Sea Foam stabilizes fuel for up to two years. There are three reasons why you would want to use an additive like Sea Foam in your lawn mower.
- Valve Seat Erosion: The valves of a combustion engine open and close to allow air into the cylinders and the exhaust to exit the cylinders. Over time this can become damaged and eroded by built-up particulates and debris. Sea Foam helps clean and remove this debris, ultimately extending the life of the valves.
- Damaging Effects of Ethanol: In addition to debris and particulates from the air intake, the ethanol present in modern-day gasoline carries corrosive properties.
How to Use Sea Foam on Lawn Mowers
One of the problems gasoline has is that it leaves behind a gummy corrosive residue that can cause blockages and drain the performance of your engine (see above).
This residue is worsened if left sitting for long periods, during the winter season, for example. So, in these instances, a fuel system cleaner can help.
A 16-ounce can of Sea Foam can treat up to 16 gallons of fuel. Generally, to use as a fuel system cleaner and stabilizer on your lawn mower:
- Fill a 1-gallon gas can with 1 gallon of gas.
- Then add the appropriate amount of cleaner to the can– 2 ounces for every gallon when cleaning your fuel tank. Using more than 2 ounces is okay. The more you use, the better the solution cleans.– 1 ounce for every gallon when used as regular fuel maintenance
I recommend using Sea Foam in each tank of fuel.
Can You Use Fuel System Cleaner in a Lawn Mower?
A gas-powered lawn mower operates the same as any other gasoline-powered engine. As the engine is running, various dirt particles will enter into the mix through the air intake.
You can clean this the hard way by manually taking the engine apart to clean it, or the expensive way by taking it to a professional to do so. But the easiest way to clean out this excess debris is by using a fuel system cleaner.
Fuel system cleaners like Sea Foam remove this excess dirt and debris that accumulates in the engine over time. Keeping the engine clean keeps the fuel itself clean, which improves the performance of the engine.
Solutions You Shouldn’t Use on Lawn Mowers
Although many fuel system cleaners can be safely used with a lawn mower, there are a few solutions that shouldn’t be used at all. Here is a product that is not recommended to be used with a lawn mower:
- Any Additive Targeting a Diesel Engine: This includes Diesel System Cleaner and a Diesel Emissions Reducer. Avoid these solutions if you own a gas or petrol-powered lawn mower.
Other Fuel System Cleaners That Work on Lawn Mowers
While Sea is perfectly safe and effective to use for your lawn mower (and any combustion engine for that matter), there are a few alternatives that you could consider as well:
- Archoil AR 6200: Archoil is mainly intended for diesel engines but can be used with gas engines too. It acts as a stabilizer as well as a detergent.
- Lucas Safeguard Ethanol Fuel Conditioner: This is an older product that acts as a lubricant and a detergent to help combat the natural deposit build-up caused by ethanol.
- STA-BIL Original: This is again an older product. It’s primarily a fuel stabilizer that can, again, extend the life of fuel for up to two years. It’s also a well-rounded product that helps prevent corrosion and remove water build-up, but with the increased adoption of ethanol fuels, its effectiveness has waned compared to a competitor like Seafoam.
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