Fresh, unleaded gasoline with no more than 10% ethanol – this is the type of gas a snow blower needs to run well. Using the wrong fuel is the top reason these machines break down, so getting this right is key.
I see this mistake all the time. People grab the same gas can they use for their car or lawn mower. But snow blowers have small, sensitive engines that need special care.
I’ve worked on dozens of snow blowers that wouldn’t start. The problem was almost always bad gas. It gums up the carburetor and fuel lines.
This guide will walk you through everything. We’ll cover the right fuel type, what to avoid, and how to store your machine for the summer.
What Type of Gas Does a Snow Blower Use? The Simple Answer
Let’s get straight to the point. You need fresh, unleaded gasoline.
The octane rating should be 87 or higher. This is the regular fuel you find at most gas stations. You don’t need premium or mid-grade fuel for your snow blower.
The most critical part is the ethanol content. Look for fuel labeled E10 or “up to 10% ethanol.” This is the type of gas a snow blower can handle without major issues.
Never use fuel with more than 10% ethanol. E15 or E85 will ruin your engine fast. These blends attract water and cause corrosion inside the fuel system.
Always check your owner’s manual first. Some older models are very specific. They might say to use fuel with zero ethanol if possible.
I recommend using fuel stabilizer every time. It keeps the gas fresh during storage. This is a cheap way to avoid big repair bills.
Why Ethanol is a Problem for Snow Blowers
Ethanol is alcohol added to gasoline. It’s fine for your car’s modern fuel system. But it’s terrible for small engines.
The main issue is phase separation. Ethanol absorbs water from the air. This water then sinks to the bottom of your fuel tank.
Your engine sucks up this watery ethanol mix. It causes poor performance and hard starting. Over time, it leads to rust and corrosion inside the carburetor.
Another problem is varnish. Old ethanol fuel leaves a sticky, gummy residue. It clogs the tiny jets and passages in your carburetor.
Cleaning a gummed-up carburetor is a pain. It often costs more than a new carburetor itself. Prevention is much cheaper and easier.
The U.S. Department of Energy explains ethanol blends. They note that E10 is common but can cause issues in small engines if stored.
My rule is simple. Use fresh gas and add stabilizer. Or seek out ethanol-free fuel if it’s available in your area.
Finding the Right Fuel: A Step-by-Step Guide
First, check your owner’s manual. It has the final say on what type of gas your snow blower needs. Keep this book in a safe place.
Go to a busy gas station. Fuel turnover is high there. You’re more likely to get fresh gasoline for your machine.
Look at the pump labels carefully. Choose the unleaded option with 87 octane. Make sure it says “Contains up to 10% ethanol” or E10.
Consider buying ethanol-free fuel. Many marinas and small engine shops sell it. It’s more expensive but worth it for seasonal equipment.
Use a clean, approved gas can. A red plastic can with a spout works best. Never use old milk jugs or random containers.
Add fuel stabilizer right at the pump. Pour it into your gas can first. Then add the gasoline to mix it well.
Label your gas can with the date. Write it with a marker. Don’t use gas that’s more than 30 days old in your snow blower.
What Happens If You Use the Wrong Gas?
Using the wrong type of gas in a snow blower causes several problems. The first sign is often hard starting.
You’ll pull the cord many times. The engine might cough but won’t run. Or it will start and then die right away.
Poor performance comes next. The engine runs rough or lacks power. It might bog down when you try to clear heavy, wet snow.
Black smoke from the exhaust is a bad sign. It means the fuel isn’t burning cleanly. This is common with old or ethanol-heavy gas.
Eventually, the engine won’t start at all. The carburetor jets are completely clogged. The fuel filter might be blocked with gunk.
Repair costs add up fast. A carburetor cleaning can cost $100 or more. Replacing the entire carburetor and fuel lines costs even more.
The Consumer Reports guide to small engine care warns about ethanol. They say it’s the leading cause of starting problems in seasonal gear.
It’s much cheaper to use the right fuel from the start. A $5 bottle of stabilizer saves you from a $150 repair bill.
Gasoline Storage Tips for Your Snow Blower
Never leave fuel in the tank over the summer. This is the golden rule for small engine care. Stale gas causes most problems.
At the end of winter, run the engine dry. Use up all the gas in the tank and carburetor. Let it stall from lack of fuel.
For long-term storage, add stabilizer to fresh gas. Fill the tank almost full. Run the engine for five minutes to circulate the treated fuel.
Store your gas can in a cool, dark place. A garage shelf or shed works well. Keep it away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Use a funnel with a filter when refueling. It catches dirt and debris. Clean fuel is just as important as the right type of gas.
Consider using pre-mixed fuel. Brands like TruFuel offer ethanol-free gas with stabilizer already added. It’s pricey but very convenient.
Always check fuel age before starting your blower. If it’s been sitting for months, drain it. Start with fresh fuel every season.
Common Mistakes People Make with Snow Blower Fuel
The biggest mistake is using old gas. People forget fuel goes bad after 30 days. They try to start the blower with last year’s fuel.
Another error is using the wrong ethanol blend. They grab E15 because it’s cheaper or closer at hand. Their snow blower pays the price.
Some folks mix oil with the gas by mistake. Two-stroke snow blowers need oil mix. But four-stroke engines have a separate oil reservoir.
Using dirty fuel containers causes issues. Rust flakes or dirt get into the tank. They clog the fuel filter and carburetor.
Overfilling the tank is a common problem. Gas spills onto the engine and causes a fire risk. It also makes a smelly mess.
People skip the fuel stabilizer. They think it’s an unnecessary extra cost. Then they wonder why their blower won’t start next winter.
I’ve seen all these mistakes in my shop. They are easy to avoid with a little knowledge. Knowing what type of gas a snow blower uses is half the battle.
Two-Stroke vs. Four-Stroke: Does Fuel Type Change?
Most modern snow blowers use four-stroke engines. They have a separate oil reservoir. You put straight gasoline in the fuel tank.
Some older or smaller models use two-stroke engines. These require a gas and oil mixture. The ratio is usually 50:1 or 40:1.
Check your manual to be sure. It will tell you the engine type and fuel requirements. Don’t guess on this important detail.
For two-stroke engines, you still use the same base gasoline. Fresh, unleaded 87 octane with low ethanol is best. Then you add the correct amount of two-stroke oil.
Pre-mixed two-stroke fuel is available. It takes the guesswork out of the ratio. This is a great option if you don’t use much fuel each season.
The Environmental Protection Agency notes that proper fuel mix reduces emissions. It helps small engines run cleaner and last longer.
Whether two-stroke or four-stroke, fuel quality matters. Always use fresh gas and the right additives. Your machine will thank you with reliable starts.
When to Use Fuel Additives and Stabilizers
Use a fuel stabilizer every time you fill your gas can. It’s cheap insurance for your snow blower’s engine. I use it year-round.
Add it to fresh gas right away. Don’t wait until you’re storing the machine. The stabilizer needs to mix with new fuel to work best.
Consider a fuel system cleaner once a season. It helps remove light varnish and deposits. Run it through a tank of gas before storage.
Water-removing additives can help in a pinch. If you suspect bad gas with water, add this treatment. Then drain the tank and refill with fresh fuel.
Never use automotive fuel additives. Things like octane boosters or injector cleaners are for cars. They can harm small engine components.
Read the label on any additive. Make sure it’s safe for small engines. Look for mentions of lawn equipment or power tools.
A simple stabilizer is all you really need. It keeps gas fresh for up to two years. This solves most fuel-related problems before they start.
Safety Tips for Handling Snow Blower Fuel
Always refuel outside on a flat surface. Never add gas in an enclosed garage or shed. Fumes can build up and cause a fire hazard.
Let the engine cool completely first. A hot engine or exhaust can ignite spilled gasoline. Wait at least 15 minutes after use.
Use a funnel to avoid spills. Wipe up any drips immediately. Gasoline eats through paint and damages plastic parts.
Store gas cans away from living areas. A detached shed or garage is best. Keep them out of reach of children and pets.
Don’t smoke anywhere near fuel. This seems obvious, but I’ve seen people do it. One spark can cause a disaster.
Have a fire extinguisher nearby. A simple ABC extinguisher works for fuel fires. Know how to use it before you need it.
The National Fire Protection Association has guidelines for flammable liquid storage. They recommend approved containers and proper ventilation.
Safety first, always. The right type of gas matters, but safe handling matters more. Protect yourself and your property.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of gas does a snow blower use in cold weather?
Use the same fresh, unleaded gasoline all winter. Some people think they need special winter fuel. But regular 87 octane works fine in the cold.
Can I use premium gas in my snow blower?
You can, but it’s a waste of money. Premium fuel offers no benefit for small engines. Stick with regular 87 octane unleaded.
What happens if I put diesel in my snow blower?
This will ruin the engine. Diesel won’t ignite in a gasoline engine. You’ll need to drain the entire fuel system completely.
How long does gas last in a snow blower?
Fresh gas lasts about 30 days without stabilizer. With stabilizer, it can last up to two years. Always use fresh fuel at the start of each season.
