Determining whether your fuel has gone stale can be crucial for your engine's performance. When attempting to start your engine, if it sputters, stalls, or struggles to ignite, stale fuel could be the culprit, although a worn-out spark plug could also be a contributing factor.

A more reliable method to assess your fuel's freshness is to take a sample of your fuel and compare it to a freshly pumped sample. You'll likely notice that older fuel appears darker in color. However, this darkening primarily results from oxidation that occurs after the fuel has been pumped. If you observe any sediment settled at the bottom of the glass or notice signs of water separation in the sample, it's a clear indicator that your fuel has deteriorated.

Once your fuel has gone bad, the recommended course of action is to drain the fuel tank, clean it thoroughly, and start anew. In addition, you may need to clean your carburetor since the old fuel can gum up and clog vital components.

To prevent fuel from going bad, especially during storage or overextended periods of non-use, it's advisable to use a fuel stabilizer or treatment year-round. These additives help keep your fuel fresh and protect your engine. You can easily incorporate a fuel stabilizer by adding it to your gasoline at the pump when you refuel.

For further insights and tips on winter storage and maintaining your equipment, you can find additional information by following this link:

By staying proactive in monitoring your fuel's quality and utilizing stabilizers, you can help ensure the longevity and reliability of your small engine equipment.