There are a lot of obstacles to overcome while keeping a professional landscaping service up and running. You have to worry about having the right equipment and tools already, so why should you spend time worrying over the fuel you use? Having the wrong kind of fuel can be just as disruptive as not having the right equipment, especially for professionals who have to move between different types of landscaping work. It’s one thing to run that powerful diesel engine out in the country and another thing for work in urban areas.

At Magnum Power, we’re dedicated to bringing our customers all the information they need to keep their lawn care game on point. Whether you’re a professional or a homeowner, it pays to understand the difference between using these different types of fuels in your mower. Read on for details or head into our dealership in Lawson, Missouri, near Kearney, Liberty, Gladstone, and Kansas City.

Gasoline

Gasoline is very popular in both commercial and residential mowers. It’s easy to get from a local gas station, but its availability is not its only positive attribute. Gasoline engines are often thought of as easier to maintain, but this is mostly because service shops deal with more of them than other engine fuel types. 

Gasoline-powered commercial mowers are some of the most affordable. They’re also so popular that there’s usually new technology or innovation that’s increasing their efficiency or reducing maintenance needs. That means if you’re concern is in simplicity and convenience, then gasoline is the fuel for you.

Diesel

Diesel mower engines have their fair share of benefits, including efficient operation compared to gasoline engines. This brings down the overhead in fuel cost as well as from the shorter service intervals. Fewer tuneups and less fuel means long-term savings, which might just be the best benefit for a professional lawn care group. This ease of maintenance transfers to the engine components as well, since the oil and filter won’t need as much attention. Less service, less wear, and better operation efficiency also means your diesel mower will last longer!

Diesel engines aren’t without their drawbacks, especially when it comes to upfront price. These engines are simply more expensive to make, and diesel fuel is either going to be more expensive or more difficult to keep supplied. But thanks to their efficient running, a lot of these financial drawbacks are made relevant for lawn care professionals since the savings will be in the long-term use.

Propane

As gas prices increase, propane becomes a more popular alternative. The biggest benefit here is in a clean-burning fuel that does less to impact the environment, which is a growing concern for landscapers. Many municipalities, government agencies, colleges, and homeowners associations require contractors to use propane-burning lawn mowers as part of sustainability efforts, so using a propane mower could turn out to be a competitive advantage for acquiring new clients! Propane engines don’t get as much carbon buildup as you find in other engines, which tends to make them last longer than gasoline engines. 

A big drawback for propane mowers is the increased hassle of getting a steady supply of fuel. Most gas stations will carry propane so you can stock up, but it takes an extra trip to do so. Worse, some propane mowers only accept specially designed tanks, making it that much more difficult to keep a working supply of fuel at the ready. 

Each of these fuel types has their own pros and cons for operating in a commercial mower. To get the most out of your mower, use the fuel that best fits the type of mowing you tend to do. For more fuel and mower tips, or to take a look at our full stock of new and used mowers, head into Magnum Power in Lawson, Missouri. We’re located near Kearney, Liberty, Gladstone, and Kansas City, and we proudly serve all of Clay County. Come in and let our team of experts answer all your questions and help you find what you’re looking for today!