It you’re hiring a chainsaw from us, we would prefer you use our fuel.

Firstly you can be sure it’s got the right ratio of petrol to oil (typically 50:1).

Secondly you’ll know it’s fresh.

If you’re running any two-stroke machine, fuel quality is paramount. One of the most common, and frustrating, issues we see in hire equipment is water contamination in petrol supplied and used by the customer. It might seem minor, but even small amounts of water can have serious consequences for performance and reliability.

Water typically gets into fuel through condensation. This can happen when fuel is stored in partially filled containers, especially during temperature changes. It can also enter through poorly sealed fuel caps or contaminated storage tanks. Once water is present, it separates from the petrol and settles at the bottom, right where your chainsaw draws its fuel from.

The result? Hard starting, rough running, loss of power, and in severe cases, internal damage. Water reduces the effectiveness of the oil mix, meaning vital engine components don’t get the lubrication they need. Over time, this can lead to complete engine failure.

We recently had a customer who returned two chainsaws. Couldn’t work out why they ran for an hour or so, then coughed and spluttered. Right after refueling. You can guess what happened once we emptied the fuel tank.

At Upper Hutt Hire, we recommend always using our fresh, correctly mixed 2-stroke fuel. As a general rule it’s to avoid leaving fuel sitting for long periods, and never use petrol that looks cloudy or has been exposed to moisture. If you suspect water contamination, don’t risk it: dispose of the fuel safely and start afresh.

Looking after your fuel means looking after the equipment. A little care goes a long way in keeping your chainsaw running smoothly and reliably every time.