The warm weather is here, and you’ve finally pulled your trusty lawn mower out of storage. You’re ready to tackle that overgrown grass, but there’s one question lingering in your mind: can you leave gas in your lawn mower?
This is a common question among lawn care enthusiasts, and the answer isn’t as simple as a straightforward yes or no. This article delves into the complexities of storing gasoline in your lawn mower, exploring the pros and cons, safety concerns, and ultimately providing you with the information you need to make the best decision for your equipment.
In short, leaving gas in your lawn mower is not recommended. While it may seem convenient, storing gasoline for extended periods can lead to several problems, including engine damage, gumming, and even safety hazards. Let’s break down the reasons why and explore better alternatives.
Why You Should Avoid Leaving Gas in Your Lawn Mower
Leaving gas in your lawn mower can lead to several problems, ultimately impacting your equipment’s performance and lifespan. Here are some key reasons why:
1. Gasoline Deterioration: The Root of the Problem
The main culprit behind the issues associated with leaving gas in your lawn mower is gasoline deterioration. Gasoline is a complex mixture of hydrocarbons that are susceptible to oxidation and evaporation over time. This process is accelerated by factors such as heat, light, and moisture, leading to the formation of harmful deposits and a decrease in the fuel’s quality.
How Deterioration Affects Your Lawn Mower:
- Gumming and Varnish: As gasoline deteriorates, it forms sticky residues called gum and varnish. These deposits can clog fuel lines, fuel filters, and carburetor jets, hindering the flow of fuel and preventing your lawn mower from starting or running smoothly.
- Fuel System Corrosion: The acidic components in deteriorating gasoline can corrode metal parts in your fuel system, such as the fuel tank, lines, and carburetor, leading to leaks, malfunctions, and costly repairs.
- Reduced Engine Performance: The degraded gasoline loses its volatility, making it harder for your engine to ignite and burn efficiently. This can result in poor starting, rough idling, and reduced power output.
2. The Dangers of Leaking Fuel
Leaving gasoline in your lawn mower for extended periods increases the risk of fuel leaks. Even a small leak can create a fire hazard, especially if the gas is exposed to heat or sparks.
Minimizing the Risk:
- Inspect Your Fuel Lines and Tank: Before storing your lawn mower, check your fuel lines and tank for leaks.
- Store in a Well-Ventilated Area: Store your mower in a dry, well-ventilated area to prevent the build-up of potentially flammable fumes.
3. The Impact on the Environment
Old gas can harm the environment. When spilled or burned, it releases harmful pollutants into the air and soil. To avoid contributing to environmental degradation, it’s crucial to handle gasoline responsibly.
Alternatives to Leaving Gas in Your Lawn Mower
There are safer and more efficient ways to handle the fuel in your lawn mower. Here are two recommended alternatives:
1. Running Your Lawn Mower Dry
This method is a simple and effective way to avoid fuel deterioration and related problems. Simply run your lawn mower until it’s completely out of gas. This ensures that no fuel is left in the tank or fuel lines to degrade.
Benefits:
- Eliminates Fuel Deterioration: Running your lawn mower dry prevents fuel from sitting in the tank and deteriorating.
- Prevents Gumming and Varnish: By emptying the fuel system, you avoid the formation of harmful deposits that can clog your engine.
- Minimizes Fire Hazards: Running your lawn mower dry eliminates the risk of fuel leaks and fire hazards.
2. Using a Fuel Stabilizer
Fuel stabilizers are additives that slow down the oxidation process and prevent gasoline from deteriorating. They are available at most hardware and automotive stores.
How They Work:
- Prevent Oxidation: Fuel stabilizers create a protective barrier on the surface of the gasoline, preventing it from reacting with oxygen.
- Maintain Fuel Quality: By slowing down the deterioration process, fuel stabilizers help maintain the fuel’s volatility and combustion efficiency.
Using a Fuel Stabilizer:
- Follow the Instructions: Always follow the instructions provided by the fuel stabilizer manufacturer.
- Use Before Storage: Add the stabilizer to your lawn mower’s fuel tank before storing the equipment for extended periods.
- Top Off the Tank: After adding the stabilizer, fill the tank to the brim to minimize air space and further reduce oxidation.
Final Thoughts: Making the Smart Choice
Leaving gas in your lawn mower can lead to several problems, from engine damage to safety hazards. While it might seem convenient, it’s ultimately a risky practice. Choosing to run your lawn mower dry or use a fuel stabilizer offers a safer and more efficient approach to storing your lawn care equipment. By taking these precautions, you can ensure your lawn mower stays in good working condition, maximizing its lifespan and minimizing potential risks. Remember, taking care of your lawn mower is not just about maintaining its performance, but also about ensuring a safe and environmentally responsible approach to lawn care.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why shouldn’t I leave gas in my lawnmower?
Leaving gas in your lawnmower for extended periods can lead to several problems. The main culprit is ethanol, a common additive in gasoline. Ethanol attracts moisture, which can condense in the fuel tank and fuel lines. This moisture mixes with the gas, forming a gummy residue that clogs the carburetor and fuel system. Additionally, older gas degrades over time, losing its volatility and making it harder to ignite.
This residue can cause engine problems like stalling, difficulty starting, and even damage to the fuel system. It’s best to avoid these issues by using fresh gas and storing your mower properly during the off-season.
2. How long can I leave gas in my lawnmower?
It’s generally recommended to drain the gas from your lawnmower after each use. If you need to store it for a short period, like a few weeks, you can use stabilized gasoline. This gasoline contains additives that prevent the formation of moisture and gum. However, even stabilized gas is not designed for long-term storage.
For longer storage, draining the gas is the best option. You can also use a fuel stabilizer and run the engine for a few minutes to circulate the stabilized gas through the fuel system. This helps to prevent the formation of gum and ensure your mower starts easily when you need it again.
3. What happens if I leave gas in my lawnmower for a long time?
Leaving gasoline in your lawnmower for an extended period can cause several issues, including:
- Clogged carburetor: The moisture and gum formed by the degrading gas can clog the carburetor, causing difficulty starting and poor engine performance.
- Fuel system damage: The residue can also damage other parts of the fuel system, such as the fuel lines and fuel filter.
- Engine damage: In extreme cases, a clogged carburetor and fuel system can lead to engine damage.
It’s best to avoid these problems by draining the gas and storing your mower properly.
4. How do I drain the gas from my lawnmower?
To drain the gas from your lawnmower, first, ensure it’s turned off and cooled down. Then, locate the fuel tank’s drain valve or petcock. It’s usually located near the bottom of the tank. Use a small container to collect the gas, and carefully open the valve. Let the gas drain completely, and then close the valve. Dispose of the old gas properly, according to local regulations.
If your mower doesn’t have a drain valve, you can siphon the gas out using a siphon hose. Be cautious and avoid contact with the fuel. Always wear eye protection and gloves when handling gasoline.
5. Can I use gasoline with ethanol in my lawnmower?
While most modern lawnmowers are designed to run on gasoline with ethanol, it’s not ideal for long-term storage. Ethanol attracts moisture, which can lead to the formation of gum and clog the fuel system. If you plan to store your mower for an extended period, consider using gasoline without ethanol or using stabilized gasoline.
Stabilized gasoline is specifically designed for storage and contains additives that prevent the formation of moisture and gum.
6. What is stabilized gasoline and where can I buy it?
Stabilized gasoline is a special type of gasoline designed for storage. It contains additives that prevent the formation of moisture and gum, extending the shelf life of the fuel. You can find stabilized gasoline at most hardware stores, gas stations, and online retailers. Look for labels that indicate “stabilized” or “storage” gasoline.
It’s best to use stabilized gasoline for storage periods longer than a few weeks. However, even stabilized gasoline is not designed for long-term storage (beyond a few months).
7. What are other tips for storing my lawnmower?
To ensure your lawnmower starts smoothly when you need it, follow these storage tips:
- Clean the mower: Clean the mower thoroughly, including the underside, to remove any debris or grass clippings.
- Change the oil: Change the engine oil and air filter.
- Sharpen the blades: Sharpen the blades to ensure a clean cut next season.
- Store in a dry place: Store the mower in a dry place, protected from the elements. Cover it with a tarp or use a storage cover.
Following these steps will help you prepare your lawnmower for storage and ensure a smooth start next season.