The end of summer is bittersweet. We enjoy the warm weather and long days, but it also means saying goodbye to our beloved lawn mowers until next spring. As you pack away your mower for the season, you might be wondering how to properly prepare it for storage. One crucial step is draining the gas tank. Leaving gas in the tank over winter can lead to problems like gumming up the carburetor, causing difficulty starting the mower next season. So, how do you drain gas from your lawn mower?
This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring you can safely and efficiently drain the gas from your lawn mower. We’ll cover the necessary tools, safety precautions, and alternative methods to get the job done.
Why Drain Your Lawn Mower’s Gas Tank?
Leaving gas in your lawn mower tank over an extended period can lead to several problems:
- Fuel Degradation: Gasoline is a volatile substance that degrades over time. The ethanol content in modern gasoline attracts moisture, leading to varnish and gum formation. This can clog the carburetor and fuel lines, hindering the engine’s performance and potentially causing costly repairs.
- Fuel System Corrosion: Old fuel can also corrode metal parts in the fuel system, leading to wear and tear.
- Fire Hazard: Fuel that sits for long periods can become unstable and pose a fire hazard, especially if exposed to heat or sparks.
To avoid these issues, it’s crucial to drain the gas tank before storing your lawn mower for extended periods, particularly during the winter months.
Step-by-Step Guide to Draining Your Lawn Mower’s Gas Tank
Before starting, gather these essential tools:
- Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes from potential fuel splashes.
- Gloves: Protect your hands from gasoline, which can cause skin irritation.
- Fuel Container: A clean, gas-approved container for collecting the drained fuel.
- Rag or Paper Towels: For cleaning up any spills.
- Screwdriver: For removing the gas cap (if necessary).
- Pliers: For gripping and disconnecting the fuel line (optional).
Safety Precautions
- Work in a well-ventilated area: Gasoline fumes are flammable and harmful to inhale.
- Avoid open flames and sparks: Keep any potential ignition sources away from the area where you are draining the fuel.
- Wear appropriate safety gear: Always use safety glasses and gloves when handling gasoline.
- Store drained fuel properly: Dispose of the drained fuel responsibly. Do not pour it down the drain or into the soil. Contact your local waste disposal facility for appropriate disposal methods.
Draining the Fuel
- Stop the engine and allow it to cool completely. Before you begin, ensure the engine is off and completely cool to prevent potential burns or injuries.
- Move the mower to a safe location. Find a level, well-ventilated area away from any potential ignition sources.
- Remove the fuel cap: Carefully unscrew the gas cap and place it on a clean surface.
- Position the fuel container: Place the fuel container under the gas tank spout or fuel line.
- Open the fuel valve: If your lawn mower has a fuel shut-off valve, open it to allow the fuel to flow into the container.
- Drain the fuel tank: Tilt the mower slightly, allowing the fuel to flow from the tank and into the container. You can also use a siphon pump to accelerate the process.
- Remove the fuel line: If your mower has a detachable fuel line, carefully disconnect it from the tank and allow the remaining fuel to drain into the container.
- Reconnect the fuel line: Once the fuel is drained, re-attach the fuel line securely.
- Replace the fuel cap: Screw the fuel cap back onto the tank securely.
- Clean up any spills: Use a rag or paper towel to wipe up any spilled fuel, ensuring no residue remains on the ground or the mower.
Draining with the Engine Running
In some cases, you may need to drain the fuel tank while the engine is running. This method is generally not recommended, but it can be necessary in situations where the fuel valve doesn’t function properly.
- Caution: Exercise extreme care and follow all safety precautions when draining fuel with the engine running.
- Disconnect the spark plug wire. To prevent accidental starts, disconnect the spark plug wire before draining fuel with the engine running.
- Start the engine and allow it to run until the fuel tank is empty. While the engine is running, carefully disconnect the fuel line and allow the remaining fuel to drain into the container.
- Stop the engine and reconnect the fuel line. Once the fuel is drained, turn off the engine and reconnect the fuel line.
Alternative Fuel Draining Methods
If you’re unable to drain the gas tank using the traditional method, consider these alternatives:
- Siphon Pump: A siphon pump is a handy tool that uses suction to transfer fuel from the tank to the container. This method is generally faster and more efficient than draining by gravity.
- Fuel Stabilizer: Adding a fuel stabilizer to your lawn mower’s gas tank before storage can help prevent fuel degradation. This option is best for situations where draining the fuel is impractical or inconvenient.
Important Note: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific lawn mower model. Some models may have unique fuel systems or require additional steps for draining the tank.
What To Do With Drained Fuel
Once you have drained the fuel from your lawn mower, it’s crucial to dispose of it responsibly. Do not pour it down the drain or into the soil, as it can contaminate groundwater.
- Recycle: Many gas stations and automotive repair shops accept used motor oil and gasoline for recycling.
- Local waste disposal facility: Contact your local waste disposal facility to inquire about their procedures for disposing of used gasoline.
Maintaining Your Lawn Mower for Long-Term Storage
Draining the gas tank is just one step in preparing your lawn mower for long-term storage. To ensure your mower starts smoothly next season, follow these additional tips:
- Clean the mower: Remove any grass clippings, dirt, or debris from the deck and engine.
- Sharpen the blades: Sharpen the blades to ensure a clean cut next season.
- Change the oil: Change the engine oil to remove any contaminants that may have accumulated.
- Inspect and clean the air filter: Replace or clean the air filter to improve air intake and engine performance.
- Store in a dry, well-ventilated area: Store your lawn mower indoors in a dry, well-ventilated area to protect it from the elements.
Conclusion
Draining your lawn mower’s gas tank is a simple but essential task that can prevent costly repairs and ensure your mower runs smoothly next season. By following the steps outlined above and taking appropriate safety precautions, you can easily drain the fuel and prepare your mower for long-term storage. Remember to dispose of the drained fuel responsibly and consider the additional maintenance tips to keep your mower in top condition.
FAQ
1. Why should I drain the gas from my lawnmower?
Draining the gas from your lawnmower is essential for various reasons. Firstly, it helps prevent the fuel from going bad and becoming unusable. Over time, gasoline can degrade, forming varnish and gum that can clog the fuel system and damage the engine. Secondly, draining the gas ensures safety, as a full gas tank could potentially leak or spill during storage, posing a fire hazard. Lastly, it simplifies winterizing your lawnmower, as an empty tank eliminates the need to worry about fuel going bad during prolonged inactivity.
2. How often should I drain the gas from my lawnmower?
The frequency of draining gas from your lawnmower depends on several factors, including the type of fuel used and the storage duration. For gasoline, it’s generally recommended to drain the tank every 30-60 days, especially if you’re storing the mower for an extended period. If you use fuel stabilizer, you can potentially extend this timeframe. However, it’s always best to consult your lawnmower’s manual for specific recommendations.
3. What tools do I need to drain the gas from my lawnmower?
You’ll only need a few basic tools to drain the gas from your lawnmower. A clean container to collect the gas is essential, along with a funnel to guide the flow. You’ll also need a pair of gloves to protect your hands from contact with the fuel, and a rag to clean up any spills. Some lawnmowers have a drain valve, which can be opened to drain the gas directly. If yours doesn’t, you’ll need to siphon the gas out using a siphon pump.
4. Where do I find the gas tank drain valve on my lawnmower?
The location of the gas tank drain valve varies depending on the lawnmower model. It’s typically located on the bottom of the gas tank, near the fuel line. Some models might have it on the side of the tank, while others might require you to remove a cover to access it. It’s best to consult your lawnmower’s manual for specific instructions and guidance on locating the drain valve.
5. What do I do with the drained gas?
Once you’ve drained the gas from your lawnmower, you need to dispose of it responsibly. Avoid pouring it down the drain, as it can contaminate water sources. Instead, take it to a local hazardous waste disposal facility or a gas station that accepts used fuel for recycling. It’s important to follow local regulations and dispose of it properly to protect the environment.
6. Can I reuse the drained gas in my lawnmower?
While technically possible, it’s not recommended to reuse the drained gas in your lawnmower. Once the fuel has been drained, it’s likely to have absorbed moisture from the air, which can cause engine problems. Additionally, the draining process may have introduced contaminants into the fuel, further increasing the risk of damage to your lawnmower. It’s best to use fresh fuel for optimal performance and longevity.
7. What should I do after draining the gas from my lawnmower?
Once you’ve drained the gas and disposed of it properly, it’s important to take a few additional steps to ensure your lawnmower is stored safely. Wipe down any spills around the tank and surrounding areas with a rag. Additionally, you can consider adding a small amount of fresh gasoline to the tank to prevent rust formation, although this is not essential. Finally, remember to consult your lawnmower’s manual for specific storage recommendations and follow them accordingly.