The smell of freshly cut grass, the gentle hum of the engine, the satisfaction of a well-maintained lawn – it’s all part of the joy of owning a lawnmower. But what happens when that joy turns into frustration because your lawnmower won’t start? One common culprit could be stale or contaminated fuel. This article will guide you through the process of safely and effectively removing gas from your lawnmower, so you can get back to enjoying your beautiful lawn.
The process of removing gas from your lawnmower is fairly straightforward, but it’s important to be cautious. Gasoline is highly flammable, so it’s crucial to work in a well-ventilated area and avoid any open flames. The following steps will walk you through the removal process, explaining the tools and techniques you’ll need.
Preparing for Gas Removal
Before you begin, gather the necessary materials and take the necessary precautions:
1. Safety First:
- Work in a well-ventilated area: Gasoline fumes are dangerous, so ensure fresh air circulation.
- Avoid open flames: Keep any potential ignition sources like lighters, cigarettes, or even static electricity away from the area.
- Wear appropriate gear: Gloves and eye protection are recommended to prevent skin contact and eye irritation.
2. Tools you’ll need:
- A siphon pump: This is the most efficient way to remove gas from the tank. A siphon pump can be purchased at most hardware stores.
- A clean container: Choose a container large enough to hold the gas you’ll be removing.
- A rag: Keep a rag handy to clean up any spills.
Methods for Removing Gas from Your Lawn Mower
Siphoning Method:
Step 1: Locate the Gas Tank
- Identify the fuel tank on your lawnmower. It’s usually a rectangular or cylindrical container near the engine.
Step 2: Prepare the Siphon Pump
- Insert the siphon pump’s intake tube into the fuel tank. Make sure the tube is fully submerged in the gas.
- Place the other end of the siphon tube into the empty container.
Step 3: Prime the Siphon
- Use your mouth to create suction on the siphon tube. This will initiate the flow of gas. Important Note: Do not use your mouth if the gas is older or smells strongly.
- Alternatively, you can use a bulb pump, which is safer and more convenient.
Step 4: Drain the Gas
- Once the siphon is primed, gas will begin to flow from the tank into the container.
- Carefully monitor the flow and stop the process before the gas tank is completely empty.
Manually Draining Method:
- This method is less efficient, but it can be helpful if you don’t have a siphon pump.
- Locate the gas tank’s drain valve. It’s usually a small valve with a screw or lever.
- Position a container under the drain valve.
- Open the drain valve carefully, allowing the gas to flow into the container.
- Once the gas stops flowing, close the valve.
Important Considerations
- Gas disposal: Gasoline is a hazardous waste and should not be poured down drains or onto the ground. Check with your local waste management facility for proper disposal options.
- Fuel stabilizer: Adding fuel stabilizer to your lawnmower gas tank can help prevent fuel from going bad. This will help you avoid having to remove gas in the future.
- Fuel line cleaning: After draining the gas, it’s a good idea to clean the fuel lines to remove any residual fuel. This can be done by running a small amount of fresh gasoline through the lines.
- Storage: If you’re storing your lawnmower for an extended period, it’s best to completely empty the gas tank and run the engine until it stops. This will prevent any fuel from degrading in the system.
Final Thoughts:
Removing gas from your lawnmower is a straightforward process but requires careful attention to safety. By following the steps outlined above, you can effectively remove old gas, preventing potential problems with your lawnmower and ensuring a smooth start for your next mowing session. Remember to dispose of the old gas responsibly, and consider using fuel stabilizer to prolong the life of your fuel.
FAQ
What are the potential hazards of getting gas out of a lawn mower?
Gasoline is a highly flammable substance, and it is important to take precautions when working with it. Always work in a well-ventilated area, and keep gasoline away from any sources of ignition, such as open flames, sparks, or heat. Make sure to wear appropriate safety gear, such as gloves and eye protection.
If you are not comfortable working with gasoline, it is best to leave this task to a qualified mechanic.
How do I know if my lawn mower has a fuel shut-off valve?
Most modern lawn mowers have a fuel shut-off valve, but some older models may not. You can check your owner’s manual to see if your lawn mower has one. If your manual is unavailable, you can visually inspect the fuel line. If you see a valve near the fuel tank, it is likely a fuel shut-off valve.
To ensure safety, even if your lawn mower doesn’t have a fuel shut-off valve, it’s still recommended to use a siphon pump to extract the gas rather than draining it directly from the tank.
What happens if I don’t empty the gas tank before storing my lawn mower for the winter?
If you leave gasoline in your lawn mower’s tank over the winter, it can gum up the carburetor and other parts of the engine. This can make it difficult to start your lawn mower in the spring, and may even require costly repairs.
To avoid these problems, it’s important to empty the gas tank before storing your lawn mower for the winter. You can also add a fuel stabilizer to the tank to help prevent the gas from going bad.
What type of siphon pump is best for removing gas from a lawn mower?
There are many different types of siphon pumps available, but the most common type for lawn mowers is a hand-operated siphon pump. This type of pump is relatively inexpensive and easy to use.
You can also use a battery-operated or electric siphon pump. These pumps are more expensive, but they can be more convenient and efficient. No matter which pump you choose, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
Can I use a gas can to drain the lawn mower tank?
While you can use a gas can to drain the lawn mower tank, it’s not the most ideal method. It can be messy and you risk spilling gas. It is recommended to use a siphon pump for a cleaner and safer method.
If you do choose to use a gas can, make sure it’s clean and free of any debris. Also, be sure to use a funnel to avoid spills.
Can I pour the gas out of my lawn mower into a container and use it later?
You can pour the gas out of your lawn mower into a container, but it is not recommended. Gasoline can go bad over time, especially if it’s left in an open container. It’s best to use fresh gasoline for your lawn mower.
If you must store gasoline, use a tightly sealed container and store it in a cool, dry place away from any sources of ignition.
What should I do with the gasoline I removed from my lawn mower?
After you’ve removed the gasoline from your lawn mower, you need to dispose of it properly. Do not pour gasoline down the drain or into the ground. This can pollute the environment and is illegal in many areas.
The best way to dispose of gasoline is to take it to a hazardous waste disposal facility. You can find a facility near you by contacting your local waste management authority. You can also check with your local hardware store or gas station to see if they accept used gasoline for disposal.