The end of summer is usually a bittersweet time. We savor the last sunny days, but also face the inevitable task of putting away our lawn care tools, including our trusty lawn mowers. One important step in this process is emptying the gas tank. Leaving fuel in the tank for extended periods can lead to gumming and varnish buildup, damaging your mower’s engine. This article will guide you through the safe and efficient process of emptying your lawn mower’s gas tank, ensuring your machine stays in tip-top shape for next season.
Overview
Emptying the gas tank of a lawn mower involves safely transferring the fuel to a suitable container and then cleaning the tank to prevent any residue buildup. The process is relatively straightforward and only requires a few simple tools and precautions.
Safety First: Essential Precautions
Before you begin draining your lawn mower’s gas tank, it’s crucial to prioritize safety. Gasoline is highly flammable, and mishandling it can lead to serious accidents.
1. Work in a Well-Ventilated Area:
Always work in an open area with good air circulation to prevent the accumulation of flammable vapors.
2. Avoid Sparks:
Keep away from any potential sources of ignition, such as open flames, electrical outlets, or running engines.
3. Use a Proper Container:
Use a gasoline-approved container to store the drained fuel. Never use glass containers or containers without a secure lid.
4. Ground Yourself:
Wear shoes with rubber soles or stand on a rubber mat to prevent static electricity buildup.
5. Wear Protective Gear:
Protect your hands with gloves and your eyes with safety glasses.
6. Work With a Partner:
If possible, work with a partner to ensure an extra pair of eyes and hands in case of an emergency.
Step-by-Step Guide to Emptying Your Lawn Mower’s Gas Tank
Now that you’ve taken necessary safety precautions, let’s delve into the actual process of emptying your lawn mower’s gas tank.
1. Stop the Engine and Cool Down:
Turn off the engine and allow it to cool completely before attempting to drain the tank. A hot engine can create hazardous vapors.
2. Locate the Gas Tank:
The gas tank is typically located on the side or top of your lawn mower.
3. Find the Fuel Shut-Off Valve:
Look for a small lever or knob near the gas tank. This is the fuel shut-off valve, which controls the flow of fuel to the engine.
4. Turn off the Fuel Shut-Off Valve:
Switch the fuel shut-off valve to the “Off” position. This will prevent any further fuel from flowing into the tank.
5. Prepare the Drain Container:
Place your gasoline-approved container in a safe, secure location away from any heat sources or sparks.
6. Locate the Drain Plug:
Most lawn mowers have a drain plug located at the bottom of the gas tank. It might be a simple screw or a larger plug with a cap.
7. Open the Drain Plug:
Use a wrench or screwdriver (depending on the type of drain plug) to open the drain plug.
8. Drain the Gas:
Carefully tilt the lawn mower slightly to allow the fuel to flow out of the drain plug and into your container.
9. Close the Drain Plug:
Once the tank is empty, immediately close the drain plug securely.
10. Clean the Tank:
With a clean cloth, wipe down the outside of the gas tank to remove any spills.
11. Dispose of the Fuel:
Do not pour gasoline down the drain or into the ground. Dispose of it properly at a designated waste collection site or a gas station that accepts fuel recycling.
How to Safely Dispose of Gasoline:
1. Contact Local Recycling Centers:
Many communities have designated recycling centers that accept gasoline. Check your local waste disposal department or online for information on these facilities.
2. Check With Gas Stations:
Some gas stations accept used gasoline for recycling. Call ahead to inquire about their policies and procedures.
3. Use a Gas Absorbent:
In the event of a spill, you can use a gas absorbent product to clean up the spill. These products are available at hardware stores and online.
Keeping Your Lawn Mower’s Tank Clean:
After you have emptied the gas tank, it’s essential to prevent any residue buildup. Follow these tips:
1. Use Fuel Stabilizer:
Adding fuel stabilizer to your gas tank helps to prevent the formation of gum and varnish, ensuring smooth operation for the next season.
2. Run the Engine Dry:
Run the engine until it stalls, using up any remaining fuel in the carburetor and fuel lines. This helps prevent gumming and ensures a smooth start next time.
3. Store the Mower Properly:
Store the mower in a dry, cool, well-ventilated area, out of direct sunlight.
Conclusion:
Emptying your lawn mower’s gas tank is an essential maintenance task that helps prevent engine damage and ensures smooth operation for the next season. Remember to always prioritize safety, using proper tools and taking necessary precautions when handling gasoline. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can confidently drain your lawn mower’s gas tank and keep it in peak condition for years to come.
FAQs
Why do I need to empty the gas from my lawnmower?
Emptying the gas from your lawnmower is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it helps prevent fuel from degrading and becoming unusable. Over time, gasoline can break down, forming varnish and gum that can clog fuel lines and carburetor parts. Secondly, it minimizes the risk of fire hazards, especially during storage. Gasoline is highly flammable, and storing a full tank increases the chances of accidental ignition.
Finally, it helps extend the life of your lawnmower. By reducing the amount of time fuel sits in the tank and fuel system, you reduce the buildup of harmful deposits that can lead to engine problems.
How often should I empty the gas from my lawnmower?
It’s best to empty the gas from your lawnmower at least once a month, especially if you won’t be using it for an extended period. This helps prevent fuel from degrading and causing problems. If you’re using your lawnmower regularly, you can go longer, but it’s always good practice to empty the tank at least once a season.
However, if you plan on storing your lawnmower for an extended time, such as during winter, it’s crucial to empty the tank and run the engine until it stalls to clear the fuel lines.
What is the safest way to empty the gas from my lawnmower?
The safest way to empty the gas from your lawnmower is to do it outdoors, away from any heat sources or open flames. Ensure the lawnmower is cool and the engine is off. Carefully remove the fuel cap and use a siphon pump to transfer the gas into a clean, approved container. Never pour gasoline into an open container, and always store it in a safe location away from heat and sparks.
Remember to keep the gas container tightly sealed and dispose of it properly according to local regulations.
What do I do with the gas I remove from my lawnmower?
Once you’ve drained the gas from your lawnmower, you have several options. You can use it in other gasoline-powered equipment, such as a generator or a chainsaw. However, it’s important to note that gas left sitting in a tank can degrade over time, potentially affecting the performance of other equipment.
If you don’t have another use for it, you can dispose of it properly at a designated gas recycling center or hazardous waste facility. Never pour it down the drain or into the ground, as it can contaminate water sources.
Can I leave some gas in the tank?
It’s not recommended to leave any gas in the tank for an extended period. Even a small amount of fuel can degrade and cause problems. If you need to store your lawnmower for a longer time, it’s best to completely empty the tank.
However, if you plan to use your lawnmower again within a few days, leaving a small amount of fuel in the tank is okay. Just ensure the fuel is fresh and has been treated with a fuel stabilizer to prevent degradation.
What if I forget to empty the gas before storing my lawnmower?
If you forget to empty the gas before storing your lawnmower for an extended period, don’t panic. It’s still possible to salvage the situation. Start by running the engine until it stalls to clear the fuel lines. Then, add a fuel stabilizer to the remaining gas in the tank to prevent it from degrading further.
After that, store the lawnmower in a cool, dry place. As soon as possible, try to drain the remaining fuel and replace it with fresh gas.
What are some tips for preventing fuel from degrading in my lawnmower?
Preventing fuel from degrading in your lawnmower is crucial for its long-term performance. Here are some tips:
- Always use fresh gasoline.
- Use a fuel stabilizer to protect fuel from degrading.
- Store your lawnmower in a cool, dry place.
- Empty the fuel tank before storing the lawnmower for an extended time.
- Consider using a fuel additive to help clean the fuel system.
By following these tips, you can ensure your lawnmower runs smoothly and efficiently for years to come.