The smell of freshly cut grass is a hallmark of summer, but what happens when your lawn mower sits idle after the season is over? Letting gasoline sit in the tank can lead to a number of problems, including gumming up the engine and causing difficulty starting it up next spring. Knowing how to empty the gas out of your lawn mower is a crucial maintenance task that ensures your machine stays in tip-top shape and ready to tackle your lawn when the warm weather returns. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps to safely and effectively drain the fuel from your lawn mower, keeping your equipment running smoothly for seasons to come.
Here’s a quick overview of the process:
- Safety first! Wear protective gear and work in a well-ventilated area.
- Locate the fuel tank and fuel line.
- Drain the gas into a suitable container.
- Clean and store your mower properly.
Safety First: Precautions Before You Start
Before you begin draining gas from your lawn mower, it’s essential to take necessary precautions to ensure your safety and the safety of those around you:
1. Wear Protective Gear:
- Gloves: Wear thick, chemical-resistant gloves to protect your skin from any potential spills or contact with gasoline.
- Eye Protection: Safety glasses or goggles are essential to shield your eyes from splashes or fumes.
- Clothing: Wear long pants and closed-toe shoes to minimize the risk of skin irritation or burns.
2. Work in a Well-Ventilated Area:
- Open Air: Avoid working in enclosed spaces or garages where gasoline fumes can accumulate.
- Fresh Air: Choose an outdoor location with good airflow to allow fumes to disperse.
3. Fire Safety:
- No Smoking: Absolutely no smoking or open flames should be present while handling gasoline.
- Fire Extinguisher: Keep a fire extinguisher readily available in case of accidental ignition.
4. Store Gasoline Safely:
- Approved Containers: Use only approved, labeled gasoline containers for storage. Never use glass or plastic containers.
- Proper Storage: Store gasoline in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated location, away from any heat sources or ignition sources.
Locating the Fuel Tank and Fuel Line
1. Identify the Fuel Tank:
- Visual Inspection: Look for a rectangular or cylindrical container on the side of the lawn mower, often marked with a fuel gauge or “gas” label.
- Fuel Cap: The tank cap is typically located on the top or side of the fuel tank.
2. Finding the Fuel Line:
- Follow the Fuel Tank: The fuel line connects the fuel tank to the carburetor. Trace the line from the tank to its point of attachment.
- Locate the Carburetor: The carburetor is usually located near the engine, often attached to the engine’s air intake. The fuel line will connect to the carburetor at this point.
Draining the Gas into a Suitable Container
1. Prepare a Catch Container:
- Approved Gas Container: Use an approved, labeled gasoline container for collecting the drained fuel.
- Proper Size: Choose a container that is large enough to hold the fuel from your lawn mower.
2. Disconnect the Fuel Line:
- Locate the Fuel Line Connector: The fuel line is typically attached to the carburetor using a hose clamp or quick-connect fitting.
- Remove the Connector: Gently loosen the clamp or disconnect the fitting to separate the fuel line from the carburetor.
3. Drain the Gas:
- Tilt the Mower: Tilt the lawn mower slightly to encourage the fuel to flow out of the tank.
- Pour into Container: Carefully pour the fuel from the tank into the prepared container.
4. Reconnect the Fuel Line:
- Re-attach the Connector: Once the tank is empty, re-attach the fuel line to the carburetor using the clamp or fitting. Make sure it is secure.
Cleaning and Storing Your Lawn Mower
1. Wipe Away Excess Fuel:
- Use a Rag: Use a clean rag to wipe away any fuel spills or residue from the mower’s exterior.
- Avoid Ignition Sources: Keep the rag away from any heat or potential ignition sources.
2. Remove Remaining Fuel:
- Run the Engine: Start the engine briefly to allow any remaining fuel in the carburetor to burn off.
- Caution: Do this only if you are comfortable working with gasoline and have a fire extinguisher nearby.
3. Store the Mower Properly:
- Clean and Dry: Wipe down the mower with a clean, damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris. Allow it to air dry completely.
- Storage Location: Store the mower in a dry, well-ventilated location, away from heat, moisture, and potential ignition sources.
Disposing of Used Gasoline Safely:
1. Do Not Pour Down Drains:
- Environmental Damage: Pouring gasoline down drains is harmful to the environment and can contaminate water supplies.
- Alternative Solutions: Contact your local waste disposal agency to learn about proper gasoline disposal methods.
2. Check for Local Regulations:
- Waste Collection Programs: Some communities offer gasoline recycling or collection programs.
- Hazardous Waste Facilities: You may be able to dispose of gasoline at a designated hazardous waste facility.
Additional Tips for Emptying Gas Out of Your Lawn Mower:
- Prevent Future Problems: Emptying the gas tank before storing your mower for long periods is an excellent practice to help prevent fuel-related issues.
- Use a Fuel Stabilizer: Consider using a fuel stabilizer in your gasoline if you cannot empty the tank before storage. Stabilizers help to prevent fuel from degrading and gumming up the engine.
- Check the Owner’s Manual: Always consult your lawn mower’s owner’s manual for specific instructions and recommendations on emptying the gas tank and storing the mower.
Conclusion:
Emptying the gas from your lawn mower is a crucial maintenance step that ensures the longevity and proper functioning of your equipment. By following these safety guidelines and proper procedures, you can confidently drain the fuel from your mower, store it safely, and keep it ready for use next season.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the risks involved in emptying gas from a lawn mower?
Gasoline is a highly flammable substance, and it is essential to handle it with extreme care. Emptying gasoline from a lawn mower carries a significant risk of fire and explosions if not done correctly. Always work in a well-ventilated area, and never smoke or allow any open flames near the mower or the gasoline. It’s also crucial to wear appropriate protective gear, such as gloves and eye protection, to prevent skin and eye contact with the gasoline.
What tools do I need to empty gas from a lawn mower?
You’ll need a few basic tools to safely drain the gasoline from your lawn mower. These include a gas can or container to store the drained gasoline, a siphon pump, a rag or cloth to wipe up any spills, and safety gear like gloves and eye protection. It’s also recommended to have a fire extinguisher on hand in case of emergencies.
How do I safely drain the gasoline from my lawn mower?
First, make sure your lawn mower is completely cool and shut off. Locate the gas tank on your lawn mower, and carefully remove the gas cap. If necessary, use a small funnel to direct the gasoline into the container. Once the gasoline has been drained, put the cap back on the gas tank and securely store the container away from heat and open flames.
What should I do with the drained gasoline?
Once you’ve drained the gasoline from your lawn mower, it’s important to dispose of it properly. Never pour gasoline down the drain or into the ground. It is illegal and harmful to the environment. Instead, dispose of it at a designated hazardous waste collection facility or a local recycling center. Alternatively, you can check with your local gas station or automotive repair shop to see if they accept gasoline for disposal.
Can I reuse the drained gasoline?
While it may seem tempting to reuse the drained gasoline, it is generally not recommended. Gasoline degrades over time, losing its volatility and becoming less effective. Using old gasoline can cause problems with your lawn mower, leading to reduced performance and engine damage.
How often should I empty the gas tank of my lawn mower?
It’s best practice to empty the gas tank of your lawn mower before storing it for extended periods. This reduces the risk of the fuel going bad and causing engine problems. The recommended storage time for gasoline is around 30 days, but it’s best to consult your owner’s manual for specific recommendations.
What are some tips for preventing future gas issues in my lawn mower?
To minimize the risk of needing to empty your lawn mower’s gas tank in the future, consider using fuel stabilizer. Fuel stabilizers help prevent the degradation of gasoline over time, allowing it to last longer. It’s also a good practice to store your lawn mower in a cool, dry place and avoid storing it with the gas tank full.