The warm weather is here, and that means it’s time to get your lawn mower out of storage and ready for action. But before you can fire up the engine, you’ll need to make sure that your gas tank is empty. This is important for a few reasons. First, gasoline can go bad over time, and old gas can damage your lawn mower’s engine. Second, storing a lawn mower with gas in the tank can increase the risk of a fire.
This article will cover everything you need to know about emptying your lawn mower gas tank, from the tools you’ll need to the steps involved. We’ll also discuss some safety precautions you should take when working with gasoline.
A Quick Overview
Emptying your lawn mower gas tank is a relatively simple process, but it’s important to do it safely. Here are the basic steps involved:
- Turn off the mower and let it cool down.
- Find a safe place to work.
- Use a siphon pump to remove the gas.
- Dispose of the gasoline properly.
Now, let’s get into the details of each step.
Preparing for the Job: Tools and Safety
Before you start emptying your lawn mower gas tank, you’ll need to gather a few supplies and make sure you’re prepared for the job.
Tools You’ll Need
- Siphon pump: This is the most efficient way to remove gas from your lawn mower tank. You can find siphon pumps at most hardware stores.
- Gas can: This should be a clean, empty gas can that’s specifically designed for gasoline.
- Gloves: Wear gloves to protect your hands from gasoline, which can irritate your skin.
- Eye protection: Always wear safety glasses or goggles when working with gasoline.
- Work gloves: Wear gloves to protect your hands from the gasoline.
Safety First: A Reminder
- Work in a well-ventilated area: Gasoline fumes are flammable and toxic, so it’s important to work in an area with good ventilation.
- Never smoke or use open flames near gasoline: Gasoline is highly flammable, and an open flame could ignite it.
- Keep gasoline away from heat and sparks: Gasoline can ignite if it comes into contact with heat or sparks.
- Store gasoline properly: Gasoline should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Emptying the Tank: Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that you have your supplies and safety gear, let’s get started emptying the gas tank.
Step 1: Turn Off the Mower and Let It Cool Down
Before you attempt to empty the gas tank, you need to make sure the lawn mower is completely off. Turn off the ignition and wait for the engine to cool down. This prevents any accidental starts or splashes of hot gasoline.
Step 2: Find a Safe Place to Work
Choose a well-ventilated area that is free from any potential sources of ignition. You should also make sure that the area is level and free of debris.
Step 3: Remove the Gas Cap
Locate the gas cap on your lawn mower. This is usually located on the top or side of the gas tank. Unscrew the gas cap and set it aside in a safe place.
Step 4: Use the Siphon Pump
With the gas cap removed, you can begin to use the siphon pump.
Using the Siphon Pump
- Insert the siphon pump hose into the gas tank. Be sure to insert the hose all the way to the bottom of the tank.
- Place the other end of the hose into the empty gas can.
- Prime the siphon pump: Most siphon pumps have a priming bulb or a suction tube. Prime the pump by sucking on the hose or squeezing the bulb. This creates a vacuum that helps to draw the gas out of the tank.
- Start siphoning the gas: Once the pump is primed, the gas will begin to flow from the tank to the gas can. You can speed up the process by gently squeezing the pump bulb or suction tube.
- Stop siphoning when the tank is empty: Once the gas is completely removed from the tank, you can stop siphoning.
Important: If you don’t have a siphon pump, you can try using a clean, empty plastic container with a rubber hose. The hose is inserted into the tank and then used to suck the gas up into the container. However, using this method can be messy and is not as effective as a siphon pump.
Step 5: Dispose of the Gasoline Properly
Once you have emptied the gas tank, you’ll need to dispose of the gasoline properly. You can’t just pour it down the drain or into the trash. Here are a few options for properly disposing of gasoline:
- Take it to a hazardous waste facility: Most communities have hazardous waste facilities that will accept gasoline. You can contact your local sanitation department or environmental agency to find out where the nearest facility is located.
- Take it to a gas station: Some gas stations will accept old gasoline, but you should always ask before bringing it in.
- Use it up: If you have a small amount of gasoline, you can use it up in your car or other gas-powered equipment. However, make sure to use it within a few months, as gasoline can go bad over time.
Additional Tips for Emptying a Lawn Mower Gas Tank
- Empty the tank regularly: It’s a good idea to empty your lawn mower gas tank at least once a month during the summer months. This helps to prevent gasoline from going bad.
- Use gas stabilizer: Adding a gas stabilizer to your lawn mower’s gas tank can help to prevent gasoline from going bad. Gas stabilizers are available at most hardware stores.
- Consider using a fuel additive: If you’re using a fuel additive, make sure it is compatible with your lawn mower. Some fuel additives can damage your engine.
- Store your lawn mower properly: When storing your lawn mower for the winter, it’s important to empty the gas tank and run the engine until it runs out of fuel. This helps to prevent the carburetor from gumming up.
Conclusion
Emptying your lawn mower gas tank is an important step in maintaining your lawn mower and ensuring its safety. It’s a relatively simple process, but it’s important to follow the steps outlined above carefully and to take all necessary safety precautions. By taking the time to properly empty your lawn mower gas tank, you can help to extend the life of your mower and prevent any potential hazards.
FAQ
How do I know if my lawnmower gas tank is full?
It’s always best to err on the side of caution and assume your gas tank is full. If you are unsure, it’s best to consult your lawnmower’s user manual for specific instructions on how to check your gas tank’s capacity. However, most lawnmower gas tanks have a clear plastic sight tube that will allow you to see the level of gasoline inside.
What happens if I leave gas in my lawnmower over the winter?
Leaving gasoline in your lawnmower over the winter can cause several problems, including:
- Fuel deterioration: Gasoline degrades over time, becoming less volatile and less effective.
- Gum and varnish buildup: As fuel degrades, it can leave behind sticky residues that can clog your carburetor and fuel lines.
- Engine damage: The varnish and gum buildup can lead to problems starting your lawnmower, reduced power, and even engine damage.
What tools do I need to empty my lawnmower gas tank?
You’ll need a few basic tools to safely and effectively empty your lawnmower gas tank:
- A clean, empty container: Choose a container that is large enough to hold the gasoline from your lawnmower’s tank.
- A siphon pump: A siphon pump is a simple and effective way to remove gasoline from your tank.
- Gloves and eye protection: Gasoline is flammable and can irritate your skin and eyes.
Is it safe to pour the gas out of my lawnmower tank?
It is not recommended to simply pour gasoline out of your lawnmower tank. Pouring out gas directly can create a fire hazard as well as pose risks for environmental contamination. It’s also important to remember that gasoline is flammable and should be handled with caution.
Can I use the gas I removed from my lawnmower for other purposes?
The gasoline you remove from your lawnmower is still usable, but it’s best to use it in a timely manner. Gasoline degrades over time, so the older it gets, the less effective it becomes. It’s not advisable to store gasoline for extended periods. If you are unsure, it’s best to consult with a local gasoline retailer.
What should I do with the gas I removed from my lawnmower?
The best option is to use the gasoline immediately in another gas-powered appliance. If you can’t use it right away, store it in a tightly sealed container in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place, away from any open flames or heat sources. It’s important to store gasoline safely and responsibly, as it is flammable and can cause harm to both humans and the environment.
How often should I empty my lawnmower gas tank?
It is recommended to empty your lawnmower gas tank at the end of each mowing season, especially if you are storing your lawnmower for an extended period of time. This will help to prevent fuel deterioration, gum and varnish buildup, and engine damage. You can also choose to add a fuel stabilizer to your gas tank to help slow the degradation process.