Spring has sprung, and that means it’s time to get your lawn mower out of storage and ready for action. But before you fire it up, you need to check the fuel. Old gas can gum up your mower’s engine, leading to problems starting and even causing costly damage. This article will guide you through the safe and efficient process of emptying old gas from your lawn mower, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free mowing season.
Why Empty Old Gas?
Fuel, particularly gasoline, has a limited shelf life. Over time, it deteriorates and creates a sticky, gummy residue that can clog your mower’s fuel system. This residue can prevent your mower from starting, cause poor performance, or even damage your engine. So, before you start your lawn mower for the first time in the season, it’s essential to empty any old gas and replace it with fresh fuel.
Step-by-Step Guide to Emptying Old Gas from Your Lawn Mower:
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
Before you get started, make sure you have the following supplies:
- A clean container: This should be a safe and approved container for gasoline, such as a gas can or a sealed plastic jug.
- Gloves: Protect your hands from the fuel and any potential spills.
- Safety Glasses: Always wear safety glasses when handling gasoline.
- Paper towels or rags: Have these handy for cleaning up any spills.
- A wrench (if needed): Some mowers may require a wrench to loosen the fuel cap.
Step 2: Choosing the Right Location
Safety should always be your top priority when handling gasoline. It’s crucial to work in a well-ventilated area, ideally outdoors, away from any open flames or sparks. Avoid areas where children or pets could access the fuel.
Step 3: Locate the Fuel Tank
Find the fuel tank on your lawn mower. It’s usually located on the side or the back, often marked with a fuel gauge or a fuel cap.
Step 4: Remove the Fuel Cap
Carefully remove the fuel cap. This may require a wrench, depending on your mower model. If you’re unsure, consult your owner’s manual.
Step 5: Drain the Fuel
Important Note: Before you start draining the fuel, make sure your lawn mower is on a level surface. This will prevent fuel from spilling out unnecessarily.
- Direct the fuel: Place the container you’re using to catch the fuel directly underneath the fuel tank opening.
- Remove the fuel line: Some mowers have a drain valve specifically for emptying the fuel tank. If your mower has one, open it and let the fuel drain into your container. If it doesn’t have a drain valve, you’ll need to siphon the fuel out.
- Siphoning: You can use a siphon pump or create a siphon by placing a length of hose into the fuel tank, with the other end in your container. Suck on the end of the hose to create suction and start the flow. Remember to wear gloves and safety glasses while siphoning fuel.
Step 6: Dispose of the Old Gas Safely
Once you’ve emptied the fuel tank, you’ll need to dispose of the old gas properly. Do not pour it down the drain or into the ground, as this can pollute the environment.
- Contact your local waste management facility: They can provide information on the best way to dispose of gasoline in your area.
- Find a fuel recycling center: Many gas stations and automotive repair shops have fuel recycling programs that accept old gasoline for proper disposal.
Step 7: Clean Up
After emptying the fuel tank, wipe down the fuel cap and surrounding area with a paper towel or rag to remove any spills or residue.
Step 8: Refill with Fresh Fuel
Once the fuel tank is empty, it’s time to refill it with fresh gasoline. Use a fuel stabilizer to extend the shelf life of the gasoline, especially if you won’t be using your lawn mower for an extended period.
Step 9: Start Your Mower
With fresh fuel in the tank, you can now start your lawn mower. If it doesn’t start immediately, don’t worry, there may be some air in the fuel lines. Just try starting it again a few times, or check your owner’s manual for troubleshooting tips.
Additional Tips
- Fuel Stabilizer: Always use fuel stabilizer when storing gasoline for extended periods. This helps prevent fuel from deteriorating and keeps your mower running smoothly.
- Store Properly: Store your lawn mower in a dry, well-ventilated area.
- Seasonal Maintenance: At the end of the mowing season, make sure you drain the fuel tank and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for winterizing your lawn mower.
Conclusion
By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your lawn mower starts easily and runs smoothly every time. Remember to always prioritize safety when handling gasoline and dispose of it properly. By taking care of your lawn mower and its fuel system, you can enjoy a hassle-free and productive mowing season.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is it important to empty old gas from my lawn mower?
It’s crucial to empty old gas from your lawn mower to prevent engine damage. Over time, gasoline deteriorates, forming varnish and gum that can clog fuel lines, carburetors, and other engine components. This can lead to reduced power, poor starting, or even engine failure. Additionally, old gas releases harmful emissions, contributing to air pollution.
Emptying old gas before storage also helps prevent the formation of these harmful deposits. You’ll be ensuring your lawn mower starts up smoothly and runs efficiently the next time you need it.
2. How long can gasoline stay in a lawn mower before it goes bad?
Gasoline generally begins to deteriorate after about 30 days, and its quality significantly declines after 3 months. This timeframe can vary slightly depending on factors like storage conditions, fuel stabilizer use, and fuel type.
For optimal performance, it’s best to empty the gas tank and carburetor every season. If you don’t plan to use your mower for a longer duration, it’s recommended to use a fuel stabilizer and run the engine for a few minutes to distribute the stabilizer throughout the system.
3. What are the signs of bad gas in a lawn mower?
You’ll notice several tell-tale signs of bad gas in your lawn mower. The engine may struggle to start or sputter and stall frequently. You may experience reduced power and uneven engine performance. Additionally, you might notice a change in the smell of exhaust, often accompanied by a smoky or unusual odor.
If you observe any of these symptoms, it’s time to empty the old gas and replace it with fresh, high-quality fuel.
4. How do I safely empty the gas tank?
Emptying the gas tank safely is crucial. Begin by moving your lawn mower to a well-ventilated area, away from any heat sources or open flames. Use a siphon pump or a container with a spout to extract the gas from the tank.
Pour the old gas into an approved container, such as a gas can. Never pour it directly onto the ground, as it can harm the environment. Properly dispose of the old gas at a local recycling center or hazardous waste disposal site.
5. Should I empty the carburetor as well?
Yes, emptying the carburetor is equally important. The carburetor can hold a small amount of fuel, which can also deteriorate over time. To drain the carburetor, disconnect the fuel line and start the engine. Let it run until the engine stalls, indicating that the carburetor is empty.
Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific lawn mower model. Some models might have specific procedures for draining the carburetor.
6. What should I do after emptying the old gas?
After emptying the old gas, it’s essential to refill the tank with fresh, high-quality fuel. Before storing the lawn mower, run the engine for a few minutes to ensure the fresh fuel reaches the carburetor and fuel lines.
This helps to prevent the formation of new deposits and ensures a smooth start the next time you use the mower.
7. What are some additional tips for preventing fuel issues in lawn mowers?
To prevent fuel-related issues, follow these additional tips:
- Use a fuel stabilizer to preserve the quality of gasoline.
- Store your lawn mower in a dry, well-ventilated area.
- Avoid using gasoline older than 30 days.
- Inspect the fuel lines and carburetor for signs of damage or clogging.
- Consider using a fuel filter to protect the engine from debris.
By following these tips, you can extend the lifespan of your lawn mower and ensure it runs efficiently for years to come.