The smell of freshly cut grass is a welcome sign of summer, but that enjoyment can quickly turn sour when your trusty lawn mower sputters and coughs its way through your yard. One of the most common culprits for a sluggish lawn mower? Old gas. This article will guide you through the process of safely and effectively removing old gas from your lawn mower, ensuring a smooth and efficient mowing experience. We’ll cover the dangers of old gas, the best ways to remove it, and helpful tips to prevent the problem from recurring.
The Basics
Old gasoline, which is more than a few months old, can deteriorate and form a gummy residue, clogging the fuel system and hindering your mower’s performance. The process of removing old gas can vary depending on the type of mower and its fuel system, but the general steps are similar:
- Safety first: Always work in a well-ventilated area and wear protective gear like gloves and eye protection.
- Drain the fuel tank: You’ll need to remove the fuel from the tank, often by using a siphon or a fuel pump.
- Clean the fuel lines: Depending on the severity of the gas deterioration, you might need to clean or replace the fuel lines to ensure proper fuel flow.
- Start fresh: Once the old gas is removed, replace it with fresh, high-quality gasoline.
Why Does Old Gas Become a Problem?
Gasoline is a volatile substance that degrades over time. Exposure to air, sunlight, and heat causes the gasoline to break down, leading to the formation of:
- Gummy Residue: As gasoline ages, it forms a sticky, gummy residue that can clog fuel lines, fuel filters, and even the carburetor. This buildup prevents fuel from flowing properly, resulting in a loss of power and difficulty starting the engine.
- Water Condensation: Gasoline is a hydrocarbon, and water is a byproduct of its decomposition. This water can settle in the fuel tank and fuel lines, causing rust and corrosion, further hindering fuel flow and potentially damaging engine parts.
- Loss of Volatility: Fresh gasoline vaporizes readily, making it easy for the engine to draw fuel into the combustion chamber. However, as gasoline ages, its volatility decreases, meaning it vaporizes less easily. This can cause the engine to run lean, resulting in reduced power and engine damage.
The Hazards of Old Gas
Old gasoline is more than just a performance inhibitor for your lawn mower. It can also pose significant safety risks:
- Fire Hazard: Old gas is highly flammable and can easily ignite, particularly in the presence of open flames or sparks. Always work in a well-ventilated area, away from heat sources, and be extremely careful when handling old fuel.
- Toxic Fumes: Old gasoline releases harmful fumes, which can cause dizziness, nausea, headaches, and even respiratory problems. Ensure proper ventilation when draining or handling old gas, and avoid inhaling the fumes.
- Environmental Contamination: Improper disposal of old gasoline can contaminate soil and water sources, harming wildlife and ecosystems. Always dispose of old gas responsibly, following local regulations and seeking guidance from environmental agencies.
How to Remove Old Gas from Your Lawn Mower: Step-by-Step
Here’s a detailed guide on how to remove old gas from your lawn mower, ensuring a safe and effective process:
1. Gather the Necessary Supplies
Before you start, gather the following materials:
- Fuel siphon or pump: A fuel siphon is a handy tool for removing fuel from the tank, while a fuel pump can be helpful for larger quantities.
- Container for old fuel: Use a clearly labeled, airtight container specifically for storing old gasoline. Make sure it is approved for gasoline storage.
- Gloves and eye protection: Always wear gloves and eye protection to protect yourself from spills and fumes.
- Rag or paper towels: Keep rags or paper towels handy to clean up any spills.
- Fresh gasoline: Make sure you have fresh, high-quality gasoline on hand to refill the tank after draining the old fuel.
2. Shut Off the Engine and Disconnect the Battery (if applicable)
- Safety first: Before working on your lawn mower, ensure the engine is completely shut off and cooled down.
- Battery disconnect: If your mower has a battery, disconnect it to prevent any accidental sparking.
3. Locate the Fuel Tank and Drain Valve (if available)
- Fuel tank identification: The fuel tank is usually located on the side or top of the mower. Look for a cap or a filler neck.
- Drain valve: Some lawn mowers have a drain valve on the bottom of the fuel tank. If you have one, use a container to catch the drained fuel.
4. Drain the Fuel Tank
- Siphon method: If your mower doesn’t have a drain valve, you can use a siphon to remove the fuel. Place the siphon’s intake tube into the fuel tank and gently suck on the other end to create a vacuum.
- Fuel pump method: A fuel pump can be more efficient for draining larger amounts of fuel. Connect the pump to the fuel tank and follow the pump’s instructions for operation.
- Important note: When draining fuel, always ensure the container is placed on a flat, level surface and away from any heat sources.
5. Clean the Fuel System
- Fuel lines: If your mower has visible fuel lines, you can try to clear them by blowing compressed air through them. Use caution as air pressure can damage the fuel lines if used improperly.
- Fuel filter: If your mower has an accessible fuel filter, you can clean it or replace it with a new one. Refer to your owner’s manual for instructions on accessing and cleaning or replacing the fuel filter.
- Carburetor: If the fuel system is heavily clogged with residue, you may need to clean or rebuild the carburetor. This is a more complex task and may require professional assistance.
6. Refill with Fresh Gas
- Once the old gas is drained and the fuel system is clean, you can refill the tank with fresh, high-quality gasoline.
- Do not overfill the tank. Leave some room for expansion to prevent spillage.
7. Start the Engine and Test for Performance
- After refilling with fresh gasoline, try starting the engine.
- Check for smooth operation, adequate power, and the absence of any unusual noises or smells.
- If the engine runs poorly, you may need to further inspect the fuel system for remaining clogs or other issues.
How to Prevent Old Gas from Building Up in Your Lawn Mower
- Store Gasoline Properly: When not in use, store your lawn mower in a cool, dry location, away from sunlight and heat.
- Use a Fuel Stabilizer: Add a fuel stabilizer to your gas tank before storing your mower. Stabilizers prevent the formation of harmful deposits and extend the shelf life of gasoline.
- Drain the Tank Before Long Storage: If you’re storing your lawn mower for an extended period (more than a few months), drain the fuel tank completely to prevent the gasoline from deteriorating.
- Use Fresh Gas Regularly: If you use your lawn mower regularly, try to use up any old gas in the tank before it has a chance to deteriorate.
- Check Fuel Lines and Filters: Regularly check the fuel lines and fuel filter for any signs of clogging or leaks. Clean or replace them as needed.
Troubleshooting Tips for Lawn Mower Fuel System Problems
- Rough Idle or Stalling: This often indicates a clogged fuel filter or carburetor.
- Loss of Power: A clogged fuel line or fuel filter can restrict fuel flow, leading to a loss of power.
- Difficulty Starting: Old gas can make it difficult to start the engine due to the formation of gummy deposits.
- Backfiring or Smoke: This could indicate a problem with the carburetor, ignition system, or even a fuel leak.
Conclusion
Dealing with old gas in your lawn mower can be frustrating, but by following these steps, you can safely remove the old fuel, clean the fuel system, and get your mower back in top shape. Remember, safety should always be your top priority when working with gasoline. By taking preventive measures and maintaining your mower’s fuel system, you can enjoy a smooth and efficient mowing experience for years to come.
FAQs
How long can gas sit in a lawn mower before it goes bad?
Gasoline can sit in a lawn mower for approximately 3-6 months before it starts to deteriorate. However, the exact time depends on several factors, including the quality of the gasoline, the storage conditions, and the type of fuel stabilizer used. It’s essential to remember that even if the gas doesn’t look or smell bad, it can still contain harmful deposits that can clog your mower’s fuel system.
What are the signs of bad gas in a lawn mower?
Bad gas in your lawn mower can manifest in several ways. You might notice the engine struggling to start, running poorly, or sputtering. Additionally, you might see smoke coming from the exhaust or a lack of power when mowing. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s a good indication that the gas in your lawn mower has gone bad and needs to be replaced.
How can I tell if the gas in my lawn mower is bad?
The easiest way to tell if the gas in your lawn mower is bad is to simply smell it. If it has a strong, pungent odor, it’s likely gone bad. You can also look at the gas. If it appears cloudy or has sediment at the bottom of the tank, it’s best to replace it. Lastly, you can try to start your lawn mower. If it struggles to start or runs poorly, it’s a sign that the gas needs to be replaced.
How do I remove old gas from my lawn mower?
To remove old gas from your lawn mower, you’ll need a siphon pump or a small container to catch the fuel. If you’re using a siphon pump, simply insert the tube into the gas tank and start siphoning out the old gas. If you’re using a container, carefully pour the gas from the tank into the container. Be sure to dispose of the old gas properly, as it’s considered hazardous waste.
What should I do with the old gas?
Old gas is considered hazardous waste and should not be poured down the drain or into the ground. Instead, you can take it to a local hazardous waste disposal facility. Some gas stations will also accept old gas for disposal. You can check with your local municipality to find out where you can dispose of old gas in your area.
How do I prevent gas from going bad in my lawn mower?
To prevent gas from going bad in your lawn mower, there are a few things you can do. First, use fresh, high-quality gasoline. Second, add a fuel stabilizer to the gas tank before storing your lawn mower for long periods. Fuel stabilizers help prevent the gas from breaking down and forming harmful deposits. Third, store your lawn mower in a cool, dry place. This will help to prevent the gas from evaporating and degrading.
What are the benefits of using fresh gas in my lawn mower?
Using fresh gas in your lawn mower has several benefits. First, it will help your mower start easily and run smoothly. Second, it will help prevent damage to your mower’s fuel system. Third, it will improve your mower’s performance and efficiency. By using fresh gas, you can help extend the life of your lawn mower and ensure that it operates properly for years to come.