The sweet smell of freshly cut grass. The satisfying hum of your lawnmower. What could be better? Unfortunately, sometimes our lawn care bliss is interrupted by a pesky problem: water in the gas tank. This unwelcome guest can lead to engine sputtering, stalling, and ultimately, a frustratingly useless lawnmower. But fear not, fellow lawn enthusiasts! This article will guide you through the process of removing water from your lawnmower’s gas tank and getting your mower back in action. We’ll cover the common causes of water contamination, the methods for draining the tank, and preventative measures to avoid future water woes.
The Short Answer: How to Remove Water From Your Lawn Mower Gas Tank
The most effective way to remove water from a lawnmower’s gas tank is to siphon it out using a siphon pump or a turkey baster. You can then add a fuel stabilizer to the remaining gas to prevent future water contamination. If the water contamination is severe, you may need to completely empty and clean the gas tank.
Understanding the Problem: Why Does Water Get in the Gas Tank?
Water in a lawnmower’s gas tank is a common issue, but it’s important to understand why it happens. Here are the primary causes:
1. Condensation: Gasoline is a volatile substance, and when it cools down, moisture in the air can condense inside the tank, forming water droplets. This is particularly common in areas with high humidity or if the mower is stored in a damp environment.
2. Leaky Fuel Cap: A damaged or poorly-fitting fuel cap allows water to seep into the tank. This can be a result of wear and tear, improper installation, or even a faulty cap.
3. Poorly-Sealed Tank: Over time, the seals around the tank can deteriorate, creating gaps where water can enter. This is more likely to happen with older mowers or those that haven’t been properly maintained.
4. Improper Fuel Storage: If you store gasoline in containers for an extended period, water can settle at the bottom of the container and get introduced to your mower’s tank when you refill.
Taking Action: Removing Water from Your Lawn Mower’s Gas Tank
Now that you understand the culprits behind water contamination, let’s tackle the solution: removing the water from the gas tank. Here are the most common methods:
1. Siphoning with a Pump or Baster:
- Tools Needed: Siphon pump, turkey baster, clean container, fuel stabilizer
- Steps:
- Safety First: Wear safety glasses and gloves. Work in a well-ventilated area.
- Locate the Drain: Most lawnmowers have a drain plug at the bottom of the tank. If yours doesn’t, locate a low point in the tank.
- Siphon the Water: Use a siphon pump or turkey baster to remove the water from the lowest point of the tank.
- Add Fuel Stabilizer: After removing the water, add fuel stabilizer to the remaining gas to prevent future water contamination.
2. Draining the Tank Completely (Severe Cases):
- Tools Needed: Drain pan, wrench (if necessary), clean gas tank (if replacing), fuel stabilizer
- Steps:
- Remove the Gas Cap: Open the fuel cap to relieve pressure.
- Drain the Tank: Locate the drain plug at the bottom of the tank and loosen it using a wrench (if necessary).
- Remove the Fuel Line: Disconnect the fuel line from the tank.
- Clean the Tank: If the water contamination is severe, you may need to completely clean the gas tank. Rinse it with warm, soapy water and dry it thoroughly. If it’s damaged or rusted, consider replacing it.
- Refill with Fresh Fuel: Once the tank is clean and dry, refill it with fresh gasoline and add fuel stabilizer.
Preventative Measures: Keeping Water Out of Your Lawn Mower’s Gas Tank
To avoid future water woes, follow these preventative measures:
- Store Your Mower Properly: Keep your lawnmower in a dry, well-ventilated area.
- Use a Fuel Stabilizer: Add fuel stabilizer to your gasoline to prevent moisture build-up.
- Inspect Your Fuel Cap: Ensure your fuel cap is in good condition and fits securely. Replace any damaged or worn-out caps.
- Store Fuel Properly: If you store gasoline in containers, always keep them sealed tightly and store them in a cool, dry location.
Don’t Ignore the Problem: Why Water in Your Gas Tank is a Big Deal
You might think that a little bit of water in your lawnmower’s gas tank is no big deal. But in reality, it can lead to serious problems:
- Engine Stalling and Sputtering: Water mixed with gas can cause your engine to sputter, stall, and run poorly. This is due to water’s inability to combust, leading to an uneven fuel mixture.
- Corrosion: Water can rust and corrode internal engine parts, leading to damage and costly repairs.
- Engine Damage: In severe cases, water contamination can cause significant damage to the engine, leading to a costly replacement.
A Final Word:
By understanding the causes of water contamination and following these tips, you can keep your lawnmower running smoothly and prevent costly repairs. Remember, a little prevention goes a long way in maintaining your lawnmower and ensuring a smooth, hassle-free mowing experience.
FAQs
1. How did water get into my lawn mower gas tank?
Water can get into your lawn mower gas tank through a few different ways. One way is through the gas cap, especially if the seal is damaged or missing. Another way is through the vent, which is designed to release pressure from the tank. If the vent is clogged or damaged, water can enter the tank. Lastly, condensation can form inside the gas tank, especially in humid conditions or when the temperature fluctuates significantly.
You can help prevent water from getting into your gas tank by ensuring the gas cap is tightly sealed, checking the vent for damage or blockage, and storing your lawn mower in a dry environment.
2. What are the signs of water in my lawn mower gas tank?
The most obvious sign of water in your lawn mower gas tank is difficulty starting the engine. The water will prevent the gasoline from flowing properly to the carburetor, making it difficult to ignite. Another sign is a sputtering or coughing engine. This is because the water in the fuel will disrupt the combustion process. Finally, you may notice a milky or cloudy appearance in the gasoline. This is a clear indication that water has mixed with the fuel.
If you suspect water in your gas tank, it’s best to address the issue immediately. Running your lawn mower with water in the gas tank can lead to engine damage.
3. How do I remove water from my lawn mower gas tank?
The easiest way to remove water from your lawn mower gas tank is to siphon it out. You can use a siphon pump or a rubber hose to drain the gas tank. If you’re using a hose, simply insert one end into the gas tank and place the other end into a container. Then, suck on the hose end to start the siphon.
Once you’ve drained the gas tank, you’ll want to inspect it for any leaks or damage. If you find any, you should repair them before adding new gas.
4. Is it safe to use gas with water in it?
No, it’s not safe to use gas with water in it. Water can cause a variety of problems, including engine damage, decreased engine performance, and even a fire hazard. Water doesn’t burn, and it will cause the fuel to burn less efficiently. This can lead to engine damage and even a fire.
It’s best to remove all water from the gas tank before using it.
5. Can I just add fuel stabilizer to my gas tank with water in it?
While fuel stabilizer can help prevent gas from going bad, it won’t solve the problem of water in your gas tank. Fuel stabilizer does not remove water, and it may actually make the water more difficult to remove. It’s important to remove all water from your gas tank before adding fuel stabilizer.
It’s also important to note that fuel stabilizer does not prevent water from getting into your gas tank in the first place.
6. How do I know if my lawn mower gas tank is dry?
After draining your gas tank and cleaning it, you can check if it’s dry by using a clean, dry cloth. Wipe the inside of the tank with the cloth, and if it comes out clean, then your gas tank is dry.
You can also use a flashlight to inspect the inside of the tank for any signs of moisture. If you see any water droplets, then you’ll need to repeat the draining process.
7. What can I do to prevent water from getting into my lawn mower gas tank in the future?
There are a few things you can do to prevent water from getting into your lawn mower gas tank in the future. First, ensure that the gas cap is tightly sealed. Check the vent for damage or blockage and replace it if necessary. Finally, store your lawn mower in a dry environment to minimize condensation buildup.
By following these tips, you can help keep water out of your lawn mower’s gas tank and ensure a long and trouble-free life for your engine.