You’re ready to tackle your lawn, but when you pull the cord, your trusty lawnmower sputters and coughs. Frustration sets in – could this be another case of water in the gas? This common problem can be a real pain, but don’t worry, it’s usually easy to fix!
This article will guide you through the process of identifying and removing water from your lawnmower’s gas, leaving you back on track for a perfectly manicured lawn. We’ll cover the causes of water contamination, how to identify it, and step-by-step instructions for getting rid of the water and restoring your mower to its former glory.
A Quick Overview
Water in your lawnmower’s gas is a common issue that can be caused by condensation, poor gas storage, or even faulty fuel lines. It can lead to engine problems, making your mower sputter, cough, or refuse to start. Fortunately, removing water from your gas is usually a relatively simple process that involves draining the tank and adding fresh fuel.
Identifying the Problem: Is it Really Water?
The most obvious sign of water in your gas is a sputtering or coughing engine. However, other symptoms include:
- Difficulty starting: The mower may crank but struggle to fire up.
- Loss of power: The engine may run, but with reduced power.
- Unusual sounds: You might hear gurgling or knocking sounds coming from the engine.
- Fuel smell: If the gas smells like it’s gone bad, this could be an indication of water contamination.
Before you start, it’s important to rule out other potential causes for your mower’s problems, such as:
- Old or bad gas: Old gas can gum up your engine and cause problems similar to water contamination.
- Clogged fuel filter: A clogged fuel filter can restrict fuel flow, leading to engine problems.
- Spark plug issues: A fouled or damaged spark plug can prevent the engine from firing.
If you’ve ruled out these other possibilities, it’s likely that water in the gas is the culprit.
How to Remove Water from Your Lawn Mower’s Gas
Safety First:
- Always work in a well-ventilated area, away from any open flames.
- Wear eye protection and gloves.
- Disconnect the spark plug wire before working on the fuel system.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- A siphon pump or a gas can with a spout
- A container to catch the old gas
- Fresh gasoline
- A funnel
- Rags or paper towels
- Safety goggles
- Gloves
Step-by-Step Guide:
1. Drain the Fuel Tank
- Locate the fuel tank: This is usually located on the side or top of the mower.
- Remove the fuel cap: Be careful, the tank may be pressurized.
- Position the siphon pump: Insert the siphon pump into the tank, ensuring it reaches the bottom.
- Start siphoning: Slowly drain the fuel into a container. Important note: Do not drain the fuel directly onto the ground or into a sewer system as it is a hazardous substance.
- Inspect the fuel: As you drain the fuel, keep an eye out for water or sediment at the bottom of the container. If you see these, you’ve identified the problem.
2. Clean the Fuel Tank
- Remove the fuel tank: For thorough cleaning, you can remove the fuel tank. However, this is not always necessary.
- Wash the tank: If you choose to remove the tank, wash it thoroughly with soap and water. Rinse it out completely and let it dry completely.
3. Refill with Fresh Gas
- Add fresh gas: Use a funnel to pour fresh, high-quality gasoline into the fuel tank.
- Fill the tank completely: Make sure the tank is full. This will help to prevent condensation from forming in the future.
4. Start the Mower
- Reconnect the spark plug wire: Make sure the connection is secure.
- Try starting the engine: If the water is gone, your lawnmower should start and run smoothly.
5. Watch for Recurring Problems
- Monitor for symptoms: Even after removing the water, it’s crucial to keep an eye out for signs of water in the gas. If you continue to experience engine problems, it’s best to consult a mechanic.
Prevent Water from Returning
- Use fuel stabilizer: Adding fuel stabilizer to your gas can help prevent water from forming.
- Store gas properly: Always store your gas in a sealed container in a cool, dry place.
- Drain the tank before storing: If you won’t be using your lawnmower for an extended period, it’s best to drain the fuel tank to prevent condensation.
- Use quality gas: Using high-quality gasoline can help reduce the risk of water contamination.
Additional Tips
- Dry the gas lines: After draining the tank, it’s also helpful to dry out the gas lines. You can do this by running the engine for a few minutes to purge the lines of any remaining fuel.
- Use a fuel filter: A fuel filter can help catch any remaining water or debris.
Conclusion: A Well-Maintained Lawn Mower
By understanding the causes of water in gas and following these steps, you can effectively remove water from your lawnmower’s gas. This will not only ensure smooth operation but also extend the life of your engine. Remember, preventive measures like using fuel stabilizer and proper storage can significantly reduce the chances of water contamination. A well-maintained lawnmower is a happy lawnmower, and a happy lawnmower means a perfectly manicured lawn!
FAQs
1. Why does water get into my lawn mower gas?
Water can get into your lawn mower gas in a few ways. First, condensation can form inside the gas tank due to temperature changes, particularly when the weather is humid. Second, if you have old or cracked gas lines, water can seep in through the cracks. Finally, if you fill your gas tank from a source that is contaminated with water, it can also end up in your lawn mower’s gas.
The best way to prevent water from getting into your gas is to keep your gas tank full, as this minimizes the amount of air space inside the tank where condensation can form. You should also use fuel additives that are designed to prevent water from accumulating in your fuel.
2. How can I tell if my lawn mower gas has water in it?
The easiest way to tell if your lawn mower gas has water in it is to look for the telltale signs. Water in gas will settle to the bottom of the gas tank, so you may see a layer of water in the tank, especially if you haven’t used the mower in a while. You may also notice that your lawn mower starts and runs poorly, or that it starts and then dies immediately. Finally, you might notice that your lawn mower has lost power, or that it’s not running as smoothly as it used to.
If you suspect that your lawn mower gas has water in it, the best thing to do is to drain the gas tank and refill it with fresh, dry gas. You should also use a fuel additive that is designed to prevent water from accumulating in your fuel.
3. Is it safe to run my lawn mower with water in the gas?
No, it’s not safe to run your lawn mower with water in the gas. Water in gas can damage your lawn mower’s engine by causing corrosion, rust, and other problems. It can also prevent your lawn mower from starting or running properly.
The best way to avoid damage to your lawn mower engine is to remove the water from your gas tank as soon as you notice it. This can be done by draining the gas tank and refilling it with fresh, dry gas. You can also use a fuel additive that is designed to prevent water from accumulating in your fuel.
4. What should I do if I find water in my lawn mower gas?
If you find water in your lawn mower gas, the first thing you should do is drain the gas tank and refill it with fresh, dry gas. To drain the gas tank, simply remove the gas cap and carefully siphon out the gas using a siphon pump. Make sure to drain all of the gas from the tank, as even a small amount of water can cause problems.
Once the gas tank is empty, you can refill it with fresh, dry gas. You should also use a fuel additive that is designed to prevent water from accumulating in your fuel.
5. Can I add something to my gas to prevent water?
Yes, there are several fuel additives that you can add to your gas to prevent water from accumulating. These additives are designed to bind to water molecules and prevent them from settling in the bottom of your gas tank. You can find these additives at most auto parts stores and home improvement centers.
In addition to using a fuel additive, you should also make sure to use fresh gas and to store your lawn mower in a dry place. These steps will help to prevent water from getting into your gas tank in the first place.
6. How often should I drain my lawn mower gas tank?
You should drain your lawn mower gas tank at least once a year, especially if you live in a humid climate. You should also drain your gas tank if you haven’t used your lawn mower for a long time, as this will help to prevent water from accumulating in the tank.
You can drain your gas tank by simply removing the gas cap and carefully siphoning out the gas using a siphon pump. Make sure to drain all of the gas from the tank, as even a small amount of water can cause problems.
7. Can I use a water-removing fuel additive to fix a mower with existing water in the gas?
Fuel additives designed to prevent water buildup are typically not designed to remove water that has already accumulated in the fuel. While these additives can help to prevent further water accumulation, they will not remove the water that is already present. To remove the water, the most effective solution is to drain the gas tank entirely and refill it with fresh, dry gas.
Fuel additives are beneficial for long-term fuel storage and preventative measures, but are not an adequate solution for removing water from gas that has already accumulated.