How to Siphon Gas Out of a Lawn Mower?

Your trusty lawn mower has been sitting in the garage all winter, and now spring has sprung, and you’re ready to tackle the overgrown grass. But when you go to start it, the engine sputters and coughs, refusing to cooperate. The culprit? Old, stale gasoline. Luckily, you don’t have to be a mechanic to fix this! This article will guide you through the simple process of siphoning gas out of your lawn mower, ensuring a smooth start for your spring mowing adventures.

Overview

Siphoning gas from a lawn mower is a straightforward process that involves using a siphon pump to transfer the fuel from the tank to a container. It’s essential to work in a well-ventilated area and to take proper precautions to avoid spills and potential fire hazards.

Gather Your Supplies

Before you begin, ensure you have the following items on hand:

A Siphon Pump: These are readily available at most hardware stores and automotive supply shops. They typically consist of a flexible hose with a bulb or valve at one end.
A Clean Container: Select a container that is large enough to hold the gasoline you’re siphoning. A clean glass or plastic jar is ideal.

A Pair of Gloves: Protect your hands from the gasoline and any potential spills.
A Rag: This will help you wipe up any spills and prevent accidents.
Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes from splashes or fumes.

A Well-Ventilated Area: Gasoline fumes are flammable and harmful, so it’s essential to work in an area with good ventilation.

Steps to Siphon Gas from a Lawn Mower

Now, let’s get to the siphoning process.

Locate the Gas Tank: The fuel tank on your lawn mower is usually located on the top or side of the mower. Make sure you have identified the correct tank before you begin.
Turn Off the Engine: Ensure the engine is completely off and the ignition switch is in the off position.

Remove the Gas Cap: Open the gas cap slowly to release any pressure buildup in the tank.
Prepare the Siphon Pump: Follow the instructions provided with your siphon pump. Typically, you’ll need to insert the siphon tube into the gas tank, fill the tube with gasoline using the bulb or valve, and then place the other end of the tube into the container.
Start Siphoning: Once the tube is filled with gas, start siphoning by squeezing the bulb or opening the valve. The gasoline will flow from the tank to the container.

Monitor the Flow: Watch the gas flow carefully. You may need to adjust the position of the siphon tube or squeeze the bulb periodically to maintain the flow.
Stop Siphoning: When the gas tank is almost empty, stop siphoning. You can also stop siphoning if you notice the gas flow slowing down or if the siphon tube starts to suck air.
Clean Up: After siphoning, carefully remove the siphon tube from the gas tank and container. Wipe up any spills with a rag and dispose of the gasoline in a proper container.

Important Safety Tips

Safety First: Gasoline is a flammable liquid, so it’s essential to take precautions to prevent fires. Work in a well-ventilated area, keep flames and heat sources away from the gas tank, and be careful not to spill the gasoline.
Protect Yourself: Always wear safety glasses and gloves when working with gasoline.
Dispose Properly: Never pour gasoline down the drain or onto the ground. Dispose of used gasoline properly at a local recycling center or hazardous waste disposal facility.

Avoid Smoking: Do not smoke near gasoline or any open containers.
Read the Instructions: Always refer to the owner’s manual of your lawn mower for specific safety instructions and warnings.

Troubleshooting Siphon Problems

If you are having trouble siphoning the gas, there are a few things you can try:

Check the Siphon Tube: Make sure the siphon tube is properly inserted into the gas tank and container.
Clean the Siphon Tube: If the tube is clogged or dirty, clean it with a small wire brush or other appropriate tool.
Use a Different Siphon Pump: If you are having trouble with your siphon pump, try using a different one.

Alternative to Siphoning

If you are unable to siphon the gas or find it difficult, you can try an alternative method, like using a gasoline transfer pump. These pumps are designed to move liquids quickly and efficiently and are available at most hardware and automotive supply stores.

When to Siphon Gas from a Lawn Mower

Old Gas: If you have not used your lawn mower for an extended period (more than a few months), it’s a good idea to siphon out the old gasoline. Old gas can gum up the engine and make it difficult to start.
Winter Storage: Before you store your lawn mower for the winter, it’s best to siphon out the gas to prevent any issues with the engine during the off-season.

After Siphoning

After siphoning the gas, you should replace it with fresh, high-quality gasoline. It’s also essential to check the air filter and spark plug, as they may have been affected by the old gasoline.

Final Thoughts

Siphoning gas from a lawn mower is a simple and efficient way to remove old gasoline, ensuring a smooth start for your mowing season. By following the steps outlined in this article and taking necessary precautions, you can successfully siphon gas from your lawn mower and prepare it for another season of tackling the grass.

FAQs

1. Why would I need to siphon gas out of a lawnmower?

Siphoning gas out of your lawnmower is necessary when you need to store it for a long period of time. Gasoline can degrade over time, forming gum and varnish that can clog your engine’s fuel system. Additionally, if you’re transporting your lawnmower or working on it, draining the gas can prevent spills and reduce the risk of fire hazards.

It’s important to note that even after siphoning, there will still be a small amount of gas left in the fuel lines and carburetor. To completely empty the system, consider running the engine until it stalls, which will consume any remaining fuel.

2. What safety precautions should I take when siphoning gas?

Safety is paramount when working with gasoline. First, always wear safety glasses and gloves to protect your eyes and skin from spills. Second, ensure you are working in a well-ventilated area, away from any open flames or heat sources. Third, avoid smoking while siphoning, as gasoline vapors are highly flammable. Lastly, handle the gasoline container carefully to prevent spills and leaks.

Always store gasoline in a designated, approved container and never in a container that has previously held other liquids. Keep the container away from children and pets, and store it in a cool, dry place.

3. What materials do I need to siphon gas from a lawnmower?

You’ll need a few essential materials to siphon gas safely and effectively. These include:

A clean, empty gas container with a tight-fitting lid.
A clear vinyl or plastic hose with a diameter of at least 1/4 inch.

A siphon pump (optional, but highly recommended for easier and faster siphoning).

Ensure that the hose is made of a material that is compatible with gasoline and is free of leaks. Avoid using old or damaged hoses, as they could crack or leak, posing a safety hazard.

4. How do I siphon gas from a lawnmower?

Siphoning gas from a lawnmower is a straightforward process. First, ensure the engine is cool and off, and then locate the gas tank. Next, insert one end of the hose into the tank, ensuring it reaches the bottom. Place the other end of the hose into the empty container.

Now, create a siphon effect by sucking on the end of the hose in the container, until the gas starts flowing. Alternatively, use a siphon pump to expedite the process. Once the gas is drained, promptly seal the containers and dispose of any spilled gas properly.

5. What should I do if the siphon pump doesn’t work?

If the siphon pump isn’t working, there could be several reasons:

Clogged hose: Ensure the hose is clear and free of debris. You can try flushing it with water and then drying it thoroughly before using it.

Air leak: Check for any leaks in the hose or the pump itself. Tighten any loose connections or replace damaged parts.
Incorrect placement: Ensure the hose is properly submerged in the gas tank and that the other end is placed below the level of the fuel in the tank.
Defective pump: If you suspect a faulty pump, consider replacing it with a new one.

6. How can I make the siphoning process faster?

To speed up the siphoning process, consider the following tips:

Use a siphon pump: A siphon pump can create a stronger suction, leading to faster gas transfer.
Place the container lower: Positioning the container below the level of the gas tank will increase the gravitational force, resulting in faster flow.

Avoid tight corners: Ensure the hose is free of sharp bends and kinks, which can restrict the flow of gasoline.

7. What should I do with the siphoned gas?

After siphoning, it’s crucial to dispose of the gasoline properly. Never pour it down the drain or into the ground, as it is harmful to the environment.

Recycle it: Many gas stations offer recycling options for used gasoline. Contact your local gas station or recycling center for details.

Donate it: Consider donating the gas to a local organization or individual who may need it.
Dispose of it safely: Check with your local authorities for safe disposal options, such as hazardous waste collection sites.