Spring is in the air, and that means it’s time to get your lawn mower out of storage and ready for another season of mowing. But before you start it up, you might want to consider siphoning out the old gas. Old gas can gum up your lawn mower’s engine, leading to problems like poor performance, hard starting, and even engine damage.
This article will guide you through the process of safely and effectively siphoning old gas from your lawn mower, covering everything from the necessary materials to proper disposal methods.
The Basics of Siphoning
Siphoning is a simple process that uses gravity and pressure to transfer liquid from one container to another. In the case of a lawn mower, you’ll be transferring the old gas from the fuel tank to a separate container.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- A siphon hose (available at most hardware stores)
- A clear container (like a glass jar or plastic bottle)
- A source of water (optional, but helpful)
- Gloves (optional, but recommended)
Here’s how to do it:
- Safety first. Wear gloves to protect your skin from the gasoline.
- Locate the fuel tank. It’s usually on the side of the mower.
- Fill the siphon hose. Fill the hose with water to displace the air.
- Insert the hose. Put one end of the siphon hose into the fuel tank.
- Place the container. Place the other end of the hose into the empty container.
- Start siphoning. Suck on the end of the hose to create a vacuum. The gas will flow into the container.
- Stop siphoning. Once the gas stops flowing, you can disconnect the hose and dispose of the old gas properly.
Important Safety Precautions
- Work in a well-ventilated area. Gasoline fumes are flammable and harmful to breathe.
- Keep away from open flames and heat sources.
- Do not smoke.
- Wear eye protection.
- Keep children and pets away from the area.
Alternative Methods for Removing Old Gas
While siphoning is a common method, there are alternative approaches if you prefer to avoid the process altogether.
1. Using a Fuel Drain Valve
Many newer lawn mowers come equipped with a fuel drain valve. This valve can be opened to drain the fuel directly into a container.
2. Running the Engine Dry
Another option is to run the lawn mower until it runs out of gas. While this method works, it can be inefficient and time-consuming.
Disposing of Old Gas: Responsible Choices
Properly disposing of old gas is crucial for environmental safety. Here are a few methods:
1. Local Recycling Programs
Many communities have local programs for recycling old gasoline. Check with your local municipality or waste management company for more information.
2. Gas Station Disposal
Some gas stations offer disposal containers for old gasoline.
3. Mixing with Clean Gas
For small amounts of old gas, you can mix it with fresh gas at a ratio of 1:10. However, it’s important to note that this method should be used sparingly as it can still negatively affect the performance of your lawn mower.
Troubleshooting Issues
If you encounter any problems while siphoning, here are a few common issues and solutions:
1. The Gas Won’t Flow
- Check the hose for blockages.
- Ensure the hose is submerged deeply in the fuel tank.
- Make sure the container is below the fuel tank level.
2. The Siphon Stops Working
- The hose may have a leak. Check the hose for any cracks or holes.
- The vacuum may have been lost. Try sucking on the hose again to re-establish the vacuum.
Conclusion
Siphoning old gas from your lawn mower is a simple and effective way to ensure smooth operation and a longer lifespan for your machine. By following the safety guidelines and disposal procedures outlined in this article, you can protect yourself and the environment while keeping your lawn mower in top shape for the upcoming season.
FAQs
Q: Why do I need to siphon old gas from my lawnmower?
A: Leaving old gas in your lawnmower can cause several problems, such as:
- Engine damage: Old gas can gum up the carburetor, causing your engine to run poorly or not at all.
- Difficult starting: Old gas can also make it hard to start your lawnmower.
- Environmental hazards: Old gas can be harmful to the environment if it spills or leaks.
It’s best to use fresh gas and store your lawnmower with an empty fuel tank during the off-season.
Q: What are the necessary tools to siphon gas from a lawnmower?
A: You’ll need a few simple tools to siphon gas from your lawnmower:
- A siphon pump: A siphon pump is a hand-operated device that creates suction to transfer liquids. You can find them at most hardware stores.
- A clear hose: A clear hose allows you to see the fuel being siphoned and helps prevent accidental spills.
- A container to catch the gas: Choose a container that is large enough to hold all the gas from your lawnmower.
Make sure the container is clean and well-ventilated before transferring gas.
Q: What safety precautions should I take when siphoning gas?
A: Siphoning gas can be dangerous, so it’s essential to take precautions:
- Wear safety goggles: This protects your eyes from any splashes.
- Work in a well-ventilated area: Avoid siphoning gas in enclosed spaces.
- Keep away from open flames: Gas is flammable, so avoid using it near any heat source.
- Never siphon gas while the engine is running. Ensure the engine is off and the fuel valve is closed.
Q: How do I siphon the gas from my lawnmower?
A: Siphoning gas is relatively simple. Here are the steps:
- Insert the siphon hose: Place one end of the siphon hose into the gas tank and the other end into the container.
- Create suction: Suck on the siphon hose to create a vacuum.
- Start the siphon: When the gas starts flowing, you can let go of the hose.
- Transfer the gas: Let the gas flow into the container until it’s empty.
If the siphon stops working, you can try blowing into the hose to get it started again.
Q: What should I do with the old gas I’ve siphoned?
A: Old gas should not be poured down the drain or disposed of in the trash. It’s essential to dispose of it responsibly:
- Check with your local municipality: Many areas have designated drop-off locations for hazardous waste, including old gasoline.
- Recycle it: Some gas stations offer fuel recycling programs.
- Use it in a fuel-burning appliance: If you have a fuel-burning appliance like a fireplace or outdoor burner, you can safely use old gas in it.
Q: Can I use the siphoned gas in my car?
A: It’s not recommended to use siphoned old gas in your car.
- Performance issues: Old gas can cause problems with your car’s engine, such as misfiring and reduced fuel efficiency.
- Fuel system damage: Old gas can contain deposits that can clog your fuel injectors and damage your fuel system.
- Emission problems: Old gas can emit harmful pollutants that can damage the environment.
Q: How often should I siphon old gas from my lawnmower?
A: It’s best to siphon old gas from your lawnmower every three to six months, depending on your location and climate.
- Warm climates: If you live in a warm climate, you should siphon your gas more frequently as it evaporates faster.
- Cold climates: If you live in a cold climate, you can wait longer to siphon your gas.
Remember to always check the gas for any signs of degradation, such as a cloudy appearance, before using it.