The sound of a lawn mower humming through your yard is a sign of summer’s arrival and a well-maintained property. But what about when the season ends? Storing your lawn mower properly is crucial to ensure it starts smoothly next spring. One of the most important aspects of this process is storing the gas. Improper storage can lead to gumming up your engine, making it difficult or even impossible to start next season. This article will guide you through the best practices for storing gas in your lawn mower, preventing problems, and ensuring your mower is ready to go when you need it.
Understanding the Challenges of Storing Gas
Gasoline is a volatile substance that deteriorates over time, even when stored properly. This deterioration is due to oxidation and the formation of gums and varnishes, which can clog fuel lines and carburetors. The process is accelerated by factors like heat, light, and moisture. This is why it’s essential to take steps to minimize these effects and ensure your mower runs smoothly next season.
Choosing the Right Fuel for Storage
While you might be tempted to just use whatever gas you have on hand, choosing the right fuel is crucial for long-term storage.
Using Stabilized Gasoline
- Consider using fuel stabilizer: Fuel stabilizers are additives that help to prevent the formation of gums and varnishes. They effectively slow down the deterioration process, allowing you to store your mower for longer without worrying about fuel issues. You can find fuel stabilizers at most hardware stores and automotive retailers.
Avoiding Ethanol-Blended Fuel
- Ethanol’s impact: Ethanol, a common additive in gasoline, is known to absorb moisture and accelerates the formation of gums and varnishes. This is especially true when stored for extended periods. If possible, opt for ethanol-free gasoline, as it provides better storage longevity.
Storing Your Lawn Mower with Gas
Emptying the Fuel Tank: The Safe Approach
- The safest option: The most straightforward way to avoid fuel-related problems is to empty your lawn mower’s fuel tank completely before storage. This eliminates the potential for gasoline deterioration and eliminates the need for fuel stabilizers. However, you’ll need to refill the tank when you’re ready to use the mower again.
Partial Fuel Tank Storage: A Practical Alternative
-
The practical approach: If you prefer not to empty your tank, you can use stabilized gas and follow a few steps for proper storage:
- Add fuel stabilizer: Use the recommended amount of stabilizer for your mower’s fuel tank size. You can find the correct dosage on the stabilizer product label.
- Run the engine: After adding stabilizer, run your mower for a few minutes to allow the mixture to circulate through the fuel system.
- Store in a cool, dry place: Place your mower in a garage or shed, avoiding direct sunlight and excessive humidity.
Storing Fuel in Separate Containers: An Additional Option
-
The extra step: You can also choose to store your gas separately in a designated container. This is particularly useful for those who use multiple gas-powered tools.
- Use an approved container: Ensure you use a container designed for storing gasoline. It should be airtight, labelled, and stored in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated location.
- Consider using a fuel stabilizer: Adding a fuel stabilizer to your stored gasoline will further increase its lifespan.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Ignoring Fuel Deterioration
- Time is the enemy: Failing to address fuel deterioration can result in serious engine problems. If you haven’t used your mower for a few months, you’ll want to inspect the fuel and potentially refresh it.
Using Old Fuel
- Don’t gamble: Using old, potentially degraded fuel in your lawn mower can lead to a host of issues, including engine stalling, reduced power, and clogged fuel lines. It’s always best to use fresh fuel, especially when storing your mower for extended periods.
Skipping Maintenance
- Regular maintenance is key: Proper maintenance plays a crucial role in ensuring your mower’s longevity and minimizing problems. This includes tasks like changing the spark plugs, cleaning the air filter, and checking the oil level.
Additional Tips for Successful Gas Storage
Proper Ventilation
- Essential for safety: When working with gasoline, proper ventilation is crucial. Ensure your workspace is well-ventilated to minimize the risk of fire and explosion.
Cleanliness is Key
- Prevent contamination: Always clean up spills immediately and keep your storage area clean to prevent potential contamination and ensure safe handling of gasoline.
Keep it Consistent
- Establish a routine: Make it a habit to check your fuel levels and add stabilizer before storing your mower for long periods. Consistency will minimize the risk of fuel-related issues.
Conclusion
Storing gas for your lawn mower might seem like a simple task, but it’s essential to follow proper procedures to prevent engine problems. By understanding the factors that contribute to fuel deterioration, using appropriate fuel additives, and storing your mower in a suitable environment, you can ensure it’s ready to go when you need it. Remember, taking a few extra minutes now can save you a lot of frustration and potential expenses in the future. With a little effort, you can enjoy many years of trouble-free mowing with your lawn mower.
FAQs
What type of gasoline should I use for my lawn mower?
You should always use fresh, unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher for your lawn mower. Avoid using gasoline that is more than 30 days old, as it can degrade and cause problems with your engine. Additionally, do not use gasoline blended with ethanol, as it can attract moisture and cause corrosion in your fuel system.
How long can I store gasoline in my lawn mower?
It is generally recommended to avoid storing gasoline in your lawn mower for extended periods. Ideally, you should use up all the gas in your tank before storing your mower for the season. If you must store gasoline, it is best to use a fuel stabilizer to prevent it from degrading.
What is a fuel stabilizer and how does it work?
Fuel stabilizers are chemical additives that help to prevent the deterioration of gasoline over time. They work by reducing the rate of oxidation, which is the process that causes gasoline to break down and form gum and varnish. These deposits can clog fuel lines, injectors, and carburetors, leading to engine problems.
How do I use a fuel stabilizer?
To use a fuel stabilizer, simply add it to your gasoline tank according to the manufacturer’s instructions. You should use a stabilizer designed specifically for gasoline and follow the recommended dosage. After adding the stabilizer, run your lawn mower for a few minutes to ensure that the stabilizer is distributed throughout the fuel system.
Where should I store my lawn mower with gasoline in the tank?
If you must store your lawn mower with gasoline in the tank, it’s crucial to store it in a well-ventilated area away from any heat sources. This will help to prevent the gasoline from degrading and reduce the risk of fire hazards.
What are the signs of bad gasoline in my lawn mower?
Bad gasoline can cause several issues with your lawn mower, including difficulty starting, engine sputtering, and reduced power. You may also notice a strong odor of gasoline, and the fuel may appear cloudy or discolored.
What should I do if I have bad gasoline in my lawn mower?
If you suspect that you have bad gasoline in your lawn mower, you should drain the tank and replace it with fresh gasoline. You can also use a fuel system cleaner to help remove any deposits that may have formed. If you continue to experience problems after draining and cleaning the fuel system, it’s best to consult a qualified mechanic.