Spring has sprung, and with it comes the urge to get your lawn mower back in shape for the season. But before you fire it up, you might be facing a daunting task: dealing with old gas. Stale gasoline can gum up your mower’s engine, leading to poor performance, difficult starts, and even costly repairs. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of safely and efficiently removing old gas from your lawn mower, ensuring a smooth and trouble-free start to your lawn care routine.
Here’s what we’ll cover:
- Understanding the Importance of Fresh Gas: We’ll delve into why old gasoline poses a problem for your lawn mower.
- The Dangers of Old Gas: Safety first! We’ll discuss the hazards associated with handling and disposing of old gas.
- How to Safely Remove Old Gas: We’ll provide step-by-step instructions to help you drain the old fuel from your mower without any mishaps.
- Tips for Avoiding Old Gas in the Future: Prevent future problems by adopting simple strategies to keep your gas fresh and your mower running smoothly.
Why is Old Gas Bad for Your Lawn Mower?
Gasoline, like many other liquids, degrades over time. The process of evaporation causes the volatile components (those that easily vaporize) to dissipate, leaving behind heavier, less flammable molecules. This creates a thicker, more viscous fuel that can cause several problems in your lawn mower:
- Difficult Starting: Old gas simply doesn’t ignite as readily, making it harder to start your mower.
- Clogged Fuel Lines: The residue from degraded gasoline can stick to the inside of your fuel lines, hindering fuel flow and ultimately leading to engine problems.
- Fouled Spark Plugs: This thickened fuel can coat the spark plug electrodes, preventing a proper spark and hindering engine performance.
- Damaged Engine Components: The build-up of residue in the carburetor and fuel system can lead to clogged jets and valves, resulting in engine damage and costly repairs.
The Hazards of Old Gasoline
It’s crucial to remember that old gasoline is not just a nuisance; it can also pose a serious safety risk:
- Flammability: Old gas remains highly flammable, even when it’s degraded. Avoid handling it near heat sources or open flames.
- Toxicity: Gasoline is toxic, and inhaling its fumes or getting it on your skin can be harmful. Always wear protective gear like gloves and eye protection when handling it.
- Environmental Impact: Improperly disposed of gasoline can contaminate water sources and soil.
How to Remove Old Gas from Your Lawn Mower: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you understand the importance of fresh gas and the potential hazards, let’s dive into the process of removing old fuel from your lawn mower. Here’s a simple and safe approach:
1. Safety First:
- Choose a Well-Ventilated Area: Work in a well-ventilated outdoor space to minimize exposure to gasoline fumes.
- Wear Protective Gear: Always wear gloves, eye protection, and long sleeves to protect yourself from spills and fumes.
- Have a Fire Extinguisher Handy: Keep a fire extinguisher readily available in case of an accidental fire.
2. Locate the Fuel Tank:
- Find the Gas Cap: The fuel tank is usually located on the side or top of the lawn mower.
- Check for a Drain Plug: Some mowers have a drain plug at the bottom of the tank, making the draining process easier.
3. Drain the Old Gas:
- Remove the Gas Cap: Carefully unscrew the gas cap to release the pressure inside the tank.
- If You Have a Drain Plug: Open the drain plug and let the fuel flow into a suitable container (see Disposing of Old Gas below).
- If No Drain Plug: Tilt the mower carefully over a container, ensuring the fuel flow is directed into the container and not towards any spark plugs or electrical components.
- Be Patient: Let the gas drain completely.
- Clean Up Any Spills: Immediately wipe up any spilled gas with an absorbent material.
4. Disposing of Old Gas:
- Do Not Pour Old Gas Down the Drain: Gasoline is highly toxic and can contaminate water supplies.
- Recycle or Dispose of Safely: Locate a hazardous waste disposal facility in your area.
- Check with Your Local Recycling Center: Many recycling centers accept old gas for proper disposal.
Tips for Keeping Your Gas Fresh
Now that you’ve successfully removed the old gas, here are some valuable tips to prevent this from becoming a recurring issue:
- Use a Fuel Stabilizer: Adding a fuel stabilizer to your gasoline helps prevent the formation of gum and varnish, extending the shelf life of your fuel.
- Store Gas in Sealed Containers: Store unused gasoline in sealed, airtight containers to minimize evaporation and degradation.
- Use Only Fresh Gas: Avoid using gasoline that’s been sitting for longer than 30 days.
- Top Off Your Tank Regularly: Avoid storing your mower with a partially filled fuel tank, as this increases the chances of condensation forming and degrading the fuel.
Conclusion
Taking out old gas from your lawn mower is an essential maintenance step that can prevent costly repairs and ensure a smooth start to your lawn care season. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can safely and effectively remove old fuel, dispose of it properly, and keep your mower running efficiently. Remember, using fresh gas, employing fuel stabilizers, and adopting good storage practices are key to keeping your lawn mower in top shape for years to come.
FAQs
What happens if I use old gas in my lawn mower?
Old gas can cause several problems for your lawn mower, including:
- Difficulty starting: The ethanol in gasoline attracts moisture, which can cause it to separate and form a gummy residue in your fuel system. This can clog the carburetor and make it difficult to start your mower.
- Poor performance: Old gas can also lead to poor performance, such as sputtering, hesitation, and reduced power. This is because the fuel is no longer as efficient as it once was.
- Damage to your engine: In the worst case scenario, old gas can damage your lawn mower’s engine. The gummy residue can accumulate and cause serious damage to internal components.
How long does it take for gas to go bad?
Gasoline can start to deteriorate after just a few months, but the exact time frame depends on several factors, including the quality of the gas, the storage conditions, and the presence of ethanol. Generally, gasoline is considered “fresh” for about 30 days, and you should avoid using it after six months.
How can I tell if my gas is bad?
There are a few telltale signs that your gas is bad. It might have a strange smell, look cloudy, or have a gummy residue at the bottom of the container. If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to dispose of the gas and use fresh fuel.
What is the best way to remove old gas from my lawn mower?
The best way to remove old gas from your lawn mower is to drain the fuel tank and carburetor. This is a fairly simple process that can be done in a few steps.
How do I drain the fuel tank?
To drain the fuel tank, you will need a container to catch the fuel. Locate the fuel tank drain valve, which is usually located at the bottom of the tank. Place the container under the valve and open it. Allow the gas to drain completely.
How do I drain the carburetor?
Once you have drained the fuel tank, you need to drain the carburetor. Locate the carburetor drain screw, which is usually located on the bottom of the carburetor. Place a container under the drain screw and open it. Allow the gas to drain completely.
What should I do with the old gas?
Old gas should not be poured down the drain or into the ground. It is harmful to the environment and can contaminate water sources. The best way to dispose of old gas is to take it to a hazardous waste disposal facility.