The warm summer days are gone, and the crisp autumn air is beckoning. Your lawn mower, a faithful companion throughout the growing season, now sits idle, awaiting its winter slumber. But as you contemplate its hibernation, a nagging question arises: should you drain the gas? This decision, seemingly trivial, can have significant consequences for your mower’s health and longevity. This article delves into the pros and cons of draining gas from your lawn mower, exploring the factors that influence your choice, and ultimately empowering you to make the best decision for your trusty machine.
The short answer is: it’s generally a good idea to drain the gas from your lawn mower for the winter. While it might seem like a hassle, it helps prevent several problems, including engine damage, fuel line issues, and even environmental hazards. Let’s take a deeper dive into the reasons why.
Why Drain the Gas?
Fuel Degradation and Engine Damage
The Perils of Ethanol
Modern gasoline contains ethanol, a biofuel derived from corn. While ethanol is good for the environment, it wreaks havoc on your lawn mower’s engine over time. As the fuel sits idle, ethanol attracts moisture from the air, leading to a process called “phase separation.” This separates the gasoline from the ethanol, creating a gummy residue that can clog your fuel system, damage fuel lines, and ultimately hinder your engine’s performance.
The Effects of Time
Even without ethanol, gasoline degrades over time. The hydrocarbons in gasoline evaporate, leaving behind a sticky, varnish-like substance that can clog fuel injectors, carburetors, and fuel lines. These deposits can cause starting problems, engine sputtering, and reduced power.
Fuel Line Issues
Fuel Line Deterioration
Fuel lines are made of rubber, a material prone to deterioration over time. Gasoline, especially with ethanol, accelerates this process. As the rubber breaks down, it can crack, leak, and even clog the fuel line, ultimately leading to fuel starvation and engine failure.
Fuel System Contamination
When fuel sits in the lines for extended periods, it can leave behind sediment and debris that can contaminate the fuel system. This can cause blockages, fuel pump problems, and even engine damage.
Environmental Concerns
Leaking Fuel
A leaking gas tank can contaminate the environment. While it might seem like a minor issue, even small amounts of gasoline can seep into the soil and groundwater, polluting valuable resources.
Evaporation Emissions
Gasoline evaporates over time, releasing harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the atmosphere. These compounds contribute to air pollution and smog, negatively impacting human health and the environment.
When to Drain the Gas?
The decision to drain the gas from your lawn mower is a personal one, and several factors come into play. Consider these points:
- Frequency of Use: If you use your lawn mower regularly throughout the year, you may not need to drain the gas every time. However, if it sits idle for extended periods, especially during winter, draining the gas becomes crucial.
- Fuel Type: If you use ethanol-blended gasoline, you should be extra cautious and drain the gas more frequently. Non-ethanol fuels are less prone to degradation but still benefit from being drained during extended periods of non-use.
- Storage Conditions: Storing your lawn mower in a dry, well-ventilated area can minimize the effects of fuel degradation. However, even under ideal conditions, draining the gas is still a good practice.
How to Drain the Gas
Draining the gas from your lawn mower is a relatively simple process:
- Safety First: Always wear safety glasses and gloves when working with gasoline. Choose a well-ventilated area away from heat and open flames.
- Find the Gas Tank Cap: Locate the gas tank cap on your lawn mower.
- Prepare a Container: Have a clean, non-flammable container ready to catch the drained fuel.
- Remove the Cap: Carefully unscrew the gas tank cap.
- Tip the Mower: Tilt the mower slightly to allow the gas to flow out of the tank.
- Drain the Gas: Drain the gas into the container until it is empty.
- Replace the Cap: Once the tank is empty, securely replace the gas tank cap.
- Dispose Properly: Dispose of the drained gas properly. Check with your local waste management agency for guidance.
Alternatives to Draining the Gas
While draining the gas is the most effective way to prevent fuel-related issues, there are some alternatives:
- Fuel Stabilizer: Adding a fuel stabilizer to your gas tank can help prevent fuel degradation and extend the storage life of gasoline.
- Run the Engine Dry: After your last use, run your lawn mower until it consumes all the remaining fuel. This helps to remove any fuel from the lines and tank, but it may not entirely eliminate the risk of fuel degradation.
The Bottom Line: A Wise Precaution
Although draining the gas from your lawn mower might seem like an unnecessary chore, it’s a wise precaution that can save you significant headaches down the road. By taking this small step, you can ensure your lawn mower stays in top condition and is ready for action when you need it most. So, as the leaves turn golden and the days grow shorter, consider draining the gas from your lawn mower, a small act that can lead to big benefits for your trusty machine.
FAQs
1. Why should I drain the gas from my lawnmower?
It’s generally recommended to drain the gas from your lawnmower if you’re not going to use it for an extended period of time, especially during the winter months. Gasoline can degrade over time, leading to gum and varnish deposits in the carburetor and fuel system. These deposits can clog fuel lines, prevent proper combustion, and ultimately damage your engine. Furthermore, older gas can become more volatile, increasing the risk of fire hazards.
Draining the gas from your mower ensures that you’re starting with fresh fuel when you fire it up again, minimizing the risk of engine problems and ensuring a smooth and reliable operation.
2. How often should I drain the gas?
The frequency of draining your lawnmower’s gas depends on several factors including the type of gas you use, the climate you live in, and how often you use your mower. As a general rule, it’s a good idea to drain the gas every 30 days if you won’t be using your mower for an extended period. If you live in a warm climate, it’s advisable to drain the gas more frequently as gasoline degrades faster in heat.
For optimal performance, it’s recommended to use fresh gas in your lawnmower. Avoid using gas that has been sitting for more than a month, especially in hot weather.
3. What happens if I don’t drain the gas?
Leaving gas in your lawnmower for an extended period can lead to various problems. The most common issue is the formation of gum and varnish deposits in the carburetor and fuel system. These deposits can restrict fuel flow, causing the engine to run poorly, stall, or even fail to start.
In addition to engine problems, leaving gas in your mower increases the risk of fire hazards. Older gas can become more volatile and ignite easily, especially in hot weather. Draining the gas can prevent these issues and ensure the longevity of your lawnmower.
4. Is it necessary to drain the gas in the winter?
It is highly recommended to drain the gas from your lawnmower before storing it for the winter. Cold temperatures exacerbate the degradation process of gasoline, making it more likely to form harmful deposits. Furthermore, winter storage often involves a period of inactivity, which increases the risk of gum and varnish buildup.
Draining the gas before winter storage ensures that your lawnmower is ready for spring use, minimizing the risk of costly repairs or replacements.
5. What’s the best way to drain the gas from my lawnmower?
The best way to drain the gas is to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Most lawnmowers have a drain plug on the bottom of the gas tank. You can simply loosen the plug and let the gas drain into a container. Be careful not to spill the gas on the ground, as it can be harmful to the environment.
If your lawnmower doesn’t have a drain plug, you can use a siphon pump to remove the gas. Be sure to follow the safety instructions for the siphon pump and wear appropriate safety gear.
6. Can I use a gas stabilizer?
Using a gas stabilizer can help prevent the degradation of gasoline and extend its shelf life. However, it’s important to note that gas stabilizers don’t prevent the formation of gum and varnish deposits entirely. It’s still advisable to drain the gas from your lawnmower if you’re not going to use it for an extended period.
Gas stabilizers are most effective when used in combination with fresh gas and proper storage practices.
7. What are the consequences of using old gas?
Using old gas in your lawnmower can have various negative consequences. Old gas can cause engine problems such as stalling, poor acceleration, and difficulty starting. It can also lead to gum and varnish deposits in the carburetor and fuel system, which can eventually cause engine failure.
Furthermore, using old gas can increase the risk of fire hazards. Older gas can become more volatile and ignite easily, especially in hot weather. It’s best to use fresh gas in your lawnmower and drain any old gas as soon as possible.