With winter quickly approaching, it’s important to think about how to properly store your lawn mower during the off-season. One common question that arises is whether or not to run your lawn mower out of gas before storing it for the winter.
Why Some People Recommend Running Your Lawn Mower Out of Gas Before Winter
Those who recommend running your lawn mower out of gas for the winter do so because they believe it helps prevent the buildup of moisture and other contaminants in the fuel system. Moisture can cause rust and corrosion, which can damage the engine over time.
Additionally, gasoline is prone to breaking down over time, which can also cause issues with the fuel system. By running the lawn mower out of gas before storing it, you can avoid these potential problems and ensure that your mower starts up smoothly in the spring.
Why Some People Do Not Recommend Running Your Lawn Mower Out of Gas Before Winter
On the other hand, some people argue that running your lawn mower out of gas before winter can actually cause more harm than good. When you run the mower until it’s out of gas, there is still some fuel left in the carburetor and fuel lines. This fuel can evaporate and leave behind a sticky residue that can clog the carburetor and fuel lines.
Additionally, if you have a fuel stabilizer in your gas tank, running the mower until it’s out of gas can cause the stabilizer to evaporate, which defeats the purpose of using it in the first place.
So, Should You Run Your Lawn Mower Out of Gas Before Winter?
The answer to this question ultimately depends on your personal preference and the recommendations of your lawn mower manufacturer. If your manufacturer recommends running the mower out of gas before storing it for the winter, then it’s probably a good idea to follow their advice.
However, if your manufacturer does not provide any specific instructions, it’s up to you to decide what’s best for your lawn mower. If you do choose to run your mower out of gas, make sure to do so in a well-ventilated area and follow proper safety precautions.
Alternatively, you can also add a fuel stabilizer to your gas tank and fill it up before storing your lawn mower for the winter. This will help prevent moisture buildup and keep your fuel from breaking down.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to run your lawn mower out of gas before winter is up to you. While some people recommend it as a way to prevent potential fuel system issues, others argue that it can cause more harm than good. Whatever you decide, make sure to properly store your lawn mower for the winter to ensure that it starts up smoothly in the spring.
Read Also: Can You Fix a Flat Tire on Your Lawn Mower? A Step-by-Step Guide
Should I Run My Lawn Mower Out Of Gas For Winter? FAQs
1. What is the benefit of running my lawn mower out of gas for winter?
Running your lawn mower out of gas for winter helps to prevent the fuel from going stale and clogging the carburetor. It also reduces the risk of corrosion in the fuel system.
2. Can I just add a fuel stabilizer instead of running my lawn mower out of gas?
Yes, you can add a fuel stabilizer to the gas tank before storing your lawn mower for winter. However, it is still recommended to run the mower until it runs out of gas to ensure that there is no fuel left in the system that could potentially go bad.
3. Is it necessary to run my lawn mower out of gas if I plan to use it during winter?
If you plan to use your lawn mower during winter, it is not necessary to run it out of gas. However, it is still recommended to add a fuel stabilizer to the gas tank to prevent any issues with stale fuel. Additionally, make sure to check your oil and change it if necessary before using your mower in colder temperatures.
4. How do I run my lawn mower out of gas for winter?
To run your lawn mower out of gas for winter, simply let it run until it runs out of gas. Alternatively, you can turn off the fuel valve and let the engine run until it stalls. Make sure to run the mower on a flat surface and in a well-ventilated area.
Further reading: Where Can I Buy a Carburetor for My Lawn Mower?