The warm summer sun is beaming, your backyard is a green haven, and you’re ready to tackle the task of mowing. But as you grab the gas can, a question arises – should you run your lawn mower completely out of gas before storing it? It’s a common dilemma, and the answer isn’t as simple as a “yes” or “no.”
This article will explore the pros and cons of running your lawn mower out of gas, delve into the potential consequences of leaving fuel in the tank, and provide practical advice on how to best store your mower for optimal performance and longevity.
Short Answer: While it’s generally advisable to run your lawn mower out of gas before storing it, there are situations where it might not be practical or necessary. The key is to understand the factors involved and make an informed decision.
The Fuel Factor: Why Running Out of Gas Is Often Recommended
The primary reason for running your lawn mower out of gas before storage is to prevent fuel from degrading. Gasoline is a volatile substance and can break down over time, particularly when exposed to air and heat. This breakdown process creates a gummy residue called varnish that can clog fuel lines, carburetors, and other vital components.
1. The Trouble with Ethanol
Ethanol, a common additive to gasoline, exacerbates the issue of fuel degradation. Ethanol attracts water, and when mixed with gasoline, it creates a corrosive cocktail that can damage metal parts within your mower. Over time, the presence of ethanol can lead to:
- Clogged fuel lines: Varnish build-up restricts fuel flow, causing starting problems and potential engine damage.
- Gummed-up carburetor: Varnish clogs the tiny jets and passages within the carburetor, hindering fuel delivery and affecting engine performance.
- Damaged fuel tank: Ethanol’s corrosive nature can eat away at the internal lining of your fuel tank, leading to leaks or eventual replacement.
2. The Impact of Time
The longer gasoline sits in your mower’s tank, the more prone it is to degradation. If you’re storing your mower for a season or longer, running it out of gas becomes even more crucial. Here’s a breakdown of typical gasoline shelf life:
- Fresh gasoline: Up to 3 months (depending on storage conditions)
- Stabilized gasoline: Up to 6 months (with proper stabilizer use)
While stabilizers can extend the shelf life of gasoline, they don’t eliminate the risk of fuel degradation altogether.
When Running Out of Gas Might Not Be Ideal
While running your lawn mower out of gas is generally recommended, there are situations where it might not be practical or desirable.
1. Small Engines: Less Risk
If you have a small, single-cylinder engine, the risk of fuel degradation might be less pronounced. These engines are simpler in design and less susceptible to varnish buildup.
2. Frequent Use: Minimizing Risks
If you plan on using your lawn mower frequently, running it out of gas each time might be unnecessary. As long as you’re using fresh gasoline, the fuel should not have time to degrade significantly between uses.
3. No Time to Run Dry
Life is busy, and sometimes you don’t have the time or energy to run your mower out of gas. In these situations, you can take steps to mitigate the risk of fuel degradation:
- Use fuel stabilizer: Adding a fuel stabilizer to your mower’s tank can help prevent fuel breakdown, even if you don’t run it completely dry.
- Run the engine for a few minutes: If you can’t run the mower out of gas, start it up and let it run for a few minutes to circulate fresh gasoline throughout the system.
How to Safely Store Your Lawn Mower
Whether you run your mower out of gas or not, proper storage is essential for its longevity. Here are some key steps to follow:
- Clean the mower: Remove any debris or grass clippings from the mower deck, engine, and underside.
- Change the oil: This helps to prevent rust and corrosion in the engine.
- Sharpen the blades: Sharp blades provide a cleaner cut and reduce the strain on the engine.
- Protect from the elements: Store your mower in a dry, well-ventilated area.
- Winterize your mower: If you live in a climate with cold winters, consider winterizing your mower by adding an antifreeze solution to the cooling system and draining any remaining fuel.
Conclusion: A Balancing Act
Whether or not you run your lawn mower out of gas before storing it is a decision based on your individual needs and circumstances. If you’re storing your mower for an extended period, it’s generally advisable to run it out of gas to minimize the risk of fuel degradation. However, for frequent users or owners of small engines, the risk might be minimal. Regardless of your choice, always remember to store your mower properly for optimal performance and longevity.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is running a lawn mower out of gas bad for it?
Running your lawn mower out of gas can damage the engine and fuel system. When the fuel level gets low, the fuel pump can draw in air, which can lead to vapor lock. This occurs when fuel turns into vapor in the fuel lines, blocking the flow of fuel to the engine. Additionally, running the engine until it sputters and dies can cause dirt and debris to be sucked into the fuel system, damaging delicate parts.
To avoid this, it’s best to refuel your lawn mower before the tank gets too low. This ensures that the fuel pump is always submerged in fuel and prevents air from being drawn in. You should also be careful not to run the engine dry, as this can lead to engine damage.
2. Can running a lawn mower out of gas damage the carburetor?
Yes, running your lawn mower out of gas can damage the carburetor. When the fuel level gets low, the carburetor can become clogged with debris or varnish. This can happen because the carburetor is designed to draw fuel from the bottom of the tank, and when the fuel level gets low, it can suck in air or debris along with the fuel. This can lead to poor performance or even damage to the carburetor.
To prevent this, it’s important to refuel your lawn mower before the tank gets too low. You should also consider using fuel stabilizer to prevent the fuel from going bad.
3. Can running a lawn mower out of gas damage the spark plugs?
Running a lawn mower out of gas can damage the spark plugs. When the fuel level gets low, the engine may run lean, which means there is too much air and not enough fuel. This can cause the spark plugs to overheat and become fouled with deposits.
Fouled spark plugs can prevent the engine from starting or running properly. In severe cases, they can even damage the engine. To avoid this, it’s important to refuel your lawn mower before the tank gets too low and to check the spark plugs regularly.
4. Will running a lawn mower out of gas shorten its lifespan?
Yes, running your lawn mower out of gas can shorten its lifespan. When the fuel level gets low, the engine may run lean, which can cause the engine to overheat. This can lead to premature wear and tear on the engine components, such as the pistons, rings, and valves.
Additionally, running the engine dry can allow debris to enter the fuel system, which can damage the carburetor, fuel pump, and other delicate parts. To avoid this, it’s important to refuel your lawn mower before the tank gets too low.
5. What are the signs of a lawn mower running out of gas?
Several signs indicate a lawn mower is running out of gas. The most obvious sign is when the engine starts sputtering and losing power. Additionally, you may notice the lawn mower running slower or struggling to maintain its speed. The engine may also start to smoke or emit a strange odor.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to stop the lawn mower immediately and refuel it. Running the engine dry can cause damage, so it’s best to err on the side of caution and refuel before the tank runs out.
6. How often should I refuel my lawn mower?
The frequency of refueling your lawn mower depends on the size of the gas tank and how often you use it. However, it’s generally a good idea to refuel your lawn mower before the tank gets half full. This will help to prevent the engine from running lean and ensure that the fuel pump is always submerged in fuel.
If you use your lawn mower frequently, you may need to refuel it more often. It’s also a good idea to use fuel stabilizer if you’re storing your lawn mower for extended periods. This will help to prevent the fuel from going bad and causing problems with the engine.
7. What should I do if I accidentally run my lawn mower out of gas?
If you accidentally run your lawn mower out of gas, don’t panic! There are a few things you can do to try and get it started again. First, try adding a small amount of fuel to the tank. Then, try to start the engine. If it doesn’t start, you may need to remove the spark plug and check for any debris or buildup.
If you’re still having trouble starting the engine, you may need to take it to a mechanic. They can diagnose the problem and perform any necessary repairs. Remember, running the engine dry can be harmful, so it’s best to avoid it if possible.