The end of summer is bittersweet. As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, we bid farewell to lazy afternoons spent enjoying the outdoors. But for many, this also signals the end of lawn mowing season. As you pack away your trusty mower for the winter, a crucial question arises: should you store it with gas in the tank?
This seemingly simple question can spark heated debates among lawn care enthusiasts. Some swear by storing their mowers with fuel, claiming it prevents rust and corrosion. Others adamantly insist that storing gas in the tank can lead to serious engine damage. This article delves into the pros and cons of each approach, exploring the science behind the arguments and ultimately helping you decide what’s best for your mower.
In short, storing your lawn mower with gas in the tank is generally not recommended. While the fuel itself might prevent rust, the aging gas can form harmful deposits in your engine, potentially leading to difficult starts, performance issues, and costly repairs.
The Dangers of Storing Gasoline: The Science of Degradation
Gasoline is a complex mixture of hydrocarbons, designed to combust efficiently in your mower’s engine. However, when exposed to air and sunlight, these hydrocarbons begin to break down, forming various byproducts that can wreak havoc on your engine. This process, known as “gasoline degradation,” can be accelerated by factors like temperature fluctuations and the presence of ethanol.
The Unwanted Byproducts of Degradation
- Gum and Varnish: As gasoline ages, it forms gummy and varnish-like residues. These sticky deposits can clog fuel lines, injectors, and carburetor jets, restricting fuel flow and causing starting problems and engine misfires.
- Water Condensation: Gasoline is not water-soluble, but the condensation that forms in the tank can mix with the fuel, creating a corrosive mixture that accelerates engine damage.
- Ethanol Issues: Ethanol, a common additive in gasoline, can further exacerbate degradation. It absorbs moisture more readily than pure gasoline, leading to increased condensation and a faster formation of varnish and gum.
The Long-Term Consequences
- Difficult Starts: A clogged fuel system can lead to frustrating attempts to start your mower in the spring. You might find yourself pulling the cord countless times before it finally sputters to life, causing unnecessary stress on your starter and battery.
- Engine Performance Issues: Deposits in the carburetor and fuel injectors can hinder the engine’s ability to run smoothly. You might experience uneven idling, power loss, and frequent stalling, ultimately requiring costly repairs.
- Corrosion and Damage: The corrosive nature of aged fuel can damage fuel lines, fuel pumps, and other components, leading to premature wear and tear on your engine.
The Argument for Storing with Gas: A Myth Debunked
While some believe that storing with gas prevents rust, this is a misconception. Rust formation on metal components is primarily caused by moisture and oxygen exposure, not the absence of fuel. In fact, aged fuel can actually accelerate corrosion by contributing to the formation of acidic byproducts.
Furthermore, storing with gas can create more problems than it solves:
- Leaking Fuel: The constant pressure from the full fuel tank can lead to leaks, especially if your fuel lines are aging. This not only wastes fuel but poses a significant fire hazard.
- Fuel Line Swelling: Older fuel lines can swell and harden when exposed to prolonged periods of gas, leading to cracks and blockages, increasing the risk of leaks.
Storing Your Lawn Mower Correctly for a Smooth Spring Start
To ensure your lawn mower runs smoothly next season, follow these steps:
1. Empty the Fuel Tank:
- Run the engine until empty: The best way to avoid fuel degradation is to run your mower until the tank is empty. This ensures that no stale fuel remains in the system.
- Stabilize the fuel: If you can’t run the engine completely empty, consider adding a fuel stabilizer. These chemicals prevent the formation of varnish and gum, extending the shelf life of gasoline.
- Store the fuel in a separate container: If you prefer, you can drain the fuel and store it in a sealed container in a cool, dry place. Remember to label the container clearly and use it within a few months.
2. Prime Your Engine for Spring:
- Start the engine in spring: Once you’re ready to use your mower in the spring, add fresh gasoline and start the engine. Let it run for a few minutes to ensure that the fuel lines are clear of any deposits.
Additional Tips for Long-Term Storage:
- Clean the carburetor: Before storing your mower, it’s a good idea to clean the carburetor thoroughly. This will remove any existing deposits and prevent new ones from forming.
- Change the air filter: Replace the air filter with a new one to prevent dust and dirt from entering the engine.
- Clean the spark plug: Inspect and clean the spark plug, or replace it if it’s worn.
- Store in a dry place: Store your lawn mower in a dry, well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight.
- Protect against rust: If your mower has metal components that are susceptible to rust, consider applying a light coat of oil or wax to prevent corrosion.
Conclusion: Choose Protection over Convenience
Storing your lawn mower with gas in the tank may seem convenient, but it can ultimately lead to costly repairs and headaches. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure that your mower stays in tip-top shape and ready for action when you need it most.
Remember, a little bit of effort now can save you a lot of hassle later. So, drain the fuel, protect your engine, and enjoy the peace of mind knowing that your lawn mower will be ready to conquer your lawn next spring.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is it bad to store my lawn mower with gas in the tank?
Yes, storing your lawn mower with gas in the tank can lead to several problems. Gasoline deteriorates over time, forming a gummy residue that can clog fuel lines, carburetors, and other engine parts. This residue can also attract moisture, which can lead to corrosion and damage.
Furthermore, storing gasoline for extended periods poses a fire hazard. Gasoline is highly flammable, and if exposed to heat or sparks, it can ignite, resulting in a serious accident.
2. Why does gasoline go bad?
Gasoline is a complex mixture of hydrocarbons, and it’s designed to evaporate and combust quickly. Over time, the lighter hydrocarbons in gasoline evaporate, leaving behind heavier components that can gum up engine parts.
Additionally, exposure to air and moisture can cause oxidation, further accelerating the deterioration process. This oxidation creates a sticky residue that can clog fuel lines and inhibit fuel flow.
3. How long can I store my lawn mower with gas in the tank?
It’s best to avoid storing your lawn mower with gasoline in the tank for any significant period. Even a few weeks can be enough for the gasoline to begin to degrade. Ideally, you should drain the tank before storing your mower for more than a few days.
However, if you absolutely must store your lawn mower with gasoline, consider using a fuel stabilizer. Fuel stabilizers are designed to prevent gasoline from deteriorating and help maintain its quality for up to six months.
4. How do I drain the gas from my lawn mower?
To drain the gas from your lawn mower, start by finding the fuel shut-off valve. This valve is typically located near the fuel tank. Once you find it, turn the valve to the “off” position.
Then, use a siphon pump or a fuel-safe container to carefully drain the gasoline from the tank into a suitable container. Dispose of the gasoline properly according to local regulations. Once the tank is empty, run the engine for a few seconds to empty the fuel lines.
5. What are the benefits of storing my lawn mower without gas?
Storing your lawn mower without gasoline offers several advantages. It prevents fuel from deteriorating, reducing the risk of clogged fuel lines and engine damage. Furthermore, it eliminates the fire hazard associated with storing flammable gasoline.
Moreover, draining the fuel tank before storage helps preserve the overall condition of your lawn mower. By avoiding the presence of gasoline, you minimize the risk of corrosion and other forms of wear and tear.
6. What about using a fuel stabilizer?
Fuel stabilizers are a good option if you must store your lawn mower with gasoline for a longer period. These additives are designed to prevent the deterioration of gasoline by neutralizing oxidation and evaporation.
However, keep in mind that even with a fuel stabilizer, it’s still recommended to drain the tank and refill it with fresh gasoline before the stabilizer’s recommended shelf life expires.
7. What if my lawn mower doesn’t have a drain plug?
If your lawn mower doesn’t have a drain plug, you can still drain the tank. Use a siphon pump to carefully remove the gasoline from the tank. Alternatively, you can tilt the lawn mower and carefully pour the gasoline out into a suitable container.
Be sure to take appropriate safety precautions, such as wearing protective gloves and goggles, and working in a well-ventilated area. Dispose of the drained gasoline properly according to local regulations.