The hum of a lawnmower is a familiar soundtrack to summer days. But what happens when the fuel gauge dips dangerously low? Do you keep mowing until the engine sputters its last, or is it better to top up the tank before the engine goes dry? This question sparks a debate among lawn care enthusiasts, with opinions ranging from “running it dry is fine” to “it’s a surefire way to damage your machine.” So, what’s the truth? This article dives into the pros and cons of running your lawnmower out of gas, exploring the potential impact on your mower’s longevity and performance.
In short, it’s generally not recommended to run your lawnmower out of gas. While occasional instances of running out of fuel won’t necessarily harm your machine, consistently doing so can lead to engine damage and a shorter lifespan for your mower.
The Case Against Running Your Lawn Mower Out of Gas
Running your lawnmower out of gas can introduce a number of issues, some more severe than others:
Fuel System Problems
- Fuel Starvation: When your mower runs out of gas, the engine struggles to draw in fuel, potentially leading to fuel starvation. This can cause the engine to sputter and eventually shut down.
- Fuel Pump Issues: The fuel pump is responsible for delivering fuel from the tank to the engine. Running out of gas can put stress on the fuel pump, potentially leading to wear and tear or even damage.
- Carb Issues: A dry carburetor can lead to varnish buildup, which can clog fuel lines and hinder fuel flow. This can cause difficulty starting the engine or even complete engine failure.
Engine Damage
- Heat Stress: When your lawnmower runs out of fuel, the engine continues to run but without lubrication, leading to increased friction and heat. This can cause premature wear and tear on engine parts and potentially lead to engine damage.
- Seizure: In extreme cases, running a lawnmower completely out of gas can lead to a complete engine seizure, requiring expensive repairs or even replacement.
Other Concerns
- Longer Start-up Time: Starting a lawnmower that has run out of gas can be more challenging, as the engine may need more time to prime and start.
- Increased Maintenance: Running your lawnmower out of gas can lead to increased maintenance needs, such as cleaning the carburetor or replacing worn-out engine parts.
The Case For Running Your Lawn Mower Out of Gas
While it’s generally not recommended, there are a few situations where running your lawnmower out of gas might be acceptable:
Small Engine Mower
For small engine mowers, occasional instances of running out of gas might not cause significant damage. However, it’s crucial to note that even with smaller engines, consistently running out of gas can still lead to wear and tear.
Storage
If you are storing your lawnmower for a long period, it’s a good idea to run the tank dry. This will prevent fuel from going stale and causing gumming or varnish buildup in the carburetor. However, it’s essential to make sure you have drained the carburetor and replaced any old fuel before putting the mower away for storage.
The Bottom Line: Prevention is Key
While the occasional incident of running out of gas might not be a major disaster, it’s generally best to avoid it altogether. Following a few simple tips can help you prevent this issue:
Monitor Your Fuel Gauge
Keeping an eye on your fuel gauge is crucial. If you notice the fuel level getting low, stop mowing and refill the tank before it runs dry.
Plan Your Mowing Sessions
Plan your mowing sessions in advance, and ensure you have enough fuel to complete the task.
Use Fresh Fuel
Use fresh gasoline in your lawnmower, as stale fuel can lead to gumming and varnish buildup in the carburetor.
What to Do If You Run Out of Gas
If you find yourself in the unfortunate situation of running your lawnmower out of gas, there are a few things you can do:
- Refill the tank: The most important step is to refuel the tank as soon as possible.
- Try to restart: After refilling, attempt to start the mower. It may take a few tries, especially if the carburetor has become partially clogged.
- Clean the carburetor: If your mower struggles to start after refilling, it’s a good idea to clean the carburetor.
- Seek professional help: If you are unable to start the mower after refilling and cleaning the carburetor, it may be necessary to take it to a professional mechanic for diagnosis and repair.
Conclusion
Running your lawnmower out of gas is generally not a good idea. It can lead to various issues, from minor inconvenience to costly repairs. While occasional instances might not cause significant damage, consistently running out of gas can compromise your lawnmower’s performance and shorten its lifespan. By monitoring your fuel levels, planning your mowing sessions, and using fresh fuel, you can help prevent this issue and ensure your lawnmower runs smoothly for years to come.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about running your lawn mower out of gas:
1. Is it bad for my lawnmower to run out of gas?
Generally, it’s not ideal to let your lawnmower run completely out of gas. While it won’t damage the engine immediately, it can lead to problems down the line. When you run out of gas, the fuel pump may struggle to draw fuel from the tank, leading to vapor lock or air getting into the fuel lines. This can result in difficult starting and potential engine damage if left untreated. It’s best to refuel your mower before the tank gets too low.
2. What are the risks of running a lawnmower out of gas?
Running a lawnmower out of gas can lead to several potential problems. As mentioned, it can cause vapor lock, making the engine difficult to start. Additionally, running on empty can introduce debris and moisture into the fuel system, leading to clogging and engine problems. In the worst-case scenario, running out of gas can damage the fuel pump or carburetor, requiring expensive repairs.
3. Can running out of gas damage the engine?
While running out of gas won’t immediately damage your engine, it can contribute to long-term problems. The lack of lubrication in the fuel can lead to wear and tear on the engine parts. Additionally, if the fuel pump struggles to draw fuel, it can overheat and fail. However, running the engine dry once in a while is unlikely to cause significant damage.
4. How often should I refuel my lawnmower?
There’s no strict rule, but it’s generally best to refuel your lawnmower before the tank reaches a quarter full. This ensures that the fuel pump always has enough fuel to operate properly and reduces the risk of running out of gas. Regularly checking the fuel level and refueling as needed is essential for keeping your lawnmower running smoothly.
5. Should I add fuel stabilizer if I run my lawnmower out of gas?
While fuel stabilizer won’t prevent running out of gas from causing problems, it can help mitigate the damage. Adding fuel stabilizer to your gas tank will help prevent the fuel from degrading and forming varnish, which can clog fuel lines and carburetors. It’s a good practice to add fuel stabilizer to your lawnmower’s gas tank, even if you don’t run it out of fuel.
6. What should I do if I run my lawnmower out of gas?
If you find yourself with an empty tank, don’t panic. First, try adding some fresh fuel and see if the engine starts. If not, you might need to prime the carburetor by pumping the primer bulb or manually adding a small amount of fuel into the carburetor. If the engine still doesn’t start, it’s best to contact a qualified mechanic for assistance.
7. What are some tips for preventing lawnmower issues?
To avoid problems associated with running out of gas, there are several preventative measures you can take. Always refuel before the tank gets too low, and add fuel stabilizer to your gas tank to prevent fuel degradation. Additionally, regularly clean and maintain your lawnmower according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Taking these steps will help ensure your lawnmower runs smoothly and reliably for many years.