Summer is in full swing, and your lawn mower is likely getting a lot of use. But what about that old gasoline sitting in your mower’s tank? It’s a common problem: you buy a full tank, use it for a few mowings, and then the season ends. You might be tempted to simply leave it there for next year, but that’s a bad idea. Old gasoline can damage your mower’s engine, and it’s also a fire hazard. So what can you do with it? In this article, we’ll explore safe and responsible ways to deal with that old gas in your lawn mower, including disposal options, how to prevent future problems, and some helpful tips.
The Problem with Old Gasoline
Gasoline is a complex mixture of hydrocarbons, and it starts to break down as soon as it’s exposed to air. This breakdown process creates gums and varnishes that can clog your mower’s fuel system. These deposits can interfere with fuel flow, lead to engine problems, and even cause the engine to stall or refuse to start. Additionally, old gas can become a fire hazard, especially if it’s stored improperly.
What to Do with Old Gasoline
So, what are your options when you have old gasoline in your lawn mower? Here are the most common and safe approaches:
1. Use it Up!
This is the simplest solution. If the gas is only a few weeks old, it might still be usable. You can try to run your mower for a short period to burn off some of the fuel. Just be careful not to run it dry – that could damage the engine.
2. Mix it with Fresh Gasoline
You can try diluting the old gas by mixing it with a generous amount of fresh, high-quality gasoline. However, this is only recommended if the old gas is relatively fresh. If it has been sitting for months or more, it’s best to avoid mixing it with fresh gasoline.
3. Safely Dispose of Old Gasoline
If the old gas is too old or you’re unsure about its quality, the safest option is to dispose of it properly. Here’s how:
Important Note: Never Pour Gasoline Down a Drain or into the Ground!
- Contact Local Recycling Centers: Many recycling centers accept old gasoline. Check with your local municipality for designated drop-off locations or call your local recycling center for information.
- Find Licensed Waste Haulers: You can also contact licensed waste haulers or disposal companies to arrange for pick-up. They are equipped to handle hazardous materials like old gas.
- Check with Automotive Repair Shops: Some auto repair shops may offer to take your old gasoline.
Preventing Old Gasoline in the Future
Now that you know how to handle old gasoline, let’s prevent this problem from happening again:
1. Store Gasoline Properly
- Use a Fuel Stabilizer: Adding a fuel stabilizer to your gas tank can extend the lifespan of the fuel and prevent the formation of gums and varnishes. Fuel stabilizers are readily available at most auto parts stores.
- Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Gasoline should always be stored in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight.
- Use Approved Storage Containers: Store gasoline in approved containers, like a metal gas can, that are tightly sealed and labeled clearly. Avoid using glass containers, which could break and cause a fire.
2. Keep Track of Your Fuel
- Use Dated Labels: Mark your fuel containers with the date you purchased the fuel to know how old it is.
- Don’t Overfill: Don’t overfill your lawn mower’s gas tank. Filling it completely can trap air in the tank, which can speed up the breakdown of gasoline.
- Run Your Mower Regularly: Use your lawn mower regularly to keep the fuel fresh. If you know you won’t be using it for a while, run it for a few minutes to burn off the old fuel before storing it.
Tips for Maintaining Your Lawn Mower
- Regularly Change Your Fuel Filter: Replace your lawn mower’s fuel filter every season to prevent clogs and ensure proper fuel flow.
- Clean Your Fuel System: Periodically clean your fuel lines and carburetor to remove any buildup of gums and varnishes.
- Winterize Your Mower: Before storing your lawn mower for the winter, run it until the tank is empty, add fuel stabilizer, and run it again for a few minutes to distribute the stabilizer throughout the system.
Conclusion
Dealing with old gasoline in your lawn mower is a common problem, but it doesn’t have to be a hassle. By following these steps, you can dispose of old gasoline safely and responsibly, and prevent it from causing future problems with your mower. Remember, always prioritize safety and proper disposal techniques when handling gasoline. With a little bit of planning and effort, you can keep your lawn mower running smoothly all season long.
FAQs
What are the dangers of using old gasoline in a lawnmower?
Old gasoline can cause problems for your lawnmower. The ethanol in gasoline attracts moisture, which can lead to gum and varnish buildup in your engine’s fuel system. This buildup can clog fuel lines, jets, and other components, preventing proper fuel flow and causing your mower to sputter, run poorly, or even stall completely.
Moreover, old gasoline loses its volatility, meaning it doesn’t evaporate easily. This can result in poor combustion and a loss of power. In severe cases, the buildup of gum and varnish can damage your engine, requiring expensive repairs.
How do I know if my gasoline is too old?
The best way to know if your gasoline is too old is to check the date on the container. Gasoline typically has a shelf life of 3-6 months, but it can last longer if stored properly. If you have gasoline that is older than 6 months, it’s best to discard it.
Another way to tell is by looking at the gasoline. If it is discolored, cloudy, or has sediment at the bottom, it’s likely too old and should be disposed of. If you’re unsure, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and use fresh gasoline.
How do I dispose of old gasoline properly?
Disposing of old gasoline safely is important to protect the environment. Do not pour it down the drain, into the sewer, or onto the ground.
Instead, contact your local waste disposal facility or hazardous waste collection center. They can provide information on proper disposal methods and may even have designated containers for accepting old gasoline. You can also check with local auto parts stores or gas stations, as some may offer gasoline recycling programs.
Can I add fuel stabilizer to my old gasoline?
Fuel stabilizer can help prevent the formation of gum and varnish in gasoline. However, it’s not a magic solution for old gasoline.
If the gasoline is already significantly degraded, fuel stabilizer may not be enough to restore its performance. It’s best to use fresh gasoline whenever possible and to use fuel stabilizer regularly to extend the life of your gasoline.
What is the best way to store gasoline for my lawnmower?
To ensure your gasoline stays fresh for as long as possible, store it properly. First, use a clean, airtight container specifically designed for storing gasoline. Avoid using metal containers as they can corrode.
Store the container in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. It’s also essential to keep it away from any open flames or ignition sources.
Can I mix old gasoline with new gasoline?
It’s generally not recommended to mix old gasoline with new gasoline.
Mixing them could dilute the new gasoline and reduce its effectiveness. It’s best to use fresh gasoline whenever possible. If you do need to use a mix, ensure the old gasoline is relatively fresh and add only a small amount to a larger quantity of fresh gasoline.
Can I use old gasoline in other equipment?
While you can use old gasoline in other equipment, it’s best to avoid doing so if possible.
Old gasoline can cause the same problems in other engines as it does in a lawnmower. It’s best to use fresh gasoline for all your equipment, especially for smaller engines like those in lawnmowers, trimmers, and chainsaws.