The crisp air is in, the leaves are turning, and the lawnmower is getting tucked away for the season. But before you shove it into the shed, you have a critical decision to make: what to do with the gas in the tank? Leaving it there, full of volatile gasoline, can lead to serious problems come springtime. This article will guide you through the best practices for storing your lawnmower over winter, focusing on the critical question of what to put in the gas tank to prevent damage and ensure a smooth start next year.
**In short, the best way to protect your lawnmower’s engine over winter is to drain the gas tank completely and run the engine until it stops. If you choose to leave some gas in the tank, a fuel stabilizer is a must. It prevents gum and varnish build-up, ensuring your engine starts reliably next spring. **
Why is Storing Gasoline in a Lawn Mower a Problem?
Gasoline isn’t a static substance; it’s a complex blend of volatile hydrocarbons that change over time, especially when exposed to air. This deterioration leads to several problems for your lawnmower:
1. Gum and Varnish Formation:
Over time, gasoline breaks down, forming sticky residues called gum and varnish. These deposits clog fuel lines, carburetor jets, and other critical components, hindering fuel flow and causing starting issues.
2. Fuel System Corrosion:
Fuel deterioration can also lead to corrosion within your lawnmower’s fuel system. These corrosive byproducts can damage metal parts and weaken the overall integrity of your engine.
3. Engine Damage:
If your lawnmower sits for an extended period with old gasoline, the engine might not start when you try to use it in the spring. Worse yet, the engine could sputter and stall, causing further damage.
4. Fire Hazards:
Old, unstable gasoline is more prone to combustion, making it a fire hazard. Leaving a full tank of gas in your lawnmower throughout the winter increases the risk of an accidental fire in your shed or garage.
Your Options for Winterizing Your Lawn Mower Fuel System
You have three main options for dealing with the gas in your lawnmower during the winter months:
1. Draining the Gas Tank
This is the most recommended approach. Draining the gas tank eliminates the risk of fuel degradation and associated issues. Here’s how to do it safely:
Step 1: Safety First
- Always work in a well-ventilated area. Gasoline fumes are flammable and can be hazardous.
- Wear protective gear: Gloves and eye protection are essential to prevent spills and skin contact.
- Have a fire extinguisher nearby. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
Step 2: Locate the Drain Valve
- Most lawnmowers have a drain valve on the bottom of the gas tank. It might be covered by a cap or a small plate.
- If your lawnmower doesn’t have a drain valve, use a siphon pump. These are available at most hardware stores.
Step 3: Drain the Fuel
- Position a container beneath the drain valve or the siphon hose.
- Open the drain valve or start siphoning the gas.
- Close the drain valve or remove the siphon hose when the tank is empty.
- Dispose of the drained gasoline properly. Contact your local waste management facility for instructions on proper disposal.
Step 4: Run the Engine Dry
- After draining the tank, start the lawnmower and let it run until it stalls. This ensures that any remaining fuel in the carburetor and fuel lines is consumed.
2. Using Fuel Stabilizer
If you choose to leave some gas in the tank, adding fuel stabilizer is crucial. It prevents fuel deterioration and gum formation, making your lawnmower easier to start in the spring.
How to Use Fuel Stabilizer:
- Choose a quality fuel stabilizer. Look for brands specifically designed for small engines.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Most stabilizers are added in a specific ratio to the fuel.
- Run the engine for a few minutes after adding the stabilizer. This ensures the treated fuel is circulated throughout the fuel system.
Considerations:
- Fuel stabilizers are not a permanent solution. They only extend the life of the gasoline for a limited time.
- Don’t leave stabilized gasoline in the tank for more than six months. If you’ll be storing the mower for longer, drain the tank and restart the process.
3. Storing Gasoline in Separate Containers
For long-term storage, it’s best to remove all the gasoline from your lawnmower and store it in approved containers. This is especially important if you are storing your lawnmower for a year or more.
Storing Gasoline:
- Use only approved containers designed for storing gasoline.
- Keep the containers tightly sealed and in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area.
- Never store gasoline near an open flame or heat source.
- Dispose of old gasoline properly.
The Importance of Regular Maintenance
Whether you choose to drain the tank or use fuel stabilizer, it’s essential to perform basic maintenance on your lawnmower before storing it for the winter:
1. Clean the Lawn Mower
- Remove all dirt, debris, and grass clippings.
- Clean the underside of the deck, particularly around the blades.
- Inspect the air filter and replace it if it’s dirty.
2. Sharpen the Blades
- Sharp blades cut cleanly and efficiently.
- Dull blades can damage your lawn and make your mower more difficult to use.
3. Check the Battery (If Applicable)
- Remove the battery from your lawnmower and store it in a cool, dry place.
- Charge the battery before storing it.
4. Lubricate Moving Parts
- Apply a light oil to the moving parts of the mower, such as the wheels, axles, and pivot points.
- This prevents rust and corrosion and makes your lawnmower easier to start next spring.
5. Cover the Mower
- Store your lawnmower in a dry, well-ventilated area.
- Use a canvas or vinyl cover to protect it from dust and moisture.
Conclusion
By taking the time to properly winterize your lawnmower, you can extend its lifespan and ensure a smooth start next spring. Whether you choose to drain the gas tank, use fuel stabilizer, or both, remember that prevention is key. A little extra effort now can save you a lot of hassle and headaches in the long run.
FAQs
What is the purpose of adding fuel stabilizer to a lawn mower gas tank for winter?
Fuel stabilizer helps prevent the gasoline in your lawn mower from breaking down and forming gum and varnish. These deposits can clog fuel lines, carburetor jets, and other engine parts, making it difficult for your lawn mower to start or run properly in the spring. By adding fuel stabilizer, you can keep your fuel fresh and prevent these problems.
How much fuel stabilizer should I add to my lawn mower gas tank?
The amount of fuel stabilizer you need to add will depend on the size of your gas tank. The instructions on the fuel stabilizer bottle will specify the ratio to use. Typically, you will add one ounce of stabilizer for every 10 gallons of gasoline.
What kind of fuel stabilizer is best for lawn mowers?
Most fuel stabilizers will work well for lawn mowers. Look for a stabilizer specifically designed for small engines. These stabilizers often contain additional additives that help prevent corrosion and moisture buildup in the fuel system.
Should I run my lawn mower after adding fuel stabilizer?
It is important to run your lawn mower for a few minutes after adding fuel stabilizer. This allows the stabilizer to mix thoroughly with the gasoline and reach all parts of the fuel system. This ensures the stabilizer will protect your fuel properly.
Can I use gasoline with fuel stabilizer year-round?
While using fuel stabilizer year-round is beneficial for preventing fuel breakdown, it’s not strictly necessary for regular lawn mower use. Using stabilizer year-round can help keep the fuel fresh even if you use your mower frequently throughout the year. However, it’s more important to use stabilizer during the winter months when the mower is not used for extended periods.
What happens if I don’t put fuel stabilizer in my lawn mower for winter?
If you don’t put fuel stabilizer in your lawn mower for winter, the gasoline will start to break down. This can lead to gum and varnish deposits in your fuel system, which can cause problems with starting and running your lawn mower in the spring. You may need to clean or replace parts of your fuel system, which can be costly and time-consuming.
How long can I store my lawn mower with stabilized gas?
Stabilized gasoline can be stored for up to a year. However, it is still best to drain the fuel tank before storing your lawn mower for long periods. This will help prevent any potential problems with the fuel system.