Spring is in the air, and with it comes the annual ritual of prepping your lawn mower for the season. But before you can fire it up, you need to deal with the old gas sitting in the tank. This begs the question, where do you dispose of it safely and responsibly? This article will guide you through the options, covering everything from safe handling to environmentally conscious disposal methods.
In a nutshell, pouring old lawn mower gas down the drain or onto the ground is a big no-no. It’s harmful to the environment and can even be illegal. Instead, you have several options, each with its own pros and cons.
Safe Handling of Old Gas:
Before we dive into disposal, it’s crucial to handle the old gas safely. Here’s a quick rundown:
- Store it properly: If you can’t dispose of it immediately, store it in a tightly sealed, labeled container in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area. Keep it away from heat sources and direct sunlight.
- Avoid spills: When handling the gas, wear gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from potential spills and skin irritation.
- Ventilate the area: Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes.
Disposing of Old Gas Safely and Responsibly:
1. Take it to a Hazardous Waste Facility:
This is the most environmentally friendly option, as it ensures the proper handling and disposal of the gas. Here’s how to find a facility near you:
- Contact your local waste management agency: They can provide information on drop-off locations and any associated fees.
- Check online databases: Many websites, such as Earth911, allow you to search for hazardous waste facilities by zip code.
- Look for signs at your local recycling center: Some facilities may accept small quantities of gasoline for disposal.
2. Use it Up:
If you have a gas-powered appliance that still needs fuel (like a generator or a pressure washer), you can use up the old gas in those. Just be aware that older gas may not burn as efficiently, and you might need to adjust your appliance settings accordingly.
3. Combine it with Fresh Gas:
If you have a small amount of old gas, you can combine it with fresh gas in your lawn mower’s tank. However, the ratio of old to fresh gas should be no more than 1:10 (one part old gas to ten parts fresh gas). This approach helps to minimize the risk of engine problems.
4. Add a Fuel Stabilizer:
Fuel stabilizers help to prevent the breakdown of gasoline and extend its shelf life. Adding a stabilizer to your old gas can help to improve its combustion, making it less likely to cause engine problems. Be sure to follow the instructions on the product label carefully.
5. Use an Absorbant Material:
This method is a bit more hands-on but effective for small spills or if you need to dispose of the gas in a remote location. You’ll need an absorbent material like kitty litter, sawdust, or a commercially available spill cleanup product. Here’s the process:
- Spread the absorbent material: Spread a generous layer of the absorbent material over the gas.
- Let it sit: Allow the absorbent material to absorb the gas completely (this may take a few hours).
- Dispose of it properly: Once the gas is absorbed, put the material in a sealed container and dispose of it according to your local waste disposal regulations.
Why You Can’t Just Pour It Out:
- Environmental Impact: Gasoline is a volatile organic compound (VOC) that evaporates easily. When released into the atmosphere, VOCs contribute to air pollution and smog, harming human health and damaging the environment.
- Water Contamination: If gasoline is spilled or poured down the drain, it can seep into groundwater and contaminate drinking water sources.
- Soil Contamination: Gasoline spills on the ground can also contaminate soil, harming plants and wildlife.
- Fire Hazard: Gasoline is highly flammable and can ignite easily. Pouring it out can create a fire hazard, especially in dry conditions.
Tips for Preventing Old Gas Buildup:
- Use only the gas you need: Only fill your mower’s tank with the amount of gas you plan to use within a few weeks.
- Store excess gas properly: If you have excess gas, store it in a tightly sealed container with a fuel stabilizer.
- Empty your mower’s tank at the end of the season: Before storing your mower for the winter, empty the tank to prevent gas from deteriorating.
Beyond Old Gas: What About the Lawn Mower Itself?
Once you’ve dealt with the old gas, what about the lawn mower itself? While most lawn mower parts are recyclable, it’s best to check with your local recycling center for specific guidelines.
- Small engine parts: Many municipalities have special programs for recycling small engine parts, such as lawn mower engines, chainsaws, and weed trimmers.
- Metal parts: If your lawn mower is too old or damaged to be repaired, you can often recycle metal parts like the chassis, blade, and wheels.
- Plastic parts: Plastic parts, such as the housing and handles, may be recyclable depending on local regulations. Check with your local recycling center for guidelines.
Final Thoughts:
Disposing of old lawn mower gas may seem like a small task, but it’s crucial to do it safely and responsibly. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can ensure that you are protecting the environment and your health. Remember, it’s never worth risking damage to our planet or potential harm to yourself just to avoid a little effort.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is it safe to just pour old lawn mower gas down the drain?
Absolutely not! Pouring gasoline down the drain is incredibly dangerous and harmful to the environment. It pollutes groundwater and can even cause explosions. Gasoline is a volatile substance that doesn’t break down easily, and it can seep into the soil and contaminate water sources.
2. Can I just throw the old gas can away with the regular trash?
No way! That’s not only illegal, but it’s also extremely unsafe. Gasoline containers, even empty ones, can still contain flammable vapors. They could explode if they end up in a landfill or incinerator.
3. Is there a way to dispose of old gas at home?
Unfortunately, no. Home disposal options are not safe or environmentally friendly. The best course of action is to take it to a designated hazardous waste collection site.
4. Where can I find a hazardous waste collection site near me?
Your local waste management agency or municipality can provide you with information on the nearest collection site. You can usually find this information on their website or by contacting them directly.
5. What about small amounts of leftover gas?
You can try to use it up in other equipment. If you have a small amount of leftover gas, try to use it in other gas-powered tools like a generator or chainsaw. If it’s truly a small amount, you could also consider carefully pouring it into a sealed container and storing it in a cool, dry place.
6. Is it safe to use old gas in my lawnmower?
It’s generally not recommended. Old gasoline can degrade and form deposits that can clog your engine and cause damage. It also loses its volatility over time, making it less efficient.
7. How long can I store old gas before it becomes unusable?
Gasoline can start to deteriorate after 3 months. The ideal storage time is 30 days for optimal performance. After 3 months, it’s best to dispose of it properly.