Maintaining your lawn mower is crucial for ensuring its longevity and optimal performance. One essential maintenance task is draining the gas tank, especially when storing your mower for the off-season or dealing with stale fuel. Knowing how to do this safely and effectively is a valuable skill for any homeowner. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, covering various methods and safety precautions.
Why You Need to Drain Your Lawn Mower’s Gas Tank
There are several reasons why you might need to drain the gas tank on your lawn mower. Understanding these reasons will help you appreciate the importance of this maintenance task.
Dealing with Stale Fuel
Gasoline can degrade over time, especially when exposed to air and moisture. Stale fuel can cause various problems, including difficulty starting, rough running, and engine damage. If your lawn mower has been sitting unused for a few months, the fuel inside the tank may have gone bad. Draining the tank and replacing the fuel with fresh gasoline will prevent these issues. Stale fuel is a common cause of lawn mower problems, especially after winter storage.
Preparing for Winter Storage
When storing your lawn mower for the winter, it’s crucial to prepare it properly to prevent damage and ensure it’s ready to go when spring arrives. One essential step is to drain the gas tank. Leaving gasoline in the tank during storage can lead to the formation of gummy deposits that can clog the carburetor and fuel lines. Draining the gas tank is a vital part of winterizing your lawn mower.
Performing Repairs
Sometimes, you might need to drain the gas tank to perform repairs on your lawn mower. For example, if you need to remove the carburetor or fuel lines, draining the tank will prevent fuel spillage and make the repair process cleaner and safer. Draining the tank is often necessary for various lawn mower repairs.
Safety Precautions Before You Start
Safety should always be your top priority when working with gasoline. Gasoline is highly flammable, and its vapors can be explosive. Following these safety precautions will minimize the risk of accidents and injuries.
Work in a Well-Ventilated Area
Always drain the gas tank in a well-ventilated area, preferably outdoors. This will allow any gasoline vapors to dissipate quickly, reducing the risk of fire or explosion. Never drain the gas tank indoors or in an enclosed space.
Avoid Open Flames and Sparks
Keep all sources of ignition, such as open flames, sparks, and cigarettes, away from the work area. Gasoline vapors can easily ignite and cause a fire. Make sure there are no potential ignition sources nearby.
Wear Protective Gear
Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect your eyes and skin from gasoline exposure. Gasoline can irritate the skin and cause eye damage. Protective gear is essential for minimizing the risk of injury.
Have a Fire Extinguisher Nearby
Keep a fire extinguisher readily available in case of an emergency. Make sure the fire extinguisher is suitable for extinguishing gasoline fires. A fire extinguisher is a crucial safety tool when working with flammable materials.
Use an Approved Gasoline Container
Always use an approved gasoline container to collect the drained fuel. These containers are designed to safely store gasoline and prevent spills. Never use unapproved containers, such as plastic bottles or open buckets.
Methods for Draining Your Lawn Mower’s Gas Tank
There are several methods you can use to drain the gas tank on your lawn mower. The best method for you will depend on your mower’s design and your personal preferences.
Using the Fuel Shut-Off Valve (If Equipped)
Many lawn mowers are equipped with a fuel shut-off valve located on the fuel line between the gas tank and the carburetor. This valve allows you to easily shut off the fuel supply to the engine. If your mower has a fuel shut-off valve, draining the gas tank is a relatively simple process.
Locating the Fuel Shut-Off Valve
The fuel shut-off valve is typically located on the fuel line between the gas tank and the carburetor. It may be a small lever or a knob. Consult your owner’s manual for the exact location of the valve on your mower.
Closing the Fuel Shut-Off Valve
Close the fuel shut-off valve by turning the lever or knob to the “off” position. This will stop the flow of fuel from the tank to the engine.
Disconnecting the Fuel Line
Carefully disconnect the fuel line from the carburetor. Have an approved gasoline container ready to catch the fuel that will drain from the line.
Opening the Fuel Shut-Off Valve
Slowly open the fuel shut-off valve to allow the fuel to drain from the tank into the container. Be careful not to spill any fuel.
Reconnecting the Fuel Line
Once the tank is empty, close the fuel shut-off valve and reconnect the fuel line to the carburetor.
Siphoning the Fuel
If your lawn mower doesn’t have a fuel shut-off valve, you can siphon the fuel out of the tank using a siphon pump or a length of hose. This method requires a bit more care to avoid swallowing gasoline.
Using a Siphon Pump
A siphon pump is a small, inexpensive tool that makes siphoning fuel much easier and safer. Insert one end of the siphon pump into the gas tank and the other end into an approved gasoline container. Pump the siphon until the fuel starts to flow.
Using a Hose
If you don’t have a siphon pump, you can use a length of clear hose. Insert one end of the hose into the gas tank and the other end into the gasoline container. Make sure the container is lower than the gas tank.
Starting the Siphon
To start the siphon, you’ll need to create a vacuum in the hose. You can do this by sucking on the end of the hose (be extremely careful not to swallow any gasoline!) or by using a small hand pump. Once the fuel starts to flow, remove the hose from your mouth (or stop pumping) and let the fuel drain into the container.
Monitoring the Fuel Level
Keep an eye on the fuel level in the tank and the container to avoid overfilling. Once the tank is empty, carefully remove the hose and dispose of any remaining fuel properly.
Tilting the Mower (As a Last Resort)
Tilting the mower to pour out the fuel should only be considered as a last resort, as it can be messy and potentially dangerous. This method is best suited for situations where you can’t use the other methods.
Preparing the Area
Choose a suitable location for tilting the mower, preferably on a level surface away from any potential ignition sources. Place an approved gasoline container under the gas tank opening to catch the fuel.
Tilting the Mower Carefully
Carefully tilt the mower so that the gas tank opening is facing downwards and the fuel can flow into the container. Be prepared to hold the mower in this position until the tank is empty.
Controlling the Flow
Control the flow of fuel by adjusting the angle of the mower. Be careful not to spill any fuel.
Cleaning Up Spills
If you spill any fuel, clean it up immediately with absorbent materials, such as rags or paper towels. Dispose of the contaminated materials properly.
Dealing with Old Fuel
Once you’ve drained the gas tank, you need to dispose of the old fuel properly. Never pour gasoline down the drain or into the environment.
Finding a Recycling Center
Many communities have recycling centers that accept used gasoline and other hazardous materials. Contact your local recycling center to find out if they accept gasoline and what their disposal procedures are.
Contacting Your Local Fire Department
Your local fire department may also be able to provide information on how to dispose of gasoline safely. They may even have a program for collecting hazardous materials.
Mixing with Fresh Gasoline (If Not Too Stale)
If the fuel is not too stale (less than six months old), you may be able to mix it with fresh gasoline and use it in your car or truck. However, it’s important to use a high-quality fuel stabilizer to prevent any potential problems. Never use extremely old or contaminated fuel in your vehicle.
Cleaning the Gas Tank (Optional)
If your gas tank is dirty or contains gummy deposits, you may want to clean it after draining the fuel. This will help prevent future problems with stale fuel and ensure that your lawn mower runs smoothly.
Rinsing with Fresh Gasoline
Pour a small amount of fresh gasoline into the tank and swirl it around to loosen any dirt or deposits. Then, carefully pour the gasoline out into an approved container. Repeat this process until the tank is clean.
Using a Fuel Tank Cleaner
You can also use a commercial fuel tank cleaner to clean the gas tank. Follow the instructions on the cleaner label carefully.
Drying the Tank
After cleaning the tank, allow it to air dry completely before adding fresh fuel. This will prevent any water or cleaner residue from contaminating the fuel.
Refilling the Gas Tank
Once the gas tank is clean and dry, you can refill it with fresh gasoline. Use the correct type of gasoline for your lawn mower, as specified in your owner’s manual.
Using Fresh Gasoline
Always use fresh gasoline when refilling the tank. Avoid using gasoline that has been stored for more than a few months.
Adding Fuel Stabilizer
If you plan to store the lawn mower for an extended period, add a fuel stabilizer to the gasoline. Fuel stabilizer will help prevent the fuel from going stale and protect the engine from corrosion.
Filling to the Correct Level
Fill the gas tank to the correct level, as indicated on the tank or in your owner’s manual. Avoid overfilling the tank, as this can cause fuel spillage and other problems.
Starting the Lawn Mower
After refilling the gas tank, start the lawn mower and let it run for a few minutes to ensure that the fresh fuel is circulating properly. This will also help remove any air from the fuel lines.
Checking for Leaks
Check for any fuel leaks around the gas tank, fuel lines, and carburetor. If you find any leaks, repair them immediately.
Adjusting the Carburetor (If Necessary)
If the lawn mower is not running smoothly, you may need to adjust the carburetor. Consult your owner’s manual for instructions on how to adjust the carburetor.
Regular Maintenance for a Healthy Lawn Mower
Draining the gas tank is just one aspect of lawn mower maintenance. To keep your mower running smoothly for years to come, it’s important to perform regular maintenance tasks, such as changing the oil, cleaning the air filter, and sharpening the blades. Regular maintenance is the key to extending the life of your lawn mower.
Why is it necessary to drain the gas tank on my lawn mower?
Draining the gas tank is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, gasoline can degrade over time, especially when exposed to air and temperature fluctuations. This stale fuel can cause starting problems, rough running, and even damage to the carburetor and other engine components. Leaving stale gas in the tank for extended periods, particularly during the off-season, can lead to gummy deposits that are difficult to remove.
Secondly, draining the gas tank is essential for safe storage and transportation. Gasoline is flammable, and a full tank poses a fire hazard, especially if the mower is stored in an enclosed space or transported in a vehicle. Emptying the tank reduces the risk of spills and potential ignition, ensuring a safer environment for yourself and others.
What safety precautions should I take before draining the lawn mower’s gas tank?
Before commencing any work on your lawn mower, ensure the engine is completely cool. Allow ample time for the engine to cool down after its last use, as hot engine parts can ignite spilled fuel. Working on a cool engine minimizes the risk of burns and fire hazards.
Work in a well-ventilated area, preferably outdoors, to avoid inhaling gasoline fumes. Gasoline fumes are harmful and can cause dizziness, nausea, and other health problems. Avoid open flames, sparks, and smoking while draining the gas tank to prevent accidental ignition of the flammable fuel.
What tools and materials will I need to drain the gas tank?
You’ll need a few essential tools and materials. A siphon pump is highly recommended for safely and efficiently transferring the gasoline from the tank to a container. This avoids messy spills and direct contact with the fuel. You’ll also need a gasoline-approved container with a tight-fitting lid for storing the drained fuel.
Additionally, have some absorbent rags or paper towels on hand to clean up any spills that may occur. A funnel can also be helpful for transferring the gasoline into the storage container without spilling. Consider wearing safety glasses and gloves to protect your eyes and skin from fuel exposure.
What is the safest method for draining the gas tank?
The safest method involves using a siphon pump. Insert one end of the siphon hose into the gas tank, making sure it reaches the bottom. Place the other end of the hose into the gasoline-approved container. Activate the pump according to the manufacturer’s instructions to start the flow of gasoline. Monitor the process carefully to prevent overfilling the container.
Avoid tilting the mower to drain the gas, as this can lead to spills and potential damage to the engine. Never use your mouth to start the siphon, as this poses a serious health risk due to ingestion of gasoline. Always use a proper siphon pump designed for transferring fuel.
What should I do with the gasoline after it’s been drained?
Proper disposal or reuse of the drained gasoline is crucial. If the gasoline is relatively fresh and free of contaminants, you can use it in other gasoline-powered equipment, such as a car or another lawn mower. However, ensure it is properly filtered before use and mixed with fresh gasoline to improve its performance.
If the gasoline is old, contaminated, or has a foul odor, it should be disposed of properly. Contact your local waste management facility or recycling center to inquire about their procedures for handling and disposing of gasoline. Never pour gasoline down drains, into the ground, or into waterways, as this can cause environmental pollution.
How do I properly store my lawn mower after draining the gas?
After draining the gas, consider adding a fuel stabilizer to the small amount of fuel that remains in the carburetor and fuel lines. This helps prevent the formation of gum and varnish deposits during storage. Run the engine briefly to allow the fuel stabilizer to circulate through the fuel system.
Store the lawn mower in a dry, well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and sources of ignition. Cover the mower to protect it from dust and debris. If storing indoors, ensure the area is properly ventilated to prevent the buildup of gasoline fumes. Disconnect the spark plug wire to prevent accidental starting.
What are some signs that my lawn mower’s fuel has gone bad?
Several telltale signs indicate that your lawn mower’s fuel has deteriorated. Difficult starting is a common symptom, as stale gasoline loses its volatility and ability to ignite easily. The engine may crank repeatedly without starting, or it may start with difficulty and then stall shortly after.
Another sign is poor engine performance, such as rough idling, hesitation during acceleration, or a general lack of power. Stale gasoline can also cause a foul or sour odor in the fuel tank or exhaust. Visible signs of fuel degradation include a dark or murky appearance of the gasoline and the presence of gummy deposits in the fuel tank or carburetor.