If you have a gas-powered lawn mower, it’s important to know how to drain the tank. When fuel is left inside of a lawnmower for too long, it can start to corrode the engine and other components. So if you’re going on vacation or want to do some yard work without worry, read on.
Draining the Gas Tank on Your Mower by Disconnecting the Fuel Line
First, you want to disconnect the gas line. Ensure that your mower is unplugged and in an open space with plenty of room for movement before doing this step. After making these preparations, slowly pull off the rubber hose that connects from underneath your lawnmower to where it reaches into your fuel tank (usually located at one end). If there is still some gasoline inside of the tube after removing it, then you can leave it disconnected until all gas has evaporated out. However, if not, feel free to dispose of it immediately to not cause a fire hazard or risk spilling any more gasoline than necessary while refitting later on.
Some Additional Benefits of Draining Your Gas without a Siphon
Some people opt to purchase a fuel siphon to drain the gas from their lawnmower. However, this isn’t necessary if you disconnect your hose as mentioned above because it will naturally drip out after some time passes with the tank open and exposed.
Remove Sludge/Grime from Tank
In some cases, especially if you have an older gas-powered lawn mower that has been sitting in one place for several months without use, there may be sludge or grime coating the inside of your fuel tank. If this is the case, then you can turn to using a siphon pump to drain all remaining gasoline from your engine reservoir and clean out any dirt/debris at once before refitting. If you don’t want to do this alone, kyles lawn care will be your savior.
It Prompts Routine Maintenance
In addition, draining your lawnmower gas tank in this fashion every so often is a good idea because it prompts you to take care of necessary lawnmower maintenance issues. The last thing anyone wants when starting up their machine for the first time after storing it away during the winter months is engine problems from neglecting regular upkeep.
Inspect the Fuel Line for Damage
Finally, you will want to inspect your gas line for any damage or holes in it before refitting so that gasoline doesn’t leak out and cause a hazard. Also, be sure to check the hose connection itself where it fastens onto your lawnmower tank because these can sometimes break off over time while mowing.
Remove and Clean the Float Bowl
If you’ve done all of this and still notice some gasoline sitting in the float bowl, then there is probably something blocking it up. The most common cause for this problem is a clog inside your carburetor, which needs to be removed with an automotive choke cleaner or another solvent that can dissolve gunk/debris without harming any internal engine parts.
Check Your Air Filter
In addition, be sure to check and clean your air filter if you still notice gasoline leaking into the float bowl. If there is a clog or obstruction in this component, gas could also get stuck while draining from your fuel tank.
