Last fall, I made the mistake of leaving gas in my lawnmower all winter. Spring came, and the mower wouldn’t start! It was a frustrating and expensive lesson. This post will answer the burning question: can I leave gas in my lawn mower over winter? We’ll explore the risks, benefits, and best practices for storing your lawn mower to ensure it’s ready to go when you are.
Gas Stabilization and Your Lawn Mower
This section details the process of gas stabilization and its importance in preventing issues related to leaving gas in your lawn mower over winter. We’ll look at the chemical changes that occur in gasoline over time and how they impact your engine’s performance.
Understanding Gasoline Degradation
Gasoline is a volatile mixture of hydrocarbons that begins to degrade as soon as it’s refined. This degradation is accelerated by exposure to air, light, and heat. Over time, the lighter hydrocarbons evaporate, leaving behind a gummy residue that can clog your carburetor or fuel lines. This is especially true in older gas which may contain ethanol.
- Evaporation: The lighter components of gasoline evaporate quickly, especially in warmer months. This leaves behind a more viscous fuel.
- Oxidation: Exposure to air causes the gasoline to oxidize, forming gums and varnishes that can clog fuel systems.
- Ethanol Content: Modern gasoline often contains ethanol, which absorbs water from the air. This water can lead to corrosion and freezing in the fuel system during winter.
Stabilizing Gasoline for Winter Storage
Gas stabilizers are additives designed to prevent or slow down the degradation process. These additives create a protective barrier around the fuel molecules, preventing oxidation and evaporation.
- How to Use a Stabilizer: Add the stabilizer to your gas tank according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Usually, this is a simple ratio of stabilizer to gasoline.
- Benefits of Using a Stabilizer: Using a stabilizer significantly reduces the risk of gumming and varnishing in your fuel system, ensuring your mower starts reliably in the spring.
The Risks of Leaving Gas in Your Lawn Mower Over Winter
This section highlights the potential problems that can arise from leaving gas in your lawn mower over the winter. We’ll examine the most common issues, providing solutions and preventive measures.
Fuel System Clogging
The most common problem is the formation of gums and varnish in the fuel system. These deposits can clog the carburetor jets, fuel lines, and fuel filter, preventing the engine from starting or running smoothly. A clogged carburetor can be expensive and time-consuming to clean or replace.
Engine Damage from Old Gas
Old, degraded gasoline can damage various engine components. The gummy residue can accumulate on internal parts, leading to decreased performance, increased wear and tear, and eventually, engine failure. This could render your lawnmower unusable.
- Carburetor Damage: Gum and varnish buildup can severely damage or even completely block the carburetor, requiring a costly repair or replacement.
- Fuel Line Blockage: Fuel lines can become clogged, preventing fuel from reaching the engine. This results in an engine that won’t start or runs poorly.
- Fuel Filter Clogging: The fuel filter can trap some of the debris, but eventually, it will become clogged, restricting fuel flow to the engine.
Preparing Your Lawn Mower for Winter Storage
This section provides step-by-step instructions on how to properly prepare your lawnmower for winter storage. We’ll cover draining the fuel, cleaning the mower, and other essential steps to ensure its longevity.
Draining the Fuel Tank
The best way to avoid problems is to drain the fuel tank completely before storing your lawn mower. This eliminates the risk of gas degradation and the associated problems. You can use a siphon pump or carefully drain the fuel into a suitable container.
Cleaning and Maintaining Your Lawn Mower
Before storing, clean your lawn mower thoroughly. Remove any grass clippings or debris from the deck and other areas. Sharpen the blades if necessary. A clean mower is less prone to rust and corrosion during winter storage.
- Blade Sharpening: Sharp blades ensure efficient cutting and reduce the strain on the engine. Dull blades require more power to operate and can lead to premature wear.
- Deck Cleaning: Thoroughly clean the underside of the mower deck to remove any grass clippings that can cause rust or other damage.
- General Cleaning: Wipe down the entire mower with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris.
Storing Your Lawn Mower Properly
Store your lawn mower in a dry, well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Cover it with a tarp or mower cover to protect it from dust and the elements. Avoid storing it in damp garages or sheds.
Alternatives to Draining the Fuel: Using Fuel Stabilizer
While draining the fuel tank is the most reliable method, using a high-quality fuel stabilizer is a viable alternative. This method prevents the gasoline from degrading, allowing you to keep the fuel in the tank over winter.
Choosing a Fuel Stabilizer
Not all fuel stabilizers are created equal. Look for a stabilizer specifically designed for small engines and that is rated for long-term storage (e.g., 6+ months). Read the instructions carefully and follow them precisely.
Proper Use of Fuel Stabilizer
Always add the fuel stabilizer to the fuel tank *before* storing the mower. Run the engine for a few minutes after adding the stabilizer to ensure it circulates throughout the fuel system. A good stabilizer can prevent fuel issues for up to 6 months.
- Brand Selection: Several reputable brands offer excellent fuel stabilizers; research customer reviews to find a reliable product.
- Storage Conditions: Even with a stabilizer, proper storage is crucial. Store the mower in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated space.
- Engine Run Time: After adding the stabilizer, run the engine for several minutes to ensure the stabilizer is distributed throughout the fuel system.
Debunking Myths About Leaving Gas in a Lawn Mower Over Winter
Myth 1: A little bit of old gas won’t hurt.
Even a small amount of old gas can cause problems. The gummy residue can still clog fuel lines and carburetor jets, even if the quantity seems insignificant.
Myth 2: Ethanol-free gasoline prevents problems.
While ethanol-free gas does degrade more slowly than gasoline containing ethanol, it’s still subject to deterioration over time. Proper storage practices are still necessary, especially for long-term storage (over the winter).
Myth 3: Adding fresh gas will solve the problem.
Mixing fresh gas with old, degraded gas does not solve the problem. The old gas will still contain gummy residues that can cause issues. It’s best to use fresh gas, stabilized, or to drain the old gas completely.
FAQ
Can I leave gas in my lawn mower over winter if it’s a new mower?
While a new mower might seem less susceptible, it’s still best practice to either drain the fuel tank or use a fuel stabilizer. Preventing fuel problems from the start is always better than dealing with them later.
What happens if I accidentally leave gas in my lawn mower all winter?
You may experience difficulty starting the mower, poor running performance, or even complete engine failure. You might need a costly carburetor cleaning or replacement.
How long can I leave stabilized gas in my lawn mower?
The effectiveness of a fuel stabilizer varies depending on the product and storage conditions. Most stabilizers are effective for 6 months; check your product’s label.
Is it better to drain the gas or use a stabilizer?
Draining the gas is the most reliable method to prevent issues. However, using a high-quality stabilizer is a good alternative if draining isn’t possible.
Can I reuse the drained gasoline?
It’s generally not recommended. The drained gasoline likely contains contaminants. Dispose of it properly according to local regulations.
What if I have a small amount of gas left in the tank?
Even a small amount of gasoline can cause problems over winter. It’s still best to drain the tank or add stabilizer to prevent potential issues.
What type of container should I use to store drained gasoline?
Use an approved, sealed, and appropriately labeled container designed for storing gasoline. Check with your local regulations for proper disposal and storage techniques.
Final Thoughts
Proper lawn mower winterization is crucial for ensuring its longevity and reliable performance in the spring. While the question of can I leave gas in my lawn mower over winter? is a common one, the answer leans towards no, unless you use a fuel stabilizer. By draining the fuel tank or using a high-quality stabilizer and following the steps outlined in this post, you can avoid costly repairs and ensure your mower is ready to tackle your lawn next spring. So, take action now and protect your investment!
