Yes, you can do it yourself – learning how to remove gas from a snowblower is a key skill for spring storage. I’ll show you the safe, simple ways to get old fuel out of your machine.
Old gas left in the tank can cause big problems. It turns into a gummy mess that clogs the carburetor. This leads to a machine that won’t start when you need it most.
I’ve had to fix this issue many times for friends. It’s a common headache after a long summer. The good news is that the fix is pretty easy.
This guide will walk you through each step. You’ll learn the tools you need and the tricks I use. Let’s get that stale fuel out of your snowblower.
Why You Need to Remove Old Gas
Gasoline doesn’t last forever in a small engine. It starts to break down after about 30 days. This process is called fuel oxidation.
The ethanol in modern gas attracts water from the air. This water mixes with the fuel in your tank. It creates a nasty sludge that gums up everything.
That gunk clogs the tiny passages in your carburetor. Your engine can’t get the fuel it needs to run. You’ll pull the starter cord over and over with no luck.
Fixing a clogged carburetor costs money and time. It’s much easier to just remove the gas before storage. This simple act saves you a huge headache later.
Think of it as spring cleaning for your snowblower. It’s a small job with a big payoff. Your machine will thank you next winter.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, proper fuel management is key for small engine care. It helps your equipment last longer and run cleaner.
Tools You’ll Need to Get Started
You don’t need fancy tools for this job. Most items are probably already in your garage. Let’s gather everything before we start.
First, you need a safe container for the old fuel. Use a clean gas can or a metal fuel pan. Make sure it’s clearly marked so no one uses the bad gas by mistake.
You’ll need a siphon pump or a turkey baster. A simple hand pump siphon works great. It’s cheap and you can find it at any auto parts store.
Grab some clean rags or paper towels too. Fuel spills happen, even when you’re careful. Have them ready to wipe up any drips right away.
Wear safety glasses and gloves. Gasoline is harsh on your skin and eyes. A little protection makes the job much safer.
Work in a well-ventilated area like an open garage. Never do this job indoors or near any open flame. Gas fumes are very flammable.
That’s really all you need. The whole setup costs less than twenty bucks. It’s a small price to pay for a running snowblower.
How to Remove Gas from Snowblower with a Siphon
Using a siphon is the easiest method for most people. It’s my go-to way to get fuel out. Let me walk you through the steps.
First, move your snowblower to a flat, level spot. Make sure the engine is completely cool. You don’t want to work on a hot machine.
Place your empty gas can on the ground next to it. The can needs to be lower than the snowblower’s fuel tank. This height difference lets gravity help the siphon work.
Insert the siphon tube into the snowblower’s gas tank. Push it all the way to the bottom. You want to get every last drop of old fuel out.
Pump the siphon bulb a few times to start the flow. You’ll see fuel begin moving through the clear tube. Let it drain completely into your gas can.
This is the core of how to remove gas from a snowblower. The siphon does the hard work for you. Just make sure the tube stays in the tank until it’s empty.
Once the flow stops, remove the siphon tube. Wipe any drips from the tank opening with a rag. You’ve now got an empty fuel system ready for storage.
The Manual Drain Plug Method
Some snowblower models have a handy drain plug. It’s usually a small bolt on the bottom of the fuel tank. This gives you a direct drain path.
Check your owner’s manual first. It will show if your machine has this feature. Look for a diagram of the fuel system parts.
Place your drain pan directly under the plug. You need to catch all the fuel that comes out. A baking sheet or disposable aluminum pan works well here.
Use the correct size wrench to loosen the drain plug. Turn it slowly counter-clockwise. Be ready for fuel to start flowing out immediately.
Let all the gas drain out completely. This might take a minute or two. Be patient and let the tank empty fully.
Once it stops dripping, wipe the area clean. Tighten the drain plug back up snugly. Don’t over-tighten it or you might strip the threads.
This method is very effective for how to remove gas from a snowblower. It’s a bit messier than a siphon but gets the job done. Just be prepared with plenty of rags.
Using a Turkey Baster for Small Amounts
What if you only have a little gas left in the tank? A turkey baster can be a quick fix. It’s perfect for those last few ounces.
This works best for tanks that are already mostly empty. Maybe you ran the engine dry last season. You just need to remove the final bit of old fuel.
Get a brand new baster from the store. Don’t use one from your kitchen drawer. Dedicate it to garage use only.
Squeeze the bulb and insert the tip into the tank. Release the bulb slowly to suck up the fuel. It will fill the baster’s tube.
Transfer the fuel to your disposal container. Squeeze the bulb over the can’s opening. Repeat until you can’t get any more liquid out.
It’s a slow way to learn how to remove gas from a snowblower. But it works in a pinch with no special tools. Just takes a bit more time and effort.
Clean the baster well with soap and water after. Store it with your other small engine tools. You’ll use it again next year.
What to Do With the Old Gasoline
You can’t just pour old gas down the drain. It’s bad for the environment and likely illegal in your area. You need to dispose of it the right way.
Check with your local waste management department. Many towns have hazardous waste collection days. They’ll take old gasoline and oil for free.
Some auto parts stores also take used fuel. Call ahead to ask about their policy. They might charge a small fee for disposal.
Never mix gasoline with other fluids like oil. Keep it separate in its own container. Mixed fluids are much harder to recycle properly.
Label your gas can clearly. Write “OLD GAS – DO NOT USE” on it with a marker. This prevents any dangerous mix-ups in your garage.
The EPA Household Hazardous Waste page has good info on disposal. They list proper methods for getting rid of old fuels. It’s worth a quick look.
Proper disposal is the final step in how to remove gas from a snowblower. Do it right and you help keep our water clean. It’s the responsible thing to do.
Prepping Your Snowblower After Fuel Removal
The tank is empty now. But you’re not quite done yet. A few extra steps will protect your engine all summer.
Consider adding a fuel stabilizer to the tank. Pour in a small amount made for small engines. This coats the inside parts and prevents rust.
Run the engine for a minute to circulate the stabilizer. It will reach the carburetor and fuel lines. This gives you full protection.
After you run it, you can siphon this treated fuel out too. Or just leave it in over the summer. The stabilizer keeps it fresh.
Change the engine oil if it’s due. Old oil contains acids that can damage engine parts. Fresh oil sits much better during storage.
Clean the whole machine with a damp cloth. Get rid of any salt or dirt buildup. A clean snowblower stores better and looks nicer.
Store it in a dry place off the concrete floor. Put a piece of wood under the wheels if you can. This prevents flat spots on the tires.
These steps go beyond just how to remove gas from a snowblower. They ensure your machine wakes up happy next winter. A little extra care pays off big time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
I’ve seen people make simple errors during this process. These mistakes can cause damage or create safety risks. Let’s go through what not to do.
Never use your mouth to start a siphon. Gasoline is toxic and you could swallow some. Always use a pump-style siphon instead.
Don’t work near any source of spark or flame. This includes water heaters and pilot lights. Gas fumes travel far and can ignite easily.
Avoid using dirty containers for the old fuel. Contaminants in the can will cause problems later. Always use a clean, dedicated fuel container.
Don’t forget to check the fuel filter if your model has one. It might be clogged with old gas gunk. Replace it while the system is empty.
Never store a snowblower with gas in the tank untreated. This is the number one cause of spring starting problems. Always use stabilizer or remove the fuel completely.
These tips will help you master how to remove gas from a snowblower safely. Good habits prevent accidents and damage. Your future self will thank you.
When to Call a Professional
Most times, you can handle this job yourself. But sometimes you might need a pro’s help. Here’s when to make that call.
If the fuel tank has visible damage or cracks, don’t try to drain it. Leaking gas is a major fire hazard. A small engine shop can replace the tank safely.
Call for help if the drain plug is stripped or stuck. Forcing it can break the tank. A technician has special tools to remove it without damage.
Consider professional service if the carburetor is already clogged. They can clean it thoroughly in an ultrasonic bath. This gets it cleaner than you can at home.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has rules for fuel handling. Professionals follow these safety standards closely. It’s their job to know the risks.
If you’re just not comfortable working with gasoline, that’s okay. There’s no shame in paying for this service. Many shops offer winterization packages that include fuel removal.
Knowing when to call for help is part of learning how to remove gas from a snowblower. Your safety always comes first. A pro can get it done quickly if you’re unsure.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I remove gas from my snowblower?
Do it at the end of every winter season. Don’t let gas sit in the tank all summer long. This yearly habit keeps your carburetor clean.
Can I leave fuel in if I add stabilizer?
Yes, a good stabilizer can keep fuel fresh for months. But I still recommend running the tank dry or removing the gas. It’s the safest bet for easy starts.
What if I forgot and the gas is already old?
You need to learn how to remove gas from a snowblower now. Drain the old fuel completely and add fresh gas. You might need to clean the carburetor if it won
