How to Get Water Out of a Lawnmower Gas Tank, step by step

Are you dealing with a waterlogged lawnmower gas tank? We’re here to help. Our clear and concise guide will have your lawnmower running smoothly again, ensuring optimal performance.

To get water out of a lawnmower gas tank, disconnect the spark plug for safety. Drain the contaminated fuel, dry the tank thoroughly, and empty the carburetor bowl. Please dispose of the gas safely, then refill it with fresh fuel. Consider additives. Prevent issues by storing properly indoors and maintaining consistently.

Need help with a waterlogged lawnmower gas tank? Our guide offers a clear path to restoring your lawnmower’s performance. Are you eager to learn more? Keep reading!

Get the water out of the lawnmower gas tank in 9 easy steps.

● Step 1: How to diagnose if there is water in your Lawnmower.

The first thing to do is to confirm that your lawnmower has water contamination in its gas tank. If your lawnmower has one (or more) of the following problems after being exposed to rain or a damp environment, there is a high chance it is caused by water in your gas tank:

– Hard Starting

Water is denser than gas, sinks at the bottom of the gas tank, and most lawnmower models draw gas from the tank’s bottom. Hence, when you start the lawnmower, the gas tank’s water will go into the carburetor before fuel and cause problems.

– Poor Performance

The engine will start fine when the fuel’s water quantity is insignificant. However, the water can perform poorly and will not accelerate when throttled.

– Continuously starting and sputtering

When the water in the fuel tank is in small amounts, the engine will start smoothly, but your mower may suddenly sputter, stall, or stop running. It may begin to happen again often, but the same thing may happen again.

– Fuel System Damage

If you notice any problems in the performance caused by the accumulated water in the lawnmower’s fuel system, check your engine as soon as possible. If you are too late, it may inflict significant damage to your engine. Over time, you can protect your lawnmower from any damage, such as corrosion or rust.

– Smoke coming from the engine

Sometimes, you may also notice an unusual amount of smoke from the engine, possibly due to poor combustion in the piston chamber.

● Step 2: Disconnect the spark plug.

The first thing you must do is remove the spark plug for safety purposes.

● Step 3:  Siphon the diluted gas from your gas lawn mower

The second step is to siphon the diluted gas out of the lawnmower. For this purpose, insert the siphon tube of a hand pump into the lawnmower’s gas tank. Insert the drain tube of the pump into the container where you will collect the diluted gas. Now, pump the device and extract all the gas from the tank.

● Step 4: Dry the tank

Although you have extracted the gas, a little water may still be attached to the walls inside the tank. So, carefully dry the tank with a dry piece of cloth, or you can also use compressed gas or spray it with a WD-40.

● Step 5: Drain the oil.

Now, the next step is to drain the oil. Tilt the mower by propping up the front of the mower on blocks. And put a collecting pan under the machine’s drain plug, located at the underside of the mower.

Unscrew the plug with a wrench, and wait for all the oil to drain into the pan. If there is no drain plug, lift the carburetor from the side on which the air filter or the carburetor is located and pour the oil out from the oil fill hole.

● Step 6: Empty the carburetor bowl

Now empty the carburetor bowl. It is a metal cylinder usually located on the side of the mower. Wipe thoroughly around the bowl with a dampened rag with carburetor cleaner to prevent the dirt from falling once removed.

Also, place a rag under the bowl to catch the liquid. There will be at least one set bolt present. If you find a second offset bolt, it is a drain plug.

If there is no drain plug, unscrew the bolt and pour out the carburetor bowl’s contents.

● Step 7: Dispose of all the diluted oil.

Collect all the diluted gas and the oil and dump them at the local hazardous waste recycling facility.

● Step 8: Refill the tank

Now reconnect the fuel line and refill the tank with fresh gasoline and engine oil.

● Step 9: Use a fuel additive to combat moisture in your tank

If you live in an area where moisture is a problem, using a fuel additive could be the right solution. An example of such a fuel additive is HEET. It is specially made to remove water from your gas tank.

This method may be more costly, but if it means you can avoid damage, your lawnmower will be avoiding it is more than worth it.

Note: Make sure there is more gas than water in your tank. Otherwise, the fuel additive will not work. Check the fuel additive manual for more information.

Related Questions:

1) How did the water get into my gas tank when I never left it in the rain?

Although your lawnmower has never been left out in the rain or may not have been in contact with water, water still condenses the gas tank.

This phenomenon occurs in the winter, usually when you leave your lawnmower in a damp and humid place.

For this issue, you should tightly close the opening of your tank so that no water can seep in. Also, try not to store your lawnmower in such places and try to buy a plastic cover for your lawnmower.

2) Why is my lawnmower oil milky?

If the oil color from your lawnmower is ‘whitish milky,’ then it is contaminated with water. The oil has a greenish-milky color because of the presence of antifreeze in it. If water is added to the oil due to water condensation in the engine, then the milky white color should disappear when you warm the landowner.

3) Are lawnmowers waterproof?

A lawnmower can not be completely waterproof. However, water can still be used to clean your lawnmowers. Landowners are designed to tolerate a little rain on the lawnmower’s engine.

After the rain, please turn on the mower and heat it for a few minutes. The engine’s heat evaporates the water and clears the moisture, protecting the motor from rust.

Remarks:

Although your lawnmower may be waterproof, water can still enter your lawnmower’s gas tank (by the causes mentioned above). The best way is to drain out the water-contaminated fuel and refill it with the new one.

The alternate yet slightly more expensive method is to use fuel additives. Both methods are fine; you should choose which fits your needs.

So, the best way to avoid this inconvenience is to keep your lawnmower in a dry place in winter. You can also buy a plastic cover to protect it and close the tank’s opening tightly. Taking serious precautions is better than facing severe damage to your machine or following a rigorous step to fix it.

The Impact of Water in a Gas Tank on a Mower

One of the serious problems that can impact the operation of your mower, potentially causing severe performance problems, is the presence of water in the gas tank.

The consequences of this issue can be long-term, causing lasting damage to your mower’s fuel system. The elements most susceptible to the damage include the tank, carburetor, and fuel lines. An important factor here is corrosion, which is often triggered by water.

• Recognizing Water Contamination in Your Mower’s Gas Tank

Water contamination is not always immediately apparent, but there are some symptoms to look out for. The general performance of your gas lawn mower can give away the presence of water in the gas tank. One notable symptom is hard starting.

If your mower requires excessive attempts to start and tends to stop and resume operation unexpectedly, water contamination in the gas tank may be the culprit. No matter the season, if you try to start the mower and it’s not working appropriately, it’s a sign to check the gas tank.

Poor performance in running mode is another evident symptom that should alert you to possible water contamination in the mower’s gas tank. This could be due to water in the fuel system.

• Addressing and Solving Water Contamination Issues

If you have recognized the symptoms of water contamination in your mower’s gas tank, it’s crucial to act promptly. The first step to rectify the issue is checking the gas tank for visible water globules. Upon ascertaining the presence of water, the next step is to drain the contaminated fuel from the tank.

It would be best if you also dried out the tank to rid the mower of the contaminated fuel entirely. This can be done using a small rag, compressed air, or even a little WD-40. The latter isn’t just handy for lubrication and acts as a water displacer.

But the process doesn’t end there. After successfully drying out the tank, the fuel line must be reconnected, and the tank should be refilled with fresh, uncontaminated gasoline.

• Dealing with Severe Water Contamination

In cases of extreme water contamination, it may mean that the tank and carburetor are too contaminated. If that is the situation, removing and thoroughly cleaning these parts is necessary. As part of this process, you should also check for any possible moisture in the combustion chamber.

Additionally, adding engine oil to the piston chamber is a good measure against future occurrences.

If you aren’t experienced with engine repair, seeking professional help is highly recommended. Mowers are complex machinery, and mishaps during repair can further complicate or worsen the existing issues.

• Preventing Future Water Contamination

Prevention, as always, is better than cure. It would be best to consider several preventative measures to prevent future water contamination. Firstly, it’s critical to store your mower in a protected environment. This will assist to minimize the risk of water exposure.

If placing the mower in a shielded environment isn’t possible, consider purchasing a plastic cover. This serves as an additional layer of protection, shielding the mower from elements.

More information on mower care and maintenance practices can be found at PennState Extension, a non-commercial educational website. This will help you take all necessary precautions to prevent water and other contaminants from entering your mower’s fuel system.

Remember that consistent care and maintenance for your mower can save you from high-cost repairs down the line. Always be vigilant about storing and using your mower to maximize its performance and lifespan.

A correctly functioning, well-maintained mower allows a much smoother lawn care experience. So, before working on your lawn, start your mower and check that it is functioning properly. Any water on the bottom of the mower or the gas lawn mower’s fuel system is a sign of water contamination. 

Since water can mess up the water supply to the engine in the mower, it’s essential to address this issue promptly.

• Water Entry in Lawnmower’s Gas Tank Through Condensation

It is not commonly known, but it is common for water to enter lawnmowers’ gas tanks. This ingress usually results from condensation inside lawnmower storage areas when they are damp or noticeably humid.

The temperature differences in such environments lead to condensation, facilitating water seepage into the gas tank. Therefore, storing your lawnmower in such places will not be conducive.

• Securely Closing the Gas Tank Opening

To prevent water ingress, make a conscious effort to close the gas tank’s opening securely. Sometimes, we overlook this detail, leaving the tank susceptible to seepage. It’s a simple but very effective way of safeguarding the mower against water damage.

• Dealing with Rainfall

Rainfall may seem harmless, but it can affect your lawnmower. While it can tolerate minimal rain on the engine, prolonged exposure could lead to rust. Therefore, always promptly dry the mower after it gets wet in rainfall. This practice helps keep rust and extend its durability in the long run.

• Identifying Water Contamination Through Oil Changes

Monitoring the oil in a lawnmower is a great way to detect water contamination. Usually, oil changes to a milky appearance if there’s water contamination. The National Ag Safety Database provides useful information on this and other safety issues.

• What Does a Greenish Color of Oil Suggest?

A peculiar color change you should look out for is green when you notice a greenish color in the oil, which typically indicates the presence of antifreeze, a coolant used to prevent overheating. Antifreeze should stay within the cooling system, so its presence in the oil is indeed a cause for concern.

• Draining Water-Contaminated Fuel

Upon finding water contamination in the fuel, one practical solution would be to drain the contaminated fuel entirely from the gas tank. After draining, re-fill the tank with new, uncontaminated fuel.

This practice aids in curbing the negative impact water-contaminated fuel may have on the functioning of the mower.

• Using Fuel Additives to Remove Water

You could also use fuel additives to remove water from your lawnmower’s gas tank. Available in most auto parts stores, these specially designed additives separate the water from the gas.

Consequently, this allows for easy water removal, preventing damage to your lawn mower’s system.

• Storage Tips during Winter Months

Winter months are notorious for their heightened humidity levels. During this time, endeavor to store your lawnmower in dry, ideally indoor, places. For added protection, consider using a plastic cover to shield it from any water droplets in the air.

• Neglect of Water in Gas Tank and its Repercussions

Ignoring the water issue in your lawnmower’s gas tank can have daunting consequences. Over time, it can instigate severe damage to various parts of the mower, which include the tank itself, the fuel lines, and the carburetor, primarily through corrosion.

Stay vigilant about this and prevent annoying repairs and replacements.

• Remarks

Care & maintenance of your lawnmower goes beyond regular servicing and oil changes. Keeping it dry, storing it properly, and paying attention to changes in the oil’s appearance are critical. Remember these points to extend your equipment’s life and ensure its optimal performance.

The Ethanol Effect: Water in Your Lawnmower’s Gas Tank

As a veteran gardener and lawnmower enthusiast, I have often encountered a recurring problem faced by many – water in the gasoline tank of your lawnmower. Unbeknownst to many, ethanol-containing gasoline is a prime participant in water contamination in lawnmower gas tanks.

During alcohol fermentation, ethanol is mixed with gasoline to create a cleaner burning fuel source. But there’s a dark side to this sustainable practice – it readily absorbs water, potentially harming your lawnmower.

I recommend using ethanol-free gas for your lawnmower, available at specialized retail outlets.

• Uncovered Gas Cap: An Overlooked Culprit

Another usual suspect regarding water in lawnmower fuel tanks is a missing or loose gas cap. Extended periods without a cap allow moisture from the atmosphere to seep in.

As an experienced operator, I cannot stress enough the importance of adequately securing the lawnmower and storage cap, as a simple oversight can cause unnecessary frustrations and equipment damage.

• Recognizing Signs of Water Contamination

Knowledge is the key to prevention. Understanding the symptoms of water contamination can save you time, money, and headaches. The most characteristic signs include difficulty starting the lawnmower or unusual spluttering before it eventually cuts out.

Furthermore, poor engine performance characterized by a constant shift in revving speed can also indicate water in the tank.

Learn more about the signs and symptoms of water in your gas tank.

• Remedial Action: Removing or Dispersing the Water

Upon detecting water in the tank, swift action is critical. There are two options available to rectify this issue. The first involves removing the fuel tank, cleaning it, and refilling it with fresh gas. I recommend this method, as it effectively eliminates all traces of water.

An alternative solution involves the use of isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol. Adding this to the fuel tank can help evaporate the existing water. However, remember to exercise caution, as not all lawnmower engines are designed to burn it.

• Important Precautions: Disposal and Damage Prevention

From disposing of the old gas and water to using alcohol in your tank – remember to practice caution at every step. Used gas and water should be disposed of following your local guidelines. You can check the Environmental Protection Agency’s guidelines on safe disposal of gasoline.

Adding isopropyl alcohol can be pretty abrasive for some engines. Therefore, familiarize yourself with your lawnmower’s specifications before doing so. As a seasoned expert in this field, I advise checking the user manual as your first step.

• Maintaining Functionality: Evict the Water

A word of caution – water not only affects the performance of your lawnmower but also leads to potential damage through corrosion.

Therefore, swift remediation is crucial at the first signs of water in the fuel tank. Remember that preserving the lawnmower’s functionality isn’t a one-time effort; it’s a combination of regular check-ups, early problem detection, and appropriate steps for correction.

For garden lovers like myself who pride themselves on a well-maintained lawn, these pointers could make the difference between a smooth-functioning lawnmower and a frustratingly unproductive one.

• The Impact of Water Contamination on Your Lawnmower’s Gas Tank

Water contamination in your lawnmower’s gas tank can lead to severe issues such as hard starting, poor performance, sputtering, and, in some cases, fuel system damage. Consequently, it’s crucial to tackle this problem promptly and effectively.

• Initial Precautions

Before delving into fixing the water contamination issue, an important safety measure is disconnecting the spark plug. This reduces the risk of accidental ignition or injury as you work on the device.

• Draining Off the Diluted Gas

For the actual draining process, everyday tools like a hand pump can be used to siphon the diluted gas out of the lawnmower. Environmentally safe disposal of polluted gas is critical.

Many local hazardous waste recycling facilities accept diluted gasoline. You can find more information about this on EPA’s hazardous waste web page.

• Drying the Interior

After siphoning the gas, it’s paramount to dry the tank thoroughly. A dry cloth, compressed gas, or even something like WD-40 could be used for drying.

• Draining the Oil

This becomes an essential step, especially in cases where the water contamination is severe. To drain the oil from the lawnmower, you can tilt it, remove the drain plug, or lift the carburetor to pour it out. Milky or whitish oil is typically an indication of water contamination.

• The Importance of Cleaning the Carburetor

Additionally, emptying the carburetor bowl is another crucial step. Various components in the carburetor may possess set bolts or drain plugs, and undoing these will help pour out the contents directly.

• Filling the Tank with Fresh Gasoline

Upon completely drying and emptying the tank, it must be filled with fresh gasoline and engine oil.

• The Use of Fuel Additives

An effective moisture-combating trick for me is using fuel additives like HEET. Not only does it remove any existing water content, but it also prevents future water contamination.

• The Source of the Water Contamination

The issue of water contamination might seem irrelevant if you’ve never left your lawnmower in the rain. However, condensation can be a significant culprit for water entering the lawnmower’s gas tank.

• The Importance of Proper Storage

For this reason, ensuring that your lawnmower is parked in a dry place during the winter is crucial. While lawnmowers are designed to tolerate some rain, they are not entirely waterproof. Thus, taking precautions to prevent water infiltration is essential to their longevity.

• The Pursuit of a Water-Free Fuel System

The importance of completely removing water from the fuel system cannot be overstressed. Thoroughly doing so not only prevents damage but also ensures the smooth and efficient functioning of the lawnmower.

In conclusion, the effects of water contamination in a lawnmower’s fuel system can be severe. Therefore, proactive steps should be taken to prevent it, and reactive measures should be implemented promptly once it occurs.

Remember, the longevity of your lawnmower is significantly dependent on its upkeep and care.

The Importance of Fuel Stabilizers in Lawnmower Fuel Storage

Fuel stabilizers play a crucial role in maintaining the quality of your lawnmower’s fuel during extended storage periods. Over time, fuel breakdown may occur, causing major engine problems. Adding fuel stabilizers is a preventive measure that acts against fuel degradation.

It’s an effective way of deterring water contamination, especially during more extended storage periods.

• Securing the Gas Cap

The gas cap is a small yet mighty component of your lawnmower’s fuel storage. This part meets the tank opening and locks into place, acting as a cover. But more than that, it prevents water from infiltrating the gas tank.

Properly securing the gas cap is one safeguard against water intrusion. A loosely fitted or missing gas cap may expose your tank’s contents to the elements and allow water entrance.

• Water Damage to the Fuel System

Water-contaminated fuel can spell disaster for your lawnmower’s fuel system. Water intruding into the system can lead to a clogged fuel filter, fuel lines, and carburetors – a recipe for poor engine performance.

Essentially, it’s about avoiding contamination at all costs. A clean, efficient, and long-performing fuel system is the antidote to any lawn mower mechanical nightmare.

• How Water Enters Gas Tank

Storage conditions are a significant factor leading to water entering the gas tank. Condensation can form when a lawnmower is stored in damp or humid locations. This condensation may seep into the gas tank, leading to contaminated fuel.

The U.S. Department of Energy highlights the adverse effects of water on fuel systems (more info here).

• Identifying Water Infiltration Signs

Hard starting, poor engine performance, and excess smoke with a fuel smell are signs of water in the gas tank. A properly functioning lawnmower shouldn’t exhibit such signs. When your lawnmower’s behavior deviates from the norm, it’s a clear sign to check for possible water contamination in your gas tank.

• Removing Water from the Gas Tank

If water infiltrates your lawnmower’s fuel system, it is crucial to act fast. First, ensure safety by disconnecting the spark plug. Then, remove the gas tank, fuel lines, and carburetor.

Drain the contaminated fuel and allow the gas tank to dry completely. As for the carburetor and fuel lines, clean the carburetor bowl and fuel lines thoroughly to ensure no contamination residue remains.

• Safe Disposal of Contaminated Fuel

After draining the contaminated fuel, it is crucial to dispose of it safely. Never dump it down the drain or into the soil. This is hazardous and can harm the environment. A local hazardous waste disposal facility can help properly dispose of such waste.

• Refilling Gas Tank and Using Fuel Additive

After water removal from the gas tank, refilling should be done with fresh gasoline. A fuel additive that combats moisture is recommended. This is a final shield against any residual moisture that may still exist in the system.

• Prevention is Key: Storage and Maintenance

Preventive measures cannot be overstated when it comes to maintaining the health and longevity of your lawnmower. Storing the lawnmower in a dry location and performing regular maintenance are steps toward preventing water contamination in the fuel tank in the first place.

Remember, your lawnmower is a significant investment. A chalked-out prevention and maintenance protocol will save you from potential expenses towards repairs or new purchases and ensure your lawnmower serves you well through the years.