Should You Drain Gas From Your Lawn Mower Before Winter?

When cooler weather rolls in, lawns stop growing — but your mower still needs one last bit of attention.

 

Experts at Martha Stewart and local repair shops agree: draining or stabilizing the fuel before winter can save you hundreds in repairs come spring.

 

Why It Matters

 

Gasoline left sitting in your tank for months can break down and form sticky residue.

 

That residue clogs small engine parts, making your mower sputter or refuse to start.

 

By emptying the tank or adding a fuel stabilizer, you prevent that costly mess.

 

Easy Maintenance for Every Homeowner:

1. Run your mower until the tank is nearly empty.

2. Drain remaining fuel or add stabilizer.

3. Clean the deck and replace the air filter if needed.

4. Store it in a dry, covered area.

 

This 15-minute chore can extend your mower’s lifespan for years.

 

Local Experts Agree

 

Van Buren’s small-engine mechanics say most spring repairs come from old gas issues. “People forget to prep, then pay for it later,” one shop owner noted.

 

The Takeaway

 

Before the holidays arrive, give your mower a quick tune-up and say goodbye to fuel problems next season.