How to Safely Drain the Gas from Your Generator: Tank and Carburetor

Generators are invaluable tools for powering homes during outages, running tools on job sites, and enjoying the great outdoors. However, like any piece of machinery, they require proper maintenance, and one critical aspect is managing the fuel system. Leaving gasoline in your generator’s tank and carburetor for extended periods can lead to several issues, including fuel degradation, gum and varnish buildup, and potential starting problems. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the necessary steps to safely and effectively drain the fuel from both the gas tank and carburetor of your generator. Whether you’re preparing your generator for long-term storage or addressing fuel-related issues, following these instructions will help you keep your generator running smoothly and reliably.

Why is Draining Your Generator’s Fuel Necessary?

Before we dive into the ‘how,’ let’s understand the ‘why.’ Gasoline, especially when left sitting, is not a stable substance. It can degrade over time, leading to several problems:

• Fuel Degradation: Gasoline can lose its volatility and become less effective at igniting, making your generator difficult to start or causing it to run poorly.
• Gum and Varnish Buildup: As gasoline degrades, it can leave behind sticky residues that clog fuel lines, carburetor jets, and other crucial components. This buildup can severely impact performance and even require costly repairs.
• Water Absorption: Gasoline can absorb moisture from the air, leading to rust and corrosion within the fuel system. Water in the fuel can also cause issues with combustion.
• Ethanol Problems: Modern gasoline often contains ethanol, which can attract moisture and cause further degradation and problems in older or infrequently used engines.

By draining the fuel from your generator, you can prevent these problems and ensure your generator is ready to perform when you need it most. This is particularly important if you plan to store your generator for an extended period or if you notice issues related to old or contaminated fuel.

Safety First: Before You Begin

Working with gasoline requires caution. Follow these safety guidelines meticulously:

• Work in a Well-Ventilated Area: Gasoline fumes are flammable and can be harmful to inhale. Work outdoors or in a well-ventilated space.
• No Smoking or Open Flames: Keep all sources of ignition away from the work area. This includes cigarettes, lighters, and any electrical equipment that might produce sparks.
• Wear Protective Gear: Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from splashes and gloves to protect your skin from gasoline.
• Have a Spill Kit Ready: Keep a spill kit handy in case of accidental spills. This kit should include absorbent materials like kitty litter or paper towels, and a container for disposing of the contaminated materials.
• Turn Off the Generator and Let It Cool: Ensure the generator is completely turned off and has had ample time to cool down before beginning any work. Working on a hot engine can be dangerous and cause burns.
• Refer to Your Generator’s Manual: Always consult your specific generator’s owner’s manual for any specific instructions or warnings related to fuel draining.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Before starting, gather the following tools and materials:

• Approved Gasoline Container: Use an approved gasoline container for safely storing the drained fuel.
• Funnel: A funnel will help you pour the gasoline without spills.
• Siphon Pump (Optional): A siphon pump can make the fuel draining process easier and reduce the risk of spills.
• Wrench (Usually a Socket Wrench): For removing drain plugs on the fuel tank and/or carburetor.
• Rag or Shop Towels: To wipe up any spills.
• Flat-Head Screwdriver: May be needed for the carburetor drain screw.
• Container for Carburetor Fuel: A small, disposable container to catch the fuel drained from the carburetor.
• Optional: Fuel Stabilizer: If you are planning to store the generator, adding fuel stabilizer to the remaining fuel can help prevent future issues.

Step-by-Step Guide to Draining Your Generator’s Fuel Tank

The first step is to drain the gasoline from the fuel tank. Here’s how to do it safely:

1. Locate the Fuel Tank Drain Plug: The drain plug is typically located at the bottom of the fuel tank. Check your generator’s manual if you are unsure of its location. It might be a threaded plug or a bolt head.
2. Position Your Approved Fuel Container: Place the approved fuel container under the drain plug. Use a funnel to direct the fuel into the container and prevent spills.
3. Loosen the Drain Plug: Using the appropriate wrench, carefully loosen the drain plug. Don’t remove it completely just yet. You want to ensure that you are ready for the fuel to begin draining and the container is in the correct position.
4. Remove the Drain Plug and Allow Fuel to Drain: Completely remove the drain plug, allowing the fuel to flow into the container. Be careful not to let the plug drop into the container of fuel.
5. Optional: Siphon if No Drain Plug: Some generators do not have a drain plug. In these cases, a siphon pump is helpful. Insert one end of the siphon hose into the fuel tank and the other end into the approved container. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your siphon pump to begin drawing fuel out of the tank.
6. Drain Completely: Allow all the fuel to drain from the tank. You may need to gently tilt the generator to help remove the last bit of fuel.
7. Inspect the Drain Plug: Examine the drain plug for any signs of damage or wear. Replace if necessary.
8. Reinstall the Drain Plug: Once all the fuel is drained, reinstall the drain plug and tighten it securely. Be careful not to overtighten as this can damage the tank.
9. Wipe Up Any Spills: Use rags or shop towels to clean up any spilled fuel.
10. Properly Dispose of Fuel: Take the fuel to an appropriate disposal center or recycle it as you see fit. Never pour gasoline down the drain or onto the ground.

Step-by-Step Guide to Draining Your Generator’s Carburetor

After draining the fuel tank, it’s crucial to drain the fuel from the carburetor. The carburetor is the component that mixes fuel and air, and any fuel left in it can quickly degrade and cause issues. Here’s how to drain the carburetor:

1. Locate the Carburetor Drain Screw: The drain screw is typically located at the bottom of the carburetor bowl. It may resemble a small screw or bolt. Consult your generator’s manual if you’re unsure of its exact location.
2. Position a Container Under the Drain Screw: Place a small, disposable container under the carburetor drain screw to collect the drained fuel.
3. Loosen the Drain Screw: Use a flat-head screwdriver or wrench to carefully loosen the drain screw. Do not completely remove the screw, as sometimes they are held in place with an O-ring. Loosen enough to allow the fuel to flow.
4. Allow Fuel to Drain: Allow all the fuel from the carburetor bowl to drain into the container. This may take a few minutes.
5. Optional: Tap the Carburetor: Gently tapping the side of the carburetor can help to dislodge any remaining fuel and ensure it drains completely.
6. Tighten the Drain Screw: Once all the fuel has drained, tighten the drain screw securely, but do not overtighten it.
7. Wipe Up Any Spills: Use a rag or shop towel to wipe up any spilled fuel.
8. Properly Dispose of Fuel: Dispose of the collected fuel safely and responsibly, according to your local regulations.

Additional Steps for Long-Term Storage

If you are preparing your generator for long-term storage, consider taking these additional steps:

• Add Fuel Stabilizer: Add a fuel stabilizer to the remaining fuel in the tank, following the product instructions. This can help to prevent fuel degradation and buildup during storage. It is best to run the generator for 5-10 minutes after adding the stabilizer to ensure it circulates throughout the fuel system. Then, turn off the generator again and follow all previous draining instructions.
• Run the Generator Until Fuel Depleted: In some situations, it may be beneficial to run the generator until the fuel in the tank is completely depleted. This requires careful monitoring of the generator to prevent damage from running with no fuel. Consult your owners manual first.
• Store in a Dry Place: Store your generator in a clean, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Cover the Generator: Use a generator cover to protect it from dust, dirt, and moisture.
• Change the Oil: If you’re putting the generator away for an extended period, it’s often a good idea to change the engine oil to prevent the build-up of any corrosive materials.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter any problems while draining your generator’s fuel, here are a few things to check:

• Drain Plug is Stuck: If the drain plug is stuck, try applying a small amount of penetrating oil to help loosen it. Be careful not to apply too much force and damage the plug or the tank.
• Carburetor Drain Screw is Stripped: If the carburetor drain screw is stripped, you may need to use a special tool to remove it, or you may need to replace the carburetor.
• Fuel is Not Draining: If fuel is not draining from the fuel tank or carburetor, make sure the drain plug or screw is not blocked, and also check that the fuel cap vent is clear. Also ensure you have removed both the drain plug and screw.

Regular Maintenance for a Healthy Generator

Draining your generator’s fuel is an essential maintenance task, but it’s not the only one. Regular maintenance will keep your generator running smoothly and reliably. Here are a few other things to do:

• Check Oil Levels Regularly: Keep your oil at the proper level as it is critical for engine lubrication.
• Clean or Replace Air Filter: A clogged air filter can affect performance and reduce efficiency.
• Check Spark Plug: Inspect and clean or replace the spark plug as needed.
• Inspect and Clean Regularly: Check your generator for any loose bolts, worn wires, and any other damage.
• Perform Run Test Regularly: Run your generator for at least a few minutes every few months to ensure all systems are in good working order. This also keeps the moving parts lubricated and prevents them from sticking.
• Review your owner’s manual: The owner’s manual will provide specific maintenance recommendations and schedule for your particular model.

Conclusion

Draining the gas from your generator’s tank and carburetor might seem like a tedious task, but it is a necessary maintenance procedure that will help ensure your generator’s long-term reliability. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can effectively prevent fuel-related issues and keep your generator in top working condition. Remember to always prioritize safety, consult your generator’s manual, and perform regular maintenance to keep your generator running smoothly for years to come. By adhering to these practices, you’ll be well-prepared when the next power outage strikes or when you need reliable power on the job or in the great outdoors.