Warren, OH -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/09/2015 -- When a lawn mower or snow blower is stored, it is important to know what to do with the gasoline that remains in the gas tank or storage container. Depending on how old the gas is, it may not be viable when the next season rolls around.

According to the EPA website:

"Winterizing is important because gasoline left in an engine's fuel tank and carburetor can degrade over time. During storage, gasoline can interact with air and moisture to form gums and deposits. Therefore you should not store gasoline in the engine's fuel tank for any inactive periods longer than one to two months."

Because of the increasing concerns about ethanol found in gasoline, it is recommended that fuel be used or disposed of as soon as possible. Ethanol can cause general equipment damage and starting problems because it attracts water and degrading components.

When fuel is relatively new, it can likely be reused for the next season. Proper treatment and storage methods for gasoline may extend its life. Fuel additives like Ethanol Shield™ will stabilize gasoline and prevent water damage. Secondly, it is best to minimize air space in gas tanks and storage containers by filling them as full as possible with fresh gasoline; this will reduce the amount of air that reacts with fuel.

If the gas is currently usable but won't be by the next season, it is best to remove the fuel altogether and either dispose of it or use it immediately in other equipment. Upon removal following the manufacturer's recommended method, the gasoline can be taken to a certified facility to be discarded. The EPA recommends gasoline that has not been mixed with oil can be added to your vehicle's gas tank so that it is not wasted.

Degraded gasoline does not burn as efficiently and can cause wear to an engine. Gas that has been stored for several months or more has reached the end of its useful life and should be removed from the equipment. Once removed, it should be placed in approved storage containers and taken to a disposal center. Fuel should never be placed in the garbage, poured into drains, lawns or any other area where it will pose a fire hazard or contamination threat.

When stored, gasoline should be kept in containers specifically designed to stand up to fuel. The container should be kept sealed and out of sunlight. Stabilizers and ethanol treatment are recommended for storage periods longer than one month.

Gasoline containing greater than 10% ethanol should never be used in power equipment.

About Power Equipment Warehouse
Power Equipment Warehouse and its affiliates are family owned and operated since 1947. Brands of power equipment supplies sold include: Toro, Husqvarna, Honda, Little Wonder, Mantis, MTD, JRCO, Ryan, Brown, Bluebird, Trac-Vac, Trimmertrap, Jungle Jims, Velke and many, many more. Power Equipment Warehouse is the trusted name in the outdoor power equipment industry.