When storing gas-powered equipment away for the season, it is important to remove any unused fuel from the tank and lines. Gas left stagnant for extended periods of time can oxidize into a shellac-like substance. There are several steps to choose from that will help eliminate this problem.

Step 1: Reduce the opportunity for condensation to form in a gas can or fuel tank by filling the tank or can completely full before storing away. Adding a fuel stabilizer, such as Sta-Bil, will also aid dramatically in the successful storage of excess gasoline.

Step 2: Drain the fuel from a small engine tank by locating the fuel line on the underside of the tank. Clamp the line closed with a smooth-faced clamp or binder clip. Disconnect the line from the carburetor. Position the end of the line over a container large enough to hold all the fuel. Remove the clamp or binder clip. Once the fuel is fully drained, reattach the fuel line to the carburetor.

Step 3: Siphon the fuel using a bulb-type siphon pump. Place the inlet portion of the siphon tube into the gas tank. Position the outlet portion of the siphon tube into a container large enough to hold all the fuel. The process will work best if the fuel tank is physically higher than the fuel container. Squeeze the siphon bulb to start the flow of fuel from the tank into the container. Once the gas has stopped flowing, allow the remaining fluid to drain from the siphon tube into the fuel container.

Step 4: Eliminate the awkwardness of bulb-type siphon pumps by using a self-priming siphon hose. These patented “Wonder Pumps” are equipped with a unique fitting on one end of the hose that has the ability to prime itself with simple motion. Place the fitting end of the line into the fuel tank and place the other end of the line into the empty container. Shake the fitting end up and down a few times until the fuel starts flowing. Allow the fuel to drain completely and then remove the fitting end from the tank.

After draining a fuel tank, regardless of which method is used, start the engine and allow it to run until it stops. This will burn away any remaining fuel from the lines and carburetor, leaving the fuel system dry and ready for storage.

— Have a home improvement question for the Fix-It Chick? Email it to Linda Cottin at features@ljworld.com.