Ameer Randolph
Flushing a generator fuel tank is a crucial maintenance task that can extend the lifespan of your generator, prevent unexpected shutdowns, and save you from costly repairs. Over time, contaminants like water, sludge, and microbial growth can build up in the tank, leading to clogged filters, corroded components, and performance issues. To flush your generator fuel tank, you will need to drain the tank, clean it, and then refill it with fresh fuel. This process can be done at home with the proper safety precautions, or you can seek the services of a professional.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To ensure the generator's longevity and reliability |
| Frequency | Before long-term storage, regularly as part of routine maintenance |
| Fuel type | Gasoline, diesel, ethanol |
| Tools | Wrench, socket wrenches, rag, collection container, flashlight, baster, gloves, safety glasses, protective clothing |
| Steps | Choose a well-ventilated area, remove the plastic cover, turn off the fuel valve, disconnect the fuel line, prepare a container, drain the fuel, reconnect the fuel line, locate the carburetor, clean the tank, reattach the fuel tank or install a new one |
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What You'll Learn
Drain the tank
To drain the tank of your generator, you must first remove the plastic cover that is over the fuel lines. Use a wrench or socket wrenches to do this. Next, push the fuel valve through the cover and move the cover out of the way. Make sure that the fuel valve is set to off.
Now, pinch and remove the aluminium clip off the side of the fuel line that does not connect to the gas tank. Place a rag underneath to catch any gas that is left in the tube, then remove the tube from the fuel valve. Put the fuel valve tube into a collection container large enough to hold all the gas in the tank. This will generally be about 5–10 gallons (18.9–37.9 L). You can use a gas can so that you can put the gas into your car so it doesn't go to waste.
Turn the fuel valve to on and let all of the gas drain out into the container until no more comes out. Once you're done, reconnect the fuel line and replace the cover.
If your generator has been sitting for a long time, you may need to clean the carburetor. To do this, locate the carburetor and place a small collection container underneath. There will be a screw on the base of the carburetor that is used to open the drain. Turn the screw to the left to open the drain hole. Once the gas has stopped coming out, turn the screw to the right to close it again.
It is important to drain the tank of your generator if it will be stored for over two months without use. If you do not do this, it is necessary to use a gas stabilizer. Generators are expensive, so proper maintenance will keep them from failing during use.
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Remove debris
Flushing a generator fuel tank is an important maintenance task that can extend the lifespan of your generator, prevent unexpected shutdowns, and save you a lot of headaches down the line. Over time, contaminants like water, sludge, and microbial growth can build up in the tank, leading to clogged filters, corroded components, and overall performance issues.
Step 1: Safety First
Before you begin, it is important to take some safety precautions. Fuel and its vapors are extremely flammable and explosive, so handle them with extreme care. Work in a well-ventilated area to minimize the inhalation of fuel fumes, and always wear a face mask and eye protection. Remove the spark plug lead and secure it away from the plug—this is a safety measure.
Step 2: Drain the Tank
The first step is to drain the fuel from the tank. If your fuel is still in good condition and free from contaminants, you can store it temporarily in a clean, sealed container. However, if the fuel shows signs of contamination, such as cloudiness or a foul odor, dispose of it according to local hazardous waste disposal guidelines. Some gas tanks have a drain cock, allowing the fuel to be drained neatly. If not, you can drain the fuel by removing a gas line or by siphoning it.
Step 3: Inspect the Tank
Once the tank is empty, use a flashlight to inspect the inside of the tank for any debris, rust, or beads of light that indicate holes or cracks. If you find any holes or cracks, patch them before continuing.
Step 4: Remove Debris
Use a baster or a similar tool to remove any loose debris from the tank. Get as much of it out as possible. You can also add a small amount of liquid to the tank and slosh it around to loosen more debris, which you can then remove.
Step 5: Clean the Tank
After removing the loose debris, you can use a cleaning product to clean the inside of the tank. Spray the product onto the sides and bottom of the tank, and use a detergent-based fuel additive to clean the fuel lines, carburetor, intake valves, and combustion chambers.
Step 6: Replace the Fuel Filter
Even if you have thoroughly cleaned the tank, it is a good idea to replace the fuel filter as well. An old filter can restrict the flow through your entire fuel system, causing your fuel pump to work harder and wear out faster.
Step 7: Reinstall the Fuel Tank
Reattach the fuel tank, securing it in place as recommended. Ensure that all valves, caps, and hoses are securely fitted to prevent any gas leaks, which could cause environmental damage or a fire.
Remember to always consult your generator's instruction manual before beginning any maintenance or cleaning tasks.
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Clean the tank
Before cleaning the tank, it is important to ensure that the generator is turned off and cool. It is also recommended to work in a well-ventilated area, as diesel fumes can be hazardous. Additionally, wear gloves, safety glasses, and protective clothing to shield yourself from any contaminants in the tank.
The first step is to drain the diesel fuel from the tank. If the fuel is uncontaminated, it can be stored in a sealed container for later use. However, if the fuel is cloudy or has an unpleasant odour, it should be disposed of according to local hazardous waste guidelines. To drain the tank, locate the fuel valve and place a container large enough to hold all the fuel beneath it. Turn the fuel valve to the "on" position and let the fuel drain into the container. Once complete, reconnect the fuel line and replace the cover.
After draining the fuel, inspect the tank for any debris, rust, corrosion, or sludge using a flashlight. If there are large pieces of debris, use a brush or baster to remove them. If the tank is severely corroded or damaged, it may need to be replaced with a new one made of non-corrosive material or coated with a corrosion-resistant layer.
If your generator has not been used for an extended period, it is recommended to treat the tank with a biocide to eliminate any dormant microbes. Additionally, consider using a multifunction treatment with detergent to clean the tank and fuel system. Run the generator at load for a short period, then shut it off and check the fuel filter. If there is significant debris, you may need to replace the fuel filter.
Finally, allow the tank to dry completely before refilling it with fresh, stabilised fuel. This helps prevent the buildup of contaminants and ensures the generator is ready for use when needed.
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Treat fuel with biocide
If you haven't used your generator in a while, it's important to clean the fuel tank to prevent issues that could cause the generator not to run when you need it in an emergency.
One step in the fuel tank cleaning process is to treat the fuel with a biocide to kill off any dormant microbes. Microbial biofilms or biomass formations stick to solid surfaces, providing a home for microbial colonies. These microbes can quickly contaminate fuel, so it's important to take preventive measures.
One such measure is to use a commercial-strength formulation like Bell Performance's Tank Treatment SDF, which is a multi-purpose fuel storage treatment. It starts to work at treat rates as low as 1:10,000 and is available in a variety of sizes, from 16-ounce bottles to 250-gallon totes, depending on the size of your tank. Tank Treatment SDF targets petroleum "sludge," dissolving its components in the fuel and thinning out the remaining sludge to make it easier to remove mechanically.
Another option for treating fuel with biocide is Innospec's Predator Biocides, which are designed to tackle even the most invasive microbial fuel contamination.
By treating the fuel in your generator's fuel tank with an appropriate biocide, you can ensure that your generator is available and in good working condition when you need it most.
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Reassemble the tank
Once the tank has been drained, cleaned, and dried, it's time to reassemble the tank. First, ensure that the tank is completely dry. Let it sit for 30 minutes to an hour to be sure. If the tank was heavily contaminated, it's a good idea to treat it with a biocide to kill off any remaining microbes.
Next, if you have not already done so, disconnect the battery (if equipped) by first removing the negative lead and then the positive. Then, reconnect the fuel line, ensuring it is securely in place. If you had to remove a plastic cover to access the fuel lines, replace it now. Reconnect the fuel line to the carburetor and, if equipped, the vent line. If your fuel filter is located outside the tank, you can reconnect it now. If it is inside the tank, it is best to replace it with a new one.
Finally, close the lid on the fuel tank and, if applicable, reattach any covers or plastic casings. Put the fuel valve tube into a collection container and turn the fuel valve to "on" to check for leaks. Once you are sure there are no leaks, you can put new fuel in the tank and treat it with a multifunction treatment containing detergent. Run the generator at load for a little bit, shut it off, and check the fuel filter. If you notice any issues, you may need to replace the fuel filter.
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