Properly storing your Coleman dual fuel stove is essential for its longevity, reliable performance, and your peace of mind on future adventures. Taking a few simple steps before putting it away ensures it will be ready when you need it next.
Essential Steps for Stove Storage
Effective storage of your Coleman dual fuel stove involves several key areas, from thorough cleaning to protecting it from external elements.
Cleanliness is Key
Before storing your stove, a comprehensive cleaning is paramount. Residue from cooking can attract pests, degrade components, and cause odors.
- Remove Grate and Drip Pan: Disassemble the cooking grate and the drip pan. Wash them thoroughly with warm, soapy water to remove grease and food particles. Rinse well and allow them to air dry completely.
- Wipe Down the Body: Use a damp cloth to wipe down the exterior of the stove, ensuring all spills and splashes are cleaned.
- Clean Burners: If accessible, gently brush away any debris from the burner areas to ensure unobstructed airflow.
- Generator Maintenance: Check the generator for any blockages or buildup. While routine cleaning often suffices, regular users might consider occasional decarb treatments if performance issues arise (refer to your stove's manual for specific instructions).
Managing Fuel for Storage
How you handle the fuel depends on the duration of storage. Incorrect fuel management can lead to clogs, leaks, and potential safety hazards.
- For Short-Term Storage (Less than 1 month): It's generally acceptable to leave Coleman Camp Fuel in the tank, provided the cap is tightly secured. Use this fuel within a few weeks to ensure freshness.
- For Medium-Term Storage (1-6 months): You have two options:
- Empty the Fuel: The safest option is to run the stove until it's completely out of fuel. Let it cool, then open the cap to allow any remaining vapors to escape before resealing.
- Use a Fuel Stabilizer: If you prefer to keep fuel in the tank, add a quality fuel stabilizer designed for small engines. This helps prevent the fuel from breaking down and gumming up the system.
- For Long-Term Storage (More than 6 months): Always empty the fuel completely. Old fuel can degrade, leaving behind varnish and deposits that will clog the generator and fuel lines, leading to costly repairs. Run the stove until it sputters out, then allow it to cool and remove the cap for a short period to vent any remaining fumes before securely replacing it.
Fuel Storage Recommendations by Duration
| Storage Duration | Fuel Management Recommendation | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Short-Term (< 1 mo) | Can leave fuel in tank (tightly capped) | Use existing fuel within a few weeks. |
| Medium-Term (1-6 mo) | Empty fuel or use fuel stabilizer | Emptying is safer; stabilizer can prolong fuel life. |
| Long-Term (> 6 mo) | Empty fuel completely (run dry) | Crucial to prevent clogs, odors, and corrosion. Store fuel in separate, approved containers. |
Remember to store any removed fuel in an approved fuel container in a well-ventilated area away from living spaces and heat sources. Never store gasoline or Coleman fuel inside your home.
Protecting Internal Components from Pests
Once your stove is thoroughly clean and dry, a crucial step before long-term storage is to protect its internal mechanisms. To keep bugs and other insects from getting inside the stove, which could eventually cut down on fuel efficiency and airflow, simply put the stove in a plastic bag and tie the bag securely shut. This creates a barrier that prevents unwanted guests from nesting within the stove's intricate parts.
Inspect and Maintain
Before sealing it up, take a moment to inspect your stove.
- Check for Wear: Look for any worn-out O-rings, seals, or damaged components.
- Tighten Connections: Ensure all screws and connections are snug.
- Lubricate: If your stove has a pump plunger or other moving parts that require occasional lubrication, now is a good time to do so using appropriate oil (e.g., Coleman pump cup oil).
Addressing minor issues before storage can prevent bigger problems later.
Choosing the Right Storage Location
The environment where your stove is stored plays a significant role in its preservation.
- Dry and Cool: Choose a dry, cool location. Garages, sheds, or basements are often suitable, provided they are not prone to extreme temperature fluctuations or excessive humidity.
- Away from Flames/Heat: Store the stove away from any open flames, pilot lights, or direct heat sources.
- Accessible but Safe: Keep it in a spot where it won't be easily knocked over or damaged, but still accessible for future use.
Why Proper Storage Matters
Investing a small amount of time in proper stove storage yields significant benefits:
- Extended Lifespan: Protects components from corrosion, degradation, and pest damage.
- Reliable Performance: Ensures the stove fires up efficiently and safely when needed.
- Prevents Costly Repairs: Avoids common issues like clogged generators or sticky valves.
- Enhanced Safety: Reduces the risk of leaks or malfunctions from deteriorated parts.
Following these guidelines will help ensure your Coleman dual fuel stove remains a dependable companion for many camping trips to come.
