The warm weather has finally arrived, and you’ve finally gotten your lawn mower out of storage. Now that the mowing season is over, you’re faced with a common dilemma: where to store your trusty lawnmower until next spring. Many homeowners find it easier to simply leave it outside, but is this actually a good idea? This article will delve into the pros and cons of storing your lawnmower outdoors and provide you with some essential tips for keeping your machine in top condition, regardless of where you choose to store it.
In short, storing your lawnmower outside is generally not recommended, especially if you live in a region with harsh weather conditions. While it might seem like a convenient solution, exposure to the elements can lead to damage, wear and tear, and ultimately, a shorter lifespan for your lawnmower. However, with some precautions and proper maintenance, you can potentially extend the life of your lawnmower even if stored outside.
The Risks of Outdoor Storage
While storing your lawnmower outside might seem like the easiest option, it can come with a number of potential risks.
1. Weather Damage
The biggest threat to your lawnmower when stored outdoors is the weather.
Rain and Moisture: Rain can cause rust to form on the metal parts of your lawnmower, including the engine, blades, and chassis. This rust can eventually lead to corrosion, making the parts brittle and prone to breaking.
Snow and Ice: In colder climates, snow and ice can accumulate on your lawnmower, leading to freezing and damage to the engine and other components.
UV Rays: The sun’s ultraviolet rays can also damage the plastic and rubber parts of your lawnmower, causing them to fade, crack, and become brittle.
2. Pests and Animals
Your lawnmower can also be a target for pests and animals, especially if it’s not properly secured.
Rodents: Rodents such as mice and rats can build nests inside the engine or other parts of your lawnmower, chewing on wires and cables, causing serious damage.
Birds: Birds might use your lawnmower as a nesting spot or a source of material for their nests, potentially clogging the engine with debris.
Other Animals: Depending on where you live, other animals like raccoons, squirrels, or even larger animals like deer might try to access your lawnmower, potentially causing significant damage.
3. Theft
Leaving your lawnmower outside makes it an easy target for theft.
Ease of Access: An unsecured lawnmower is easily accessible to anyone passing by.
Lack of Visibility: A lawnmower stored in a dimly lit or secluded area might not be easily seen by neighbors or passersby, making it a prime target for opportunistic thieves.
Is it Possible to Store a Lawn Mower Outside?
While storing your lawnmower outside presents a number of risks, it’s not impossible to do so. With some precautions and consistent maintenance, you can potentially store your lawnmower outside and keep it in good condition for years to come.
Tips for Storing Your Lawn Mower Outside
1. Cover it Up: A waterproof, breathable cover is essential for protecting your lawnmower from rain, snow, and UV rays. Make sure the cover fits snugly and is secured with a strap or tie to prevent it from being blown away by the wind.
2. Clean and Maintain: Before storing your lawnmower outside, make sure it’s clean and free of debris. Change the oil, sharpen the blades, and inspect for any signs of wear or damage.
3. Secure it: If possible, store your lawnmower in a locked shed or garage. If that’s not an option, secure it to a heavy object or a sturdy post with a strong chain and lock.
4. Consider a Storage Shed: If you don’t have a garage, consider investing in a small storage shed. A shed will provide a more secure and protected environment for your lawnmower, as well as other outdoor equipment.
5. Elevate it: If you are storing your lawnmower outside, try to elevate it off the ground. This will help prevent moisture from accumulating and rotting the underside of the mower.
Types of Lawn Mowers and Outdoor Storage
The suitability of storing a lawnmower outside can also depend on the type of lawnmower you have.
Gas-Powered Mowers: Gas-powered mowers are generally more vulnerable to damage from the elements than electric mowers. The engine and other components are more complex and susceptible to rust, corrosion, and damage from pests.
Electric Mowers: Electric mowers are generally more resistant to the elements due to their simpler design and lack of exposed engine components. However, the electrical components can still be vulnerable to moisture and damage if not properly protected.
Robot Mowers: Robot mowers are often stored indoors due to their smaller size and sensitivity to weather conditions. However, some models are designed to withstand the elements and can be stored outdoors with proper protection.
The Bottom Line: When to Avoid Outdoor Storage
While some lawnmower owners might be able to store their equipment outdoors successfully, it’s generally not recommended. Here are some scenarios where you should definitely avoid storing your lawnmower outdoors:
- Harsh Weather Conditions: If you live in an area with frequent rainfall, extreme temperatures, or heavy snowfall, it’s best to store your lawnmower indoors.
- Pests and Animals: If your area is prone to rodents, birds, or other animals that can damage your equipment, it’s best to store your lawnmower indoors.
- High Crime Areas: If you live in an area with a high rate of theft, it’s best to store your lawnmower indoors or in a very secure location.
Conclusion: Protecting Your Investment
Storing your lawnmower outside comes with several risks, but with proper precautions and maintenance, it might be possible to extend its lifespan. Ultimately, the best way to protect your investment is to store your lawnmower indoors, in a dry, protected environment. If outdoor storage is unavoidable, follow the tips provided to minimize the risks and extend the life of your lawnmower.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about storing your lawnmower outdoors:
1. Is it okay to store a lawnmower outside?
It is generally not recommended to store a lawnmower outside, especially for long periods. This is because the elements can damage the engine, rust metal parts, and shorten the lifespan of your mower. However, if you have no other choice, you can take steps to minimize the damage.
Choose a well-ventilated and sheltered location to protect your lawnmower from rain and direct sunlight. Cover it with a waterproof tarp or a purpose-made lawnmower cover to prevent moisture and debris from accumulating. Additionally, consider using a fuel stabilizer to prevent fuel from going bad.
2. What are the risks of storing a lawnmower outside?
Storing a lawnmower outside exposes it to several risks that can significantly impact its longevity and functionality.
Rain and humidity can cause rust on metal components like the blades, chassis, and engine. Direct sunlight can overheat the engine and damage the plastic parts. Animals, insects, and debris can also find their way into the engine or other components, causing malfunctions. Finally, harsh weather conditions like snow, wind, and hail can further damage the mower.
3. What kind of lawnmower is best for outdoor storage?
If you absolutely must store your lawnmower outside, a gas-powered mower is a better choice than an electric one. Gas-powered mowers are more robust and can withstand the elements better than electric models.
However, even with a gas-powered mower, it is still essential to take precautions like using a waterproof cover and storing it in a sheltered location.
4. How can I protect my lawnmower from the elements when storing it outside?
To protect your lawnmower from the elements while storing it outdoors, prioritize a well-ventilated, sheltered location away from direct sunlight and rain. Invest in a waterproof tarp or a specifically designed lawnmower cover to further shield it from moisture and debris.
Regularly inspect the cover for rips or tears and ensure the mower is clean and dry before storing it. Additionally, consider using a fuel stabilizer to prevent fuel from degrading over time.
5. How often should I check my lawnmower if it’s stored outside?
It’s best to check your lawnmower at least once a month when stored outside. Look for signs of rust, corrosion, damage from insects or animals, and ensure the cover is intact. If you notice any issues, address them immediately to prevent further damage.
Additionally, check the fuel level and add fuel stabilizer as needed, particularly if the mower is stored for extended periods.
6. Is it better to store a lawnmower upside down?
Storing a lawnmower upside down is not recommended as it can strain the engine and cause damage to internal components.
The best way to store a lawnmower is upright and level, ensuring all parts are properly supported.
7. What are some alternatives to storing a lawnmower outside?
If you can, store your lawnmower indoors in a dry, well-ventilated space. This offers the best protection from the elements and minimizes the risk of damage.
If indoor storage is not an option, explore alternatives like a shed, garage, or covered carport. These structures provide some protection from the weather while still offering outdoor storage.