The warm weather is here, and your riding lawn mower is itching to get back to work. But as you’re putting it away after a hard day’s work, a question arises: can I just leave it outside? After all, it’s built to handle the elements, right? This article will explore the pros and cons of leaving your riding lawn mower outside, consider the impact of various weather conditions, and offer tips for protecting your investment when outdoor storage is unavoidable.
In short, leaving your riding lawn mower outside is generally not recommended. While some mowers are more weather-resistant than others, exposure to the elements can significantly shorten their lifespan. However, with proper precautions and regular maintenance, you can minimize the damage and keep your mower running smoothly for years to come.
The Case Against Leaving Your Riding Lawn Mower Outside
Leaving your lawn mower exposed to the elements is like leaving your car parked in a rainstorm without a cover. While a car can withstand some rain, prolonged exposure to harsh conditions can lead to rust, corrosion, and damage. The same applies to your lawn mower.
The Perils of Exposure
- Rust and Corrosion: The biggest threat to your mower is rust and corrosion. Metal parts, especially those exposed to moisture, will begin to rust and eventually fail. This includes the mower deck, engine components, and even the chassis.
- Moisture and Mold: Moisture can seep into the engine, spark plugs, and electrical components, leading to short circuits, engine problems, and even fires. Mold can grow on rubber parts, degrading them and making them brittle.
- UV Damage: Sun exposure can fade paint, crack plastic parts, and damage the seals and gaskets.
- Theft: A lawn mower left unattended is an easy target for theft.
The Importance of Proper Storage
Storing your riding lawn mower indoors is the best way to protect it from the elements. A garage or shed provides a dry, protected space where your mower can be kept safe from rain, snow, and the sun.
When Outdoor Storage Is Necessary
Let’s be real, not everyone has the luxury of indoor storage. If you must leave your mower outside, there are some things you can do to mitigate the risks:
Protect Your Investment: Key Steps for Outdoor Storage
- Cover Up: A high-quality, waterproof mower cover will shield your machine from rain, snow, and UV rays. Look for covers made of durable, breathable materials that won’t trap moisture.
- Clean and Dry: Before storing your mower, thoroughly clean it and dry all parts. Pay attention to the engine compartment, making sure all moisture is removed.
- Fuel Stabilization: If you’re storing your mower for an extended period, add fuel stabilizer to prevent gum and varnish buildup.
- Regular Maintenance: Even if you store your mower outside, regular maintenance is crucial. Check the engine oil, air filter, and spark plugs regularly, and replace them as needed. Lubricate moving parts to prevent wear and tear.
Factors to Consider: Weather and Mower Type
The decision of whether or not to leave your mower outside also depends on the weather conditions in your area and the type of mower you own.
Weather Conditions
- Rain: Rain is a major threat to your mower. It can cause rust, corrosion, and electrical problems. If you live in an area with frequent rainfall, outdoor storage is highly discouraged.
- Snow: Snow can also damage your mower. It can weigh down the cover, causing it to sag and trap moisture. Snow can also melt and freeze, causing damage to the engine and other components.
- Extreme Temperatures: Extreme heat or cold can also damage your mower. Heat can cause rubber parts to become brittle, while cold can thicken oil, making it difficult for the engine to start.
Mower Type
- Riding Lawn Mowers: Riding lawn mowers are generally more susceptible to damage from the elements than push mowers. This is because they have more exposed parts, such as the engine and the chassis.
- Commercial Mowers: Commercial mowers are often built to withstand tougher conditions. They may have more robust components and better weatherproofing.
Mitigating the Risks: Additional Tips
In addition to the tips mentioned above, here are some additional measures you can take to protect your riding lawn mower when outdoor storage is unavoidable:
- Store on a Level Surface: Make sure the surface your mower is stored on is level. This will prevent water from pooling around the engine and other components.
- Elevate the Mower: If you live in an area with high humidity, consider elevating your mower on blocks or a stand to improve airflow and prevent moisture buildup.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: If possible, store your mower in a shaded area. This will help protect it from UV damage and heat.
- Consider a Garage: Even if you don’t have a full garage, a small shed or carport can offer some protection from the elements.
A Final Word of Advice: Prevention is Key
Leaving your riding lawn mower outside is a gamble. While some mowers may survive a few seasons of outdoor storage, the risks are significant. Ultimately, the best way to protect your investment is to store it indoors, or at the very least, take the necessary precautions to minimize damage. Regular maintenance and proper storage will ensure your mower runs smoothly for years to come.
FAQ
1. Is it OK to leave my riding lawn mower outside in general?
While it’s not ideal, it’s generally OK to leave your riding lawn mower outside for short periods, especially if it’s in a covered area. However, prolonged exposure to the elements can significantly shorten its lifespan.
The elements can cause damage to various parts like the engine, battery, tires, and paint. It’s best to consider a covered storage space if you live in an area with harsh weather conditions or if you plan to store the mower for extended periods.
2. What are the risks of leaving my riding lawn mower outside?
Leaving your riding lawn mower outside exposes it to several risks. Rain and moisture can lead to rust formation on metal parts, affecting their functionality. Sunlight can degrade the plastic components, causing them to become brittle and crack. Extreme temperatures can harm the engine and battery, compromising their performance.
Dust, dirt, and debris can accumulate on the mower, hindering its operation and requiring more maintenance. Additionally, leaving the mower unattended outside increases the risk of theft.
3. What are some tips for protecting my riding lawn mower when left outside?
You can minimize the risks of leaving your riding lawn mower outside by taking some precautions. If possible, store it under a tarp or in a shed. Regularly clean the mower to remove dirt and debris, and apply a protective coating to prevent rust.
Consider using a battery tender to keep the battery charged, and ensure the fuel is stabilized to prevent it from deteriorating. Additionally, you might want to invest in a cover specifically designed for riding lawn mowers.
4. How long is it safe to leave a riding lawn mower outside?
There’s no definitive answer to how long it’s safe to leave a riding lawn mower outside. It depends heavily on the climate, weather conditions, and the specific model of the mower.
In general, short periods, like a few days, are acceptable if the mower is covered and protected from direct sunlight and rain. However, extended periods, especially in harsh climates, can significantly increase the risk of damage and shorten the mower’s lifespan.
5. What are some signs that my riding lawn mower has been damaged by being left outside?
If your riding lawn mower has been left outside for a long time, you might notice signs of damage. Rusty metal parts, cracked or discolored plastic components, a sluggish engine, a weak battery, and difficulty starting are all potential indicators.
You may also find dirt and debris build-up, affecting the mower’s performance and requiring more cleaning and maintenance.
6. Should I winterize my riding lawn mower if I leave it outside?
If you plan to leave your riding lawn mower outside during winter, it’s crucial to winterize it to prevent damage from cold weather and snow. This involves draining the fuel tank, adding stabilizer, cleaning the mower thoroughly, and storing the battery indoors.
Winterizing your mower ensures its longevity and makes it easier to start up when spring arrives.
7. What are the benefits of storing my riding lawn mower indoors?
Storing your riding lawn mower indoors offers numerous benefits. It protects the mower from harsh weather conditions, minimizing the risk of rust, corrosion, and damage to the engine, battery, and other components.
Indoor storage also keeps the mower clean and free from dirt and debris, minimizing the need for frequent cleaning and maintenance. Additionally, it reduces the risk of theft and vandalism, ensuring the mower’s safety.