The sweet smell of freshly cut grass is a sure sign of summer. But what happens to your trusty lawn mower when the warm weather fades and the leaves begin to fall? Should you be storing it in your garage or shed, or can you keep it outside year-round? This article will delve into the factors that influence the longevity of your lawn mower, exploring the potential risks of outdoor storage and offering tips for protecting your investment.
In short, it’s generally not recommended to keep a lawn mower outside year-round. While some may argue that it’s fine, especially for newer models, the elements can take their toll on any machine. Factors like rain, snow, extreme temperatures, and even sunlight can cause damage and shorten the lifespan of your lawn mower.
Understanding the Risks of Outdoor Storage
Leaving your lawn mower exposed to the elements can lead to a variety of issues:
1. Rust and Corrosion:
H4. The Enemy of Metal:
Moisture is the biggest enemy of metal, and rain, snow, and even dew can accelerate the rusting process. Rust can damage the mower’s metal components, making them brittle and prone to breaking. This includes the blades, engine parts, and even the chassis.
H4. More Than Just Appearance:
Rust isn’t just an aesthetic issue. It can severely affect the performance of your mower. A rusty blade will not cut cleanly, and rusted engine parts can seize up, making your lawn mower unusable.
2. Engine Damage:
H4. Moisture’s Detrimental Effects:
Water and humidity can find their way into the engine, causing corrosion and damaging vital components like the spark plugs, carburetor, and air filter. This can lead to engine failure, requiring costly repairs or even a complete engine replacement.
H4. Freezing Temperatures:
Freezing temperatures can further complicate matters. Water in the engine can freeze, causing damage to the engine block and other components. This can be especially problematic for older lawn mowers that may have seals that are not as tight.
3. Theft and Vandalism:
Leaving a lawn mower outside makes it a tempting target for thieves. Even if it’s not stolen, it can be vandalized, leading to unnecessary damage and repair costs.
4. Wear and Tear from the Sun:
H4. UV Rays’ Impact:
While not as dramatic as moisture damage, prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause fading and cracking of the plastic and rubber components of your lawn mower. This can lead to premature wear and tear, potentially shortening its lifespan.
Tips for Protecting Your Lawn Mower
Even if you choose to keep your lawn mower outside for part of the year, there are some precautions you can take to mitigate the risks:
1. Invest in a Cover:
H4. Weatherproof Protection:
A sturdy, weatherproof cover can shield your lawn mower from rain, snow, and UV rays. Look for a cover made from durable, waterproof material that fits snugly over the mower.
H4. Beyond Protection:
A cover can also prevent dust and dirt from accumulating on your lawn mower, keeping it cleaner and reducing the need for extensive cleaning.
2. Clean Thoroughly Before Storage:
H4. Prevent Corrosion:
Before storing your lawn mower for extended periods, take the time to clean it thoroughly. Remove any grass clippings, dirt, and debris that can trap moisture.
H4. Sharp Blades:
Sharpen the blades and inspect them for any damage. If necessary, replace any worn or damaged blades.
3. Consider Storage Options:
H4. Garages and Sheds:
If possible, store your lawn mower in a garage or shed. These offer a much greater level of protection from the elements compared to outdoor storage.
H4. Outdoor Shelters:
If you do not have access to a garage or shed, consider using a tarp or an outdoor storage shelter to protect your mower from rain and snow.
4. Drain the Fuel:
H4. Fuel Stability:
Gasoline can degrade over time, leading to gumming and varnish buildup in the fuel system. Draining the fuel before storage will prevent these issues.
H4. Fuel Stabilizers:
If you plan to store your lawn mower for an extended period, consider using a fuel stabilizer to prevent fuel degradation.
5. Remove the Battery:
H4. Battery Life:
If your lawn mower has a battery, remove it and store it indoors in a cool, dry place. This will help prevent the battery from draining and becoming damaged.
6. Regular Maintenance:
H4. Prolonging Lifespan:
Regular maintenance can help extend the life of your lawn mower, regardless of where you store it. This includes checking oil levels, changing the air filter, and sharpening the blades.
Conclusion
While it’s possible to store a lawn mower outside for short periods, it’s generally not recommended for extended periods. The elements can cause significant damage, leading to costly repairs or premature failure. By taking steps to protect your lawn mower from the elements, you can increase its lifespan and ensure it’s ready to tackle your lawn when you need it most.
FAQs
1. Is it okay to leave my lawnmower outside?
It’s generally not recommended to leave your lawnmower outside for extended periods. The elements can take a toll on your mower, leading to rust, corrosion, and other damage. Rain, snow, and UV rays can all cause wear and tear, and even mild weather can lead to dust and dirt accumulation that can hinder performance.
However, if you live in a dry climate with minimal rainfall, leaving your lawnmower outside may be less of a concern. Still, it’s best to store it under a tarp or cover to protect it from the elements as much as possible.
2. What are the downsides of leaving a lawnmower outside?
Leaving your lawnmower outside exposes it to various damaging elements. Moisture from rain and snow can cause rust and corrosion on metal parts, while UV rays can fade and crack plastic components. Dust and debris can accumulate, clogging air filters and affecting engine performance.
Additionally, leaving your mower outside makes it more vulnerable to theft. While securing it with a chain and lock can offer some protection, it’s best to store your lawnmower in a secure location when not in use.
3. Can I leave my lawnmower outside if I have a cover?
A cover can provide some protection from the elements, but it’s not a foolproof solution. While it will shield your lawnmower from rain and snow, it won’t prevent moisture buildup underneath the cover, which can still lead to rust and corrosion.
Additionally, a cover won’t protect against UV rays, which can still damage the plastic and rubber components of your mower. It’s best to use a cover in conjunction with other protective measures, such as storing your lawnmower in a dry and sheltered location.
4. How do I properly store my lawnmower outside?
If you must store your lawnmower outside, try to find a dry and sheltered location. A garage or shed is ideal, but even a covered porch or patio will provide some protection. Cover your mower with a tarp or protective cover to further shield it from the elements.
Ensure the lawnmower is clean and dry before storing it. Empty the fuel tank and add fuel stabilizer to prevent fuel from degrading. Also, remove the spark plug to prevent accidental starting.
5. What are the signs of a lawnmower damaged from being outside?
Signs of damage from outdoor storage include rust and corrosion on metal parts, faded or cracked plastic components, and dirt and debris buildup. Your lawnmower may also have difficulty starting, run poorly, or emit unusual noises if it’s been exposed to the elements for too long.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to have your lawnmower serviced by a qualified mechanic. They can assess the damage and perform necessary repairs.
6. What are the best storage solutions for a lawnmower?
The best storage solutions for a lawnmower include a garage, shed, or even a covered porch or patio. These locations provide protection from the elements and offer a secure space for storing your mower.
If you don’t have access to any of these options, consider using a heavy-duty tarp or lawnmower cover to shield your mower from rain, snow, and dust. However, remember that these covers won’t offer complete protection and should be used in conjunction with other measures.
7. Is it cheaper to store a lawnmower outside or inside?
While storing a lawnmower outside might seem cheaper initially, it can lead to costly repairs in the long run. Outdoor storage increases the risk of rust, corrosion, and damage from the elements, which can significantly reduce your lawnmower’s lifespan.
Therefore, storing your lawnmower inside, even if it requires a small investment in storage solutions, is generally more cost-effective in the long run. You’ll save money on repairs and extend the lifespan of your valuable tool.