The warm weather has arrived, and your lawn is calling out for a trim. But as you pull your trusty lawn mower out of the shed, you might be wondering – is it really okay to leave it out in the elements all season long? After all, it’s a significant investment, and you want to keep it in good working order. This article will delve into the pros and cons of leaving your lawn mower outside, exploring factors like weather conditions, mower type, and the potential risks involved.
In short, the answer to whether you can leave your lawn mower outside is a bit nuanced. While it might be tempting for convenience, the risks associated with outdoor storage can outweigh the benefits, especially in harsh weather conditions.
The Weather Factor: A Major Consideration
The biggest factor to consider when deciding whether to leave your lawn mower outside is the weather in your area.
Harsh Weather: A No-No for Lawn Mowers
- Extreme Heat: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause the plastic and rubber parts of your lawn mower to fade, crack, and become brittle. Additionally, the engine oil can thicken in extreme heat, making it harder for your mower to start.
- Freezing Temperatures: Winter’s harsh frost and freezing temperatures can lead to cracked fuel lines, damaged carburetors, and even frozen engine oil.
- Moisture: The Silent Killer
- Rain: Rain can cause rust to form on metal parts, leading to corrosion and damage.
- Snow and Ice: Accumulating snow and ice can weigh down your lawn mower, potentially causing damage to the chassis and other components.
- Humidity: High humidity can contribute to the growth of mold and mildew, damaging the engine and other parts.
Mild Weather: A Calculated Risk
If you live in an area with mild weather conditions and minimal rainfall, you might be able to get away with leaving your lawn mower outside for shorter periods. However, it’s still essential to take precautions like covering the mower with a tarp or storing it under a covered porch to protect it from dust, debris, and UV rays.
The Mower Type: A Deciding Factor
The type of lawn mower you own also plays a significant role in determining whether you can leave it outside.
Gas-Powered Mowers: More Susceptible to Damage
Gas-powered mowers, with their complex engine systems and fuel lines, are generally more vulnerable to the elements than electric or robotic models. Leaving them outside can lead to:
- Fuel Degradation: Exposure to sunlight and heat can degrade the fuel in your mower’s tank, leading to clogging and engine problems.
- Fuel Line Issues: Freezing temperatures can cause fuel lines to crack or become brittle, leading to leaks and starting problems.
- Engine Corrosion: Moisture and humidity can accelerate the corrosion of engine parts, leading to costly repairs.
Electric Mowers: More Resilient, But Not Immune
Electric mowers are generally considered more weather-resistant than gas-powered models because they lack the complex fuel system and have fewer moving parts. However, they are still susceptible to damage from:
- Moisture: Water damage to the electrical components can lead to short circuits and irreparable damage.
- Extreme Temperatures: Extreme heat can cause the battery to overheat and lose capacity, while freezing temperatures can damage the battery and hinder performance.
Robotic Mowers: A Different Story
Robotic mowers are designed to be weather-resistant and are often stored outdoors. They typically have waterproof housings and batteries, making them less susceptible to damage from rain or snow. However, it’s still advisable to keep them covered in extreme weather conditions and protect them from prolonged direct sunlight.
The Risks of Leaving Your Lawn Mower Outside
Leaving your lawn mower outside, especially during harsh weather conditions, can lead to a range of problems that can impact its performance and lifespan.
Damage and Degradation
- Rust and Corrosion: As mentioned earlier, moisture and humidity can cause metal parts to rust and corrode, ultimately leading to engine failure.
- Plastic and Rubber Degradation: UV rays from the sun can weaken and crack plastic and rubber parts, making them brittle and prone to breaking.
- Engine Problems: Exposure to the elements can cause fuel lines to crack, carburetors to malfunction, and engine oil to thicken, all of which can lead to starting problems and performance issues.
Theft and Vandalism
Leaving your lawn mower outside, particularly in areas with high crime rates, makes it more vulnerable to theft and vandalism. Even if you live in a safe neighborhood, a costly piece of equipment left unattended can be tempting to thieves.
Maintenance Hassles
Storing your lawn mower outside means you’ll need to spend more time maintaining it. You’ll need to frequently clean it, check for damage, and replace worn-out parts to ensure its continued performance.
How to Protect Your Lawn Mower When Stored Outdoors
If you decide to leave your lawn mower outside, there are steps you can take to minimize the risks:
- Cover it Up: Invest in a heavy-duty tarp or cover specifically designed for lawn mowers. This will protect it from rain, snow, dust, and UV rays.
- Choose a Sheltered Spot: If possible, store your mower under a covered porch or awning to provide additional protection from the elements.
- Empty the Fuel Tank: Before storing your mower for a long period, empty the fuel tank and run the engine until it runs out of gas. This will prevent fuel degradation and minimize the risk of clogging.
- Add a Fuel Stabilizer: If you can’t empty the fuel tank, add a fuel stabilizer to prevent the fuel from degrading and causing problems.
- Clean and Dry It: Before storing your lawn mower, clean it thoroughly to remove any dirt, debris, and grass clippings. This will help prevent the buildup of moisture and promote longevity.
- Maintain Regular Inspections: Even when stored outdoors, it’s essential to regularly inspect your lawn mower for signs of damage, rust, or corrosion.
Conclusion: Weighing the Pros and Cons
Leaving your lawn mower outside might seem convenient, but it comes with risks that can ultimately cost you more in the long run. If you live in an area with harsh weather conditions, it’s best to store your lawn mower indoors to protect it from the elements. If you live in a mild climate, you can store it outdoors with proper precautions. But no matter where you live, remember that regular maintenance and careful storage practices are essential for keeping your lawn mower running smoothly and efficiently for years to come.
FAQ
1. Is it okay to leave my lawnmower outside all the time?
Leaving your lawnmower outside all the time isn’t ideal. While it might seem convenient, exposure to the elements can significantly impact its lifespan and performance. Rain, snow, and extreme temperatures can damage the engine, rust the metal parts, and deteriorate the rubber and plastic components.
It’s best to store your lawnmower in a dry, sheltered space to protect it from the elements and keep it running smoothly for longer. If you absolutely must leave it outside, consider investing in a protective cover or tarp to minimize the damage.
2. What are the risks of leaving a lawnmower outside?
Leaving your lawnmower outside exposes it to various risks that can shorten its lifespan and even make it unsafe to use. The most significant risk is water damage, as rain, snow, and even dew can seep into the engine, causing corrosion and potentially damaging the internal components. Additionally, extreme temperatures can lead to cracking and warping of plastic parts, while fluctuating humidity can accelerate rust formation.
Another risk is theft. Leaving your lawnmower unattended outside makes it an easy target for thieves, especially if it’s a valuable model. Finally, leaving your lawnmower exposed to the elements can also attract pests like rodents, who might nest in its nooks and crannies, further damaging it.
3. How can I protect my lawnmower from the elements?
Protecting your lawnmower from the elements is crucial to extending its lifespan and ensuring safe operation. The best way is to store it indoors, in a dry, well-ventilated space. However, if indoor storage isn’t an option, consider investing in a heavy-duty lawnmower cover designed specifically for outdoor use.
These covers are typically made from water-resistant materials and offer protection from rain, snow, UV rays, and debris. If possible, choose a location that offers some shade and shelter from direct sunlight and heavy winds.
4. Can I leave my lawnmower outside in the winter?
Leaving your lawnmower outside during the winter is not recommended, especially if you live in a region that experiences heavy snowfall or freezing temperatures. Exposure to cold weather can damage the engine oil, freeze fuel lines, and cause internal components to become brittle.
The best practice is to drain the fuel tank, change the oil, and store the lawnmower indoors during the winter months. If you must leave it outside, consider using a winterizing kit to protect the engine and fuel system from freezing.
5. Can I leave my lawnmower outside if I have a cover?
While a cover can provide some protection, it’s not a foolproof solution for leaving your lawnmower outside long-term. Covers can offer protection from rain, snow, and UV rays, but they won’t completely shield your lawnmower from moisture, dust, or debris.
Additionally, strong winds can easily blow covers away, leaving your lawnmower exposed to the elements. It’s best to use a cover as a supplemental measure alongside storing your lawnmower in a sheltered area whenever possible.
6. How long can I leave my lawnmower outside before it gets damaged?
There’s no specific timeframe for how long you can leave your lawnmower outside before damage occurs. The actual time depends on factors like the climate, the type of cover used, and the quality of the lawnmower itself.
However, it’s generally advisable to store your lawnmower indoors whenever possible. If you must leave it outside, try to limit its exposure to the elements as much as possible, and consider using a cover for added protection.
7. What should I do if I have to leave my lawnmower outside for a short time?
If you must leave your lawnmower outside for a short time, try to choose a location that offers some protection from the elements, such as under a covered porch or in a garage. Invest in a high-quality cover made from water-resistant material. If possible, tilt the lawnmower slightly to allow water to drain away from the engine.
Remember to regularly check for any signs of damage or moisture, and consider using a dehumidifier or a desiccant packet inside the cover to absorb any moisture that may accumulate. While these measures won’t eliminate all risks, they can help minimize damage and keep your lawnmower in better condition for a short time.