The warm weather arrives, and with it comes the joy (or perhaps the dreaded task) of maintaining your lawn. But what about your lawn mower? Should it stay outside, exposed to the elements, or should it be tucked away in the shed or garage? This question often pops up for homeowners, especially when storage space is limited. This comprehensive guide will dive into the factors that influence the decision to leave your lawn mower outside, exploring both the potential risks and benefits.
In short, leaving your lawn mower outside is generally not recommended. While it might seem convenient, prolonged exposure to the elements can significantly impact the longevity and performance of your machine. We’ll delve into the specific reasons why, examining the potential hazards and offering practical tips for protecting your investment.
The Risks of Leaving Your Lawn Mower Outside
Leaving your lawnmower exposed to the elements can lead to various problems. Here’s a breakdown of the potential risks:
1. Weather Damage:
H3: Rain and Moisture
- Rainwater can seep into the engine, causing rust and corrosion, damaging vital components like the carburetor, spark plugs, and air filter.
- Moisture can also lead to mold and mildew growth, further accelerating deterioration.
H3: Sun and Heat
- Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can fade and crack plastic and rubber parts, shortening their lifespan.
- High temperatures can also cause oil to break down, affecting engine performance and even leading to overheating.
H3: Cold and Freezing Temperatures
- Extreme cold can freeze fluids within the engine and fuel lines, leading to difficulty starting and even potential damage.
- Freezing temperatures can also cause fuel to solidify, making it difficult to use during the next mowing session.
2. Theft and Vandalism:
- Lawn mowers, especially newer models, are a tempting target for thieves. Leaving them unattended outside increases the risk of theft, leading to significant financial loss.
- Vandalism can also damage your mower, causing scratches, dents, and broken parts.
3. Deterioration and Rust:
- Even without direct contact with rain, constant humidity can accelerate the rusting process, especially on metal parts like the blade, chassis, and engine components.
- Rust can hinder smooth operation, leading to increased wear and tear and eventually requiring costly repairs.
Protecting Your Lawn Mower: Storage Solutions
While the risks of leaving your lawnmower outside are significant, there are practical ways to protect your investment and extend its lifespan.
1. Covered Storage:
- Garage: This is the ideal solution, offering protection from all weather elements, including rain, snow, sun, and wind.
- Shed: A sturdy shed provides similar benefits as a garage but may offer less space. Choose a shed with adequate ventilation to prevent moisture buildup.
2. Protective Covers:
- Waterproof Cover: A high-quality, waterproof cover can shield your mower from rain, dust, and debris. Ensure the cover is properly secured to prevent it from being blown away by wind.
- Tarpaulin Cover: A heavy-duty tarp can offer temporary protection from rain and sun, but it may not provide complete protection from the elements.
3. Other Tips for Extended Storage:
- Clean and Dry: Before storing your mower, clean it thoroughly, removing grass clippings, dirt, and debris. Ensure all surfaces are dry before covering it.
- Change Oil and Fuel: Consider changing the oil and draining the fuel tank to prevent oil degradation and fuel contamination during extended storage.
- Maintain Blade Sharpness: A sharp blade ensures a clean cut and reduces wear on your mower’s engine.
When Can You Leave Your Lawn Mower Outside?
While leaving your lawn mower outside is generally not recommended, there are a few exceptions:
- Short-Term Storage: If you’re storing your mower for a few days, you might be able to get away with leaving it outside, especially if the weather is dry and clear.
- Minor Weather Events: A light drizzle or a short spell of rain may not cause significant damage, especially if your mower is equipped with a protective cover.
However, it’s important to use common sense. If a storm is anticipated, always bring your mower inside or under a sturdy shelter.
The Bottom Line:
While convenience might tempt you to leave your lawn mower outside, the potential risks of weather damage, theft, and deterioration outweigh the benefits. To ensure your lawn mower’s longevity and performance, invest in proper storage solutions like a garage, shed, or protective cover. With these precautions, your lawn mower will be ready to tackle your lawn care needs for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is it okay to leave my lawnmower outside?
While it’s technically possible to leave a lawnmower outside, it’s generally not recommended. Exposing your lawnmower to the elements can lead to damage and shorten its lifespan. The sun’s UV rays can fade the paint and crack plastic components, while rain and snow can cause rust and corrosion. Additionally, extreme temperatures can affect the engine’s performance and fuel system.
It’s always a good idea to store your lawnmower indoors, especially during the winter months. If indoor storage isn’t an option, consider investing in a protective cover to shield it from the elements.
2. What are the risks of leaving a lawnmower outside?
Leaving your lawnmower outside exposes it to a range of potential hazards. The sun’s UV rays can fade the paint and crack plastic components, leading to cosmetic damage and reduced functionality. Rain and snow can cause rust and corrosion, particularly on metal parts, affecting the engine and other vital components. Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, can damage the engine, fuel system, and battery, hindering performance.
Furthermore, leaving your lawnmower outside makes it vulnerable to theft. Thieves often target valuable items left unattended, and a lawnmower, especially a newer model, is a tempting target.
3. How can I protect my lawnmower from the elements?
If you must leave your lawnmower outside, there are steps you can take to minimize damage. Investing in a good quality waterproof cover is essential. Look for a cover specifically designed for lawnmowers, with UV protection and vents to prevent moisture buildup.
Additionally, consider storing your lawnmower in a sheltered location, such as under a covered porch or a tarp. This will provide some protection from the elements. Finally, ensure that the lawnmower is clean and dry before storing it, as this can help prevent rust and corrosion.
4. Should I drain the gas before storing my lawnmower?
Yes, draining the gas is highly recommended. Gasoline can degrade over time, becoming gummy and clogging fuel lines. This can lead to starting problems and damage the engine.
To drain the gas, use a siphon pump or a small container to remove the fuel from the tank. You can also run the engine until it stops, which will empty the fuel lines. Remember to add fuel stabilizer to the remaining fuel to prevent it from going bad.
5. How often should I clean my lawnmower?
It’s essential to clean your lawnmower regularly, even if you store it indoors.
After each use, remove any grass clippings, dirt, or debris that may have accumulated. You should also regularly clean the underside of the mower deck and the blades, as this helps prevent rust and ensures optimal performance. Finally, check the air filter and spark plug, replacing them as needed.
6. What are some good practices for storing a lawnmower indoors?
When storing your lawnmower indoors, choose a dry, cool, and well-ventilated location. Ideally, store it in a garage or shed, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Before storing, ensure the lawnmower is clean and dry. Remove any fuel from the tank and drain the carburetor, as stale fuel can cause engine problems. Finally, consider adding a fuel stabilizer to the remaining fuel to prevent it from going bad.
7. How long can I leave my lawnmower outside?
There’s no definitive answer to how long you can leave your lawnmower outside, as it depends on the climate and the specific model. However, it’s generally best to minimize the time your lawnmower is exposed to the elements.
The longer you leave it outside, the greater the risk of damage from rain, snow, sun, and extreme temperatures. If you must leave it outside for an extended period, ensure it has a good quality cover and consider bringing it inside for storage during harsh weather.