The buzzing of a lawn mower is a familiar sound of summer. But what about when you’re done mowing and need to store it? Can you just lay it on its side? The answer, surprisingly, is a bit more nuanced than a simple yes or no. This article will delve into the reasons why you might or might not want to lay your lawn mower on its side, explore the potential risks and benefits, and provide you with the best practices for storing your mower safely.
In short, it’s generally not recommended to store a lawn mower on its side, especially for extended periods. There are several reasons why, ranging from potential damage to the engine to safety concerns.
Understanding the Risks of Tipping a Lawn Mower
Laying a lawn mower on its side can introduce several risks, which vary depending on the type of mower and its features. Here are some of the key concerns:
1. Engine Damage
- Oil Leakage: Lawn mower engines use oil to lubricate their moving parts. When you tip the mower, the oil can potentially leak out, especially if the mower isn’t completely drained before storage. This can lead to engine damage or even a fire hazard.
- Fuel System Issues: Gasoline can also leak from the carburetor or fuel lines when the mower is tipped, posing a fire risk. Some mowers have safety features that prevent fuel from leaking when tilted, but it’s still a concern.
- Carburetor Problems: The carburetor is a delicate component responsible for mixing fuel and air. Tipping the mower can cause fuel to settle in the carburetor, leading to clogging or gumming over time.
2. Safety Concerns
- Accidental Starts: It’s possible, although rare, for a lawn mower to accidentally start when it’s tilted. This can happen if the safety switch is malfunctioning or if the mower isn’t completely turned off.
- Spills and Leaks: As mentioned before, leaks from the engine or fuel tank pose a safety hazard, particularly if the mower is stored near flammable materials.
3. Other Potential Issues
- Tire Damage: The weight of the mower can damage the tires if it’s left on its side for an extended period.
- Rust and Corrosion: Moisture can accumulate inside the mower’s housing when it’s tilted, leading to rust and corrosion over time. This can damage components and shorten the lifespan of your mower.
When Can You Put a Lawn Mower on Its Side?
While generally discouraged, there are a few scenarios where you might be able to safely put a lawn mower on its side:
- Short-Term Storage: If you need to store your mower on its side for a very short period, like during a quick break while mowing, it’s usually okay, provided that you’re careful.
- Mower Design: Some lawn mower models are specifically designed to be stored on their sides. These models often have features that prevent fuel leaks or oil spills. Check your owner’s manual to see if your mower is designed for side storage.
The Right Way to Store Your Lawn Mower
For long-term storage, the best way to store your lawn mower is upright. Here’s how to do it safely:
1. Prepare for Storage
- Drain the Fuel: To minimize the risk of fire and carburetor problems, completely drain the fuel tank before storage.
- Change the Oil: If your lawn mower is older, change the oil before storage. Fresh oil is less likely to break down and cause problems.
2. Store Upright
- Stable Surface: Find a level, sturdy surface to store your mower.
- Protect from the Elements: If you’re storing your mower outside, cover it with a tarp or use a storage shed to protect it from rain, sun, and dust.
Conclusion: Keep Your Lawn Mower Standing Tall
While it may seem like a simple solution, putting a lawn mower on its side can lead to several risks. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can ensure that your mower stays in top condition and that you’re using it safely. Remember, an upright mower is a happy mower, ready to tackle your lawn every time!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is it a bad idea to store a lawnmower on its side?
Many lawnmower owners don’t realize the potential damage they’re doing by storing their mower on its side. It’s not just a matter of convenience; storing it incorrectly can seriously impact its performance and longevity. One of the biggest issues is that it can lead to oil leaks. When the mower is on its side, the oil in the engine can seep out of the crankcase and potentially damage sensitive engine components. This can cause costly repairs or even necessitate a complete engine replacement.
Additionally, storing a lawnmower on its side can cause the carburetor to become clogged. Gasoline can leak into the carburetor and cause it to become gummed up. This will prevent the mower from starting or running properly.
2. What happens if I do store my lawnmower on its side?
Storing your lawnmower on its side can lead to a multitude of problems. Firstly, it can cause oil leaks. As the oil reservoir is tilted, the oil can leak out and potentially damage sensitive engine parts, leading to costly repairs. Secondly, it can damage the carburetor. Gasoline can leak into the carburetor and cause it to become gummed up, making it difficult to start or run properly.
Thirdly, storing the lawnmower on its side can also cause damage to the spark plugs and other components. This is because the spark plugs can become fouled with oil, making it difficult to start the engine. Finally, storing the lawnmower on its side can cause the wheels and other moving parts to rust.
3. Is it OK to put a lawnmower on its side to clean it?
While it’s tempting to tilt your lawnmower on its side for cleaning, it’s generally not recommended. It’s best to keep your lawnmower upright as much as possible. If you absolutely must clean it on its side, be cautious and ensure that the oil drain plug is secure. Cleaning the mower while it’s upright is more efficient and minimizes the risk of causing damage.
However, if you are cleaning the underside of the mower, tilting it slightly is acceptable, but avoid letting it rest on its side for extended periods. Remember to always drain the oil before tilting the mower for cleaning.
4. How can I prevent oil leaks when storing a lawnmower on its side?
It’s best to avoid storing your lawnmower on its side altogether. However, if you have no choice, there are a few steps you can take to minimize the risk of oil leaks. First, drain the oil from the engine. This will prevent oil from leaking out while the mower is on its side.
Second, you can add a sealant to the oil drain plug. This will help to ensure that the oil drain plug is securely in place and that no oil can leak out. You can also consider using a pressure washer to clean the mower’s undercarriage, which is a safer alternative to tilting it on its side.
5. What is the best way to store a lawnmower?
The best way to store a lawnmower is to keep it upright in a dry and well-ventilated area. Keep it in a shed, garage, or any other sheltered space. This will help to prevent rust, corrosion, and other forms of damage. Ensure the area is well-ventilated to prevent moisture build-up.
Additionally, storing your lawnmower with the fuel tank full can attract pests and increase the risk of fire. It’s best to drain the fuel tank before storing the mower for long periods.
6. How do I know if my lawnmower has been damaged from being stored on its side?
There are several signs that your lawnmower has been damaged from being stored on its side. One obvious sign is oil leaks. If you notice oil pooling under the mower, it’s a strong indication that oil has leaked from the engine. Additionally, if you find that your mower is difficult to start, or if it runs poorly, it could be a result of oil leaking into the engine or carburetor.
Finally, if you hear unusual noises coming from the engine, it could indicate damage caused by storing the mower on its side. It’s best to have a mechanic inspect the mower if you suspect damage from improper storage.
7. Is it okay to store a riding lawnmower on its side?
Absolutely not. Riding lawnmowers are even more susceptible to damage from being stored on their side. The oil and fuel systems are more complex, making leaks even more likely.
Storing a riding mower on its side can lead to serious damage, including oil leaks, carburetor issues, and damage to the transmission. It’s crucial to keep your riding lawnmower upright, properly drained, and stored in a sheltered area. If you need to move it, use ramps to avoid tilting the entire mower.