The crisp autumn air has arrived, and the leaves are starting to turn. Soon, the grass will be dormant, and the lawn mower will be put away for the season. But how do you store your lawn mower long term to ensure it’s ready to fire up again when spring arrives? This comprehensive guide will cover everything from basic cleaning and maintenance to winterizing your mower and securing it for safe storage.
A Quick Overview of Long-Term Lawn Mower Storage
Storing your lawn mower for the winter is more than just tucking it away in the shed. To ensure a smooth start in the spring, you need to take the time to properly prepare your mower. This includes cleaning, fueling, and winterizing it. By following these steps, you can avoid costly repairs and ensure your mower is ready to tackle your lawn next season.
Preparing Your Lawn Mower for Storage
1. Clean Your Lawn Mower Thoroughly
The first step in storing your lawn mower is giving it a thorough cleaning. This will prevent dirt and debris from accumulating and potentially causing damage over time.
1.1 Remove Grass Clippings and Debris
Start by removing any grass clippings, leaves, and dirt from the mower deck, engine, and undercarriage. Use a brush, scraper, or leaf blower to clear away any stubborn debris.
1.2 Clean the Mower Deck
The mower deck collects the most grass clippings and dirt. Use a hose with a nozzle or a pressure washer to thoroughly clean the deck. If you have a mulching mower, be sure to remove the mulching blades for easier cleaning.
1.3 Clean the Engine
Wipe down the engine with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or oil spills. Pay special attention to the air filter, which can accumulate dust and debris over time.
1.4 Inspect and Clean the Blades
Remove the blades and inspect them for any damage, such as dents, chips, or cracks. If the blades are damaged, they need to be replaced. Sharpen dull blades using a sharpening tool or have them professionally sharpened. Clean the blades with a wire brush or scraper and apply a light coat of oil to prevent rust.
2. Empty the Fuel Tank
Leaving fuel in the tank over the winter can cause gum and varnish to form, which can damage the fuel system.
2.1 Drain the Fuel
The best way to store your mower is to completely empty the fuel tank.
2.2 Add Fuel Stabilizer
If you prefer not to completely empty the tank, you can add a fuel stabilizer to the remaining fuel. Fuel stabilizer prevents gum and varnish formation and extends the shelf life of gasoline.
3. Change the Oil
Changing the oil before storing your lawn mower will help prevent engine damage and ensure a smooth start in the spring.
3.1 Warm Up the Engine
Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to warm up the oil.
3.2 Drain the Old Oil
Once the oil is warm, shut off the engine and drain the old oil. Use a catch pan to collect the drained oil.
3.3 Add New Oil
Refill the engine with fresh oil, making sure to use the correct type and amount of oil as specified in your lawn mower’s manual.
Winterizing Your Lawn Mower
After you’ve cleaned and prepared your mower, it’s time to winterize it. This involves taking additional steps to protect it from the harsh winter conditions.
1. Remove the Battery
If your lawn mower has a battery, remove it and store it in a cool, dry place.
1.1 Charge the Battery
Before removing the battery, ensure it is fully charged. This will help prolong its life.
1.2 Disconnect the Battery Terminals
Disconnect the battery terminals to prevent any electrical discharge while the battery is not in use.
2. Clean and Lubricate Moving Parts
Lubricating moving parts will help prevent rust and ensure smooth operation the following spring.
2.1 Lubricate Moving Parts
Apply a light coat of oil to any moving parts, such as the wheels, axles, and spark plug wires.
2.2 Check the Air Filter
Inspect and clean the air filter, or replace it if necessary.
Securing Your Lawn Mower for Storage
1. Choose a Suitable Storage Location
Storing your lawn mower in a dry, well-ventilated space is crucial.
1.1 Protect from Moisture
Avoid storing your lawn mower in damp areas, as moisture can cause rust and corrosion.
1.2 Protect from Temperature Extremes
Store your mower in a space that is not exposed to extreme temperatures, as heat or cold can damage the engine and other components.
2. Cover Your Lawn Mower
Covering your lawn mower will provide an extra layer of protection against dust and dirt.
2.1 Use a Breathable Cover
Choose a breathable cover that allows air circulation to prevent condensation from forming.
2.2 Secure the Cover
Ensure the cover is securely fastened to prevent it from being blown off by the wind.
3. Consider a Storage Stand
Using a storage stand will keep your lawn mower off the ground, preventing potential moisture damage and making it easier to access.
Final Thoughts: Your Lawn Mower is Ready for Spring
By following these steps, you can ensure your lawn mower is properly stored for the winter and ready to tackle your lawn when spring arrives. Taking the time to prepare your mower now will save you time, money, and frustration in the future. Remember to review your lawn mower’s manual for specific instructions and recommendations for your model.
FAQ
What’s the best way to store a gas-powered lawnmower long-term?
The best way to store a gas-powered lawnmower long-term is to drain the gas tank and carburetor, clean the mower thoroughly, and store it in a dry, well-ventilated area. Start by draining the gas tank and carburetor. This will prevent the gas from going bad and damaging the engine. Next, clean the mower thoroughly, including the deck, blades, and engine. This will help to prevent rust and corrosion. Finally, store the mower in a dry, well-ventilated area. This will help to keep the mower in good condition and prevent any damage from moisture.
Be sure to check the air filter and spark plug, as these may need to be replaced before storing the mower. If the mower has a battery, it should be removed and stored indoors in a cool, dry place.
How do I drain the gas tank and carburetor?
To drain the gas tank and carburetor, you will need a gas-resistant container and a siphon pump. Start by removing the gas cap and placing the siphon pump into the gas tank. Then, insert the other end of the siphon pump into the gas-resistant container and start siphoning the gas out of the tank. Once the gas tank is empty, you will need to drain the carburetor. This can be done by removing the carburetor drain screw and letting the gas drain out.
To prevent fuel from forming in the carburetor, you can add a fuel stabilizer to the gas tank before storing the mower. This will help to prevent the gas from going bad and clogging the carburetor.
What if I don’t have a siphon pump?
If you don’t have a siphon pump, you can use a turkey baster to drain the gas tank. Insert the baster into the gas tank and slowly squeeze the bulb to draw gas out of the tank. You can then pour the gas into a gas-resistant container.
However, this method will only drain a small amount of gas at a time, so it may take longer to drain the entire tank. It is also important to be careful not to spill any gas while using this method.
How do I clean the lawnmower?
Cleaning the lawnmower is important to prevent rust and corrosion. Start by removing any debris from the deck, blades, and engine. Then, use a garden hose to wash away any dirt or grass clippings.
Once the mower is clean, you can use a soft cloth to wipe down the entire mower. Be sure to dry all surfaces thoroughly before storing the mower.
How do I store the lawnmower long-term?
Storing the lawnmower in a dry, well-ventilated area is important to prevent rust and corrosion. If possible, store the mower on a stand or shelf to keep it off the ground.
Cover the mower with a tarp or sheet to protect it from dust and debris. If you have a battery-powered lawnmower, make sure to remove the battery and store it indoors in a cool, dry place.
What about electric lawnmowers?
Electric lawnmowers are easier to store than gas-powered lawnmowers. Simply clean the mower according to the manufacturer’s instructions and store it in a dry, well-ventilated area.
Be sure to unplug the mower from the power source and remove the battery if applicable. You can also cover the mower with a tarp or sheet to protect it from dust and debris.
How often should I check my stored lawnmower?
It is recommended to check your stored lawnmower every few months, especially if you live in a humid climate. During these checks, make sure the mower is still dry and clean.
Also, check the air filter and spark plug for any signs of wear or damage. If you find any problems, address them immediately to prevent further damage.