Owning a riding lawn mower is a game-changer for anyone with a sizable yard. However, what happens when the mowing season ends and you need to find storage for your trusty machine? While many people opt for indoor storage, not everyone has the luxury of a garage or shed. So, can you safely store your riding lawn mower outside? The answer is: it depends. This article will explore the challenges and strategies for storing your riding lawn mower outside, covering topics like protecting it from the elements, choosing the right location, and essential maintenance tips.
Storing a riding lawn mower outside can be done, but it requires careful planning and attention to detail. You need to address the challenges of weather, potential damage from pests and wildlife, and the need for regular maintenance.
Choosing the Right Location: A Foundation for Protection
The first step in storing your riding lawn mower outside is picking a location that minimizes potential damage.
1. Elevation and Drainage:
Storing your lawn mower on a level, well-drained surface is critical. This prevents water from pooling around the mower, potentially leading to rust and corrosion. If you have a slight incline, position the mower so the front wheels are slightly higher than the rear, allowing water to drain away.
2. Shelter from the Elements:
While you might not have a garage, seeking some form of shelter is essential. A tarp, a carport, or even a strategically placed tree can offer a degree of protection from direct sun, rain, and snow.
3. Security:
Outdoor storage inherently presents security risks. Consider investing in a sturdy, heavy-duty cover that can deter theft and protect against vandalism. Additionally, keep your mower in a well-lit area, and if possible, use a lock or security system to add extra security.
Protection from the Elements: Shielding Your Investment
Once you’ve chosen the right location, you need to address the challenges posed by the elements.
1. Rain and Moisture:
Rain is the biggest enemy of a riding lawn mower stored outside. Water can seep into the engine, cause rust, and damage electrical components.
- Invest in a waterproof cover: A good quality cover will protect your mower from rain, snow, and debris. Ensure the cover is properly secured to prevent it from blowing away in strong winds.
- Regularly check for water: After a rainfall, check under the cover for any pooling water. If you find any, remove the cover and allow the mower to dry thoroughly before covering it again.
2. Sun and UV Rays:
Prolonged exposure to the sun’s UV rays can damage your mower’s paint, plastic parts, and even the engine.
- Choose a shaded location: If possible, store your mower under a tree or a carport that offers shade.
- Use a reflective cover: If shade is limited, consider a cover with a reflective layer to minimize heat absorption.
3. Snow and Ice:
Snow and ice can be particularly damaging, potentially causing corrosion and freezing of fluids.
- Remove snow and ice promptly: If snow or ice accumulates on your mower, clear it away promptly to prevent water from seeping into the engine and damaging components.
- Use a cover with a snow shield: Some covers have an additional layer that prevents snow from accumulating on the mower.
Maintenance: Keeping Your Mower in Top Shape
Storing a riding lawn mower outside requires a dedicated maintenance routine.
1. Cleaning:
Before storing your mower, thoroughly clean it to remove dirt, grass clippings, and debris.
- Remove any debris from the mower: Brush away all accumulated dirt and debris.
- Clean the underside of the mower: Use a hose to remove any grass clippings that have collected underneath the mower deck.
2. Fuel Stabilization:
Fresh gasoline degrades over time, creating gummy deposits that can damage your mower’s fuel system.
- Use a fuel stabilizer: Adding a fuel stabilizer to your gas tank will help prevent this degradation.
- Run the engine for a few minutes after adding stabilizer: This will allow the stabilized fuel to circulate through the system.
3. Battery Maintenance:
If your mower has a battery, ensure it’s fully charged and stored in a cool, dry place.
- Remove the battery: If possible, remove the battery and store it indoors for optimal protection.
- Charge the battery regularly: Even if you’re not using the mower, charge the battery every few weeks to prevent it from becoming completely discharged.
4. Lubrication:
Lubricate all moving parts with a light oil to prevent rust and corrosion.
- Lubricate moving parts: Apply a light oil to the mower’s moving parts, such as the blades, wheels, and steering components.
- Check for lubrication points: Consult your mower’s owner’s manual for specific lubrication points.
Extra Tips for Success
While these steps provide a solid foundation, here are some extra tips for storing a riding lawn mower outside:
- Elevate the mower: If possible, place blocks under the mower’s tires to raise it off the ground. This improves ventilation and helps prevent rust and corrosion.
- Store fuel in a separate container: If you are not using the mower for an extended period, consider draining the fuel tank and storing it in a separate container.
- Invest in a cover with ventilation: Look for a cover that has vents to allow for air circulation and prevent moisture buildup.
- Check your mower regularly: Even with proper storage, it’s important to check your mower periodically for signs of rust, corrosion, or other damage.
Conclusion: Safeguarding Your Investment
Storing a riding lawn mower outside is possible, but it requires careful planning and consistent maintenance. By choosing a well-drained, sheltered location, protecting your mower from the elements, and following a routine maintenance schedule, you can extend its lifespan and ensure it’s ready for use when you need it. Remember, proper storage is an investment in your lawn mower’s longevity and your own peace of mind.
FAQs
Can I store my riding lawn mower outside?
While it is possible to store your riding lawn mower outside, it’s not ideal. Outdoor storage exposes your mower to the elements, which can lead to damage and shorten its lifespan. The best way to store your mower is indoors, in a dry and protected environment. However, if indoor storage isn’t an option, there are ways to mitigate the risks of storing your mower outside.
What are the risks of storing my riding lawn mower outside?
Storing your riding lawn mower outside exposes it to several potential risks:
- Weather damage: Rain, snow, and sun can all damage your mower’s paint, engine, and other parts.
- Rust: Moisture and humidity can cause rust to form on your mower’s metal components.
- Theft: Leaving your mower unattended outside makes it a tempting target for thieves.
- Wildlife: Birds, rodents, and other animals can nest in your mower and cause damage.
How can I protect my riding lawn mower if I have to store it outside?
You can take several steps to protect your mower from the elements if you have to store it outside:
- Invest in a cover: A high-quality, weather-resistant cover will help protect your mower from rain, snow, and sun.
- Choose a dry location: If possible, store your mower under a carport or awning to shield it from direct rainfall.
- Elevate the mower: Place your mower on blocks or a piece of plywood to keep it off the ground and prevent moisture buildup.
- Clean and lubricate: Before storing your mower, clean it thoroughly and lubricate all moving parts to prevent rust.
- Remove the battery: If possible, remove the battery and store it indoors to prevent it from freezing or discharging.
What are the best materials for a riding lawn mower cover?
The best cover for your riding lawn mower should be made from a durable, weather-resistant material. Look for covers made from:
- Polyester: This is a common and affordable material that offers good protection from rain and sun.
- Vinyl: Vinyl covers are more durable and waterproof than polyester covers.
- Canvas: Canvas covers are breathable and offer good protection from the elements, but they can be more expensive.
How can I prevent rust from forming on my riding lawn mower?
Rust is a common problem for riding lawn mowers stored outside. To prevent rust, you should:
- Clean the mower thoroughly: Before storing your mower, clean it thoroughly with a damp cloth and soap to remove any dirt, grass, or debris.
- Lubricate all moving parts: Use a light oil to lubricate all moving parts, including the wheels, blades, and engine.
- Consider a rust preventative: You can also use a rust preventative spray to protect your mower’s metal parts.
What should I do to prepare my riding lawn mower for outdoor storage?
Before storing your riding lawn mower outside, you should:
- Empty the fuel tank: Gasoline can degrade over time and can damage your mower’s engine.
- Add a fuel stabilizer: If you can’t empty the tank, add a fuel stabilizer to the gasoline to prevent it from degrading.
- Change the oil: Change the oil and filter before storing your mower to prevent sludge buildup.
- Check the tires: Make sure the tires are properly inflated and that there are no cracks or punctures.
What are some tips for storing my riding lawn mower outside during the winter?
Storing a riding lawn mower outside during the winter presents additional challenges due to the cold temperatures and snow. Here are some tips for winter storage:
- Protect from snow and ice: Make sure your cover is large enough to completely cover your mower and protect it from snow and ice.
- Consider a heated storage shed: If possible, store your mower in a heated storage shed or garage to prevent it from freezing.
- Use a battery tender: If you leave the battery in your mower, use a battery tender to keep it charged and prevent it from freezing.