As the days grow shorter and the leaves begin to turn, the lawnmower season is winding down. But before you tuck your trusty electric lawn mower away for winter, there are some important steps to ensure it stays in tip-top shape for the next mowing season. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to properly store your electric lawn mower, preventing damage and maximizing its lifespan. We’ll cover everything from cleaning and maintenance to finding the ideal storage location.
A Quick Overview of Electric Lawn Mower Winter Storage
Properly storing your electric lawn mower for winter involves a few key steps:
- Thorough Cleaning: Remove any grass clippings and debris.
- Maintenance and Inspection: Check for wear and tear, sharpen blades, and lubricate moving parts.
- Charging and Battery Care: Ensure the battery is fully charged and stored correctly.
- Proper Storage: Choose a dry, cool, and secure location.
Let’s delve deeper into each step.
1. A Clean Machine is a Happy Machine: Cleaning Your Electric Lawn Mower
Before storing your electric lawn mower for winter, it’s crucial to give it a thorough cleaning. This not only improves its appearance but also helps prevent rust and corrosion.
1.1. Removing Grass Clippings and Debris
Start by removing any grass clippings, leaves, and debris that may have accumulated on the mower’s body, blades, and underside. You can use a brush, a damp cloth, or even a leaf blower to remove loose debris. For stubborn grass stains, a gentle cleaning solution or a mixture of vinegar and water can be effective.
1.2. Cleaning the Battery
If your electric lawn mower uses a removable battery, remove it and clean the battery terminals with a wire brush. This will help ensure proper contact and prevent corrosion.
1.3. Cleaning the Cutting Deck
The cutting deck of your lawn mower is where grass clippings tend to gather. Use a garden hose to spray the deck, removing any remaining debris. You can also use a dedicated deck brush or a stiff bristle brush to reach hard-to-reach areas.
2. Maintaining Your Mower for a Long Lifespan
Once you’ve cleaned your electric lawn mower, it’s time to perform some basic maintenance tasks to ensure it’s ready for spring.
2.1. Inspecting and Sharpening Blades
Sharp blades are crucial for a clean cut and efficient mowing. Carefully inspect your blades for any damage, dullness, or wear. If they need sharpening, you can use a sharpening stone, a file, or take them to a professional for sharpening.
2.2. Lubricating Moving Parts
Moving parts like the wheels, handles, and the motor shaft can benefit from lubrication. Use a light oil spray to lubricate these parts, ensuring smooth operation when you use it again.
3. Battery Care: Ensuring Power for Spring
Storing your electric lawn mower’s battery correctly is crucial for its longevity and performance.
3.1. Fully Charging the Battery
Before storing your electric lawn mower, fully charge the battery. This ensures it has the necessary power to last through the winter and be ready for use in the spring.
3.2. Storing the Battery Properly
For best results, store the battery in a cool, dry place, ideally at room temperature. Avoid extreme temperatures, as they can damage the battery.
Important Note: If you have a removable battery, it’s often recommended to store it separately from the mower itself. This helps prevent any potential damage to the battery caused by the mower’s internal components.
4. Finding the Right Storage Location: Keeping Your Mower Safe and Sound
The storage location you choose will play a significant role in preserving your electric lawn mower’s condition.
4.1. A Dry and Cool Environment
Choose a dry, cool, and well-ventilated area for storing your mower. Moisture can lead to rust and corrosion, while excessive heat can damage the battery and other components. A garage or basement, kept free of moisture and humidity, is an ideal location.
4.2. Security and Protection
If possible, store your electric lawn mower in a secure location to protect it from theft or accidental damage. Consider using a lock or a cover to further enhance security.
5. Additional Tips for Optimal Winter Storage
- Cover it up: Use a dust cover or a tarp to protect your lawnmower from dust and debris.
- Consider a dehumidifier: If you’re storing your mower in a humid environment, a dehumidifier can help prevent moisture buildup.
- Avoid direct sunlight: Prolonged exposure to sunlight can damage the battery and other components.
- Inspect before spring: Before using your lawnmower in the spring, give it a quick check to ensure everything is in working order.
Conclusion: Ready for a Smooth Start in Spring
By following these steps, you can ensure your electric lawn mower is properly stored for the winter, safeguarding its condition and ensuring a smooth start when the mowing season returns. A well-maintained lawnmower not only looks great but also contributes to a healthy and beautiful lawn.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ #1: What kind of maintenance should I do before storing my electric lawn mower for winter?
Before storing your electric lawn mower for winter, it’s important to give it a thorough cleaning. Remove any grass clippings, dirt, or debris from the mower’s body, blades, and charging port. This will help prevent rust and corrosion from forming. It’s also a good idea to sharpen the blades for a clean cut next spring. If your mower has a removable battery, it’s essential to charge it fully before storing it separately.
FAQ #2: Do I need to drain any fluids from my electric lawn mower?
Unlike gasoline-powered lawn mowers, electric lawn mowers don’t have any fluids to drain. This makes winterizing them much easier and less messy. However, you should still clean the mower thoroughly, as mentioned previously.
FAQ #3: What’s the best way to store my electric lawn mower for winter?
The best way to store your electric lawn mower is in a dry, cool place indoors. This will protect it from the elements and prevent rust and corrosion. If you don’t have space indoors, a covered shed or garage is a good alternative. Just make sure the storage area is dry and well-ventilated.
FAQ #4: Should I cover my electric lawn mower while in storage?
Covering your electric lawn mower is optional, but it can help protect it from dust and dirt. If you choose to cover it, make sure the cover is breathable to prevent moisture buildup. You can use a dedicated lawn mower cover or a large, clean tarp.
FAQ #5: How often should I check on my stored electric lawn mower?
It’s recommended to check on your stored electric lawn mower every few months to make sure it’s still in good condition. Ensure the storage area remains dry and that there are no signs of rust or corrosion. You can also use this opportunity to give the mower a quick wipe down and to make sure the battery is still charged.
FAQ #6: When should I start preparing my electric lawn mower for spring?
Start preparing your electric lawn mower for spring a few weeks before you plan to use it again. This will give you time to clean it, sharpen the blades, and charge the battery. You can also check the motor and other components to make sure they are in good working order.
FAQ #7: What are some common mistakes to avoid when storing an electric lawn mower?
Avoid storing your electric lawn mower in a damp or humid environment. This can lead to rust and corrosion, which can damage the mower and shorten its lifespan. Also, never store the mower with the battery still attached, as this can lead to battery damage. Make sure the battery is fully charged and stored separately in a cool, dry place.