The crisp autumn air, vibrant fall foliage, and the smell of wood smoke signal the end of another lawn mowing season. But before you tuck your trusty lawn mower away for winter, it’s essential to prepare it for its long slumber. Improper storage can lead to damage and a difficult, frustrating spring startup. This comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge and steps to ensure your mower hibernates safely and starts with ease when spring arrives.
A quick overview: Storing your lawn mower for winter involves a series of steps designed to prevent damage from cold temperatures, moisture, and rust. This includes cleaning, draining, and lubricating key components, as well as selecting the right storage location and protecting it from the elements.
Getting Started: A Clean Machine is a Happy Machine
Before embarking on the storage process, dedicate some time to a thorough cleaning. This step is crucial for preventing corrosion and ensuring a smooth start-up next season.
1. A Deep Clean:
- Start by removing any visible debris: Grass clippings, leaves, dirt, and other accumulated grime can harbor moisture and lead to rust. Use a brush, a shop vacuum, or a blower to clean the exterior of the mower.
- Focus on the underside: Don’t forget to clean the underside of the mower deck, as this is where grass clippings tend to accumulate.
- Remove and clean the blades: Sharp blades are essential for a good cut. Remove the blades and clean them with a wire brush or steel wool. Inspect for any damage and replace or sharpen as needed.
2. Attention to Detail:
- Clean the engine: Use a brush and a shop vacuum to clean the engine area, paying attention to the air filter, carburetor, and spark plug.
- Clean the fuel tank: If your mower uses gasoline, drain and clean the fuel tank. Old fuel can gum up the carburetor and cause starting problems.
- Check and clean the air filter: A clean air filter ensures optimal engine performance. Remove and clean or replace the air filter, depending on its type.
Preparing for Storage: Essential Steps for a Smooth Spring Start
Once your mower is clean, you can begin the preparations for winter storage. These steps are critical for protecting your mower from the elements and ensuring a smooth start-up next spring.
1. Fuel Considerations:
- Draining the fuel tank (gasoline mowers): Old gasoline can degrade over time, gumming up the carburetor and making it difficult to start the mower in the spring. It’s best to drain the fuel tank and store the gasoline in an approved container.
- Stabilizing the fuel (gasoline mowers): If you prefer not to drain the tank, add fuel stabilizer to the gas. This prevents fuel from degrading and allows you to store the mower with fuel in the tank.
2. Engine Care:
- Oil change: A fresh oil change is essential for protecting the engine during storage. Remove the old oil and replace it with fresh oil.
- Spark plug check and cleaning: Inspect the spark plug for wear and tear. If necessary, clean it with a wire brush or replace it with a new one.
3. Lubrication:
- Grease moving parts: To prevent rust and ensure smooth operation, grease all moving parts, including the wheels, axles, and linkages.
- Lubricate the blades: A thin coat of oil on the blades will help prevent rust.
Choosing the Right Storage Location: Where to Keep Your Mower Safe and Secure
Where you store your mower can significantly impact its longevity. Choosing a location that is dry, well-ventilated, and protected from the elements is crucial.
1. Ideal Storage Conditions:
- Dry environment: Moisture is the enemy of lawn mowers. Choose a storage location that is dry and free from condensation.
- Well-ventilated: Good airflow helps prevent rust and mildew. Choose a location that has good ventilation.
- Protection from the elements: If possible, store your mower indoors. If outdoor storage is necessary, use a tarp or cover to protect it from the rain, snow, and sun.
2. Storage Options:
- Garage: A garage is often the ideal storage location for a lawn mower. It provides a dry, well-ventilated environment, and it’s easy to access.
- Shed: A shed can also be a good storage location for a lawn mower, provided it is dry and well-ventilated.
- Outdoor cover: If indoor storage isn’t an option, use a heavy-duty tarp or cover to protect your mower from the elements.
The Final Touch: Secure Your Mower and Prepare for Spring
Once you’ve followed these steps, your lawn mower is ready for its winter slumber. Take one final step to ensure a smooth transition to spring.
1. Secure the Mower:
- Consider a storage stand: A storage stand helps keep the mower off the ground, reducing the risk of rust and damage.
- Stabilize the mower: If using a cover, secure it tightly to prevent it from blowing away.
2. Spring Preparations:
- Check your supplies: Before spring arrives, check your fuel supply, spark plugs, and oil.
- Plan for maintenance: Schedule any necessary maintenance or repairs for your lawn mower in advance of spring.
Final Thoughts: Keep Your Lawn Mower Ready for the Season Ahead
By taking the time to properly store your lawn mower for winter, you can protect your investment, prevent costly repairs, and ensure a smooth and enjoyable spring mowing season. Remember, a little effort now can save you a lot of headaches later!
FAQs
What is the best time to store my lawn mower for winter?
The best time to store your lawn mower for winter is after your last mowing session before the ground freezes. This typically occurs in late fall, depending on your region’s climate. It’s crucial to ensure the grass is cut short before storage, as long grass can harbor moisture and attract pests, potentially causing damage to your mower.
Waiting until the ground freezes can lead to difficulties moving your mower, especially if it’s a heavier model. Plus, storing your mower in the cold can expose it to freezing temperatures, potentially causing damage to the fuel lines and carburetor.
Do I need to empty the gas tank before storing my lawn mower?
It’s highly recommended to empty the gas tank before storing your lawn mower for winter. Gasoline can degrade over time, attracting gum and varnish that can clog the fuel system and damage your engine. It’s best to run the engine until it’s out of fuel and then add a fuel stabilizer to the remaining fuel to prevent deterioration.
However, if you decide to store your mower with fuel in the tank, ensure it’s fresh, high-quality fuel and add a fuel stabilizer to prevent gum and varnish formation. This will help ensure your mower runs smoothly when you’re ready to use it again in the spring.
How do I clean my lawn mower before storing it?
Before storing your lawn mower for winter, a thorough cleaning is essential. Start by removing any debris or grass clippings from the mower deck, engine, and chassis. Then, use a brush or cloth to clean any dirt or grime buildup. Next, use a garden hose to wash away remaining dirt and grime, ensuring you dry the mower completely afterward.
Once dry, apply a light coating of oil to moving parts like the blades, wheels, and engine components. This will help prevent rust and corrosion from forming over the winter months. You can also use a spray lubricant to protect your mower’s metal parts from rust and corrosion.
Do I need to change the oil in my lawn mower before storing it?
Changing the oil in your lawn mower before storing it for winter is a good practice, especially if you’ve used your mower frequently during the season. Fresh oil offers better protection for your engine during the winter months, preventing rust and corrosion.
However, if your mower has been stored for a long time, it’s recommended to change the oil before starting it up in the spring. This will ensure your engine runs smoothly and prevents any potential damage from old, contaminated oil.
What are some tips for storing my lawn mower indoors?
Storing your lawn mower indoors is ideal, as it protects it from harsh weather conditions and potential damage. Choose a dry, well-ventilated space, ensuring it’s not near any heat sources that can damage the mower or create fire hazards.
When storing your mower indoors, keep it upright and off the ground to prevent rust and corrosion. Additionally, cover the mower with a breathable canvas cover or a specific lawn mower storage cover to further protect it from dust and moisture.
How do I safely store my lawn mower outdoors?
If you’re storing your lawn mower outdoors, ensure it’s placed on a level, dry surface and covered with a heavy-duty tarp or a waterproof cover specifically designed for lawn mowers. This will help protect it from rain, snow, and debris.
Additionally, consider using a moisture-absorbing material like silica gel packs inside the cover to prevent moisture buildup. If possible, store the mower in a sheltered area like under a shed or porch to further protect it from the elements.
When should I start my lawn mower after winter storage?
Starting your lawn mower after winter storage should be done gradually. Before starting it up, check the oil levels, ensure the spark plug is clean, and inspect for any rust or corrosion.
When ready, start the mower for a few minutes, allowing it to warm up before mowing. If the mower doesn’t start or runs poorly, you may need to clean the carburetor or replace the spark plug. Gradually increasing the amount of time you use the mower will help it acclimate to being used again after winter storage.