As the leaves fall and the air turns crisp, it’s time to say goodbye to your trusty lawn mower until spring. But before you tuck it away for the winter, there are some essential steps to ensure it’s properly stored and ready to tackle your lawn next season. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of winterizing your lawn mower, from basic cleaning and maintenance to storing it safely and securely.
Essentially, proper winter storage aims to prevent rust, damage, and deterioration, guaranteeing a smooth start-up come springtime. This article will guide you through the best practices for preparing your lawn mower for winter storage, covering topics such as cleaning, maintenance, fuel management, and storage location.
Preparing Your Lawn Mower for Winter
1. Clean and Inspect
Before you store your lawn mower, it’s crucial to give it a thorough cleaning and inspection. This will help to prevent rust and ensure any potential issues are addressed before storage.
Clean the Exterior:
* Use a brush or a leaf blower to remove any grass clippings, leaves, or dirt from the mower’s exterior.
* Pay particular attention to the underside of the deck, where grass clippings tend to accumulate.
* Remove the grass catcher and empty it.
Clean the Engine:
* Wipe down the engine with a damp cloth.
* Check the air filter and replace it if it’s dirty or damaged.
* Clean the spark plug with a wire brush and inspect it for wear.
Inspect the Blades:
* If your lawn mower is equipped with a rotary blade, ensure it’s sharp.
* Dull blades can damage your lawn and make mowing more difficult.
* If your blade is dull, you can sharpen it yourself using a file or take it to a professional.
Check for Leaks:
* Inspect the fuel tank and fuel lines for any leaks.
* If you find any leaks, have them repaired by a professional before storing the mower.
Lubricate Moving Parts:
* Apply a light oil to moving parts such as the wheels, bearings, and pivot points.
* This will help prevent rust and ensure smooth operation next season.
2. Fuel Management:
Improper fuel storage is one of the most common reasons for lawn mower problems in the spring.
Empty the Fuel Tank:
* If possible, completely drain the fuel tank.
* This prevents fuel from deteriorating and gumming up the engine over time.
* Store the fuel in a sealed container in a cool, dry place.
Use a Fuel Stabilizer:
* If you can’t drain the fuel tank, add a fuel stabilizer to the tank before storing.
* This product helps prevent fuel from degrading and ensures a smooth start in the spring.
3. Engine Preparation:
For optimal winter storage, it’s recommended to run the engine with the fuel stabilizer mixed in until it’s completely in the fuel system. This ensures the stabilizer reaches all parts of the engine.
Run the Engine:
* Once you’ve added a fuel stabilizer, run the engine for a few minutes to allow the stabilizer to circulate throughout the fuel system.
Change the Oil:
* Change the engine oil before storing the mower.
* This removes old, dirty oil that can cause corrosion and damage.
4. Secure Storage:
Proper storage ensures the lawn mower remains protected from damage and theft.
Storage Location:
* Store the lawn mower in a dry, well-ventilated area, such as a garage or shed.
* Avoid storing the mower in damp or humid environments as this can lead to rust.
Covering:
* Cover the lawn mower with a breathable, water-resistant cover.
* This will help protect it from dust, dirt, and moisture.
5. Additional Tips for Storage:
Disconnecting Battery:
* If your lawn mower has a battery, disconnect it before storing.
* This will prevent the battery from draining and potentially getting damaged.
* Store the battery in a cool, dry place.
Storing the Blade:
* If you have a rotary blade, consider removing it for storage. This can help prevent accidental injury.
* Store the blade in a safe place, ensuring it is covered to prevent rust.
Cleaning the Fuel Line:
* If your lawn mower is equipped with a fuel line, consider cleaning it before storage. This will help prevent fuel from clogging the line over time.
Storing Gas:
* Never store gasoline in a plastic container, as gasoline can damage plastic over time.
* Store gasoline in a metal container.
* You can purchase a metal fuel container at most hardware stores.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Engine Won’t Start:
* The most common reason for a lawn mower not starting is a lack of fuel or a problem with the fuel system.
* If your lawn mower has been sitting for a long time, you may need to drain and replace the fuel or add a fuel stabilizer.
* Inspect the fuel lines for any clogs or leaks.
Engine Runs Rough:
* A rough-running engine may indicate a problem with the spark plug, air filter, or carburetor.
* Clean or replace the spark plug and air filter.
* If the problem persists, you may need to have the carburetor inspected and cleaned.
Lawn Mower Won’t Cut:
* A lawn mower that won’t cut may have a problem with the blade, clutch, or drive system.
* Check the blade to make sure it’s sharp and securely attached.
* Inspect the clutch and drive system for any wear or damage.
Lawn Mower Vibrates:
* A lawn mower that vibrates excessively may have a problem with the engine, blade, or drive system.
* If the engine is vibrating, check the spark plug and engine mounts.
* If the blade is vibrating, make sure it’s securely attached and balanced.
* If the drive system is vibrating, inspect the drive belt for wear or damage.
Conclusion:
Properly storing your lawn mower for winter is essential for ensuring it starts up smoothly and performs reliably next season. By following these guidelines, you can help prevent rust, damage, and deterioration, keeping your lawn mower in top condition until spring. Remember, a little time and effort spent preparing your mower for winter will pay off with a trouble-free mowing season next year.
FAQs
1. When Should I Store My Lawn Mower for Winter?
The best time to store your lawn mower for winter is after your last mow of the season. This is typically when the grass stops growing and the weather starts to cool down. It’s essential to wait until the grass has stopped growing, as attempting to mow wet or frosty grass can damage the blades. By storing your mower in the fall, you’ll prevent the buildup of moisture that can lead to rust and corrosion.
2. What are the Different Types of Lawn Mower Storage?
There are two main types of lawn mower storage: indoor and outdoor. Indoor storage is ideal for protecting your mower from the elements, while outdoor storage can be a more convenient option. For indoor storage, a garage, shed, or basement are all good options. If you are storing your mower outdoors, consider using a tarp or cover to protect it from the rain and snow.
3. How Do I Prepare My Lawn Mower for Storage?
Before storing your lawn mower, you’ll need to give it a thorough cleaning. Remove any dirt, grass clippings, and debris from the mower. Pay particular attention to the underside of the deck, where grass clippings and dirt can accumulate. Next, check the oil level and top it off if needed. Finally, drain the gas tank to prevent the fuel from going bad and potentially damaging your engine.
4. Do I Need to Drain the Gas Tank?
Yes, it is highly recommended to drain the gas tank before storing your lawn mower for winter. Gasoline can go bad over time and create deposits in the engine that can cause problems when you start the mower up again in the spring. The best way to drain the gas tank is to use a siphon. Alternatively, you can start the mower and let it run until it’s out of gas.
5. Should I Disconnect the Battery?
It is important to disconnect the battery from your lawn mower before storing it for winter. This will prevent the battery from draining and potentially becoming damaged. If you have a battery charger, you can charge the battery before storing the mower. Otherwise, remove the battery from the mower and store it in a cool, dry place.
6. How Often Should I Start My Lawn Mower During Storage?
It’s best to start your lawn mower at least once a month during the winter. This will help keep the engine lubricated and prevent it from seizing. However, if you’re storing your mower in a climate that doesn’t experience extreme temperatures, you can start it less frequently.
7. What Are Some Tips for Storing My Lawn Mower?
Here are some additional tips for storing your lawn mower:
- Cover your mower: If you are storing your mower outside, use a tarp or cover to protect it from the rain and snow.
- Store the mower on a flat surface: This will help prevent the fuel from leaking out of the tank.
- Keep the mower in a dry place: Moisture can cause rust and corrosion, so it’s important to keep your mower in a dry place.
- Inspect the mower regularly: If you’re storing your mower for a long period of time, it’s a good idea to check on it regularly. This will allow you to catch any problems early on.