As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, the lawn mowing season comes to a close. You might be tempted to simply toss your trusty mower into the shed or garage, but proper winter storage is crucial for ensuring your lawn mower runs smoothly come springtime. Storing your mower outside can be a necessity for some, whether due to limited indoor space or a preference for keeping it readily accessible. This article will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to properly store your lawn mower outside during the winter months, ensuring it survives the cold and is ready to tackle your lawn next spring.
The Essentials of Outdoor Winter Storage
Properly storing your lawn mower outside during the winter involves a few key steps:
- Thorough Cleaning: Remove any grass clippings, dirt, and debris from the mower, paying special attention to the underside and the engine.
- Fuel Stabilization: Use a fuel stabilizer to prevent the fuel from deteriorating and gumming up the engine.
- Protective Covering: Encase your mower in a weather-resistant cover to protect it from the elements.
1. Prepping Your Mower for Winter
Before you brave the cold and move your mower outside, there are some crucial preparations to ensure it stays healthy throughout the winter.
1.1 A Deep Clean Is Key
The first step is to give your lawn mower a thorough cleaning. This will remove any grass clippings, dirt, and debris that could accumulate and cause problems over the winter. Here’s what you need to do:
- Remove the blade: Loosen the blade bolt, allowing you to remove the blade. Clean the blade with a wire brush and ensure it’s sharp. If it’s dull or damaged, now is the time to replace it.
- Clean the engine: Remove the spark plug and clean the engine with a brush and a shop vac. Pay attention to the air filter and carburetor, as these are prone to dirt and debris build-up.
- Clean the underside: Flip the mower over and carefully clean the underside, paying particular attention to the deck and the wheels. You can use a wire brush and a hose to remove any stubborn dirt and grass clippings.
- Wash the exterior: Give your mower a good wash with soap and water to remove any remaining dirt or grime. Make sure to dry it thoroughly before storing it.
1.2 Fuel Stabilization – Protecting Your Engine
Fuel deterioration is a major concern for engines left dormant for extended periods. To prevent this, you need to use a fuel stabilizer:
- Drain old fuel: Start by draining the existing fuel from the tank. This will help remove any moisture or contaminants.
- Add stabilizer: Fill the tank with fresh fuel and add the recommended amount of fuel stabilizer. Fuel stabilizers are readily available at most hardware and home improvement stores.
- Run the engine: After adding the stabilizer, run the engine for a few minutes to allow the stabilized fuel to circulate through the system. This will help ensure that the stabilizer reaches all parts of the engine.
1.3 Winterize the Mower for Optimal Protection
For added protection, consider taking these additional steps:
- Remove the battery (if applicable): If your mower has a battery, it’s best to remove it and store it indoors in a cool, dry place. This will help prevent the battery from freezing and becoming damaged.
- Lubricate moving parts: Apply a light coat of oil to moving parts, such as the wheels, axles, and the blade. This will help prevent rust and corrosion.
- Check the spark plug: Inspect the spark plug and replace it if it’s worn or damaged. A new spark plug will ensure that the engine starts easily in the spring.
2. Choosing the Right Storage Location
Once your mower is prepped for winter, you need to choose a suitable storage location.
2.1 The Importance of Shelter and Protection
The ideal storage location should be:
- Protected from the elements: Choose a location that will protect your mower from rain, snow, and ice. A covered area, such as a shed or garage, is best. If you’re storing it outside, consider using a tarp or a weather-resistant cover.
- Dry and well-ventilated: Avoid damp areas, as they can lead to rust and corrosion. Ensure the storage location has good ventilation to allow air to circulate.
2.2 Securing Your Mower for Winter
Once you’ve found a suitable location, you need to secure the mower:
- Level surface: Store the mower on a level surface to prevent it from tipping over.
- Elevated from the ground: If possible, elevate the mower slightly off the ground to prevent moisture from accumulating underneath.
- Securely anchored: If storing the mower outside, consider anchoring it to the ground or a sturdy structure to prevent theft.
3. Choosing a Cover for Maximum Protection
A protective cover is essential for keeping your lawn mower safe from the elements during the winter months.
3.1 Choosing the Right Cover
When choosing a cover, look for one that:
- Is waterproof: The cover should be made of a waterproof material to protect the mower from rain, snow, and ice.
- Is breathable: The cover should have some ventilation to allow moisture to escape.
- Is durable: The cover should be made of a durable material that can withstand the elements and wear and tear.
3.2 Using the Cover Properly
Once you’ve chosen a cover, it’s important to use it properly:
- Clean the mower before covering: Remove any dirt or debris from the mower before placing the cover over it.
- Secure the cover: Use straps or ties to secure the cover to the mower. This will prevent it from blowing away in the wind.
- Inspect the cover regularly: Inspect the cover regularly for tears or holes. Repair or replace the cover as needed.
4. Keeping Your Mower Ready for Spring
Even with proper winter storage, your lawn mower may require some attention in the spring before you can use it again.
4.1 Spring Maintenance
Before you start your mower in the spring, you should:
- Inspect the fuel: Check the fuel level and make sure it is fresh and stabilized. If the fuel is old, drain it and replace it with fresh fuel.
- Check the spark plug: Inspect the spark plug and replace it if it is worn or damaged.
- Check the air filter: Replace the air filter if it is dirty or clogged.
- Check the oil: Change the oil and filter if you haven’t done so recently.
- Start the engine: Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to make sure everything is working properly.
5. Final Thoughts: Enjoy the Benefits of Proper Winter Storage
Properly storing your lawn mower outside during the winter can save you time and money in the long run. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can help ensure that your mower will be ready to go when you need it next spring. Remember, a little bit of preventative care can go a long way in protecting your investment and keeping your lawn looking its best.
FAQs
What is the best way to store a lawn mower outside during the winter?
The best way to store a lawn mower outside for the winter is to cover it with a tarp or a lawn mower cover. This will help to protect it from the elements, such as rain, snow, and ice. You should also make sure to clean the mower before storing it, and to empty the fuel tank and carburetor. If you don’t want to use a tarp, you can also consider storing the mower in a shed or garage, but if those aren’t available, a tarp will do.
What if my lawn mower is already covered with rust?
If your lawn mower is already covered with rust, it’s important to address the issue before storing it for winter. You can remove rust using a wire brush or sandpaper, then apply a rust-preventative coating. This will help to prevent further rusting and prolong the life of your lawn mower. You can also consider storing the mower in a dry, well-ventilated area, which will further help prevent rust formation.
Does it matter what kind of lawn mower I have?
The best way to store a lawn mower outside for winter will vary depending on the type of mower you have. For example, a gas-powered mower will need to be drained of fuel and treated with a fuel stabilizer, while an electric mower can be simply stored in a dry place. It’s best to consult your lawn mower’s owner’s manual for specific instructions on how to store your particular model.
Do I need to empty the fuel tank before storing it?
Yes, it is important to empty the fuel tank before storing your lawn mower for winter. This will help to prevent the fuel from going bad and causing damage to the engine. If you don’t want to empty the fuel tank, you can add a fuel stabilizer to the tank. This will help to keep the fuel fresh and prevent it from breaking down.
What about the engine oil?
It’s also a good idea to change the engine oil before storing your lawn mower for winter. This will help to remove any dirt or debris that may have accumulated in the oil, and it will help to prevent the oil from breaking down.
How often should I check on my lawn mower while it’s in storage?
It’s a good idea to check on your lawn mower every few months while it’s in storage, especially if you’re storing it outside. This will allow you to make sure that the tarp or cover is still in place and that there are no signs of damage to the mower. It will also give you the opportunity to check the fuel tank and make sure that it’s still empty.
What happens if I don’t store my lawn mower properly?
If you don’t store your lawn mower properly, it can be damaged by the elements and become difficult to start in the spring. The engine may rust, and the fuel may go bad, which can lead to costly repairs. It’s always better to take the time to store your lawn mower properly, even if it seems like a lot of work. The extra effort will pay off in the long run.