The crisp air bites, the leaves turn vibrant shades of red and gold, and the first snowflakes dance in the air. It’s a beautiful time of year, but it also marks the end of the lawn mowing season. As you put away your garden tools, a crucial question arises: how do you store your lawn mower for the winter to ensure it’s ready to roar back to life next spring?
Storing your lawn mower for winter isn’t just about throwing it in the shed and forgetting about it. Proper winterization protects your investment, preventing damage and ensuring a smooth start next season. This guide covers everything you need to know, from basic cleaning and maintenance to essential steps for gas and electric mowers.
Preparing Your Lawn Mower for Winter Storage
Before you tuck your lawn mower away for winter, it’s essential to give it a thorough cleaning and a bit of TLC. This preparation will prevent corrosion and ensure a smooth start next spring.
1. Cleaning: The Foundation of Good Storage
Start by giving your lawn mower a good cleaning. Remove any accumulated grass clippings, dirt, and debris from the deck, wheels, and engine. A hose and a soft brush are all you need for most of the cleaning.
Tips for Cleaning:
- Don’t use a pressure washer! The high-pressure water can damage internal components.
- Clean the air filter: Remove the air filter and clean it with compressed air or wash it with soap and water. Allow it to dry completely before reinstalling.
2. Sharpen the Blades
Sharp blades make for a clean cut and a healthy lawn. Dull blades, on the other hand, can rip and damage grass, leaving it vulnerable to disease. Sharpening your blades before storage ensures a smooth start next spring.
3. Inspect and Replace Parts
Take a moment to inspect your lawn mower for any worn or damaged parts. Replace any worn spark plugs, belts, or air filters to prevent potential problems when you fire it up next spring.
4. Change the Oil
Changing the oil before storage is essential, especially if you’ve been using the mower frequently. Fresh oil protects the engine from corrosion during the off-season.
Tips for Changing Oil:
- Use the correct type of oil: Consult your owner’s manual for the recommended type and viscosity of oil.
- Warm up the engine: Run the mower for a few minutes to allow the oil to thin and drain easier.
- Let the oil cool: Allow the engine to cool for a few minutes before draining the oil.
5. Empty the Fuel Tank
Leaving fuel in the tank over winter can lead to gumming and varnish formation, causing engine problems. It’s best to empty the tank and run the mower until it stops to use any remaining fuel.
Tips for Emptying the Fuel Tank:
- Store unused fuel properly: If you have leftover fuel, store it in a tightly sealed container in a cool, dry place.
- Use fuel stabilizer: If you can’t empty the tank, add a fuel stabilizer to prevent gumming and varnish formation.
Storing Your Gas-Powered Lawn Mower
Gas-powered lawn mowers require specific storage considerations. Here’s how to properly store your gas-powered mower:
1. Choose the Right Storage Location
A dry, well-ventilated shed or garage is ideal for storing your gas-powered mower. Avoid storing it in damp or humid environments, as this can lead to corrosion.
2. Secure the Mower
Secure the lawn mower in an upright position to prevent it from tipping over. You can use a tie-down strap or a stand to ensure stability.
3. Cover the Mower
A canvas or vinyl cover can protect your lawn mower from dust, moisture, and other debris.
4. Consider a Battery Tender
If your mower uses a battery, consider investing in a battery tender. A battery tender helps maintain the battery’s charge during the winter months, preventing it from dying.
Storing Your Electric Lawn Mower
Electric lawn mowers are generally easier to store than gas-powered models. Here’s what you need to do:
1. Clean the Mower
Clean the electric mower thoroughly, including the underside of the deck.
2. Remove the Battery
Remove the battery from the mower and store it in a cool, dry place.
3. Charge the Battery
Before storing the battery, charge it to full capacity.
4. Store the Mower
Store the mower in a dry, indoor location.
Tips for Storing Your Lawn Mower
Here are some additional tips for storing your lawn mower:
- Prepare for spring: Before you put your mower away, take a picture of the air filter, spark plug, and other critical components for easy reference when you’re ready to start it up again.
- Lubricate Moving Parts: Lubricate all moving parts with a light oil to prevent rust and corrosion.
- Keep the Fuel Lines Clean: Disconnect the fuel lines and clean them with a brush and a solvent to remove any debris.
- Clean the Muffler: Remove the muffler and clean it with a wire brush to remove any carbon buildup.
- Check the Tires: Inflate the tires to the proper pressure.
- Store it Flat: If possible, store the mower flat on its side. This can help prevent damage to the engine.
When to Bring Your Lawn Mower Out of Storage
As the weather warms up and the snow melts, it’s time to prepare your lawn mower for the new season. Here’s a quick checklist:
- Inspect the engine: Check the oil level, spark plug, and air filter.
- Clean the deck: Remove any accumulated debris from the underside of the deck.
- Sharpen the blades: Ensure the blades are sharp for a clean cut.
- Fill the fuel tank: Add fresh gasoline to the tank.
- Start the engine: Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to warm up.
- Check for leaks: Check for any fuel or oil leaks.
- Test the mower: Test the mower on a small patch of grass to ensure it’s running properly.
By following these simple steps, you can ensure your lawn mower is ready to tackle the next season of lawn care.
Conclusion
Storing your lawn mower for winter is essential to keep it in good condition and ready for spring. Taking the time to clean, maintain, and store it properly will help you avoid costly repairs and ensure years of reliable service. Remember, proper storage isn’t just about protecting your lawn mower, it’s about ensuring a beautiful, healthy lawn for years to come!
FAQ
Q1: When should I start preparing my lawn mower for winter storage?
A: The ideal time to start preparing your lawn mower for winter storage depends on your location and the specific type of mower you have. Generally, it’s best to start the process once the weather consistently drops below 50 degrees Fahrenheit and you’ve completed your last mow of the season. This gives you enough time to perform all the necessary steps without rushing.
Q2: What are the essential steps for winterizing a gas-powered lawn mower?
A: Winterizing a gas-powered lawn mower involves several key steps to ensure it’s ready for storage. First, drain the fuel tank and carburetor to prevent the fuel from deteriorating and gumming up the engine. Then, add fuel stabilizer to the remaining fuel in the tank to prevent corrosion and keep the fuel fresh. Finally, change the oil, clean the air filter, and sharpen or replace the blades.
Q3: Why is it important to clean my lawn mower before storage?
A: Thorough cleaning is crucial before storing your lawn mower for winter. Cleaning removes dirt, grass clippings, and other debris that can attract pests, cause corrosion, and inhibit proper operation when you restart the mower in spring. A clean lawn mower is less likely to develop problems during storage.
Q4: Do I need to disconnect the battery on my riding mower for winter storage?
A: Yes, disconnecting the battery is recommended for most riding lawn mowers. This prevents the battery from draining over time, potentially damaging the battery. Disconnecting the battery also reduces the risk of electrical shorts or fires during storage.
Q5: Can I store my lawn mower outside during the winter?
A: It’s best to store your lawn mower indoors if possible, especially for gas-powered mowers. Storing it in a dry, protected area helps prevent corrosion, damage from the elements, and potential theft. If you must store it outdoors, ensure it’s covered with a tarp or a protective cover.
Q6: What about electric lawn mowers? Do they need special winter storage instructions?
A: Electric lawn mowers are generally easier to store for winter. No need to worry about fuel, oil changes, or carburetor cleaning. However, you’ll still want to clean it thoroughly, store it in a dry place, and make sure the battery is charged before storing. For corded electric mowers, be sure to keep the cord clean and free of damage.
Q7: When should I start preparing my lawn mower for spring use?
A: Once spring arrives and the weather warms up, it’s time to get your lawn mower ready for the new season. Check the oil, fuel level, and air filter. Replace any damaged parts, sharpen the blades, and test the mower to ensure it’s running properly. This early preparation will save you time and ensure a smooth start to the mowing season.