The crisp air has settled in, the leaves are turning vibrant hues of orange and red, and the lawn is slowly fading into dormancy. This signals the end of the mowing season, and it’s time to prepare your trusty lawn mower for its winter slumber. But how do you ensure it wakes up ready to tackle the green again next spring? This comprehensive guide will walk you through the essential steps for properly storing your lawn mower, protecting it from the harsh elements and ensuring a smooth start next season.
A quick overview
Storing a lawn mower for winter involves a series of steps aimed at preparing the machine for long-term inactivity. This includes cleaning, maintenance, and appropriate storage conditions. By following these guidelines, you can prevent damage, corrosion, and starting issues when the mowing season returns.
Prepare Your Lawn Mower for Winter Storage
Before tucking your lawn mower away, it’s crucial to give it a thorough clean and a little TLC. This will prevent rust and ensure a smooth start when the weather warms up.
Clean and Inspect Your Lawn Mower
Start by giving your lawn mower a thorough cleaning. This includes:
- Removing debris: Use a brush or compressed air to remove grass clippings, dirt, and other debris from the exterior of the mower, including the deck, wheels, and engine.
- Cleaning the underside: Pay special attention to the underside of the mower deck, where grass clippings tend to accumulate. This can be done with a garden hose or a pressure washer. Be sure to avoid spraying directly into the engine or electrical components.
- Cleaning the carburetor: If your mower has a carburetor, it’s a good idea to clean it as part of your winterization process. This helps prevent fuel from gumming up the carburetor and causing starting problems next spring.
Sharpen the Blades
Dull mower blades tear grass, leaving behind unsightly brown patches. Sharpening your blades before storing the mower will ensure a clean cut next season.
- Use the right tools: A sharpening file or a bench grinder are suitable for this task.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions: Refer to your mower’s manual for specific blade sharpening guidelines.
- Maintain the correct blade angle: Sharpen the blades at the correct angle to ensure even cutting.
Change the Oil
Fresh oil lubricates your engine and protects it from wear and tear. Changing the oil before winter storage is a vital step.
- Use the right type of oil: Consult your owner’s manual for the appropriate oil type and viscosity.
- Warm up the engine: Run the engine for a few minutes to warm up the oil before draining it.
- Proper disposal: Dispose of the used oil responsibly, following local regulations.
Add Fuel Stabilizer
Old fuel can gum up your lawn mower’s carburetor and fuel lines, making it difficult to start next season.
- Add fuel stabilizer: Use a fuel stabilizer according to the instructions on the container.
- Run the engine: Once the stabilizer is added, run the engine for a few minutes to distribute the stabilizer throughout the fuel system.
- Top off the tank: Fill the tank with stabilized fuel to prevent moisture from condensing inside the tank.
Store Your Lawn Mower Safely
After cleaning and preparing your lawn mower, it’s time to find a suitable storage location. Here’s what you need to consider:
Choose a Dry and Ventilated Location
Moisture is the enemy of a lawn mower. Choose a dry, well-ventilated space to store your mower. This will prevent rust and corrosion. A garage or shed is ideal.
Protect the Lawn Mower from the Elements
If your storage area is not enclosed, use a tarp or a lawn mower cover to protect your mower from rain, snow, and dust.
Properly Position the Lawn Mower
If possible, elevate your lawn mower slightly to prevent moisture from accumulating on the underside of the deck. You can use blocks of wood or a piece of plywood for this purpose.
Secure the Lawn Mower
If you’re storing your lawn mower in an area that is accessible to others, consider securing it with a chain or a lock to prevent theft.
Winterizing Specific Lawn Mower Types
While the general principles of lawn mower storage apply across the board, certain types of mowers require specific attention.
Winterizing a Gas-Powered Lawn Mower
Gas-powered lawn mowers need special care during winter storage. Follow these additional steps:
- Empty the gas tank: If possible, completely empty the gas tank before storing the mower. This will prevent fuel from going bad and causing issues next season.
- Clean the spark plug: Inspect and clean the spark plug. Replace it if it’s worn or damaged.
- Disengage the blades: Ensure the blade engagement mechanism is disengaged to prevent accidental starting.
Winterizing a Riding Lawn Mower
Riding mowers require extra attention because of their size and complexity.
- Empty the fuel tank: Completely empty the fuel tank, just as you would for a gas-powered push mower.
- Check the battery: Remove the battery and store it indoors in a cool, dry place.
- Replace air filters: Replace the air filters on the engine and the cabin (if equipped).
Winterizing an Electric Lawn Mower
Electric lawn mowers are generally easier to store, as they don’t have fuel systems.
- Charge the battery: Fully charge the battery before storing the mower.
- Clean the battery terminals: Clean the battery terminals to prevent corrosion.
- Store the battery properly: Store the battery in a cool, dry place.
- Protect the cord: If your mower has a cord, store it coiled neatly to prevent damage.
Final Thoughts on Storing Your Lawn Mower for Winter
Taking the time to properly store your lawn mower for winter can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth start next spring. By following these guidelines, you can protect your investment and ensure that your mower is ready to tackle the green when the weather warms up.
FAQ
Q1: What type of maintenance is needed for my gas-powered lawn mower before storing it for winter?
A: Before putting your gas-powered mower away for the winter, it needs a thorough cleaning and a few key maintenance tasks. Start by emptying the fuel tank and running the engine until it stops to prevent fuel from degrading and gumming up the engine. Clean the mower deck, underside, and engine with a brush and a garden hose. Additionally, check and tighten any loose bolts or nuts, replace worn spark plugs, and sharpen or replace the blades for a smooth start in the spring. Finally, add a fuel stabilizer to the gas tank to prevent any fuel deterioration during storage.
Q2: Is it necessary to drain the oil from my lawn mower?
A: Whether or not you need to drain the oil depends on the type of oil and the storage duration. If you use conventional oil, it’s best to drain it before winter storage to prevent oil from breaking down and clogging the engine. However, if you use synthetic oil, which has a longer lifespan, you can skip the oil change. Regardless of your oil type, check the oil level before storing your mower, topping it up if necessary.
Q3: What about my electric lawn mower? Do I need to do any special preparation?
A: Electric lawn mowers require less maintenance compared to gas-powered ones. However, a few steps can ensure smooth operation in the spring. Clean the mower deck and blades thoroughly to remove any grass clippings or debris. Charge the battery fully before storage and disconnect it from the mower to prevent it from draining. Store the battery in a cool, dry place to maximize its lifespan.
Q4: How do I store my lawn mower safely?
A: Choosing the right storage space is crucial for your lawn mower. A cool, dry place, such as a shed or garage, is ideal to prevent moisture damage and rust. If you’re storing it indoors, ensure adequate ventilation to prevent condensation build-up. Additionally, secure the mower with a cover or tarp to protect it from dust and debris.
Q5: Can I store my lawn mower outside?
A: Storing a lawn mower outdoors is not recommended, especially during winter. Exposure to rain, snow, and extreme temperatures can cause significant damage. Moisture can lead to rust and corrosion, while cold temperatures can affect engine performance. If you absolutely must store your mower outdoors, ensure you use a durable, waterproof cover and consider using a moisture-absorbing desiccant pack to prevent moisture build-up.
Q6: When should I start preparing my lawn mower for the next season?
A: As spring approaches, it’s time to prepare your lawn mower for the upcoming season. A few weeks before the first lawn mowing is expected, start by inspecting your mower for any signs of damage or wear and tear. Clean the mower thoroughly, check the oil level, replace the spark plug, and sharpen or replace the blades. Finally, fill the gas tank and start the engine to ensure everything is in working order.
Q7: What should I do if my lawn mower won’t start after winter storage?
A: If your lawn mower fails to start after winter storage, there are a few troubleshooting steps you can take. First, check the fuel lines for any blockages or leaks. Then, make sure the spark plug is properly connected and has a good spark. If the engine still won’t start, try replacing the spark plug or checking the air filter. If you’ve followed these steps and your mower still won’t start, it’s best to consult a professional mechanic for further diagnosis.