The crisp air bites, leaves dance in the wind, and your lawn mower sits idle. As the season transitions from vibrant green to frosty white, a crucial question arises: What do you do with your lawn mower during the winter? Many homeowners tuck their trusty mowers away until spring, but proper winterizing is essential to ensure it’s ready for action when the weather warms. This comprehensive guide will delve into the best practices for storing your lawn mower, addressing common concerns, and outlining the key steps to take before hibernation.
In essence, winterizing your lawn mower involves preparing it for extended storage by performing a few essential tasks. These include:
- Cleaning and draining: Removing debris, emptying fuel tanks, and draining fluids to prevent corrosion.
- Sharpening and maintenance: Sharpening blades, inspecting and cleaning engine parts, and lubricating moving components.
- Storing correctly: Choosing the appropriate storage location, protecting it from moisture and cold, and securing it for safety.
Preparing for Hibernation: Getting Your Lawn Mower Winter-Ready
The key to a successful winter storage lies in thorough preparation. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure your lawn mower emerges from its slumber in top shape:
Step 1: Clean and Drain
1.1. Remove Debris and Grass Clippings
Before any other maintenance, give your lawn mower a thorough cleaning. This includes:
- Remove grass clippings and debris: Use a brush, a shop vacuum, or a compressed air blower to remove any accumulated grass clippings, leaves, dirt, or other debris from the mower deck, engine, and undercarriage.
- Clean the air filter: A dirty air filter can hinder airflow and affect engine performance. Depending on the type, you can either tap the filter to remove loose debris or wash it with soap and water.
- Clean the spark plug: A clean spark plug ensures a strong spark for reliable ignition. Use a wire brush to clean the electrodes and gap.
1.2. Empty the Fuel Tank
Old fuel can gum up the engine and cause starting issues in the spring.
- Drain the fuel tank: Use a siphon or a fuel-safe container to completely empty the fuel tank.
- Add fuel stabilizer: If you prefer to leave a small amount of fuel in the tank, add a fuel stabilizer to prevent fuel deterioration.
1.3. Drain the Engine Oil
Engine oil can thicken in cold temperatures, potentially affecting engine performance.
- Change the oil: Drain the old oil and replace it with fresh oil suitable for your engine type.
- Check the oil filter: Replace the oil filter for optimal performance.
Step 2: Sharpening and Maintenance
2.1. Sharpen the Blades
Sharp blades are crucial for a smooth, even cut.
- Sharpen the blades: Use a file, a sharpening stone, or a specialized blade sharpener to sharpen the blades to a uniform angle.
- Balance the blades: Ensure the blades are balanced for safe operation.
2.2. Inspect and Clean Engine Parts
Regularly inspect and clean essential engine components for smooth operation.
- Clean the carburetor: If your lawn mower has a carburetor, clean it with carburetor cleaner to remove any dirt or debris.
- Clean the spark arrestor: If your mower has a spark arrestor, clean it to ensure proper operation.
2.3. Lubricate Moving Parts
Lubrication helps prevent friction and wear on moving parts.
- Grease the wheels and bearings: Apply grease to the wheels and bearings to ensure smooth rolling and prevent rust.
- Lubricate the drive shaft: If your mower has a drive shaft, lubricate it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Step 3: Storage Location and Protection
The storage location plays a significant role in preserving your lawn mower.
- Choose a dry and well-ventilated area: Store your mower in a dry, well-ventilated location, such as a garage, shed, or basement, to prevent rust and mildew.
- Protect from moisture: Cover the mower with a waterproof tarp or a dedicated mower cover to shield it from moisture.
- Secure the mower: Secure the mower with a lock or chain to prevent theft.
- Elevate the mower: If possible, elevate the mower slightly off the ground to prevent tire wear and damage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need to remove the battery from my lawn mower?
Removing the battery is generally recommended for most lawn mowers. It prevents the battery from draining during winter storage. If you’re unsure, consult your lawn mower’s manual.
What about gas-powered mowers?
For gas-powered mowers, ensure the fuel tank is completely empty or contains fuel stabilizer. Leaving fuel in the tank can cause problems like fuel line blockage and carburetor damage.
Should I cover my lawn mower during winter storage?
Yes, covering your lawn mower during winter storage is essential for protecting it from dust, moisture, and the elements. Choose a waterproof tarp or a dedicated mower cover designed to fit your model.
What if I don’t have a dedicated storage space?
If you don’t have a dedicated storage space, consider storing the mower in a covered area, such as under a porch or awning, to protect it from the elements. Be mindful of moisture accumulation.
When should I start preparing my lawn mower for winter?
Ideally, prepare your lawn mower for winter storage a few weeks before the first frost. This allows ample time to complete all the necessary steps.
Conclusion: A Well-Prepared Lawn Mower Awaits Spring
By following these steps, you can ensure that your lawn mower is safely tucked away for the winter, ready to tackle the green expanse when spring arrives. Proper winterization is a small investment that yields significant benefits, ensuring your mower’s longevity and providing a smooth start to the next mowing season. Remember, always consult your lawn mower’s manual for specific instructions and recommendations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the main thing to put in a lawn mower for winter storage?
A: The main thing to put in a lawn mower for winter storage is fuel stabilizer. Fuel stabilizer prevents the fuel from degrading and forming gum and varnish, which can clog the carburetor and make it difficult to start your mower in the spring. It’s important to note that adding fuel stabilizer is not a substitute for draining the fuel tank completely, but it can help preserve the fuel if you are unable to do so.
Q: What other things should I put in my lawn mower for winter storage?
A: In addition to fuel stabilizer, you should also add a little bit of oil to the spark plug hole. This will help lubricate the cylinder and prevent rust from forming. You should also clean the mower thoroughly, including the underside and the deck. This will help prevent dirt and debris from building up over the winter and making it difficult to start in the spring.
Q: How do I prepare my lawn mower for winter storage?
A: To prepare your lawn mower for winter storage, you will need to clean it thoroughly, drain the fuel tank and carburetor, add fuel stabilizer to the remaining fuel, change the oil, and add oil to the spark plug hole. You should also sharpen the blades and clean the air filter. Finally, store the mower in a dry, cool place where it will not be exposed to the elements.
Q: Why is it important to clean my lawn mower before storing it?
A: It’s important to clean your lawn mower before storing it because dirt and debris can build up over time and cause problems when you try to start it in the spring. Dirt and debris can clog the carburetor, air filter, and other parts of the engine, making it difficult to start or even causing damage. Cleaning your mower before storage ensures it’s ready for the next season.
Q: Should I drain the fuel tank completely before storing my lawn mower for winter?
A: It is highly recommended to drain the fuel tank completely before storing your lawn mower for winter. This prevents the fuel from going bad and forming deposits that can clog the carburetor and make it difficult to start the engine in the spring. If you don’t have time to drain the tank completely, you should at least add fuel stabilizer to help prevent the fuel from degrading.
Q: What kind of fuel stabilizer should I use for my lawn mower?
A: There are many different types of fuel stabilizers available on the market. The best type for your lawn mower will depend on the type of fuel you use and the length of time you will be storing the mower. Consult your owner’s manual or a local lawn mower repair shop for specific recommendations.
Q: What if I forget to put fuel stabilizer in my lawn mower?
A: If you forget to put fuel stabilizer in your lawn mower, it’s not the end of the world. You can still try to start the mower in the spring. However, if the fuel has gone bad, it may be difficult to start the mower and you may need to clean the carburetor or even replace it. It’s best to add fuel stabilizer every time you store your lawn mower for winter to prevent this from happening.