As the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisp, it’s time to prepare your lawn mower for its winter slumber. But what exactly should you do to ensure it’s ready for the spring? This article will guide you through the essential steps of winterizing your lawn mower, covering everything from proper cleaning and storage to essential maintenance tasks. We’ll also address common winterization mistakes and offer expert tips for keeping your mower in top shape until next season.
A Short Overview
Winterizing your lawn mower is crucial to prevent damage, ensure longevity, and guarantee a smooth start next spring. The process involves a combination of cleaning, maintenance, and storage practices designed to protect your mower from the harsh elements.
Prepping Your Lawn Mower for Winter Storage
Before putting your mower away for the season, it’s essential to give it a thorough cleaning and maintenance. This will ensure a smooth start-up next spring and prevent any potential issues.
1. Give Your Mower a Deep Clean
Start by removing any debris or grass clippings from the mower deck, blades, and engine. A garden hose and a brush can be used to remove most of the dirt and grime. For stubborn residue, consider using a specialized lawn mower cleaner.
a. Clean the Deck
The mower deck is where grass clippings accumulate. Use a scraper or brush to remove any stubborn debris. Pay attention to the underside of the deck, as this is where grass and dirt tend to collect.
b. Clean the Blades
Sharp blades are crucial for a clean cut and a healthy lawn. Before cleaning, be sure to disconnect the spark plug to prevent accidental starting. Use a wire brush or a sharpening stone to remove any debris or rust from the blades.
c. Clean the Engine
The engine also needs to be cleaned. Remove any debris or grass clippings from around the engine. Use a soft brush and a damp cloth to wipe down the engine components. Be careful not to get any water into the air filter or other sensitive areas.
2. Perform Essential Maintenance
Once your mower is clean, it’s time to perform some basic maintenance tasks. These will ensure your mower is in top condition for the next season.
a. Check and Change the Oil
It’s recommended to change the oil in your mower at the end of each season. Drain the old oil and refill with fresh oil according to your mower’s manual.
b. Replace the Air Filter
A clean air filter is essential for optimal engine performance. Replace the old filter with a new one.
c. Sharpen the Blades
Sharpen the blades using a sharpening stone or a file. This will ensure a clean cut and prevent damage to your lawn.
d. Check the Spark Plug
Inspect the spark plug for wear and tear. If it’s damaged or worn, replace it with a new one. A clean and properly functioning spark plug is essential for a smooth engine start.
Choosing the Right Storage Space for Your Lawn Mower
The location where you store your lawn mower can have a significant impact on its longevity.
1. Find a Dry and Well-Ventilated Space
Moisture can cause rust and corrosion, so it’s crucial to store your mower in a dry and well-ventilated space. A garage or shed is ideal, but if you don’t have access to one, a covered area will do.
2. Avoid Storing Your Mower on a Concrete Floor
Concrete floors can absorb moisture, creating a humid environment. If possible, elevate the mower off the ground with a piece of wood or a plastic sheet to improve air circulation.
3. Consider Using a Mower Cover
A good quality mower cover will protect your mower from dust, dirt, and moisture. It will also help prevent fading and keep the mower looking new.
Winterizing Your Lawn Mower: Mistakes to Avoid
While preparing your mower for winter might seem simple, there are some common mistakes that can lead to problems in the spring.
1. Skipping the Cleaning Process
Neglecting to clean your mower before storing it can lead to rust and corrosion. This can make it difficult to start the mower in the spring and may even require costly repairs.
2. Storing the Mower with Fuel in the Tank
Old fuel can gum up the engine and cause problems when you try to start it in the spring. Always drain the fuel tank before storing the mower.
3. Forgetting to Disconnect the Battery
If your mower has a battery, it’s important to disconnect it before storing it. This will prevent the battery from draining completely and ensure it’s ready to go next spring.
Tips for a Smooth Start Next Spring
Following these extra tips can help you avoid any issues when it’s time to start your mower next spring:
1. Add Fuel Stabilizer to the Fuel Tank
Before storing your mower, add fuel stabilizer to the fuel tank. This will help prevent the fuel from degrading and causing problems when you try to start the mower in the spring.
2. Use a Battery Tender
If you have a battery-powered mower, consider using a battery tender to keep the battery charged over the winter months. This will ensure that the battery is ready to go when you need it.
3. Start Your Mower Regularly
If you live in a mild climate, you may want to start your mower every few weeks during the winter. This will help keep the engine running smoothly and prevent any issues from developing.
Conclusion
Winterizing your lawn mower is a simple process that can save you time, money, and frustration in the spring. By following these steps, you can ensure that your mower is ready to go when the grass starts growing again. Remember, a well-maintained lawn mower will provide years of reliable service, keeping your lawn looking its best.
FAQ
What should I do with my lawn mower in the winter?
You’ll want to store your lawn mower in a dry, indoor location to protect it from the elements. Before storing it, make sure to clean and maintain it properly. This includes draining any fuel from the tank and carburetor, cleaning the mower deck, and changing the oil.
If you’re not able to store your mower indoors, cover it with a heavy-duty tarp to keep it protected from rain and snow. Make sure the tarp is large enough to cover the entire mower and secure it properly to prevent it from blowing away.
What type of fuel should I use for my lawn mower?
Gasoline is the most common fuel type for lawn mowers. However, you should use a fuel stabilizer to prevent the fuel from breaking down and forming gum. This is especially important in cold weather.
For best results, drain the old gas from the tank and carburetor and fill it with fresh fuel mixed with stabilizer. Follow the instructions on the stabilizer bottle for the correct ratio. You can also use ethanol-free gasoline, which will help to prevent gum and varnish buildup.
Should I put oil in my lawn mower for winter?
Yes, you should still put oil in your lawn mower even if you’re not going to be using it for a while. This is because the oil helps to lubricate the engine and prevent rust.
If your lawn mower has a separate oil pan, you should drain the old oil and replace it with fresh oil. If your lawn mower has a combined oil tank, you should top off the tank with fresh oil. Make sure to use the correct type of oil for your mower.
What about the battery?
The battery in your lawn mower will also need some winter care. If you’re storing your mower for a long time, you should remove the battery and store it in a cool, dry place. Make sure to disconnect the battery from the mower before removing it.
You can also keep the battery charged by using a battery tender. This will help to prevent the battery from draining and ensure that it’s ready to go when you need it in the spring.
How often should I check my lawn mower during winter?
You should check your lawn mower periodically during the winter, even if you’re not using it. This will help to catch any potential problems before they become more serious.
Make sure to check the fuel tank, oil level, and tire pressure. You should also look for any signs of rust or corrosion. If you notice any problems, it’s best to address them right away.
How do I get my lawn mower ready for spring?
Once the weather warms up, you can start getting your lawn mower ready for spring. This includes checking the fuel level, oil level, and tire pressure. You should also clean the mower deck and air filter.
It’s also a good idea to start the mower and let it run for a few minutes to make sure it’s running properly. If you have any problems, you should contact a qualified mechanic.
What about winterizing my lawn mower?
Winterizing your lawn mower is an important step in ensuring its longevity. It involves prepping the mower for storage by draining fuel, changing the oil, cleaning, and storing it in a dry, indoor location.
While winterizing is not mandatory, it helps prevent fuel degradation, rust, and other damage caused by the harsh winter conditions. By following these steps, you can extend the life of your lawn mower and ensure it’s ready for spring mowing.