The thrill of riding a lawn mower is a feeling all homeowners know. But, once the mowing season ends, the question arises – where do you store your trusty steed? This article dives into the best ways to store your riding lawn mower, ensuring it’s protected from the elements and ready to tackle your lawn next spring. We’ll explore the ideal storage locations, how to prepare your mower for storage, and essential tips for keeping it in tip-top shape.
Where to Store Your Riding Lawn Mower?
The most important consideration for storing your riding lawn mower is keeping it safe and dry. Ideally, you’ll want a protected space that shields it from the elements, such as rain, snow, and extreme temperatures.
Finding the Perfect Storage Spot
The best place to store your riding lawn mower will depend on several factors, including your available space, climate, and budget.
1. Garages: The Classic Choice
Garages are a popular and practical choice for storing riding lawn mowers. Here’s why:
- Protection from the elements: Garages offer shelter from rain, snow, and extreme temperatures, protecting your mower from rust and damage.
- Convenience: Garages are often located close to the lawn, making it easy to access your mower when needed.
- Accessibility: Most garages provide ample space for maneuverability, making it easier to move your mower in and out for maintenance.
Tips for Storing in a Garage:
- Clean the garage floor: A clean floor prevents dirt and debris from accumulating under your mower.
- Proper ventilation: Ensure your garage has adequate ventilation to prevent moisture buildup and mold growth.
- Cover the mower: Use a tarp or mower cover to keep dust and dirt off your mower.
2. Sheds: A Versatile Option
Sheds offer a great alternative to garages, particularly for those with limited garage space.
- Variety of sizes: Sheds come in various sizes, making it easy to find one that suits your needs.
- Cost-effective: Sheds can be more affordable than building a garage.
- Customization: You can personalize your shed with features like windows, shelves, and workbenches for additional storage or work space.
Tips for Storing in a Shed:
- Secure the shed: Invest in a sturdy shed door with a lock to prevent theft.
- Ventilation: Ensure your shed has adequate ventilation to prevent moisture buildup.
- Maintenance: Regularly check the shed’s roof and walls for any damage.
3. Outdoor Storage: A Last Resort
Outdoor storage should be considered only as a last resort. While it’s convenient, it exposes your mower to the elements, increasing the risk of damage.
- Covering: A heavy-duty tarp or mower cover is crucial to shield your mower from rain, snow, and debris.
- Elevated platform: Store your mower on an elevated platform to prevent water damage and make it easier to clean.
- Location: Choose a location that provides some shade and is as protected as possible from the elements.
Preparing Your Riding Lawn Mower for Storage
Properly preparing your riding lawn mower before storage is key to ensuring it’s ready for action next spring.
1. Clean and Inspect
- Thorough cleaning: Remove any grass clippings, dirt, or debris from your mower.
- Inspect for damage: Check for any cracks, tears, or rust on the mower’s body, engine, and blades.
- Lubricate moving parts: Apply lubricant to the mower’s moving parts, such as the wheels, deck, and blades.
2. Change Fluids and Filters
- Change the oil: Replace the engine oil with fresh oil appropriate for the season.
- Replace the air filter: A clean air filter ensures proper engine performance.
- Check the spark plugs: Inspect the spark plugs for wear and tear and replace them if needed.
3. Fuel Stabilization
- Drain the fuel: Empty the fuel tank completely to prevent fuel from going bad.
- Add fuel stabilizer: If you can’t drain the fuel, add a fuel stabilizer to prevent the fuel from degrading.
4. Secure the Mower
- Empty the fuel tank: Completely drain the fuel tank to prevent fuel from going bad.
- Disconnect the battery: Remove the battery and store it in a cool, dry place.
- Engage the parking brake: This prevents the mower from rolling while in storage.
Additional Tips for Long-Term Storage
- Cover the mower: Protect your mower from dust, dirt, and moisture with a heavy-duty tarp or mower cover.
- Store in a cool, dry place: Ideal temperatures for long-term storage are between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Regularly check the mower: Inspect your mower every few months to ensure it’s in good condition.
- Consider an annual service: A professional mechanic can perform a thorough inspection and tune-up to ensure your mower is ready for the next season.
Conclusion
Storing your riding lawn mower properly ensures it’s ready for action next spring. By choosing the right storage location, preparing your mower for storage, and following these essential tips, you’ll keep your mower in top shape and ready to tackle your lawn for years to come. Remember, a little effort now goes a long way in preserving your investment and ensuring you’re ready to enjoy your beautifully manicured lawn next season.
FAQs
Q1: Where is the best place to store my riding lawn mower?
A: The ideal storage location for your riding lawn mower is a dry, well-ventilated garage or shed. This will help to protect your mower from the elements and prevent rust and corrosion. If you don’t have access to a garage or shed, you can store your mower under a tarp or cover in a protected area. Just make sure to choose a location that is level and stable to prevent the mower from tipping over.
Q2: How can I prepare my riding lawn mower for storage?
A: Before storing your riding lawn mower for an extended period, you should clean it thoroughly and perform some basic maintenance tasks. This includes emptying the fuel tank, changing the oil, cleaning the air filter, and checking the spark plug. You should also lubricate all moving parts and sharpen the blades. By following these steps, you can help ensure that your mower is in good condition when you’re ready to use it again next season.
Q3: Should I disconnect the battery from my riding lawn mower?
A: It’s generally recommended to disconnect the battery from your riding lawn mower before storing it. This will help prevent the battery from draining and potentially damaging the mower. However, if your mower has a battery maintenance system, you may be able to leave the battery connected. Consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions.
Q4: What is the best way to store a riding lawn mower with a battery?
A: If you need to store your riding lawn mower with the battery connected, ensure it is fully charged. You can also use a battery tender to maintain a charge throughout the storage period. This will help prevent the battery from draining and ensure it is ready to use when you need it.
Q5: Can I store my riding lawn mower outside?
A: While it’s possible to store your riding lawn mower outside, it’s not ideal. Exposure to the elements can damage your mower, leading to rust, corrosion, and other problems. If you must store your mower outside, use a heavy-duty cover to protect it from the rain, snow, and sun.
Q6: Should I store my riding lawn mower with the deck raised or lowered?
A: It’s generally recommended to store your riding lawn mower with the deck raised. This will help prevent the blades from coming into contact with the ground and potentially becoming damaged. Additionally, it allows for better air circulation beneath the mower.
Q7: What are some tips for storing a riding lawn mower in a small space?
A: If you’re limited on space, consider storing your riding lawn mower vertically. You can also try storing it in a corner or against a wall. It’s crucial to keep your mower in a well-ventilated space, even when it’s stored in a smaller area. This helps prevent moisture buildup and potential damage.