The warm weather has arrived, and with it comes the joy of tending to your green oasis. But what about your trusty lawn mower? Where does it go when the cutting season is over? Storing your lawn mower properly is crucial for extending its lifespan and ensuring it’s ready to tackle the next season. This article will explore the best places to store your lawn mower, providing tips on maintaining its optimal condition and safeguarding it from the elements.
Storing your lawn mower correctly is essential to prevent damage from moisture, dust, pests, and temperature fluctuations. This not only protects your investment but also ensures it’s ready for use when you need it.
The Ideal Storage Location: Indoor vs. Outdoor
The first step in determining the best storage location for your lawn mower is to consider your space and the level of protection you require. Generally, indoor storage is superior to outdoor storage, but each has its advantages and disadvantages.
Indoor Storage:
- Pros: Offers the highest level of protection from the elements, including rain, snow, sun, and extreme temperatures. Also, minimizes dust accumulation, keeps the engine dry, and helps deter pests.
- Cons: Requires more space, and may not be feasible for all homeowners, especially those with limited storage options.
Outdoor Storage:
- Pros: More convenient if indoor space is limited. Some outdoor storage solutions, such as covered sheds, can provide a reasonable level of protection.
- Cons: Exposes the lawn mower to the elements, leading to potential damage from moisture, dust, rust, and temperature extremes.
Indoor Storage Solutions
If you have the luxury of indoor storage, here are some of the best options to consider:
1. Garage:
The garage is often the most logical choice for storing a lawn mower. It offers a relatively dry and sheltered environment, and you can easily access it when needed.
Tips for Storing in a Garage:
- Cleaning: Clean the lawn mower thoroughly before storing, including removing any grass clippings, debris, or oil spills.
- Fuel: Empty the gas tank or add fuel stabilizer to prevent fuel degradation.
- Covering: Use a heavy-duty tarp or lawn mower cover to protect it from dust and potential damage.
- Storage: Store the lawn mower on a sturdy stand or platform to raise it off the floor, preventing moisture buildup.
2. Basement:
A basement can provide a relatively cool and dry environment, making it a suitable storage space for a lawn mower, especially in humid climates.
Tips for Storing in a Basement:
- Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to rust and mildew.
- Humidity Control: Consider using a dehumidifier to maintain a low humidity level, ideal for long-term storage.
- Level Surface: Place the lawn mower on a level surface, ensuring stability and preventing accidental spills.
3. Shed:
A shed is another good option for storing a lawn mower, especially if it’s well-ventilated and secure.
Tips for Storing in a Shed:
- Secure Storage: Ensure the shed is securely locked to deter theft.
- Shelving: Use shelves or a dedicated storage system to organize tools and keep the lawn mower off the floor.
- Drainage: Ensure the shed floor has proper drainage to prevent water from pooling around the lawn mower.
Outdoor Storage Solutions
While indoor storage is ideal, outdoor storage might be your only option if indoor space is limited. If you must store your lawn mower outdoors, prioritize protection from the elements:
1. Covered Storage:
- Garage: If you don’t have a dedicated garage, consider a carport or an open-sided garage with a roof overhang to protect the lawn mower from rain.
- Shed: A sturdy, well-ventilated shed can offer sufficient protection from the elements, but choose one with a solid roof and walls.
- Tarp: A heavy-duty tarp can be a temporary solution for covering a lawn mower during a downpour or snowfall. Ensure it’s large enough to cover the entire lawn mower and secured properly.
Tips for Outdoor Storage:
- Location: Select a location that offers some level of shade, especially during the hottest months of the year.
- Drainage: Ensure the area has good drainage to prevent water from pooling around the lawn mower.
- Elevated Surface: Store the lawn mower on a raised platform or wooden pallets to prevent moisture buildup.
2. Open Air:
Storing your lawn mower in open air without any protection is the least ideal option.
Tips for Open-Air Storage:
- Cover: Always cover the lawn mower with a tarp, even if only for a short period.
- Cleaning: Clean and dry the lawn mower thoroughly after each use.
- Fuel Stabilizer: Add fuel stabilizer to the gas tank to prevent fuel degradation.
- Winter Storage: Avoid storing the lawn mower outdoors during winter, as extreme temperatures can damage components.
Maintaining Your Lawn Mower During Storage
Regardless of where you store your lawn mower, following these maintenance steps will ensure its longevity:
1. Cleaning:
- Thorough Cleaning: Thoroughly clean the entire lawn mower, including the underside, to remove grass clippings, dirt, and debris.
- Engine Compartment: Remove any excess oil or fuel spills from the engine compartment.
- Blade Cleaning: Clean the blades with a wire brush or scraper, removing any rust or debris.
2. Fuel Management:
- Emptying the Tank: If possible, empty the gas tank completely to prevent fuel degradation, which can cause problems when starting the lawn mower the next season.
- Fuel Stabilizer: If you can’t empty the tank, add a fuel stabilizer to prevent the fuel from going bad.
- Fuel Line Cleaning: Run the lawn mower for a few minutes with fresh fuel and fuel stabilizer to clean the fuel lines.
3. Engine Maintenance:
- Oil Change: Change the engine oil and oil filter, following the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Air Filter Cleaning: Clean or replace the air filter, ensuring the engine gets a clean air supply.
- Spark Plug Inspection: Inspect the spark plug and replace it if necessary.
4. Blade Sharpening:
- Sharpening: Sharpen the blades for optimal performance the next season.
- Balancing: Balance the blades after sharpening to prevent vibration and damage.
5. Additional Tips:
- Battery Removal: Remove the battery if possible, especially during long-term storage.
- Protective Cover: Use a heavy-duty lawn mower cover to shield it from dust, debris, and the elements.
- Storage Position: Store the lawn mower upright or on its wheels, avoiding prolonged storage on its side, which can cause oil leaks.
- Regular Inspection: Inspect the lawn mower periodically for any signs of damage or corrosion.
Conclusion
Storing your lawn mower properly is essential for maintaining its functionality and extending its lifespan. Whether you choose indoor or outdoor storage, prioritize protection from the elements, moisture, dust, and pests. By following these tips for cleaning, fuel management, engine maintenance, and additional steps, you can ensure your lawn mower is ready to tackle your next landscaping project with ease.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where should I store my lawn mower if I have a garage?
If you have a garage, it’s the ideal place to store your lawn mower. It provides protection from the elements, keeps it out of sight, and keeps it readily accessible. If your garage is organized, you can even dedicate a specific spot for your mower, making it even easier to find when you need it.
Before storing your mower in the garage, make sure it’s clean and dry. This will help prevent rust and corrosion. You can also cover the mower with a tarp or a lawn mower cover for added protection.
What if I don’t have a garage?
If you don’t have a garage, you have a few options for storing your lawn mower. One option is to store it on a covered porch or patio. This will offer some protection from the elements, but it won’t be as secure as a garage. Another option is to purchase a storage shed. This is a more permanent solution, but it can be an expensive investment.
If you don’t have a covered space, you can try to store your lawn mower under a tarp or in a waterproof storage box. This will help to protect it from the rain and snow, but it won’t be as effective as a garage or shed.
How do I store a riding lawn mower?
A riding lawn mower requires a bit more space, but the general storage principles are the same. If you have a garage, you’ll want to make sure there’s enough room for the mower and its attachments. You may need to park your car in the driveway temporarily.
If you don’t have a garage, consider renting a storage unit. A storage unit can provide a safe and secure place to store your riding lawn mower, but it will come at a cost.
Can I store my lawn mower outside?
It’s not recommended to store your lawn mower outside, especially if you live in an area with extreme weather conditions. If you absolutely must store your lawn mower outside, make sure to cover it with a tarp or a lawn mower cover. You should also try to elevate it off the ground to prevent water damage.
Storing a lawn mower outside can leave it exposed to harsh elements and theft, making it vulnerable to damage or loss.
How should I prepare my lawn mower for storage?
Before you store your lawn mower, you should take some time to prepare it. First, clean the mower thoroughly. This includes removing any grass clippings, dirt, or debris. Next, sharpen the blades. Finally, change the oil and spark plug.
These steps will help ensure your lawn mower is in good working order when you need it again.
How often should I check on my stored lawn mower?
It’s a good idea to check on your stored lawn mower at least once a month. This will help you to catch any problems early on, such as leaks, rust, or rodent damage. You can also use this opportunity to clean the mower, ensuring it’s ready for use when the time comes.
By checking on your lawn mower regularly, you can help to extend its lifespan and keep it running smoothly.
What should I do if I see signs of rust on my lawn mower?
If you see signs of rust on your lawn mower, you should take steps to remove it immediately. Rust can weaken the metal and eventually lead to damage. You can use a wire brush or sandpaper to remove the rust. Then, apply a coat of rust-preventative paint or oil.
If the rust is extensive, you may need to consult with a professional.