As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, it’s time to prepare your trusty lawn mower for its winter hibernation. Ensuring your mower is properly stored during the colder months not only prolongs its life but also guarantees a smooth start when spring arrives. By taking a few precautionary steps now, you can avoid costly repairs and keep your mower in top condition.
Winterizing your lawn mower involves more than just parking it in the garage. Following these steps will help protect your equipment from the harsh winter elements and pesky critters that might find it an inviting nesting spot. Prepare your mower now and enjoy a hassle-free start to the mowing season next year!
How To Properly Winterize Your Mower
Winterizing your lawn mower is crucial for maintaining its efficiency and longevity. It’s important to follow these simple steps to keep your mower in top shape during the colder months. Here’s how you can prepare for storing your lawn mower for winter.
Use a Fuel Stabilizer
Adding a fuel stabilizer to your gas tank prevents gasoline from degrading and gumming up the fuel system. Mix 30 milliliters of stabilizer for every 9 liters of gasoline. Run the engine for 5-10 minutes to distribute the stabilizer throughout the carburetor and fuel lines.
Store The Mower In A Dry Location
Store your mower in a cool, dry place, such as a garage or shed, to protect it from moisture and temperature fluctuations. Cover it with a tarp for added protection against dust and dirt accumulation.
Lubricate Exposed Metal Parts
Apply a thin layer of oil to exposed metal parts, like blades and joints, to prevent rust and corrosion. Focus on areas that frequently interact with moisture to ensure long-term protection during lawn mower winter storage.
Battery Maintenance Over Winter
Remove the battery to prevent discharge and damage over winter. Disconnect the negative cable first, followed by the positive. Store the battery in a cool, dry place, and occasionally charge it to maintain its health.
Clean Your Mower Before Storing It Away
Thoroughly clean your mower to prevent rust and erosion. Use a hose to remove grass clippings and debris from the deck and blades. Scrape off any buildup with a stick or screwdriver before wiping down surfaces with cloths.
Check the Tires
Inflate tires to the recommended pressure to prevent flat spots during storage. Inspect for damage or excessive wear, as addressing these issues now can save time when using the mower again.
Change Spark Plugs and Air Filter
Replace spark plugs to ensure a smooth start in the spring. A new air filter improves airflow and engine performance. Both steps are integral to maintaining a functioning engine in long-term storage.
Change the Oil and Oil Filter
Before storing a lawn mower for winter, change the oil and replace the oil filter. Fresh oil prevents engine corrosion and ensures optimal performance when mowing season returns.
Got a Question About Mower Storage? Contact the Experts at River East Power Equipment Today!
When you take the time to winterize your lawn mower properly you’re investing in its future performance and longevity. Each step—from adding a fuel stabilizer to cleaning and storing the battery—plays a crucial role in keeping your mower in top shape. By following these guidelines you can avoid unnecessary repairs and ensure a hassle-free start when the grass starts growing again. If you have any questions or need expert advice on lawn mower maintenance don’t hesitate to reach out to the professionals at River East Power Equipment. We’re ready to help you keep your equipment running smoothly season after season!
