Preparing your lawn mower for winter storage is a crucial step in ensuring its longevity and optimal performance when spring arrives. Neglecting this simple task can lead to costly repairs and frustration down the line. This comprehensive guide will walk you through each essential step, covering everything from fuel stabilization to blade maintenance, so you can rest assured your lawn mower is ready to hibernate safely.
The Importance of Winterizing Your Lawn Mower
Why bother with winterizing your lawn mower? The answer is simple: it prevents damage caused by disuse and the elements. Leaving fuel in the tank can lead to gum and varnish buildup, clogging the carburetor and fuel lines. Moisture can cause corrosion, especially in the engine and on the blade. Rodents can also find their way into the engine and create nests, causing significant damage. By properly preparing your lawn mower for storage, you’re safeguarding your investment and minimizing the risk of springtime headaches. Proper winterization saves time, money, and ensures a smooth start to the next mowing season.
Essential Steps for Preparing Your Lawn Mower
The winterization process involves several key steps, each designed to address specific potential problems. These steps include fuel stabilization or removal, oil change, spark plug maintenance, blade cleaning and sharpening, and thorough cleaning of the mower deck. Following these steps carefully will ensure that your lawn mower is protected from damage during its winter hibernation.
Fuel Stabilization or Removal: A Critical First Step
One of the most critical aspects of winterizing your lawn mower is dealing with the fuel. Gasoline, especially gasoline containing ethanol, can degrade over time, forming gum and varnish deposits that can clog the carburetor and fuel lines. There are two main approaches to this problem: fuel stabilization or fuel removal.
Fuel Stabilization: Preserving Your Fuel for Spring
If you prefer to leave fuel in the tank, fuel stabilization is the recommended method. Fuel stabilizers work by preventing the gasoline from breaking down and forming harmful deposits. To stabilize the fuel, add the appropriate amount of fuel stabilizer to the gasoline in the tank, following the manufacturer’s instructions on the stabilizer container. Then, run the engine for a few minutes to allow the stabilized fuel to circulate through the carburetor and fuel lines. This ensures that all parts of the fuel system are protected.
Fuel Removal: Ensuring a Clean Start
The alternative to fuel stabilization is to completely remove the fuel from the tank. This method eliminates the risk of fuel degradation entirely. To remove the fuel, you can use a siphon pump or a fuel stabilizer that also allows you to drain the fuel tank. Carefully siphon the fuel into an approved gasoline container. Once the tank is empty, start the engine and let it run until it stalls. This will ensure that any remaining fuel in the carburetor and fuel lines is used up. Always dispose of gasoline properly according to local regulations.
Oil Change: Protecting the Engine Internally
Changing the oil before storing your lawn mower is another essential step. Old oil contains contaminants and acids that can corrode engine parts over time. Fresh oil provides better protection against corrosion and helps to keep the engine clean.
Draining the Old Oil: A Necessary Task
Before changing the oil, consult your lawn mower’s owner’s manual for the recommended oil type and viscosity. Warm up the engine slightly by running it for a few minutes. This will make the oil flow more easily. Turn off the engine and disconnect the spark plug wire. Locate the oil drain plug, usually on the bottom of the engine. Place a drain pan under the plug and remove it, allowing the old oil to drain completely.
Adding Fresh Oil: Lubrication for Longevity
Once the old oil has drained, replace the drain plug and tighten it securely. Locate the oil fill cap and pour in the correct amount of new oil, as specified in your owner’s manual. Check the oil level with the dipstick and add more oil if needed until it reaches the full mark. Using the correct type and amount of oil is crucial for proper engine lubrication.
Spark Plug Maintenance: Ensuring Reliable Ignition
The spark plug is a critical component of the engine’s ignition system. Inspecting and cleaning or replacing the spark plug before storage can ensure reliable starting in the spring.
Inspection and Cleaning: Maximizing Spark Efficiency
Remove the spark plug and inspect it for signs of wear, such as cracked insulation or excessive carbon buildup. Clean the spark plug with a wire brush or spark plug cleaner to remove any deposits. Check the spark plug gap with a feeler gauge and adjust it to the specification in your owner’s manual. If the spark plug is severely worn or damaged, replace it with a new one. A clean and properly gapped spark plug ensures optimal engine performance.
Blade Cleaning and Sharpening: Preparing for a Sharp Start
The lawn mower blade is responsible for cutting the grass, and a sharp, clean blade is essential for a clean and efficient cut. Before storing your lawn mower, clean and sharpen the blade.
Cleaning the Blade: Removing Debris
Disconnect the spark plug wire to prevent accidental starting. Turn the lawn mower on its side, ensuring the air filter or carburetor is pointing upwards to prevent oil leakage. Use a scraper or wire brush to remove any grass clippings, dirt, and debris from the blade. A clean blade reduces drag and improves cutting performance.
Sharpening the Blade: Achieving a Precise Cut
Secure the blade in a vise and use a file or grinder to sharpen the cutting edges. Follow the original angle of the blade and avoid overheating the metal. Balance the blade after sharpening by using a blade balancer or a screwdriver placed through the center hole. If the blade is unbalanced, grind down the heavier side until it is balanced. A sharp and balanced blade provides a clean and even cut.
Cleaning the Mower Deck: Preventing Corrosion
The mower deck is the housing that surrounds the blade. Cleaning the mower deck is essential to prevent corrosion and ensure proper airflow.
Removing Debris: Maintaining Airflow
Disconnect the spark plug wire for safety. Turn the lawn mower on its side, ensuring the air filter or carburetor is pointing upwards. Use a scraper or wire brush to remove any grass clippings, dirt, and debris from the underside of the mower deck. Rinse the deck with water and allow it to dry completely. A clean mower deck promotes airflow and prevents corrosion.
Battery Care (for Electric Start Mowers): Ensuring Power Availability
If your lawn mower has an electric start, proper battery care is essential for ensuring that it will start reliably in the spring.
Charging the Battery: Maintaining Optimal Voltage
Fully charge the battery before storing the lawn mower. You can use a battery charger to maintain the charge level throughout the winter. Some chargers have a “float” mode that will keep the battery at its optimal voltage without overcharging it.
Storing the Battery: Protecting Against the Elements
If you are storing the lawn mower in a cold or damp location, it is best to remove the battery and store it in a warm, dry place. This will help to prevent the battery from freezing or corroding. Proper battery care ensures reliable starting in the spring.
Choosing the Right Storage Location
The storage location is also crucial for protecting your lawn mower from the elements. A dry, sheltered location is ideal.
Ideal Storage Conditions: Minimizing Environmental Impact
Store the lawn mower in a garage, shed, or other covered area to protect it from rain, snow, and sunlight. Avoid storing it in a damp basement or other area where moisture can cause corrosion. Cover the lawn mower with a tarp or sheet to protect it from dust and dirt. A dry and sheltered storage location minimizes the risk of damage.
Protecting Against Rodents: Preventing Nests
Rodents can cause significant damage to lawn mowers by chewing on wires and building nests in the engine. To prevent rodent damage, place mothballs or rodent repellent near the lawn mower. You can also cover the lawn mower with a tarp and secure it tightly to prevent rodents from getting inside.
Final Checklist Before Storage
Before putting your lawn mower away for the winter, review this checklist to ensure that you have completed all the necessary steps:
- Fuel stabilized or removed
- Oil changed
- Spark plug inspected and cleaned or replaced
- Blade cleaned and sharpened
- Mower deck cleaned
- Battery charged and stored properly (for electric start mowers)
- Lawn mower stored in a dry, sheltered location
- Rodent protection in place
By following these steps, you can ensure that your lawn mower is properly prepared for winter storage and that it will be ready to start smoothly in the spring. Taking the time to winterize your lawn mower is a worthwhile investment that will save you time and money in the long run. A little preparation now will ensure a hassle-free mowing season next year.
Why is it important to prepare my lawn mower for winter storage?
Preparing your lawn mower for winter storage is crucial for extending its lifespan and ensuring it starts reliably when spring arrives. Leaving fuel in the tank over the winter can lead to carburetor issues due to fuel degradation, gumming up the system and making it difficult to start next season. Additionally, moisture can accumulate inside the engine, causing corrosion and further damage that could necessitate costly repairs or even replacement.
By taking the time to properly winterize your lawn mower, you are safeguarding your investment and preventing potential headaches down the road. This proactive approach minimizes the risk of starting problems, optimizes engine performance, and prolongs the overall life of your machine, ultimately saving you time and money in the long run.
What steps should I take to drain or stabilize the fuel in my lawn mower before storage?
Draining the fuel tank is the most reliable method. Disconnect the fuel line and allow all fuel to drain into a suitable container. Alternatively, you can run the engine until it stalls due to fuel starvation. Once drained, start the mower again to burn off any remaining fuel in the carburetor. Dispose of the old fuel responsibly according to local regulations.
If you prefer not to drain the fuel, use a fuel stabilizer. Add the recommended amount of fuel stabilizer to the fuel tank as per the manufacturer’s instructions. Run the engine for a few minutes to allow the stabilized fuel to circulate through the carburetor and fuel lines, ensuring the fuel system is treated. This helps prevent the fuel from breaking down and causing deposits during storage.
How should I clean my lawn mower before storing it?
Cleaning your lawn mower thoroughly before storing it helps prevent rust and corrosion and ensures it’s ready to go next spring. Start by removing any grass clippings and debris from the mower deck, engine, and wheels using a brush or scraper. Use a garden hose to wash away remaining dirt, being careful to avoid spraying water directly into the engine.
After washing, allow the mower to dry completely before storing it. Consider using a rust inhibitor on any exposed metal surfaces to further protect against corrosion. A clean mower not only looks better but also allows you to inspect for any potential problems, such as loose bolts or damaged parts, that can be addressed before storage.
What’s the best way to change the oil in my lawn mower for winter storage?
Changing the oil before winter storage is essential because old oil contains contaminants and acids that can corrode engine components over time. Warm up the engine briefly to thin the oil, making it easier to drain. Consult your owner’s manual for the correct oil type and drain plug location. Position a drain pan under the mower to catch the used oil.
Remove the drain plug and allow the old oil to drain completely. Once drained, replace the drain plug and tighten it securely. Then, fill the engine with the correct amount of fresh oil, referring to your owner’s manual for the proper fill level. Disposing of used oil at a designated recycling center is environmentally responsible.
What should I do with the spark plug before storing my lawn mower?
Removing and inspecting the spark plug is an important step in winterizing your lawn mower. Disconnect the spark plug wire to prevent accidental starting. Remove the spark plug using a spark plug wrench. Inspect the spark plug for signs of wear, such as cracks, excessive carbon buildup, or a worn electrode.
If the spark plug is worn or damaged, replace it with a new one of the correct type. If it appears to be in good condition, clean it with a wire brush to remove any carbon deposits. Add a teaspoon of engine oil into the cylinder through the spark plug hole, then slowly pull the starter cord a few times to distribute the oil and coat the cylinder walls. Reinstall the spark plug, but do not fully tighten it. This process helps prevent corrosion inside the cylinder during storage.
Where is the best place to store my lawn mower during the winter?
The ideal location for storing your lawn mower during the winter is a dry, protected space, such as a garage, shed, or basement. Avoid storing it outdoors, where it will be exposed to harsh weather conditions, including rain, snow, and fluctuating temperatures, which can lead to rust and corrosion.
Elevate the mower slightly off the ground, if possible, to prevent moisture from accumulating underneath. Cover the mower with a tarp or breathable cover to protect it from dust and debris. Avoid storing the mower near flammable materials or open flames. Choosing a suitable storage location will help preserve the mower’s condition and ensure it’s ready for use in the spring.
Should I remove the battery from my electric lawn mower for winter storage?
Yes, removing the battery from your electric lawn mower is highly recommended before winter storage. Batteries can lose charge over time, especially in cold temperatures, and leaving them connected can drain the battery completely, potentially shortening its lifespan or causing damage.
Store the battery in a cool, dry place, ideally at room temperature. Check the battery’s charge level periodically throughout the winter and recharge it as needed to prevent it from discharging completely. This will help ensure the battery is ready to use when you need it in the spring and extend its overall life.