Winter Storage for Lawn Mower: An Easy Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction

As the cool breeze sweeps in and leaves begin to fall, it's clear that winter is on its way. This means it's time to prepare your lawn mower for the off-season. Proper winter storage for lawn mower equipment is essential to protect it from damage during the colder months.

Winterizing your mower doesn’t take long—most steps can be completed in about an hour, depending on your mower type and the maintenance it requires. A little effort now can prevent costly repairs, starting issues, and wear caused by months of inactivity.

If you're unsure where to begin or need professional advice, trusted riding lawn mower dealers have put together this simple guide to help you store your mower the right way and keep it in peak condition for years to come.

Why Winterize Your Lawn Mower?

After a season of hard work, your lawn mower deserves some attention. Proper winter storage helps prevent issues like clogged engines, rust, and damage from fuel left in the tank. Skipping this step could lead to struggles starting your mower when you need it most. Think of winterizing as a small effort now that ensures smooth operation later.

If you're storing multiple pieces of equipment, these maintenance practices can also prevent costly farm equipment repair down the line.

Steps to Winterize Your Lawn Mower

Clean Your Mower Thoroughly

Before storing your mower for the winter, thoroughly clean it to prevent rust and damage. After a busy mowing season, grass, dirt, and leaves can cake onto the undercarriage, which might cause long-term issues if left unattended.

Steps to Clean Your Mower

1. Disconnect the Power:

• For gas mowers, disconnect the spark plug.
• For battery-powered models, remove the battery.

2. Clear the Undercarriage: Turn the mower on its side (air filter facing up for gas models). Scrape off dried grass and debris using a dull chisel, flathead screwdriver, or plastic scraper.

3. Wash It Down: Use a garden hose or pressure washer to loosen dirt and clippings. For stubborn buildup, try a bristle scrubber or an old pot scrubber.

4. Extra Protection: Spray the underside of the deck with silicone spray to reduce future buildup.

5. Final Touches: Wipe the mower's exterior with a clean cloth to remove any remaining dirt.

Handle Fuel Properly to Protect Your Mower

Fuel left in your lawn mower can degrade in at least two weeks, causing serious issues like clogged engines and corroded carburetors. Condensation in the tank can combine with ethanol, causing rust and erosion. Taking the proper steps now will save you from costly repairs later.

Steps to Prepare Your Mower's Fuel System

Empty Old Fuel: If the gas in your mower is more than two weeks old, drain it completely. Start the engine and let it run until it's empty.

If the tank is nearly full, disconnect the fuel line at the carburetor and use a drain valve to empty the gas into a storage container. Dispose of old fuel responsibly at a recycling facility or safely add it to your car's tank if it's still usable.

Add Fresh Stabilized Fuel: If you prefer to store the lawn mower with fuel in the tank, add a stabilizer to fresh gasoline. Pour fresh gas into an empty can, add stabilizer, and mix well. Fill the mower's tank with this mixture. Run the engine for a few minutes to circulate the treated fuel through the system.

Additional Tips:

• Never add a stabilizer to old gas; it only works with fresh fuel.
• If you keep your mower in a basement, eradicate the fuel for safety.
• Refer to your mower's manual for brand-specific recommendations.

Change the Oil

Old oil can damage your lawn mower engine over time, so changing it before storage is essential. Here's how:

1. Warm the Engine: Slightly warm the engine to thin the oil for easier draining.

2. Drain Old Oil: Remove the drain plug and let the oil flow into a suitable container. Use a funnel if needed. Dispose of old oil responsibly.

3. Replace the Oil Filter: Use an oil filter wrench to remove the old filter. Apply a thin layer of fresh oil to the new filter's gasket and install it securely.

4. Add Fresh Oil: Refer to your mower's manual for the correct oil type and amount. Pour in the fresh oil and check the level with the dipstick.

5. Check for Leaks: After adding oil, start the engine briefly to ensure there are no leaks and the oil is circulating properly.

Changing your mower's oil protects the engine from corrosion during winter and ensures a smoother start in spring. Always follow your manufacturer's recommendations for oil type and maintenance intervals to keep your mower in top shape.

Replace or Clean the Air Filter

A clogged air filter can harm engine performance. Remove the filter and inspect it for dirt or damage. If it's reusable, clean it following the manufacturer's guidelines. If it's worn or too dirty, replace it with a new one to keep your engine running smoothly.

Maintain Your Lawn Mower Blades

Remove the blades carefully, following safety precautions. Inspect for damage or wear. Sharpen dull blades using a file or sharpening tool, or replace them if they're too worn. Sharp blades ensure clean cuts and protect your lawn from ragged damage.

Store Your Riding Lawn Mower Battery Properly

1. Disconnect Safely: Remove the battery to protect it from extreme temperatures that can shorten its lifespan. Start by removing the black (negative) cable and the red (positive) cable.

2. Clean the Battery: Wipe the battery with a cloth and clean the terminals using a metal brush or a battery cleaner. For added protection, apply a terminal protector.

3. Store Correctly: Keep the battery in a cool, dry place indoors, ideally between 40°F and 80°F, away from heat sources like gas cans or water heaters. Proper storage prevents damage from temperature fluctuations and prolongs battery life.

4. Mower Storage Option: You can store the battery in the mower. Just disconnect the cables to minimize discharge and use a trickle charger to keep it charged.

5. Maintain Charge: Check and recharge the battery periodically during winter to keep it healthy and ready for spring.

For a riding lawn mower, inflating the tires to the recommended pressure is also advisable to prevent flat spots.

Check the Spark Plug

Inspect the spark plug for wear and tear. If it looks dirty or damaged, replace it. Reattaching the spark plug loosely during storage ensures your mower is ready in spring.

Store Your Mower Safely

1. Choose the Right Spot: A dry shed or garage protects your mower from the elements.

2. Use a Cover: Cover the mower to prevent dust and moisture buildup. If you don't have a cover, ensure the storage area is clean and dry.

3. Prevent Rust and Corrosion: Avoid storing the mower in damp areas. Keep the space tidy and free from leaves or debris that can trap moisture.

4. Keep Rodents Away: Place mothballs near the mower deck to prevent mice from nesting. Keep the storage area clutter-free and seal away any food to make it less appealing to pests.

Winterizing your lawn mower not only extends its lifespan but also helps you avoid frustrating repairs. If any riding lawn mower parts are worn or need replacing, address them now to ensure your mower is fully prepared for the first lawn care day of spring without any hassles.

Extend the Longevity of your Lawn Mower by Winterizing it with Expert Riding Lawn Mower Dealers.

Winterizing your lawn mower is simple but makes a big difference in performance and longevity. If you need professional advice or maintenance supplies, search for reliable riding lawn mower dealers near me who can offer expert guidance.

Give your mower the care it deserves, and it will reward you with reliable service when you need it most!