Winter is approaching, and your lawnmower will have nothing much to do. However, winterizing your reliable companion is essential for preparing it for spring and summer action. The last thing you want is a malfunctioning machine when spring comes around. So, in this article, we’ll share some expert tips and advice to ensure proper lawn mower winter storage. Stick around!
Why Proper Winter Storage Matters
Giving your lawn mower proper winter storage is critical to protecting your investment and maintaining its peak performance. In short, a well-functioning lawn mower can help you avoid costly repair bills. Below is a quick list of why you should ensure proper storage during winter:
- It ensures that the motor will start reliably during spring.
- Extended life for electrical components and fewer repairs.
- Prevent accidental fire from batteries or fuel.
- Protect the metal components from rust and corrosion.
Think we’re making things up? Research published by Pure Motoring Products reveals that the volatility of gasoline can decrease during winter. This can lead to problems like hard starts, poor combustion, and engine knocks. Low temperatures can also cause condensation, leading to water in the tank.
Cold temperatures can also damage batteries, which can be costly to replace. According to a research paper, the charging speed for your battery can decrease by around 30% when the temperature falls below -10 degrees Celsius. Another report by the Norwegian Automobile Federation reveals that the driving range of electric vehicles can decrease by 18.5% during winter.
Meanwhile, rust is a year-round issue. This makes it important to store your lawn mower properly during the idle months. The moisture from precipitation and high humidity can significantly increase corrosion rates in your lawn mower’s metal components, like blades and moving parts. Again, replacing these components can be expensive when spring comes knocking.
Step-by-Step Lawn Mower Winter Storage Guide
We now know the data-backed dangers that can come with improper lawn mower storage. Next, let’s head to the step-by-step process to winterize your precious machine. Below is what to do:
Step 1: Clean the lawn mower.
The first thing you want to do before tucking your lawn mower away is to clean it thoroughly. There’s a good chance that your machine’s undercarriage is filled with grass, dirt, and leaves. Use a dull chisel or brush to clean that gunk out. You can use a low-pressure water spray to loosen sticky or stubborn dirt.
Step 2: Empty the gas tank.
After cleaning up your machine, empty the gas tank. You can open the gas tank cap and tip the mower over to drain the fuel. Next, open the drain valve in the carburetor bowl to drain the remaining gas. Start the engine several times until it cannot start to ensure there’s no gas.
Alternatively, you can use a fuel stabilizer if you don’t want to drain the tank. This additive can keep the gas fresh for several months without draining the tank. Ensure you run the motor a few times after adding the solution to ensure the stabilizer reaches the entire fuel system.
Step 3: Remove the battery.
Next, disconnect the battery. Start by disconnecting the negative cable before removing the positive side. After that, remove the battery and clean it with a cloth. You can also buy a battery cleaner or a metal brush to clean the terminals. Lastly, store the battery in a cool, dry place.
Step 4: Remove and inspect the blades.
Before storing your lawn mower during winter, remove, inspect, and sharpen the blades. To remove them, wear thick gloves and unscrew the bolt that keeps the blades in place. After that, wipe the blades clean and inspect for any signs of cracks or damage. If everything looks okay, sharpen the blades using a file. You may also need a new set of blades in case of too much wear.
Step 5: Drain the lawn mower oil.
The best practice when using gas-driven lawn mowers is draining the oil at least once yearly. Winter offers you an excellent opportunity to drain the oil and prepare your lawn mower for the summer. To do that, grab a pan and unscrew the oil reservoir plug. Slowly tilt the machine until all the oil drains into the pan. Remove the plug and dispose of the old oil.
Step 6: Store your lawn mower.
Your lawn mower should now be ready for winter storage. Make sure you store the machine in a cool and dry place. This should be indoors, in your garage, shade, or basement, to protect it from extreme temperatures and moisture. If you must store it outdoors, use a heavy-duty and waterproof cover to protect it. Moreover, the mower should be stored off the ground if possible.
Storage Checklist
Modern lawn mowers are powered by different technologies. Besides the traditional gas-driven mowers, you can also buy the less noisy battery and robot machines. Depending on your lawn mower, there are a few things to remember before winter storage. Below is a checklist:
Gas lawn mower checklist
Gas lawn mowers are more sensitive because they use fuel and oil. Therefore, proper winterization is critical to prevent them from becoming grumpy during spring. Here are a few things to note:
- Empty the fuel tank or add a stabilizer before winter storage.
- Drain and replace the oil to protect the engine during winter.
- Lightly oil the blades and other components to prevent corrosion.
- Remove and replace the engine filter during spring for optimal performance.
- Remove and store the spark plugs separately before storage.
- Store the lawn mower in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area.
Battery lawn mower checklist
You don’t have to worry about the messy fuel or oil with battery-driven lawn mowers. However, the batteries need proper care before the cold season sets in. Replacing the batteries if anything goes wrong during winter storage can be costly. Below is a quick checklist:
- Charge the battery to 50% or 60% before storage.
- Disconnect the battery, starting with the negative terminal.
- Clean the battery with a piece of cloth and a metal brush for the terminals.
- Store the battery in a cool, dry place away from moisture or cold.
Robot lawn mower checklist
Robot lawn mowers may be smart and independent, but still need some care before winter storage. Proper winterizations can ensure you have sharp blades, working sensors, and a healthy battery during spring. Below is how to prepare your robot mower for hibernation:
- Use a damp cloth to clean the machine. Avoid high-pressure washing.
- Remove the battery if it’s detachable.
- Store the battery in a room-temperature area.
- Clean the charging ports and contacts to remove any build-ups.
- Check for any firmware updates and install them before storage.
- Store the machine indoors in a frost-free environment.
Bottom Line
You should be ready to winterize your lawn mower before the long, cold season. The steps and tips above will ensure the lawn mower stays in excellent condition and is ready to perform in the next mowing season. Proper lawn mower winter storage can also increase lifespan and reduce repair bills. See you in spring!
