As the cooler weather settles in and your lawn care routine winds down for the year, it’s time to think about putting your lawn mower into hibernation for the winter months. Properly storing your mower during the off-season is critical to ensuring it runs smoothly when spring rolls around. A little bit of maintenance now can save you headaches and costly repairs later.
In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to prepare your lawn mower for winter storage, so you can keep it in peak condition year after year.
1. Clean Your Mower Thoroughly
Before you store your lawn mower, it’s important to give it a good cleaning. Grass clippings, dirt, and debris can build up under the deck, clogging air vents and causing rust or corrosion during the cold months. Here’s how to clean your mower:
- Turn off the engine and disconnect the spark plug to prevent accidental startups.
- Scrape off the grass from the underside of the mower deck using a putty knife, scraper, or a stiff brush.
- Wash the mower deck with a hose or pressure washer (if your mower allows it). Be sure to dry it thoroughly afterward to prevent moisture buildup.
- Wipe down the exterior with a rag to remove any remaining dirt, grass, or debris.
- Clean the air filter by tapping it gently against a surface to remove dirt or debris. If the filter is clogged, replace it.
Pro Tip: Apply a light coat of oil or silicone spray to the underside of the mower deck to help prevent grass clippings from sticking during next season.
2. Change the Oil
Old oil can degrade and thicken over the winter, making it harder for your mower’s engine to start when spring arrives. Changing the oil now is a great way to ensure your mower is ready to go as soon as the weather warms up.
- Warm up the engine slightly by running the mower for a few minutes. This helps the oil drain out more easily.
- Drain the old oil into a container and dispose of it properly.
- Replace with fresh oil according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Most lawn mowers use SAE 30 oil, but always refer to your mower’s manual for the correct type and amount.
Pro Tip: If your mower has a gas-powered engine, make sure to change the oil each season for optimal performance.
3. Empty the Gas Tank (or Stabilize the Fuel)
Gasoline can go bad over the winter and cause engine problems when you try to start it in the spring. If your mower has fuel in the tank, there are two options:
Option 1: Empty the Gas Tank
- Run the mower until the gas tank is empty. This is the most thorough way to remove fuel from the system and prevent it from gumming up the carburetor.
Option 2: Add Fuel Stabilizer
- Add a fuel stabilizer to the gas tank. If you prefer not to run the mower dry, you can add a fuel stabilizer to the gas tank to prevent the fuel from deteriorating. Follow the stabilizer’s instructions for the correct amount, and then run the engine for a few minutes to allow the treated fuel to cycle through the system.
Pro Tip: If your mower uses a carburetor, consider draining the carburetor bowl to prevent fuel from sitting in the carburetor during the winter.
4. Remove and Sharpen the Blade
Sharpening your mower blade ensures that it cuts your grass cleanly, rather than tearing it. A dull blade can leave your lawn looking ragged and increase your mower’s workload. Here’s how to maintain your blade during the winter months:
- Remove the blade by lifting the mower and using a wrench to unscrew the bolt that holds the blade in place.
- Sharpen the blade with a sharpening file, angle grinder, or have it professionally sharpened at a local shop. A sharp blade will cut more efficiently and reduce wear on your engine.
- Inspect for damage while the blade is off. If there are any cracks, chips, or bends in the blade, it’s time to replace it.
Pro Tip: If you’re not comfortable removing or sharpening the blade yourself, consider taking your mower to a professional.
5. Check the Air Filter
A clean air filter is essential for engine performance. Over time, air filters can become clogged with dirt and debris, reducing airflow and making your engine work harder. Here’s how to clean or replace it:
- Remove the air filter from its compartment.
- Inspect the filter for dirt and damage. If it’s reusable, clean it by tapping it gently or washing it with soap and water. Let it dry completely before reinserting it.
- If the air filter is too dirty or damaged, replace it with a new one.
Pro Tip: A clogged air filter can reduce your mower’s performance, so make sure to check and clean it at the end of every season.
6. Check and Replace Spark Plug
A clean and properly functioning spark plug ensures that your mower starts easily and runs smoothly. Here’s how to check and replace it:
- Inspect the spark plug for signs of wear or carbon buildup. If you notice heavy deposits or wear, replace the spark plug with a new one.
- Clean the spark plug with a wire brush if it’s not too dirty, or use a spark plug cleaner if necessary.
- Check the spark plug gap using a spark plug gap tool. Adjust if necessary, based on the manufacturer’s specifications.
Pro Tip: Replace the spark plug every season to avoid starting issues in the spring.
7. Store Your Mower in a Safe, Dry Location
The final step in preparing your mower for winter storage is finding the right place to store it. Ideally, you want to keep your mower in a dry, cool area away from the elements. Here are a few tips for winter storage:
- Store the mower in a shed, garage, or basement, where it’s protected from rain and snow. If you’re storing it outside, consider investing in a waterproof cover.
- Keep it off the ground to prevent moisture from seeping into the mower’s parts. You can place it on a pallet, wooden board, or a piece of plywood.
- Elevate the mower slightly by lifting it or placing it on a stand to prevent any pressure on the tires and avoid flat spots.
Pro Tip: If possible, store your mower upright, or at least tilt it at a slight angle, to avoid fuel or oil leakage.
8. Check Tires and Tire Pressure
If your mower is equipped with pneumatic tires, check their pressure before storing the mower. Low tire pressure can lead to flat spots or uneven wear over time. Here’s how to take care of your mower’s tires:
- Inspect the tires for any cracks or excessive wear.
- Check the tire pressure and inflate to the recommended levels as stated in the mower’s manual.
- Consider adding a little air at the end of the season, so the tires are less prone to developing flat spots.
Conclusion
Properly storing your lawn mower for the winter doesn’t have to be complicated, but it is crucial for keeping it in good condition and ready for use when the weather warms up. By following these simple steps — cleaning, changing the oil, emptying the fuel, sharpening the blade, and storing the mower properly — you can extend the life of your mower and ensure a smooth start to your next mowing season.
Taking these preventive measures now can save you time and money in the future. If you’re ever unsure about any step or need help with more advanced maintenance, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional.
Happy winterizing! 🌱❄️
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