Keeping your lawn mower in good condition is integral to maintaining your yard. But what do you do when the mowing season comes to an end?
You can’t leave your lawn mower in the elements until next spring. That’s where long-term storage comes in.
Properly storing your lawn mower during the off-season is crucial to ensure it remains in good working condition for years.
In this blog post, we’ll go over the steps you need to take to store your lawn mower correctly so that it’s ready for action when you need it.
So, whether this is your first time storing a lawn mower long-term or you’re a seasoned pro, read on for some tips and tricks to keep your machine running smoothly.
1) Empty or Stabilize the Gas Tank
The first step in storing a lawn mower long-term is properly emptying or stabilizing the gas tank.
Allowing gas to sit in the tank for long periods can lead to corrosion or gumming up of the carburetor, ultimately damaging the engine.
To prevent this, it is recommended to either empty the gas tank or add a fuel stabilizer, even if you plan on storing the mower for only a few months.
Additionally, it is essential to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for gas storage to ensure the safety of you and your equipment.
By taking the time to properly empty or stabilize the gas tank, you can ensure your lawn mower will be ready to use when it’s time to mow again.
2) Brush or Hose off Leaves and Grass
After you have emptied or stabilized the gas tank, it’s time to brush or hose off any leaves and grass from the lawnmower.
This step is crucial to prevent any buildup or molding during the winter months. Take the time to brush off any hard materials first and then hose down the mower to eliminate any residue that may have stuck to the mower.
Don’t forget to check under the deck of the mower too! Place a block under the front wheels for riding mowers and apply the brakes to give you enough room to reach under and clean.
Lastly, remember to store the lawn mower away from inclement weather, preferably in a cool, dry place like a garage or shed.
These simple steps will help ensure your lawnmower starts up without issues once spring comes around.
3) Store in a Cool, Dry Place
After ensuring that the gas tank has been emptied or stabilized and the lawn mower has been cleaned, it’s time to consider the storage location.
When it comes to long-term storage, a cool and dry place is essential. Moisture and extreme temperatures can damage the internal components of your lawn mower, so it’s best to avoid storing it in a damp location or outside in direct sunlight.
A dry, covered place such as a garage or shed is a great option for storage. If space is limited, consider investing in lawn mower storage containers or utilizing existing spaces for storage.
It’s also important to follow the manufacturer’s gas storage recommendations and avoid leaving batteries outside for extended periods.
By storing your lawn mower properly, you can extend its lifespan and ensure that it’s ready to go when it’s time for its next use.
4) Read the Owner’s Manual
Before storing a lawn mower for an extended period, it’s crucial to read the owner’s manual.
This step is often overlooked but is essential for the proper maintenance and preservation of the lawn mower.
In addition to providing helpful information about the equipment, the manual includes instructions on preparing the machine for storage, such as draining the fuel tank and adding a stabilizer.
Without the necessary steps, owners may encounter issues, such as a flooded engine or difficulty starting the machine when it’s time to use it again.
Therefore, taking a few minutes to read the owner’s manual can save owners time and money in the long run.
5) Don’t Overlook Existing Spaces for Storage
When storing a lawn mower long term, sometimes the solution is right under our noses. It’s easy to overlook the spaces we already have available for storage.
Utilizing a corner of the garage or a storage shed can be a great option. Some people even opt to store their lawnmowers in a mud room or laundry room, depending on the layout of their home.
By thinking outside the box, you can save money on purchasing an expensive lawn mower storage container and keep your lawn mower safe and secure.
However, ensuring the space is dry and out of direct sunlight is crucial. This will help prevent rust and other damage over time.
Following these simple storage tips, you can keep your lawn mower in top shape and ready to go when needed.
6) Consider Lawnmower Storage Containers
Another option to consider when storing your lawn mower long-term is to use lawn mower storage containers.
These containers are specifically designed to keep your mower safe and secure when not in use. They come in various sizes and materials, from plastic to metal so that you can choose the best fit your needs.
Measure your mower to ensure it will fit comfortably inside the container. Using a storage container can also help keep pests and rodents from making their home in your mower during the off-season.
Remember to follow the other tips, such as stabilizing the gas tank and keeping the mower in a cool, dry place.
By taking these steps, you can help ensure your mower stays in top condition for the next mowing season.
7) Cover Outside Storage
To further protect a lawn mower that needs to be stored outside, covering it is necessary. A waterproof cover or tarp will help keep the mower safe from rain or snow.
A cover may not be necessary if stored in a garage, but it is still recommended. It’s important to remember to keep the cover or tarp secured to the mower to prevent it from blowing off in the wind.
Elevating the mower off the ground can also help prevent rusting and damage from moisture. Following these steps will ensure that the lawn mower is in good condition when it’s time to use it again.
Don’t forget to factor in the manufacturer’s recommendations for gas storage and regularly read the owner’s manual for additional tips and instructions.
8) Elevate Outdoor Storage
To properly store a lawn mower long-term, elevating outdoor storage is essential. Placing the mower directly on the ground can cause dampness and rust.
Placing the mower on bricks or planks of wood is recommended, providing ample space for air circulation. Covering the mower with a waterproof tarp will protect it from rain, snow, and debris.
Securing the tarp tightly with bungee cords is crucial to prevent any water from seeping in. When storing a lawn mower outside, finding a dry, safe area, such as a garage or a shed, is essential.
Following these steps will ensure that your lawn mower runs smoothly when you need it next.
9) Store in a Dry, Covered Place
To complete the long-term process of storing a lawn mower, it is essential to find a dry, covered place to store the equipment.
This will help to prevent moisture and rust from forming on the machine. A shed or garage is recommended, but if these storage options are unavailable, a heavy-duty tarp can be used to cover the mower if it is stored outside.
It is also essential to check the mower periodically to ensure that the cover is still tightly in place and that no moisture has accumulated inside.
Following these steps will help to keep your lawn mower in good condition for the next mowing season.
What Are the Expert Tips for Properly Winterizing Your Lawn Mower?
Properly winterizing your lawn mower is essential to ensure its longevity and efficiency. Here are a few expert tips for winterizing your lawn mower. Firstly, drain the fuel tank and carburetor to prevent fuel deterioration. Secondly, clean the mower thoroughly to avoid corrosion and damage. Additionally, change the oil and replace the air filter before storing it. Lastly, store your lawn mower in a dry and sheltered place to protect it from harsh winter weather. Following these expert tips for winterizing your lawn mower will keep it in optimal condition.
How can Electric Start Lawn Mowers Benefit from Long-Term Storage Tips?
When considering the benefits of electric start, electric start lawn mowers can greatly benefit from long-term storage tips. Properly storing an electric start mower can help maintain its battery life, prevent corrosions, and ensure smooth operation when it’s time to use it again.
10) Follow the Manufacturer’s Recommendations for Gas Storage.
The last but not least step in storing your lawn mower for the winter is to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for gas storage.
Lawnmower manufacturers like Honda and John Deere often suggest ways to store their products.
Some may recommend completely draining the gas tank, while others suggest filling it up before storage.
It’s important to read the owner’s manual and follow the instructions carefully. Additionally, if your mower is powered by gasoline or diesel, add a fuel stabilizer if it sits idle for longer than two weeks.
Remember, bad gas is the number one reason for a no-start lawnmower. Following the manufacturer’s recommendations for gas storage will ensure your mower starts up smoothly when you need it next season.
