How to Winterize Your Lawn Mower: Protect It for Next Season
How to Winterize Your Lawn Mower: Protect It for Next Season
As the colder months approach, it's time to prepare your lawn mower for a well-earned break. Properly winterizing your lawn mower is essential to ensure it stays in excellent condition during the off-season, so you can get back to mowing without issues when spring arrives. Below, we’ll cover a step-by-step guide to winterizing your lawn mower and protecting it from cold-weather damage.
Why Winterize Your Lawn Mower?
When lawn mowers are left in cold, damp conditions without preparation, they can suffer from a variety of issues, such as frozen fuel, corrosion, or engine damage. Winterizing your mower involves simple maintenance tasks that protect key components from freezing temperatures and prolonged inactivity.
By taking the time to winterize your lawn mower properly, you’ll:
- Prevent engine problems from old or contaminated fuel.
- Avoid costly repairs in the spring.
- Ensure your lawn mower runs smoothly when you’re ready to use it again.
Steps to Winterize Your Lawn Mower
1. Clean Your Lawn Mower
Before putting your mower away for the winter, give it a thorough cleaning. This will remove dirt, grass clippings, and debris that could trap moisture and lead to rust.
- Remove Grass & Debris: Use a brush or a damp cloth to clean off clippings and dirt.
- Check the Blades: Inspect the lawn mower blades for damage. If they're dull or nicked, consider sharpening or replacing them.
Pro Tip: Always disconnect the spark plug before working on your mower to ensure safety.
2. Drain or Stabilize the Fuel
Old fuel can lead to engine trouble when left sitting for months. Fuel breaks down over time and can clog your mower’s engine. There are two solutions depending on how you want to store your mower:
Option A: Stabilize the Fuel
If you plan to leave fuel in your lawn mower, add a high-quality fuel stabilizer to prevent it from degrading. Follow the instructions on the stabilizer bottle and run your mower for a few minutes to circulate the additive through the system.
Option B: Drain the Fuel
If you prefer not to leave fuel in the tank, drain the tank and the carburetor completely. To do this:
- Use a siphon to remove gas from the fuel tank.
- Run the mower until the engine runs out of gas.
PRO Tip: Use VP 4 Cycle Fuel for your lawn mower. It is ethanol-free, reducing the chances of fuel breakdown, clogging, or freezing during the winter months. This makes it a reliable and clean choice for storage.
3. Change the Oil
Fresh oil can prevent engine problems and corrosion during storage. Before storing your mower, change its oil to remove contaminants and ensure your engine stays clean.
- Remove the old oil.
- Replace it with fresh, clean oil recommended in your lawn mower's manual.
4. Check & Replace Air & Spark Plug Filters
The air filter and spark plug are key components of a healthy engine. During the winterization process:
- Inspect the Air Filter: If it’s dirty, replace or clean it. A clean air filter ensures proper airflow to the engine.
- Check the Spark Plug: Inspect the spark plug for corrosion and replace it if needed to ensure smooth starting in the spring.
5. Inspect & Lubricate Moving Parts
Lubricating moving parts can prevent rust and ensure your lawn mower operates like new when you bring it out of storage.
- Lubricate the wheels, cables, and any other exposed moving parts.
- Check for any signs of wear or damage and replace worn components if necessary.
6. Store Your Lawn Mower Properly
Where you store your lawn mower during winter is just as important as the winterizing process itself. Choose a clean, dry, and covered area to protect your mower from snow, ice, and moisture.
Best storage options include:
- Garage: Keeps your mower safe and away from harsh weather.
- Shed: A well-ventilated shed can work just as well.
- Cover: Use a waterproof cover to protect your mower if indoor storage isn’t available.
7. Remove the Battery (If Applicable)
If your lawn mower uses a battery, remove it for the winter to prevent it from freezing or becoming damaged. Store the battery in a cool, dry location and recharge it in the spring before reinstalling it.
8. Check the Tires
Before storing your mower, check the condition of its tires. Low air pressure or flat spots can damage tires over the winter. Inflate them to the recommended pressure in the owner’s manual and ensure they’re properly supported during storage.
Final Thoughts: Winterize Now to Save Time Later
Taking the time to winterize your lawn mower will save you from frustration and costly repairs when spring returns. Follow these simple steps to ensure your machine stays in top condition during the colder months.
Use VP 4 Cycle Fuel for your lawn mower storage needs. This ethanol-free fuel is great for preventing future problems with your mower and ensures you can get back to mowing with fewer headaches in the spring.
Need help with service or parts for your lawn mower?
Southern Maryland Outdoor Power Equipment offers expert maintenance and a wide selection of lawn care equipment to ensure you’re ready for every season. Contact us today for all your lawn care needs.
📍 Visit Us: [2205 Crain Hwy, Waldorf, Maryland 20601]
📞 Call Us: 301-396-3989
🌐 Website: www.lawnmowersmaryland.com
