Winter is the perfect time to take a break from yard work, but sometimes we don’t want to put away our equipment for months on end. For example, if you have an expensive mower or other power equipment that needs special care during storage, it can be worth storing them properly and professionally, so they last longer and don’t lose their value over time.
Never store a mower with fuel in the tank.
If you have to store your mower for an extended period of time, empty all fuel from it. The reason behind this is that fuel can leak or evaporate over time, causing you to buy more fuel when you go to use your mower next season. A leaking gas tank can also be a safety hazard if it corrodes over long periods of time and begins seeping out through small holes or cracks in the metal itself.
Change the oil before storing your mower for winter.
Changing the oil before storing your mower for winter is an important step for ensuring that your mower is in top shape when you’re ready to use it again.
Oil keeps the engine from getting too hot, which could cause the metal parts inside it to warp or melt. Oil also prevents rusting and seizing—when metal parts stick together and can’t move freely. This doesn’t just happen in engines; if you’re using a manual tool like a screwdriver or hammer and don’t keep up with oiling it regularly, rust will accumulate on its blades and make them less effective at driving screws into wood or nails into wall studs without slipping off at awkward angles.
To change the oil in your lawnmower’s engine:
- 1) Unplug your lawnmower before starting work on it; this will prevent any electric shock hazards should something go wrong during the disassembly process
- 2) Remove any spark plugs, so there aren’t any explosive air-fuel mixture around while working inside
- 3) Drain old oil into the container
- 4) Install fresh new 5W-30 weight motor oil (unless specified otherwise by manufacturer specifications), fill up until level reaches “full mark” line
Take time to clean up the mower and ensure it is properly lubricated before storing it.
Before you store your power equipment, take some time to clean up the mower and make sure it is properly lubricated. Cleaning your mower will help prevent rust and corrosion during storage, making it easier for you to prepare for next year’s use. This cleaning process should include:
- Checking the oil level
- Checking the air filter
- Checking the spark plug
- Checking fuel filter(s) (if applicable)
Once everything is cleaned and prepped, cover your equipment and store it for the winter.
Once everything is cleaned and prepped, cover your equipment. This will prevent moisture and rust from building up on your mower or trimmer, as well as keep it safe from theft. Covering also helps protect your mower from the elements, which can cause damage over time—especially if left out in the rain for days. Plus, keeping it covered means that when spring comes around, your mower will be ready to go with little maintenance needed!
Storing equipment properly can save you time and money in the long run!
Following these tips will help keep your equipment running smoothly, saving you time and money in the long run. It’s also important to remember that if you have any questions or concerns about storing power equipment, we are always here to help! Contact American Power Equipment today for your power equipment questions and needs.
