Once grass growth slows down in winter there will be little, if any, need to mow. Maintenance tasks involving string line trimmers and other lawn equipment also become less frequent. If your lawn equipment will be unused for more than 30 days, it is a good idea to drain the fuel and clean the power equipment before storing.
Drain the Fuel
Leaving fuel in gas-powered lawn equipment for more than 30 days can cause problems when you try to restart the lawn mower, trimmer, chainsaw, or other equipment. Stale fuel can damage the fuel system and prevent lawn equipment from starting. This problem can be solved by adding a fuel stabilizer (if the storage time will be less than 90 days), or by draining the fuel.
To add a fuel stabilizer, fill the tank with gasoline. Add the fuel stabilizer according to instructions on the product label. Start the mower or trimmer and let it run for about 10 minutes to let the stabilized fuel circulate.
To drain the fuel, use a siphon and remove as much of the fuel as possible from the fuel tank. Start the mower or other machine, and let it run until the remaining fuel has been used up.
Cleaning
Getting law equipment ready for storage is an excellent time to perform routine cleaning. The first step is to remove dirt and debris, such as cut grass, that has accumulated through the year. For lawn mowers, the underside of the deck can be scraped clean with a putty knife. Thoroughly clean trimmers, edgers, and chainsaws as well.
Air filters made from paper should be replaced, while foam filters can be washed with soap and warm water then soaked in engine oil before reinstalling. Spark plugs should be cleaned or replaced. Cooling fins can be brushed clean with a bristle brush. Spark screens and oil filters also benefit from being cleaned or replaced. Once finished, lightly coat metal parts with oil to prevent rust.
Replace and Sharpen Blades
Lawn mower blades will need sharpened at least once a year. Since you are already working with the mower to clean and prepare it for storage, fall is a good time to sharpen the blades yourself, have them professionally sharpened, or replace old blades.
For string-line trimmers, installing a new line after cleaning the trimmer head will ensure the trimmer is ready to cut next year. For chainsaws, late fall is a good time to sharpen an existing chain or purchase a new chain.
Where To Store
Choose a dry place that is, if possible, free of dust and protected from frost to store your lawn equipment. Cover the equipment with fabric, rather than plastic which will trap moisture. Lawn equipment should not be stored next to water heaters, furnaces, or a device using a pilot light.
It is important to follow a few simple steps before storing your lawn equipment. Making sure the fuel is stabilized or drained will help prevent engine problems. Cleaning filters, spark plugs, screens, and other parts reduces the risk of rust and helps prevent more serious maintenance issues in the future. Sharpening or replacing cutting blades gets a yearly task out of the way before the equipment will be needed again in the spring. With some basic maintenance before storage in the fall, your lawn equipment will be clean and running properly when you need it.
