
As the mowing season winds down and the cold Kansas City winter sets in, it’s tempting to park your lawn mower in the garage and forget about it until spring. However, proper winter maintenance is crucial if you want your mower to perform at its best when the grass starts growing again. By taking a few simple steps to winterize your lawn mower, you'll extend its life, save on repairs, and ensure it starts easily when warmer weather returns.
1. Clean the Mower Thoroughly
Before storing your mower for the winter, it's essential to clean it inside and out. Grass clippings, dirt, and debris can build up over the mowing season, which can cause rust and corrosion. Use a hose or pressure washer to clean the deck, blades, and other components. Scrape off any dried clippings with a putty knife or brush.
For the best protection, dry the mower thoroughly and apply a light coating of silicone spray or a rust inhibitor to the metal parts, especially if the mower will be stored in a damp garage or shed.
2. Drain or Stabilize the Fuel
One of the most common problems mowers face after sitting idle all winter is fuel degradation. Gasoline starts to break down after 30 days, which can lead to clogs in the carburetor and fuel lines. To avoid this issue, you have two options:
Run the Tank Dry: Let the mower run until the gas tank is empty, or use a siphon pump to remove the fuel.
Use a Fuel Stabilizer: If you prefer to leave fuel in the tank, mix in a fuel stabilizer to prevent the gas from going stale. Run the mower for a few minutes after adding the stabilizer to ensure it circulates through the system.
3. Change the Oil
Changing the oil before storing your mower for the winter is essential for maintaining engine health. Old oil can contain contaminants that cause wear and tear on engine parts. Drain the oil according to your mower’s manual and refill it with fresh oil. While you’re at it, check the oil filter and replace it if necessary.
4. Remove the Spark Plug
Removing the spark plug not only prevents accidental starts during storage, but it also gives you an opportunity to check its condition. If the spark plug is worn or dirty, replace it. A clean, properly gapped spark plug ensures a smooth start when you're ready to fire up the mower next season. If you’re not replacing the spark plug, coat the cylinder in engine oil and store the spark plug somewhere safe.
5. Sharpen and Balance the Blades
Dull or unbalanced blades make for poor cuts and can strain your mower’s engine. Now is the perfect time to remove the blades for sharpening or replacement. Sharpening the blade ensures a cleaner cut next spring, while balancing it reduces unnecessary vibration and wear on the engine.
Use a file or sharpening tool to maintain a sharp edge.
Balance the blade using a blade balancer or by placing it on a nail and ensuring both sides are even.
6. Check the Air Filter
A clogged or dirty air filter can affect the mower’s performance by restricting airflow to the engine. Inspect your air filter and either clean or replace it as needed. Foam filters can often be cleaned and re-oiled, but paper filters typically need to be replaced.
7. Store the Mower Properly
Where and how you store your mower during the winter can make a big difference. If possible, store it in a dry, covered area like a garage or shed. If indoor storage isn’t an option, invest in a durable cover to protect it from the elements. Make sure the mower is stored on a flat surface, and avoid placing heavy objects on top of it.
8. Check Belts, Cables, and Tires
Over time, the belts and cables on your mower can wear out or loosen. Take a few minutes to inspect them for any signs of wear, cracks, or fraying. If any part seems damaged, it’s better to replace it now than wait for it to break during peak mowing season. Also, check your mower's tires for cracks or leaks and inflate them to the recommended pressure.
9. Battery Care (for Electric Mowers)
If you own an electric lawn mower, it’s crucial to care for the battery during winter. Remove the battery and store it in a cool, dry place. Keep it away from extreme cold temperatures, as this can reduce the battery's lifespan. Consider giving it a charge every few months to maintain its health.
Conclusion
A little winter maintenance goes a long way toward ensuring your lawn mower will be ready to go when spring arrives. By following these steps, you'll not only extend the life of your mower but also avoid costly repairs. Winterizing your lawn mower is a simple process that can save you time, money, and frustration next year.
If you need help with winter lawn mower maintenance, or any other lawn care needs, don’t hesitate to contact Turf Geeks KC! We’re here to help your lawn—and your equipment—stay in top shape year-round.
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