Properly storing your lawn mower in the garage can significantly extend its lifespan, improve its performance, and keep your space organized. Whether you have a push mower, a riding mower, or a zero-turn model, proper storage is essential to protect the mower from the elements and prevent unnecessary wear. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to store your lawn mower in the garage for the off-season or when it’s not in use.
Clean the Lawn Mower Thoroughly
Before storing your lawn mower, it’s essential to clean it to remove grass clippings, dirt, and debris. This helps prevent rust and keeps the mower in good working condition.
How to Clean:
Empty the Grass Bag: Remove any clippings or debris from the grass bag or catcher.
Clean the Deck: Tilt the mower to its side and use a hose or scraper to clean the underside of the deck. Be sure to remove any grass buildup to prevent it from hardening and causing rust.
Wipe Down the Exterior: Use a damp cloth or mild detergent to wipe the body of the mower and remove any dirt or grass residue.
Sharpen the Blades: If needed, take the time to sharpen the mower blades before storage. Sharp blades provide cleaner cuts and improve the mower’s efficiency.
Drain or Stabilize the Fuel
Fuel left in the mower can break down over time, leading to clogged fuel lines or carburetors when you start the mower again. It’s essential to address the fuel issue before storing your mower.
Option 1: Drain the Gas Tank
Simply run the mower until it’s out of fuel, then drain any remaining gas from the tank and fuel lines.
Option 2: Use Fuel Stabilizer
If you don’t want to drain the tank, add a fuel stabilizer to the gas and run the mower for a few minutes to allow the stabilizer to reach the engine. This will prevent the gas from breaking down and clogging the system.
Change the Oil
Old or dirty oil can accumulate debris and cause the engine to wear out faster. To prevent this, it’s a good idea to change the oil before storing your lawn mower for a long period.
How to Change the Oil:
Drain the old oil according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Replace the oil with fresh, clean oil, following the recommended oil type for your mower.
Remove the Battery (For Electric and Battery-Powered Mowers)
If you have an electric or battery-powered lawn mower, it’s a good idea to remove the battery before storing it. Storing the battery improperly can shorten its lifespan.
How to Store the Battery:
Disconnect the battery and store it in a cool, dry place.
Avoid placing the battery in extreme temperatures, as this can degrade its capacity.
If possible, store the battery at about 50% charge to prolong its life.
Protect the Mower from Moisture
Moisture is one of the biggest threats to lawn mower longevity, leading to rust and corrosion. To keep your mower in the best shape possible, store it in a dry area and take steps to protect it from moisture.
How to Protect Against Moisture:
Cover the Mower: Use a breathable mower cover to protect it from dust, dirt, and moisture while in storage. Avoid using plastic covers, as they trap moisture inside, leading to rust.
Elevate the Mower: If possible, elevate the mower off the floor using a piece of wood or a stand. This helps keep it dry and prevents moisture buildup underneath.
Positioning the Mower in the Garage
The way you position your mower in the garage can impact both its protection and the space available. Here are some tips:
For Push Mowers:
Store the push mower upright or on its side, ensuring that the engine and fuel tank are properly aligned to prevent any fuel leakage.
If your garage has limited space, consider using a wall-mounted hanger to store the mower vertically.
For Riding Mowers:
Park the riding mower in a space that allows for easy access when you need to use it next.
If possible, place it on a piece of plywood to protect the tires from contact with the concrete floor, which can cause flat spots.
For Zero-Turn Mowers:
Ensure the mower is stored in an area where the blades are elevated off the ground to avoid damage. If needed, use a lift or blocks to raise the mower slightly.
Inspect and Lubricate Moving Parts
Before storing, inspect the mower for any loose parts or damage. Check the tires, handles, and all moving parts, and tighten any bolts or screws that may have come loose.
Lubricate Moving Parts:
Apply a lubricant or oil to the moving parts of the mower, such as the wheels, cables, and any hinges, to keep them from rusting or seizing up while in storage.
Store the Mower in a Safe, Accessible Location
Find a storage spot in your garage that is safe and accessible. Store the mower in a cool, dry area away from excessive heat, humidity, or direct sunlight. Avoid placing it near chemicals or solvents that could damage the mower over time.
FAQs
Should I drain the gas before storing my lawn mower?
Yes, it’s a good idea to either drain the gas completely or add a fuel stabilizer to prevent fuel degradation and clogging in the engine during storage.
Can I leave my electric mower’s battery in the mower while storing it?
It’s best to remove the battery and store it in a cool, dry place, ideally at about 50% charge, to prolong its life.
How can I protect my lawn mower from rust during storage?
Cover your mower with a breathable cover, elevate it off the ground, and store it in a dry, cool area to prevent moisture buildup and rust formation.
Conclusion
Properly storing your lawn mower in the garage can extend its life, improve performance, and make it easier to get started when mowing season rolls around again. By cleaning the mower, addressing fuel and oil issues, protecting it from moisture, and positioning it correctly, you ensure that your lawn mower stays in top condition and is ready for use when you need it. Taking these simple steps will also save you time and money on repairs, so your mower will continue to serve you well for many years.
