Gearing Up for Winter: Why You Need to Winterize Your Motorized Tools

As the leaves begin to change color and fall from the trees, it’s time to start thinking about winter – specifically, how to prepare your home and yard for the colder months ahead. One important step in winterizing your property is to properly clean and store all of your motorized lawn and garden tools.

Cleaning and storing your lawnmowers, hedge trimmers, weed whackers, power washers, chainsaws, leaf blowers, etc. may seem like a daunting task, but it’s actually pretty simple. And trust us, taking the time to do it now will save you a lot of headache come springtime. Here’s a step-by-step guide to winterizing your motorized tools:

Clean The Tools

Remove any dirt, grass, or debris from the tool. This will prevent rust and other damage that can occur during storage.

Drain The Fuel

Gasoline can go bad over time, so it’s important to drain the fuel from your lawnmower, hedge trimmer, etc. before storing it for the winter. This can be done by running the engine until it uses up all the gas or you can just drain the tanks from the fuel lines.

Change The Oil

For most lawnmowers and other gas-powered tools, it’s a good idea to change the oil before storing them for the winter. Check your owner’s manual for specific instructions on how to do this.

Spark Plug Maintenance

Clean off debris and rust with a wire brush. Spray ends with brake spray cleaner. If the spark plug is very dirty, then replace it altogether.

Replace Fuel, Oil & Air Filters

Just like with your automobile, filters get dirty, and they simply stop doing their job efficiently. If you want your machines to run their best, change your filters on a regular schedule. In not only makes life easier down the line, but it will also help extend the life of your tools.

Check For Missing Parts

Screws, nuts, O-rings and replace as needed. Especially O-rings which can cause leaks that lead to other issues.

Lubricate Moving Parts

Spray Lubricant on hinges, nuts, and screws so they don’t dry out. And it makes it easier to get them off next time, so you’ll have less issues with a screw breaking while trying to take it off.

Sharpen Blades

Sharp blades are key to a well-functioning lawnmower or other tool. Sharp mower blades also cut grass cleaner and more efficiently which will help you keep a healthier lawn. Take the time to sharpen (or replace) the blades before putting your tools away for the season.

Give It A Good Rinse

Use a hose to rinse off your tools with clean water. This will help remove any residual dirt or debris that could cause rusting or other damage.

Dry It off

Once you’ve rinsed off your tools, make sure to dry them completely before storing them away. And any wooden handles can dry out and crack. Add some tung oil to keep the wood moist.

Put It In Storage

Choose a dry, indoor location for storing your motorized tools – somewhere out of reach of children and pets is best. If you don’t have an indoor storage option, you can purchase a storage shed or cover for protecting your tools from the elements.  Following these simple steps will help ensure that your lawn mowers, trimmers, and other motorized tools are in good working condition come springtime!

Conclusion

Winterizing your motorized lawn and garden tools may seem like a daunting task but following these simple steps will help ensure that they’re in good working condition come springtime!