As we roll into the colder months, many of us will be stashing our lawn mowers, trimmers, pressure washers, and other outdoor power equipment until spring. However, simply putting your tools away without proper care can lead to costly repairs and frustrating setbacks when you try to fire up your equipment next year. That’s where winterizing your outdoor power equipment comes in. Here are the top three reasons why you should winterize your equipment this season:
1. Extend Equipment Lifespan
Just like any mechanical device, outdoor power equipment is subject to wear and tear. By winterizing your tools, you can significantly extend their lifespan. Removing/replacing fuel, cleaning the components, and lubricating moving parts will prevent rust and corrosion. Even for your battery-powered equipment, taking steps to store them correctly helps preserve the life of your batteries.
2. Enhance Performance
Winterizing isn’t just about preservation; it’s also about performance.
Stale fuel can lead to hard starts and poor engine performance come springtime. By draining fuel and using ethanol-free fuel and fuel stabilizers (or STIHL MotoMix), you can ensure your machines start smoothly and operate efficiently when it’s time to tackle your property again.
Air filters often become clogged with dirt and debris during regular use. This restricts airflow and forces your engine to work harder. Cleaning or replacing the filter before winter ensures your equipment can breathe easy when you fire it up in the spring.
Spark plugs also play a crucial role in smooth engine starts and consistent performance. Over time, they can become fouled with carbon deposits, leading to misfires or difficulty starting. Inspecting and replacing spark plugs now will save you from frustrating cold starts later.
Don’t forget about sharp blades for your lawn mower! Dull blades not only tear at grass and cause damage, but they also make the engine work harder. Sharpening or replacing the blades before storage will keep your mower in peak condition, ensuring clean, precise cuts when the grass gets back to growing.
Taking care of these small but important components during winterization gives you peace of mind, knowing your equipment will be ready to perform its best next year – and it saves you time!
3. Save Money on Equipment Repairs
Neglecting winterization can lead to costly repairs down the line. Issues like cracked fuel lines, frozen engines, and corroded parts can quickly add up. Investing a little time and effort into winterizing now can save you money by preventing major repairs or replacements in the future.
Do I Even Need to Winterize My Automower?
While your Automower® is low-maintenance, regular servicing and off-season storage are essential to keep it in top condition. Thoroughly cleaning the chassis and internal components prevents moisture buildup and corrosion, while lubricating moving parts reduces wear. Inspecting electrical connections and updating the software can help prevent malfunctions. Storing your Automower in a dry, secure space in the off season also protects it from harsh conditions and extends its lifespan, ensuring it’s ready to mow next season.
More Winterizing Resources
Winterizing your outdoor power equipment might seem like another annoying task on your to-do list as the year snowballs to a close, but in the long run, it will save you time, protect your investment, and ultimately, save you money! Check out our Winterizing 101 blog for more tips on making sure your equipment is ready for the change of seasons. You can also head over to our YouTube channel for step-by-step guides on winterizing your push lawn mower, pressure washer, string trimmer and more!
About
Established in 1990 by Carl and Beth Levien, Carl’s Mower & Saw remains a family-owned and locally operated business to this day. We’re committed to providing an exceptional customer experience to both contractors and homeowners. Whether you’re looking for sales, service or rentals, you’ll find quality outdoor power equipment brands known for their durability and dependability, including Exmark, Gravely, Honda, Husqvarna, STIHL, and BCS America. For inquiries, feel free to reach out by calling 360-384-0799 or emailing info@carlsmower.com.
