Every November we start thinking about winterizing our outdoor power equipment so there are no surprises come Spring. There’s nothing worse than trying to use a piece of equipment that won’t start when you need it!
Here are 4 tips for getting your gas-powered, outdoor power equipment ready for winter storage.
1. Replace the Fuel
Before your outdoor power equipment is ready to sit for the winter, it’s important to burn through the fuel that is already in the gas tank and replace it with 93 high octane, premium gasoline or Stihl MotoMix. Premium gas or MotoMix will protect your equipment from the harmful damage that ethanol fuel can cause. As ethanol fuel sits in the tank it degrades and can cause corrosion. If you don’t have access to Premium gas or MotoMix, add a fuel stabilizer like Startron to your ethanol blend.
While using fuel with ethanol may not immediately affect the health of your outdoor power equipment, it can significantly shorten the lifespan of your investment.
This is a corroded carburetor from ethanol based fuel.
2. Replace the Air Filter
Do you keep track of how many hours you’ve operated your outdoor power equipment? Some people use a spreadsheet or an app. If you haven’t kept track, we recommend that you change their air filter at least once a year as part of the winterization process.
Remember, engines need clean air to operate efficiently and air filters are an inexpensive way to keep your machine in good health.
This engine was stifled by all that dust and dirt!
3. Check/Replace Spark Plugs
If your engine is running a bit sluggish or you’re having trouble starting it, check your spark plug to see if it needs cleaning or replacing. Spark plugs create the spark that ignites your engine. So it’s critical that they are clean and operational. We recommend changing the spark plug at least once a year. It’s a cheap and easy way to keep your equipment operating optimally.
Dirty spark plugs make it harder to start and operate your power equipment.
4.Change the Oil
Lawn mowers, chainsaws, and outdoor power equipment should have old oil drained and new oil put in before you put them away for the winter. Oil contains gasoline, soot, moisture and particles that can corrode engine components.
After you change your oil, let the engine run for a few minutes so it’s coated in clean oil and ready to sit through the winter months.
NOTE: Changing the oil only applies to outdoor power equipment with a four-stroke engine; outdoor power equipment with two-stroke engines use a gasoline-oil mix.
Get Your Outdoor Power Equipment Serviced in Bellingham
Carl’s Mower & Saw is home to the experts you need to help maintain and service your outdoor power equipment. They serve the communities of Blaine, Lynden, Bellingham and Ferndale, Washington. Following their four tips for winter maintenance will help protect your investment and lengthen the life of your outdoor power equipment.
Carl’s Mower and Saw has been powering the outdoors since 1990. We specialize in equipment sales, service, rentals and parts. When it comes to outdoor power equipment we’ll get you what you need so you can power on! Have questions? Give us a call at 360-384-0799, or email us at info@carlsmower.com.