When it comes to storing your lawn mower, there are a few things that you should consider. First, the type of lawn mower you have, as this will determine the amount of space needed for storage. Secondly, the location of storage, for safety and accessibility of the lawn mower. Finally, the time of year and weather conditions, as this will affect the maintenance and longevity of the lawn mower.
Type of Lawn Mower
There are several types of lawn mowers, including push mowers, self-propelled mowers, electric lawn mowers, riding lawn mowers, and zero-turn lawn mowers. Each type requires a different amount of storage space and has different storage requirements. We will cover each type and the best place to store them (even if it needs to be stored outside).
- Push mowers are typically the smallest and easiest to store. They can be stored upright in a garage or shed, or even hung on a wall to save space
- Electric mowers need to be stored in a dry place to protect them from rain or other moisture. A gas mower is not as susceptible to damage from water though should still be avoided.
- Riding mowers, on the other hand, are much larger and require more space for storage. They may need to be stored in a separate shed or even outdoors under a protective cover like a heavy-duty tarp that is waterproof. This will protect the lawn mower battery and battery terminal as well as the possibility of rust.
- Zero-turn mowers are also large and require similar storage considerations to riding mowers.
Location of Storage
Ideally, the lawn mower should be stored in a dry, protected area, such as a garage or shed. This will help prevent rust and other damage from moisture, as well as protect the lawn mower from the elements.
If storing your lawn mower outside, it should be covered with a waterproof cover to protect it from rain and other weather conditions. It’s also a good idea to store the mower off the ground so that it does not sit in standing water if that is an issue around your home. However, it is important to note that outdoor storage can increase the risk of theft or damage from animals and other outdoor elements.
If storing the lawn mower inside, It is also important to ensure that the area is well-ventilated to prevent the build-up of fumes and gases from the lawn mower, especially in the hot summer months. NEVER store your lawn mower near a water heater, furnace, gas fireplace, or any other appliances with a pilot light. This is a fire hazard!
Time of Year and Weather Conditions
The time of year and weather conditions can also help you determine the best way to store your mower. In general, it is best to store the mower away during the off-season when it is not being used. This will help prevent any damage to the gas tank, fuel lines, battery, and other parts of the mower.
In addition, it is important to consider the weather conditions when storing the lawn mower. If the lawn mower is being stored for an extended period of time, the fuel tank should be drained to prevent the build-up of stale fuel. This old fuel can cause problems with the engine and other components of the lawn mower.
If the lawn mower is being stored for a shorter period of time, it may be sufficient to add a fuel stabilizer to the tank to help prevent the fuel from going stale. In addition, it is important to check the oil and air filter before storing the lawn mower to ensure that they are clean and in good condition. You should always keep your mower in a dry place whether for short-term or long-term storage.
Outside Lawn Mower Storage Ideas
If you don’t have enough space to store your lawn mower inside, you can store it outside as long as you take the necessary precautions to protect it from the elements. Here are some places you can store your lawn mower outside:
- Under a covered patio: If you have a covered patio or other covered areas, you can store your lawn mower there. The cover will protect the mower from the sun, rain, and wind.
- In a garden shed: A garden shed is a great option for storing your lawn mower outside. Be sure to choose a shed with a sturdy roof and walls to protect the mower from the elements.
- In a carport: A carport is another option for storing your lawn mower outside. The roof will protect the mower from rain and sun, but you should cover it with a tarp or lawn mower cover to protect it from wind and other elements.
- Lawn mower cover: You can store your lawn mower under a cover designed specifically for a lawn mower. Be sure to tie down the tarp securely to prevent it from blowing away in the wind. Here is a great example of a great lawn mower cover:
- In a storage box: You can also purchase a specialized outdoor storage box designed specifically for lawn mowers. These boxes are a great place to store your mower and they are weather-resistant and will protect your mower from the elements.
Remember to always clean your lawn mower before storing it and to drain the gas and oil to prevent damage to the engine.
Winter Storage of Your Lawn Mower
At the end of the season, proper storage of your lawn mower is important especially if you live in an area with harsh weather conditions during the winter months. In this case, there are some additional steps you should take to ensure that your mower is in good working order for the next season.
- Read the Owner’s Manual: Before you start winterizing your lawn mower, it’s important to review the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific make and model.
- Clean the Lawn Mower: Thoroughly clean the lawn mower to remove any dirt, grass clippings, or other debris that may have accumulated during the mowing season. This will prevent any buildup of moisture and corrosion during the long winter months. We have used something like a metal brush or putty knife to scrape off all of the debris on the underside of the mower. You can use the garden hose on the blades as well, but you must let the mower dry completely before storing!
- Drain the Fuel Tank: Drain the fuel tank by either running the mower until it’s out of gas or using a siphon pump to remove the fuel. Alternatively, add a fuel stabilizer to the gas tank and run the engine for a few minutes to ensure the stabilizer has circulated through the fuel system.
- Change the Oil: A quick oil change and oil filter replacement will remove any contaminants and debris that may have built up over the mowing season. This will help ensure that the engine is protected during the winter and is in top shape when you are ready to use it again.
- Replace the Air Filter: Replace the air filter to ensure that it’s clean and free from debris. This will help ensure proper airflow to the engine and prevent any damage to the carburetor.
- Disconnect the Spark Plug: Remove the spark plug and spray some oil into the cylinder to lubricate it and prevent any rusting or corrosion during the winter.
- Check the Blades and Belts: Inspect the blades and belts for any signs of wear or damage. Replace any damaged components before storing the mower for the winter.
- Store the Lawn Mower Properly: Store the lawn mower in a dry, sheltered area, such as a garage or garden shed, to protect it from the elements. Cover it with a tarp or lawn mower cover to prevent any dust, debris, or moisture from getting inside.
*Don’t forget about your gas cans especially if you won’t need them again until next year. If your cans are almost empty, it’s best to go ahead and use the rest before storing them. Then you will be able to start over with fresh fuel in the new season. If you still have quite a bit left, you can add fuel stabilizer to help preserve the gas while in storage.
You should then tighten the cap to prevent oxidation of the gas and store it on a shelf in your shed or garage. It is important to keep it off the ground away from pets and children. Most importantly though, be sure it is not stored near any open flame or heat source.