As we continue into fall, thoughts of the upcoming winter season come to mind. Changing over winter tires, putting away summer equipment and winterizing cottages become additional items on your to-do list.

The lawn mowing and gardening days will soon be coming to an end. You will want to make sure you put away and prepare your equipment properly so that when you start it up again next spring, it’s ready to go.

Here’s some tips for winterizing your lawn equipment.

Remove or Stabilize the Fuel

One of the first steps in winterizing your lawn equipment is removing any remaining fuel inside the equipment. While you may be tempted to put it off until spring, this step is crucial in the proper maintenance of your equipment. First, drain or siphon out the fuel. If the gasoline has a fuel preservative, you can save it until next spring or use it in your snow blower so that the gasoline doesn’t go to waste. Removing gasoline is vital because, if you let it sit over the winter, it can affect the performance of your equipment by causing parts to gradually break down.

Remove The Battery

Before the winter arrives, make sure you remove the battery and store the equipment in a safe place. Store it in a cool, dry place away from flammable substances or heat sources. When spring arrives and you’re ready to take out your lawn equipment again, use a battery charger to restore it to full capacity

Replace or Clean Filters and Change Oil

Remove and clean or replace any filters. It’s best to check the owner’s manual for specific instructions.

Drain all the oil from the machines and replace it with the specific type of oil outlined by the manufacturer.

Sharpen The Blades

When you’re putting your lawn care equipment away, take a look at the blades. Are they looking worn and in need of a sharpening? The blades on your lawn equipment should be sharpened at least once a year for proper maintenance. However, if your blades are bent, chipped or cracked, you will certainly require new blades. Before removing the blades, always make sure you consult the owner’s manual first for safety reasons.

Clean The Equipment

Take a damp cloth and wipe down the mower or whatever piece of lawn equipment you are storing away. Wipe down the engine housing, wheels, handle and top of the machine. Next, lubricate all exposed cable-movement points and pivot points using a spray lubricant.

Store it in a Safe Place

As mentioned, always store your equipment in a safe, dry place away from the elements. If you have a spare tarp, throw it over top to prevent it from accumulating dust over the winter. You can also place pet-safe bait stations under or near your equipment to prevent mice from making a nest inside.

Roma Fuels is a family-owned fuel and engine oil distributor, fueling Canadians’ productivity for over 50 years. To find out more about our services, give us a call at 1-877-656-4189 or send us a message online.