How to Winterize a Lawnmower

Preparing your lawn mower for the winter ensures it will start again in the spring, and this regular maintenance can extend the lifetime of the mower. Not taking proper care of a mower can cost you money. So before putting away your mower, take an hour to get it ready for the next mowing season.

Things You'll Need

• Fresh oil
• Clean oil filter
• Clean air filter
• Garden hose
• Wrench

Instructions

1. Make certain that the mower is off and cannot start while you are working. Disconnect the spark plug wire from the spark plug as an added precaution.

2. Drain any remaining fuel. The tank should be empty before storing the mower for winter. Gasoline left in the tank can clog the carburetor or damage the fuel system, which can be expensive to repair. You can either detach the fuel line to drain gasoline from the tank or run your mower until the engine stops.

3. Change the oil and oil filter, especially if they are dirty. Drain the old oil while the engine is still warm. You should change the oil at least once each year. Avoid letting the oil get too low, as it could burn up the engine.

4. Check the battery. It's a good idea to charge the battery occasionally throughout the cold weather. You want the mower battery to hold a full charge when it's time to start cutting the grass again.

5. Tighten all nuts and bolts. Check belts and filters. Air and fuel filters must be clean for the engine to run smoothly.

6. Clean the mower deck. Use a garden hose to remove grass clippings from underneath the deck. If you don't remove clippings immediately after you mow for the last time, you may have to resort to scraping them off. Keeping the mower deck and underside clean helps to prevent rust.

7. Sharpen dull blades. Mower blades should actually be sharpened several times throughout the grass-cutting season. Replace any blades in poor condition.

8. Store the mower in a dry area with a waterproof cover if you store it outside.

Tips & Warnings

• Gasoline left in the mower's fuel tank can become gummy or produce a residue similar to varnish if the mower is left unused for a time.