How to Prepare Your Lawn Equipment for Fall: A Simple Guide

How to Prepare Your Lawn Equipment for Fall: A Simple Guide

How to Prepare Your Lawn Equipment for Fall: A Simple Guide

As the mowing season winds down and cooler weather rolls in, it’s important to give your lawn equipment some attention before storing it away for winter. Proper maintenance now will not only protect your investment but also ensure that everything is in top shape when spring comes around.

At Fresh Cut, we might have trailers full of tools, but most homeowners have some essential equipment they rely on—whether it’s a trusty mower, a blower, or a trimmer. No matter what you have, taking care of your tools now means fewer headaches when the warm weather returns. Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting your lawn equipment ready for the off-season:

1. Clean Your Equipment Thoroughly

Grass clippings, dirt, and debris can build up on your mower blades, under the deck, and in air vents. Before storing your mower, trimmer, or blower, give it a thorough cleaning:

• Remove caked-on grass and dirt from under the mower deck with a hose or putty knife.
• Wipe down external surfaces to remove grime, ensuring that no moisture is trapped, which could lead to rust.
• Check the air filters and clean or replace them if needed.

A clean piece of equipment will perform better and last longer.

2. Drain or Stabilize the Fuel

Gas left sitting in the tank over winter can become stale and cause issues with your equipment in the spring. Here are two options to prevent fuel-related problems:

• Drain the fuel tank completely if you plan to store the equipment for more than a couple of months.
• Use a fuel stabilizer if you'd prefer to leave fuel in the tank. Add the stabilizer to a full tank, run the engine for a few minutes to circulate it, and this will keep the fuel fresh until you're ready to use the equipment again.

3. Change the Oil

Old, dirty oil can corrode your engine over time. After a season of hard work, it’s a good idea to change the oil before storage:

• Drain the old oil while the engine is warm.
• Replace the oil filter (if your equipment has one).
• Add fresh oil according to your machine’s manual.

This quick step will keep your engine in good condition and ready for next season.

4. Remove and Store Batteries

If you have battery-powered lawn equipment, it’s important to remove the batteries before storing them for winter:

• Charge the batteries fully before storing.
• Store the batteries in a cool, dry place—avoid extreme temperatures that can damage battery life.
• Check the batteries periodically to ensure they hold a charge over winter.

Proper care of your batteries will extend their life and performance.

5. Sharpen the Blades

Now is the perfect time to sharpen your mower blades, trimmer lines, and pruning shears. Dull blades tear at grass and plants rather than cutting cleanly, which can damage your lawn in the long run. Sharpening now means you’ll be ready for a fresh start in the spring.

• Remove the blades from your mower or trimmer and sharpen them using a file or sharpening tool.
• Check for any signs of damage and replace blades if necessary.

6. Inspect and Replace Spark Plugs

For gas-powered equipment, spark plugs play a crucial role in engine performance. Take a moment to inspect the spark plugs:

• Remove the spark plugs and inspect for wear or buildup.
• Clean the spark plugs if they look dirty, or replace them if they are corroded or worn out.

A fresh spark plug ensures your engine will start easily when it's time to get back to work.

7. Check the Tires and Belts

If your mower or equipment has tires, check them for wear, cracks, or low pressure:

• Inflate tires to the recommended PSI if needed.
• Inspect belts on your mower or other equipment for signs of wear or fraying, and replace if necessary.

Regular maintenance of these moving parts ensures your equipment stays reliable and efficient.

8. Store Equipment in a Dry, Protected Area

Once your equipment is cleaned, maintained, and prepped for storage, it’s crucial to store it properly:

• Keep your equipment in a dry place, such as a garage or shed, to avoid rust and corrosion.
• Cover larger equipment with a tarp or specialized cover to protect against dust, moisture, and pests.

Make sure to store your equipment off the ground if possible to prevent any moisture buildup from damaging it.

Conclusion

Whether you have a full trailer of tools like us or just a basic set of lawn equipment, taking the time to prepare your gear for the fall can make all the difference come spring. Clean your gear, drain or stabilize fuel, pull batteries, and store everything in a safe, dry place. A little maintenance now ensures your equipment will be ready to go when the warmer months roll around.down the line.