How To Store A Lawn Mower In The Garage: Seasonal Guide

Can I store a lawn mower in my garage? Yes, you can definitely store a lawn mower in your garage. In fact, a garage is an ideal place for seasonal storage as it offers protection from the elements.

Storing your lawn mower correctly at the end of the mowing season is crucial for its longevity and performance. Proper seasonal storage not only keeps your equipment safe but also ensures it’s ready to go when the grass starts growing again. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about garage storage for your lawn mower, ensuring your valuable outdoor power equipment remains in top condition.

How To Store A Lawn Mower In The Garage
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Preparing Your Mower for Storage: Essential Lawn Mower Maintenance

Before your mower heads into its resting period, some key lawn mower maintenance tasks are non-negotiable. These steps are designed to prevent damage, corrosion, and other issues that can arise from prolonged inactivity. Think of this as giving your mower a spa day before its long nap.

Cleaning the Mower: A Thorough Wash Down

A clean mower is a happy mower. Before tucking it away, give it a good clean. This removes grass clippings, dirt, and debris that can hold moisture and lead to rust.

Steps for Cleaning:

Safety First: Always disconnect the spark plug wire before you start cleaning. This prevents accidental starting.
Debris Removal: Use a stiff brush or a putty knife to scrape off any caked-on grass from the deck, wheels, and engine housing.
Washing: Use a garden hose and mild soap to wash down the mower. Avoid high-pressure washers, as they can force water into sensitive areas like bearings or electrical components.
Drying: Thoroughly dry the mower with a clean cloth. Pay special attention to metal parts to prevent rust.

Fuel System Preparation: To Stabilize or Not to Stabilize?

This is a critical step in winterizing a mower. Modern gasoline degrades over time, leaving behind gummy deposits that can clog the carburetor and fuel lines.

Fuel Stabilization Options:

Fuel Stabilizer: Add a quality fuel stabilizer to the gas tank according to the product’s instructions.
Run the Engine: After adding the stabilizer, run the engine for about 10-15 minutes. This ensures the stabilized fuel circulates throughout the entire fuel system, including the carburetor.
Emptying the Tank (Optional): Some manufacturers recommend emptying the fuel tank completely. While this can be a bit messy, it completely eliminates the risk of stale fuel issues. If you choose this method, run the engine until it sputters and dies to ensure all fuel is out of the carburetor.

Oil Change: A Fresh Start for the Next Season

Changing the oil before storage is highly recommended. Old oil can contain contaminants and acids that can damage internal engine parts over time.

Oil Change Procedure:

Warm the Engine: Run the mower for a few minutes to warm the oil, making it easier to drain.
Drain the Oil: Locate the oil drain plug (consult your owner’s manual if unsure) and place a suitable container underneath. Remove the plug and let the oil drain completely.
Replace the Plug: Once drained, reinstall the drain plug.
Add New Oil: Refill the engine with the correct type and amount of oil specified in your owner’s manual.

Spark Plug Check: A Small Part, a Big Impact

A fouled or worn spark plug can cause starting problems. It’s a good idea to check and possibly replace it before storage.

Spark Plug Steps:

Remove the Spark Plug: Use a spark plug wrench to carefully remove the spark plug.
Inspect: Look for signs of wear, damage, or fouling.
Replace if Needed: If it looks worn or dirty, replace it with a new one of the correct type.
Gap Adjustment: Ensure the new spark plug is properly gapped according to your mower’s manual.
Optional (for longer storage): You can put a small amount of clean engine oil into the spark plug hole, then pull the starter cord a few times to distribute the oil over the cylinder walls. This helps prevent corrosion. Then, reinstall the spark plug (do not overtighten).

Battery Care: Keeping the Juice Flowing

If your mower has an electric start or is a battery-powered model, proper battery care is essential.

Battery Maintenance Tips:

Clean Terminals: Clean any corrosion from the battery terminals.
Charge Fully: Ensure the battery is fully charged before storing.
Storage Location: If possible, remove the battery from the mower and store it in a cool, dry place, away from extreme temperatures.
Trickle Charger: For long-term storage, consider using a battery tender or trickle charger. These devices maintain the battery’s charge without overcharging, extending its life.

Blade Maintenance: Sharpen Up for Next Season

Don’t leave a dull, dirty blade to sit all winter.

Blade Care:

Remove the Blade: Safely remove the mower blade.
Clean: Clean off any grass and dirt.
Sharpen: Sharpen the blade using a file or grinding wheel. Aim for a consistent edge.
Balance: It’s important to balance the blade after sharpening. An unbalanced blade can cause excessive vibration, leading to damage to the mower’s engine and bearings. You can use a blade balancer tool for this.
Rust Prevention: Apply a light coat of oil to the blade to prevent rust.
Reinstall or Store Separately: You can reinstall the sharpened blade or store it separately in a clean, dry place, wrapped in an old rag or newspaper.

Garage Storage: Optimizing Your Space for Mower Parking

Garage storage is more than just finding a spot; it’s about efficient garage organization to ensure your mower is safe and accessible.

Choosing the Right Spot: Mower Parking Pointers

Where you park your mower matters. Consider these factors:

Level Surface: Always park your mower on a level surface to prevent it from rolling.
Away from Flammable Materials: Keep it away from anything combustible like paint thinner, gasoline cans, or oily rags.
Protection from Elements: While a garage is protective, avoid parking it in damp corners where moisture can accumulate.
Accessibility: Make sure you can easily access the mower for inspections or if you need to move it.

Storing Your Mower: Vertical vs. Horizontal

Most walk-behind mowers can be stored upright or on their side. Riding mowers, of course, will always be stored horizontally.

Storing Walk-Behind Mowers:

Vertical Storage: Many modern walk-behind mowers are designed for vertical storage. This saves significant floor space in the garage.
- Important Considerations for Vertical Storage:
  - Fuel: If you plan to store it vertically, it’s highly recommended to drain all fuel from the tank and carburetor to prevent leaks.
  - Oil: Ensure the oil has been changed and the fill cap is secure. A slight tilt might cause oil to leak from the fill tube if not properly sealed.
  - Engine: Ensure the engine is dry and clean.
  - Handlebars: Secure the handlebars so they don’t flop around and potentially damage the mower or other items.
  - Stability: Make sure the mower is stable and won’t tip over. Consider using a wall anchor or a dedicated mower stand.
Horizontal Storage: If your mower is not designed for vertical storage, or if you prefer not to tilt it, storing it on its side is the alternative.
- Important Considerations for Horizontal Storage:
  - Which Side? Consult your owner’s manual. Most mowers should be laid on the side that keeps the carburetor and air filter facing upwards to prevent fuel or oil from leaking into these components.
  - Protection: Place a sturdy board or mat underneath the mower to protect your garage floor and provide a stable base.

Storing Riding Mowers:

Level Surface: Always park on a level surface.
Engage Parking Brake: Set the parking brake firmly.
Chock Wheels: For added security, especially if your garage has a slight incline, consider chocking the wheels.
Tire Pressure: Check tire pressure before storage. Slightly underinflating them can reduce flat spots, but don’t deflate them completely.
Covering: Use a breathable mower cover to protect it from dust and debris. Avoid plastic tarps that can trap moisture.

Protecting Your Equipment: Beyond Basic Storage

Protecting equipment goes beyond just parking it. Think about its overall well-being.

Additional Protective Measures:

Mower Cover: A breathable mower cover is an excellent investment. It shields the mower from dust, dirt, and accidental scratches, keeping it looking good and functioning well.
Underneath Protection: Place a piece of plywood or a tarp under the mower to catch any potential drips (though proper maintenance should minimize this) and to prevent it from resting directly on a cold concrete floor, which can sometimes draw moisture.
Insect Prevention: Mowers can sometimes attract pests. Consider using rodent deterrents or insect repellents around the area where the mower is stored, but be cautious not to apply them directly to the mower itself, especially near engine components.

Preparing Your Mower for Spring: The Un-Winterizing Process

When the snow melts and the first buds appear, it’s time to bring your mower back to life. This process should be straightforward if you’ve followed the storage steps diligently.

Steps to Get Your Mower Ready:

Check Fluid Levels: Verify the oil and fuel levels.
Inspect the Spark Plug: Ensure it’s clean and properly gapped.
Check the Battery: If removed, reinstall and ensure it’s charged.
Inspect the Blade: Ensure it’s still sharp, balanced, and securely attached.
Fueling Up: If you used a stabilizer, you can add fresh fuel to the tank. If you completely emptied the tank, fill it with fresh gasoline.
Prime the Engine: Most mowers have a primer bulb. Press it a few times to send fuel into the carburetor.
Start the Mower: Pull the starter cord (or turn the key). It might take a few pulls to get it running after sitting.
Listen and Observe: Once it starts, listen for any unusual noises and check for smooth operation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lawn Mower Storage

Here are some common questions people have about storing their lawn mowers in the garage.

Q1: How long can I store a lawn mower without starting it?

You can typically store a lawn mower for several months without starting it, provided you follow proper seasonal storage procedures, particularly concerning fuel and battery. Winterizing a mower correctly is key to ensuring it starts up easily in the spring.

Q2: Should I leave fuel in the tank for storage?

It is generally not recommended to leave fuel in the tank for long-term storage without fuel stabilization. Over time, gasoline can degrade, form varnish, and clog the carburetor. Using a fuel stabilizer and running the engine to circulate it is the best approach.

Q3: Can I store my mower vertically in any garage?

While many modern walk-behind mowers are designed for vertical storage, always check your owner’s manual. Storing a mower designed for horizontal use vertically can lead to oil or fuel leaking into the carburetor or air filter, causing damage.

Q4: What is the best way to store a battery-powered mower?

For battery-powered mowers, the most important aspect is battery care. Store the battery in a cool, dry place and use a trickle charger if the storage period is extended. Ensure the battery is fully charged before storing and check its charge periodically.

Q5: How do I prevent rust on my lawn mower during storage?

Thoroughly drying the mower after cleaning, applying a light coat of oil to the blade, and storing it in a dry garage environment are crucial steps for protecting equipment from rust. Addressing any existing rust spots before storage is also important.

Q6: What if I don’t have a garage for storage?

If a garage isn’t an option, you’ll need to use a tarp designed for outdoor equipment storage to protect your mower from rain, snow, and sun. Store it on a raised platform or pallets to keep it off the damp ground. However, garage storage is always preferable for optimal protection.

Q7: How often should I check on my mower during storage?

For most modern mowers with proper lawn mower maintenance performed before storage, checking on it every couple of months is sufficient. This allows you to inspect for any signs of rodent damage or developing issues, especially if you are using a battery tender.

Q8: What are the risks of not properly winterizing a mower?

Not properly winterizing a mower can lead to significant problems, including a clogged carburetor, a dead battery, rust on critical parts, and gummed-up fuel lines. These issues can result in costly repairs and prevent your mower from starting when you need it most.

Storing your lawn mower correctly in your garage is an investment in its future performance and lifespan. By following these detailed steps for seasonal storage and lawn mower maintenance, you can ensure your trusty mower is always ready for action. Happy mowing when the season returns!