A lawn mower is a homeowner's summer workhorse. It’s used for long hours and takes a lot of abuse to keep your lawn looking good. So, it's only fair that you give it proper care and attention before you put it away for the winter. Taking a few extra steps will ensure that it performs up to par in spring. Here are some essential tips on how to store an electric lawn mower or one that runs on gas during the colder months.

3 Tips on Storing Your Lawn Mower for Winter

1. Take Out the Battery

Whether you have an electric lawn mower or gas-powered one, you should remove the battery before storage. Wipe it down with a clean cloth, and store it somewhere cool and dry. The battery terminal of a gas-powered mower should also be cleaned with a metal brush to remove debris. Cordless electric lawn mowers have lithium-ion batteries that should be kept indoors and out of the cold. Most batteries are best stored between 40°F and 80°F. Check your owner’ manual for the exact range.

2. Clean Your Mower's Undercarriage

Cleaning your mower's undercarriage is vital if you want it to last long. If you have a gas-powered mower, remove the spark plug before starting any maintenance. This will prevent the machine from starting up and causing injuries. For electric lawn mowers, make sure the power cord is unplugged or the safety key is in the off position if the machine is cordless. Tip the machine gently on its side so you can reach the underbelly. Hose or brush off the mud, grass, and leaves clinging to the machine's underside and the blades to prevent rust from developing.

3. Add Stabilizer to Your Fuel or Maintain a Charge

Never store your gas-powered lawn mower for the winter with a partially full fuel tank. You either drain it or use a stabilizer — or fuel preserver. Add the stabilizer, then run the mower for several minutes to ensure the preserver circulates through the machine. Next, turn off the engine and fill up the tank. A full gas tank will prevent moisture from building up and stop rust from forming. Meanwhile, the stabilizer will keep the fuel fresh for half a year. Since the battery is the power source for electric lawn mowers, a charge of 40% should be maintained when the machine is not in use. Doing so will prevent the battery from completely draining, which can diminish its capacity and performance.

No matter the time of year, your yard will still need maintenance. L & R Power Equipment in Monroe, CT, offers everything you need to do the job. Check out their website for their inventory of outdoor power tools, hand tools, and electric lawn mowers; you can also call them at (203) 268-8400 to make any inquiries.