While it may be tempting to take your lawn mower out of storage and start it up when winter ends, there’s some maintenance to take care of first. These tasks will prevent issues such as midsummer breakdowns when your grass is extra tall. Use the following guide to review what you need to do to ready the outdoor equipment for spring and summer.

How to Maintain Your Lawn Mower After Winter

1. Replace the Oil & Fuel

Change the oil and fuel as per the manufacturer’s guidelines. Drain any old liquids into a container for safe disposal and check the fuel lines and intake valves for clogs and stuck parts. However, don’t just throw out the old oil; you can recycle or reuse it if it’s still in good condition.

2. Clean & Replace the Filters

Clean your mower’s air filter with hot water and a few drops of liquid dish detergent. If the filter is made of paper, replace it with a new one. You should also replace the fuel filter since cleaning it can ruin the piston rings if metal shards are present.

The air filter traps dirt, grime, and grass particles to keep them from overheating the engine. The fuel filter maintains fuel economy and prevents issues such as hard starts. Keeping these components in top condition will ensure the longevity of your equipment.

3. Clean the Top & Bottom

Use your garden hose to dislodge grass clippings and other gunk from the underside of the outdoor equipment. Remove solid grass deposits with a putty knife.

Clean the top of the mower as well as around the wheels and engine with a damp rag to remove grass, leaves, and other debris. Once you’re finished cleaning, lubricate the moving parts to prevent friction and heat damage.

4. Sharpen the Blades

Keep your cuts precise by sharpening the mower’s blades using a metal file. Take the mower to your local hardware store or agricultural service if you do not want to sharpen the blades yourself or need replacements. Adjust the blades when you’re finished to accommodate your grass type. Most mower blades are set around 1 inch for a tidy, even finish.

Get lawn mower parts or request outdoor equipment repairs from Ernst Irrigation in St. Paul, OR. The company offers a variety of irrigation, lawn, and agricultural services, including pump repair and tractor maintenance. Call (503) 633-1111 to schedule service or review equipment for sale online. Get the latest outdoor equipment deals and tips on Facebook.