Preparing Garden Machinery For Winter

18/11/2024

Preparing garden machinery for winter is essential to ensure it stays in good condition and is ready for use in the spring. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to properly winterize your garden equipment:

1. Clean Your Equipment

• Remove dirt and debris: Wipe down all machinery, including mowers, wood chippers, and tillers, to remove grass, leaves, and dirt. A damp cloth or brush is usually best.
• Clean the undercarriage: Pay attention to the underside of lawnmowers or other tools where grass and dirt can accumulate, especially around the blade area. You can use a putty knife or scraper for stubborn residue.
• Use compressed air or a blower: To get into hard-to-reach areas like vents, air filters, and engine cooling fins.

2. Empty Fuel Tank

• Petrol: Petrol can degrade over time, leading to starting problems or clogged carburetors. You have a couple of options:
  • Drain the tank completely: If possible, drain all fuel from the machine and run the engine until it runs out of fuel.
  • Add fuel stabilizer: If you prefer not to drain the tank, add a fuel stabilizer to the remaining fuel, then run the engine for a few minutes to ensure the stabilizer reaches the carburetor.

3. Change Oil

• For machines like lawnmowers, wood chippers and tillers change the oil to remove impurities and prevent rust buildup in the engine. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for oil type and amount. Our oils can be found on our website here.
• Make sure to dispose of used oil properly.

4. Check Blades

• Lawnmowers and Wood Chippers: Dull blades can cause uneven cutting, and replacing them will ensure they are ready for next season.                                      
• Check for damage: Inspect blades for cracks or damage that could pose a safety hazard.

5. Inspect and Replace Air Filters

• Clean or replace air filters to ensure the engine can breathe properly. A clogged or dirty filter can reduce efficiency and cause starting problems.

6. Lubricate Moving Parts

• Lubricate any moving parts, such as cables, wheels, and joints, with an appropriate lubricant (usually light oil or silicone spray) to prevent rusting and stiffening.

7. Check Tyres

• If your equipment has tyres (mowers, wood chippers, tillers, trailers, etc.), check the tyre pressure and add air as necessary. Consider raising the machine off the ground (e.g., using blocks or a stand) to prevent flat spots from developing on the tyres during long periods of storage.

8. Store Equipment Properly

• Dry storage: Ensure all equipment is stored in a dry, cool place to prevent rust and moisture damage. A shed, garage, or basement works well.
• Cover the machinery: Consider using a tarp or protective cover to keep dust, dirt, and moisture off your machines. Our waterproof covers can be found by clicking here.
• Remove batteries: For battery-powered tools, remove the batteries and store them in a cool, dry place. If the batteries are removable, it’s best to keep them partially charged (about 50%) to prolong their lifespan.

9. Check for Leaks or Damage

• Inspect hoses, belts, and other components for signs of wear and tear, cracks, or leaks. Replace damaged parts before storage to avoid starting issues next season.

10. Service the Spark Plug (if applicable)

• For gas-powered equipment, clean or replace the spark plug. A worn-out spark plug can make it harder to start the engine next season.

11. Final Start-Up Check

• After completing all the maintenance steps, try starting the machine one last time before storing it away. This will ensure that everything is in working order and give you a chance to address any issues before storage.

By following these steps, you’ll help ensure that your garden machinery stays in great shape and is ready to go when you need it again. Regular maintenance can also extend the lifespan of your equipment, saving you money in the long run.

We always carry a huge range of spares for our machines which can be found on the links below:

Click here for our Petrol Lawnmower Spares.

Click here for our Chipper and Shredder Spares.

Click here for our Tiller Spares.