If you are among the many who believe that football season is also the end of yardwork season, then this article is for you. There’s nothing like the feeling of that last yard maintenance session of the year and knowing that once you put the mower away, you won’t be dealing with it again until next year. However, if you want those garden tools and lawn maintenance equipment to work their best when you pull them back out of storage, it is vital that you clean and store them properly. Here’s what you need to know to keep your yard tools at their best.

Fuel Powered Mowers, Trimmers, and Edgers

Before storing away these expensive investments, be sure to perform a few vital maintenance tasks.

  • Empty Unused Fuel – Old fuel allows rust and sediment to build-up in equipment’s combustible engines. Thoroughly drain all fuel from the tank and any sludge that may be floating around or settled in the bottom of the fuel tank. This is also a safety precaution to store mowers and similar items with an empty tank. Remember to drain fuel lines as well.
  • Change the Oil – Just like with an automobile, gas-powered lawnmowers, edgers, and trimmers require seasonal oil changes.
  • Electrical Powered Tools – Electrical tools may not require as much maintenance as fuel powered options, however, they do still need maintenance. Double check power cords, connectors, and extension cords for frays, broken wires, etc.
  • Sharpen Blades – Take the time to clean and sharpen all hand tools and motor operated equipment blades to keep them performing their best. Remove all dirt, rust, debris, and moisture from blade surfaces and edges before sharpening, then oil well with sewing machine oil to protect and seal blade surfaces from the elements and keep them razor sharp for next season. Be sure to remove any dirt or debris that may be clogging hinges or moving parts and oil them well.
  • Check and Disconnect Spark Plugs – Inspecting, cleaning, and checking gap spacing on equipment spark plugs will make the first start of the season much more enjoyable and less frustrating.
  • Clean Air Filters – An often-overlooked aspect of yard equipment maintenance is the air filter. Air filters should be cleaned on a regular basis throughout the yard maintenance season but need an extra good cleaning before putting any equipment away for long-term end-of-year storage.

Once your tools are all in sparkling tip-top shape, you’ll need a handy and convenient place to store them for the winter. Why not check out one of the affordable storage unit options at Browning Park Mini Storage to assure all your tools are stored together and safely. Call us today and let one of our knowledgeable associates assist you with your storage needs.