Prepare your motorized lawn equipment for winter storage

SALT LAKE CITY — As the winter approaches and temperatures continue to fall,  you need to start thinking about how to maintain your motorized lawn equipment as you begin to store them.

On the latest episode of the KSL Greenhouse Show, hosts Maria Shilaos and Taun Beddes give you some tips.

Winterizing small engines

Taun recommends always following the manufacturer’s recommendations because they can vary between brands. 

“The thing that holds true with winterizing small engines, is that most of our gas has ethanol in it, and ethanol is terrible for most engines,” says Taun.

The ethanol in the gas can break down rubber gaskets and make the carburetor malfunction, and even worst, break. To get the fuel out, drain the tank, start the engine and let it run for a couple of minutes. Taun recommends trying to start the engine a few times by pulling the cord as an extra step to ensure no fuel is on the carburetor. Take this time to change the oil to be ready for spring.

Other maintenance to remember

Take this time to also check for zerk fittings, the area where you spray grease in moving parts like gear shafts.

Sharpen all of your tools, if you do this over the winter you can check for any damages or problems, and you will always be ready when the winter season is over. Check your lawnmower blades and remember to also sharpen tiller tines.

To finish your maintenance before storage, check the filters, and properly clean all your equipment.

Taun also recommends buying parts and replacements now, often times when winter is ending, everyone is buying and some parts may take longer to arrive or might be out of stock.

Listen to our latest podcast for more tips on preparing your motorized lawn equipment for winter storage.

The KSL Greenhouse is on every Saturday from 8-11 a.m. You can follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.