If you’re like most homeowners, your snow blower has been a trusty companion throughout the winter season, clearing your driveway and walkways of snow and ice. But as the winter weather starts to fade away, the snow blowing season is coming to its end, and it’s time to start thinking about properly storing your snow blower until next winter.
Storing your snow blower correctly is essential to ensuring it runs smoothly and efficiently when you need it most. In this guide, we’ll take you through the step-by-step process of storing your snow blower properly, including seasonal maintenance, fuel preparation, cleaning, and storage tips.
By following these steps, you can rest assured that your snow blower will be in top condition and ready to tackle the next winter season.
Seasonal Maintenance
To keep your snow blower in top condition and ready for use next winter, it’s essential to perform seasonal maintenance before storing it away. Routine maintenance ensures that your snow blower is operating efficiently and reduces the risk of any unexpected breakdowns or costly repairs.
Seasonal maintenance involves a few essential steps, including cleaning or replacing the spark plug, changing the oil, and replacing any worn parts.
Clean or replace the spark plug
The spark plug is a vital component of your snow blower’s engine and is responsible for igniting the fuel in the combustion chamber. Over time, the spark plug can become worn or fouled, which can cause your machine to run poorly or not start at all. That’s why it’s essential to clean or replace the spark plug as part of your snow blower’s seasonal maintenance.
Cleaning or replacing the spark plug on your machine is a relatively easy task that should be performed at least once a year, ideally before storing it away for the off-season.
To clean the spark plug, you’ll need to remove it from the engine and clean it with a wire brush or replace it with a new one if it’s damaged or heavily worn.
By ensuring that your blower has a clean and functioning spark plug, you’ll improve its performance, and fuel efficiency, and reduce the likelihood of experiencing any engine problems next winter.
Change the oil
Over time, the oil in it can become contaminated with debris and moisture, leading to corrosion and other engine problems. By changing the oil, you’ll help remove any contaminants, ensure that the engine is adequately lubricated, and prevent corrosion from forming during storage.
When changing the oil, it’s essential to use the correct type and viscosity of oil recommended by the manufacturer for your specific snow blower model.
After changing the oil, run the engine for a few minutes to distribute the new oil evenly throughout the engine before storing it away. By following these simple steps, you’ll help ensure that it is in top condition and ready for use when the snow starts falling again.
Replace worn snow blower parts
With regular use certain parts of your snow blower, such as the belts, augers, and scraper bars, can become worn or damaged, reducing their efficiency and potentially causing problems or malfunctions during use.
By inspecting and replacing worn or damaged parts, you’ll help ensure that your snow blower is running smoothly, safely, and efficiently. It’s essential to use genuine replacement parts recommended by the manufacturer to ensure that they fit correctly and are designed to work with your specific snow blower model.
Fuel preparation
Gasoline that sits in your snow blower’s fuel tank for an extended period can become stale and lose its potency, making it difficult for the engine to start and potentially causing damage to the carburetor and fuel system.
Empty the fuel tank
It’s best to empty the fuel tank completely to avoid any complications or damages. To do so, drain fuel through the fuel line, run the snow blower until it’s out of gas, and then let it cool before storing it away.
If you leave any fuel in the tank, it can also evaporate and cause a buildup of residue that can clog the carburetor, fuel lines, or other components. Ensuring that you empty the gas tank of your snow blower before storing it away will help ensure that it’s ready for use when you need it during the next winter season.
Stabilize fuel in the tank if emptying is not possible
If you cannot empty the flue tank, the best option is to stabilize the fuel to prevent it from becoming stale or causing damage to the engine, while it is resting.
To do this, you can use a fuel stabilizer, which is a chemical additive that helps keep the gasoline fresh and prevents it from breaking down over time. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to determine how much stabilizer to add to the gas tank.
Once you’ve added the stabilizer, run the snow blower for a few minutes to distribute the treated fuel throughout the system. This will help ensure that the fuel stays fresh and ready to use the next time you need it.
It’s worth noting that even with the use of a fuel stabilizer, it’s still recommended to use fresh gasoline in your blower whenever possible to avoid any potential issues.
Storage Preparation
Cleaning
Cleaning your snow blower is an important step to prevent rust, corrosion, and damage caused by debris and salt. Start by removing any built-up snow and ice from the machine.
Use a scraper or brush to remove any stubborn ice, and then use a damp cloth to wipe down the snow blower’s exterior. Make sure to clean any hard-to-reach areas, such as the auger housing and discharge chute.
Next, inspect the machine for any signs of damage or wear. Look for any cracks, dents, or missing bolts that may need attention before you store snow blowers. If you notice any damage, make sure to repair it before storing the machine.
Protecting Metal Surfaces
Apply a rust preventative or lubricant to the metal parts of the snow blower. This will help protect against rust and corrosion during storage.
Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and use. By cleaning your snow blower before storage, you can help extend its lifespan and ensure it is in good condition when you need it next winter.
Covering
Covering your snow blower before storage is an important step to protect it from dust, dirt, and moisture that can cause rust and corrosion. A snow blower cover will also keep the machine in good condition, free from any scratches or damage that can occur during storage.
Before you cover it, make sure it is completely dry and clean. If the machine is still wet or damp, it can cause moisture buildup under the cover, leading to rust and corrosion. Once the machine is dry, place the cover over the snow blower and secure it in place.
When choosing a cover for it, make sure it is made of a durable, waterproof material that will protect the machine from the elements. Look for covers that are specifically designed for snow blowers, as they will provide the best fit and protection.
Remember to remove the snowblower cover before using your tool again. Leaving the cover on can cause the machine to overheat and damage the engine.
Finding a Storage Spot
Here are a few things to consider when choosing a storage spot for your snow blower:
Indoors vs. Outdoors:
It is best to store your snow blower indoors, such as in a garage, storage unit, storage shed, or basement, where it will be protected from the elements. If indoor storage is not possible, consider using a weatherproof cover to protect the machine.
Temperature and Humidity
Your storage spot should be cool and dry to prevent rust and corrosion. Avoid storing your snow blower in a damp or humid area, such as a basement with high moisture levels.
Accessibility
Choose a spot that is easily accessible so you can check on your snow blower periodically and perform any necessary maintenance. This will also make it easier to remove the machine when winter arrives.
Space
Make sure there is enough space to store your snow blower and any accessories, such as the power cord, fuel can, or spare parts.
Final thoughts on How to Store Snow Blower
Properly storing your snow blower is essential to keeping it in good condition and ensuring it is ready to use when the next winter season arrives.
Completing seasonal maintenance tasks, such as cleaning or replacing the spark plug, changing the engine oil, and replacing worn parts, can help prevent damage and prolong the life of your machine.
Emptying the fuel tank or stabilizing the fuel is also important to prevent fuel system damage during storage.
Finally, cleaning and covering your snow blower and finding an appropriate storage spot can help protect it from the elements and prevent rust and corrosion.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your snow blower remains in good condition during storage and is ready to use when winter arrives.