Yes, you need to know how to store your snow blower for the summer. Doing it right keeps your machine safe and ready for next winter. A good summer storage plan stops big problems before they start.
Your snow blower worked hard all season. Now it needs a long rest. Summer storage is not just putting it in a corner.
I’ve seen what happens when this job gets skipped. Engines get gummed up. Fuel goes bad. Parts rust. It’s a real mess.
This guide will show you the simple steps. We’ll cover fuel, oil, and where to put the machine. Follow these tips for an easy start next fall.
Why You Must Store Your Snow Blower for Summer
Here’s the thing about summer storage. It’s not just a good idea. It’s a must-do job.
Leaving fuel in the tank all summer is bad. It turns into a sticky goo. This goo clogs the tiny parts inside your carburetor.
I learned this the hard way. One year I just covered my machine. Come winter, it wouldn’t start at all.
Moisture is another big enemy. It causes rust on metal parts. Your auger and scraper bar can get ruined.
Proper storage protects your investment. A snow blower costs a lot of money. Taking care of it makes sense.
The process to store your snow blower for the summer is simple. It just needs a little time and the right steps.
Step 1: Clean Your Snow Blower Thoroughly
Never store a dirty machine. Dirt and salt speed up rust. They can also hide cracks or damage.
Start by brushing off all loose snow and ice. Use a soft brush or plastic scraper. Be gentle with the paint.
Next, wash the whole machine. Use a garden hose and mild soap. Avoid high pressure washers near seals.
Pay special attention to the auger housing. Salt and road grime love to hide there. This area rusts fast.
Let the machine dry completely. I leave mine in the sun for a few hours. Water left on metal causes rust spots.
This cleaning step is key before you store your snow blower for the summer. A clean machine stays in better shape.
Step 2: Handle the Fuel System
This is the most important step. Bad fuel causes most winter starting problems.
You have two good choices here. The first choice is to run the tank dry. Start the engine and let it burn all the fuel.
The engine will sputter and stop. This means the carburetor is empty too. No old fuel is left to cause trouble.
The second choice is to use a fuel stabilizer. Add the stabilizer to a full tank. Then run the engine for five minutes.
This mixes the stabilizer through the whole system. The Consumer Reports guide to small engine care agrees. Stabilized fuel won’t go bad for months.
Never just leave untreated gas in the tank. It will turn to varnish. This varnish clogs everything up.
Learning how to store your snow blower for the summer means mastering fuel care. Get this right every time.
Step 3: Change the Oil
Old oil holds acids and dirt. These things can damage engine parts over time.
Run the engine for a few minutes first. Warm oil flows out better. It takes more contaminants with it.
Place a drain pan under the engine. Remove the drain plug or use the dipstick tube. Let all the old oil drip out.
Check your owner’s manual for the right oil type. Most machines use SAE 5W-30. Using the wrong oil can hurt your engine.
Refill with fresh oil to the proper level. Don’t overfill it. Too much oil is just as bad as not enough.
This oil change is a key part of summer storage. Fresh oil protects internal parts while your machine sits.
Step 4: Protect the Engine Cylinder
This is a pro tip many people miss. It prevents internal rust during storage.
Remove the spark plug wire first. Safety always comes first. You don’t want the engine to start by accident.
Take out the spark plug itself. Look at its condition. A worn plug should be replaced now.
Pour about one tablespoon of fresh engine oil into the spark plug hole. Use a funnel so you don’t spill.
Slowly pull the starter cord a few times. This spreads the oil around the cylinder walls. The oil coats the metal.
Put the spark plug back in. Don’t reconnect the wire yet. You’ll do that when you take the machine out of storage.
This step shows you how to store your snow blower for the summer like a mechanic. That thin oil film is great protection.
Step 5: Check and Lubricate Moving Parts
All moving parts need attention before storage. Friction points can seize up over months.
Look at the auger shaft bearings. They are usually under covers on each side. Add a few drops of grease if they have fittings.
Check the chute control mechanism. Does it turn easily? Spray a little silicone lubricant on the pivot points.
Don’t forget the wheel axles if your model has them. A light oil on the axle stops them from rusting solid.
The OSHA website has general equipment maintenance tips. Proper lubrication prevents wear and tear.
Wipe off any excess lubricant. Too much can attract dust and dirt. A thin film is all you need.
When you store your snow blower for the summer, think about all the parts that move. Keep them free for next season.
Step 6: Choose the Right Storage Location
Where you put the machine matters a lot. A bad spot can undo all your good work.
A dry place is the number one rule. Damp basements or leaky sheds are terrible choices. Moisture causes rust and mold.
The spot should also be out of direct sunlight. Sunlight fades paint and cracks plastic parts over time.
Make sure the floor is clean and level. Concrete is better than dirt. Dirt floors bring more moisture.
Leave some space around the machine. You need air to flow around it. This keeps things drier.
Think about your plan to store your snow blower for the summer. Pick a spot you know will stay dry for months.
Step 7: Use a Proper Cover
Never use a plastic tarp directly on the machine. It traps moisture underneath. This creates a perfect rust environment.
Buy a breathable fabric cover made for outdoor equipment. These covers let moisture out but keep dust off.
If you must use a tarp, build a simple frame first. Use PVC pipes or wood to keep the plastic off the metal.
Make sure the chute and controls are in their normal positions before covering. Don’t leave tension on cables or hoses.
Label your cover if you store other items nearby. You don’t want to forget what’s under there come fall.
Covering is the final touch when you store your snow blower for the summer. It keeps your clean machine clean.
Common Summer Storage Mistakes to Avoid
People make the same errors every year. Knowing them helps you avoid trouble.
The biggest mistake is ignoring the fuel. Old gas is public enemy number one for small engines.
Another error is storing the machine on its side or nose. This can let oil leak into places it shouldn’t be.
Forgetting to disconnect the spark plug is risky. It could cause an accidental start. That’s very dangerous.
Using a plastic bag as a cover is a bad idea. It doesn’t breathe at all. Condensation will soak your machine.
Storing it with the battery still connected drains the battery. A dead battery won’t hold a charge later.
Learning how to store your snow blower for the summer means knowing these pitfalls. Steer clear of them.
Electric Snow Blower Summer Storage Tips
Electric models need different care. They don’t have fuel or oil, but they have other needs.
First, remove the battery if it’s removable. Store the battery in a cool, dry place inside your house.
Check the owner’s manual for battery care. Some need a partial charge for storage. Others need a full charge.
Inspect the power cord for any nicks or cuts. Wrap it loosely. Don’t bend it sharply or put heavy things on it.
The U.S. Department of Energy notes that proper battery storage extends its life. It saves you money.
The process to store your snow blower for the summer changes with the type. Electric is simpler but still needs care.
Getting Your Snow Blower Ready for Winter
Summer ends, and it’s time to wake your machine up. A few quick checks make startup smooth.
Remove the cover and wipe off any dust. Check for signs of pests like mice nests. They love quiet engines.
Reconnect the spark plug wire. Put in a fresh spark plug if you took the old one out. New plugs start easier.
If you used a fuel stabilizer, the gas should be fine. If you drained the tank, add fresh gasoline.
Check the tire pressure if your model has tires. Soft tires make pushing hard. Inflate them to the pressure on the sidewall.
Your work to store your snow blower for the summer pays off now. A cared-for machine should start on the first or second pull.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I store my snow blower for the summer?
You can store it for the whole off-season, about six to eight months. Just follow the right prep steps first. A well-prepped machine will be fine.
Should I store my snow blower with a full or empty gas tank?
Both methods work. An empty tank is safest. A full tank with stabilizer also works well. The key is to never leave untreated old gas in it.
Where is the best place to store your snow blower for the summer?
A dry shed or garage is perfect. The spot must be out of the weather and away from dampness. Avoid wet basements or uncovered outdoor areas.
Do I need to change the oil before summer storage?
Yes, you should. Old oil holds acids from use. Changing it to fresh oil protects the engine’s inside parts while it sits for months.
Can I just put a cover on it and leave it outside?
No, that’s a bad plan. Rain and sun will still get to it. Moisture will cause rust. You need a fully sheltered, dry location for proper storage.
What’s the one thing I must do to store your snow blower for the summer?
Deal with the fuel. Either run the tank dry or add a stabilizer. Bad fuel causes more starting problems than anything else after storage.
Conclusion
So, do you know how to store your snow blower for the summer now? I hope this guide made it clear.
The job is not hard. It just needs a little time and the right order. Clean it, treat the fuel, change the oil, and pick a good spot.
Your future self will thank you. Next winter, when your neighbor is fighting a stubborn engine, yours will
