Last summer, my neighbor left his brand new lawn mower outside all winter. In the spring, it wouldn’t start! That got me thinking about the best way to store a lawn mower. This post will answer the question: can you keep a lawn mower outside? and explore the factors you need to consider to keep your lawn mower in top condition, no matter where you store it. You’ll learn how to protect your investment and avoid costly repairs.
Storing Your Lawn Mower Outside: The Pros and Cons
This section will weigh the advantages and disadvantages of leaving your lawn mower outside year-round, helping you decide what’s best for your specific situation and climate.
Convenience
- Leaving your mower outside eliminates the hassle of storing and retrieving it from a shed or garage.
This saves time and effort, especially if you mow frequently. The convenience factor is a significant appeal for many homeowners, especially those with limited storage space.
Exposure to the Elements
- Constant exposure to rain, sun, and extreme temperatures can damage the engine, battery, and other components.
Direct sunlight can fade paint and crack plastic parts. Prolonged exposure to moisture can lead to rust and corrosion, shortening the lifespan of your lawnmower significantly. Extreme temperatures can also affect the engine’s performance.
Security Concerns
- Leaving your lawn mower outside makes it more vulnerable to theft or vandalism.
Unlike stored mowers, outdoor mowers are easily accessible to thieves. Consider the cost of replacement and the inconvenience of theft when deciding whether to keep your mower outside. A simple cover won’t deter a determined thief.
Factors Affecting Your Decision: Climate and Lawn Mower Type
The climate you live in and the type of lawn mower you own heavily influence the decision of whether to keep it outside. We will explore these factors in detail.
Climate Considerations
- Harsh winters with snow and ice can cause significant damage to a lawn mower left outdoors.
Frozen components can crack and water can seep into the engine, causing irreparable harm. Even mild winters with frequent rain and dampness can negatively impact your mower’s longevity. Consider the average rainfall and temperature range in your area.
Excessive heat can warp plastic, damage rubber seals, and lead to premature wear of internal parts. A quality cover helps, but may not be enough in extremely harsh conditions.
Lawn Mower Type
- A simple push mower is more likely to withstand outdoor exposure than a complex riding mower with electronics.
Push mowers generally have fewer delicate components susceptible to damage from weather. Riding mowers, however, often contain sophisticated electronic systems that are vulnerable to moisture damage. Regular maintenance is crucial in both cases.
Steel mowers with a protective coating might fare better outdoors than those with uncoated metal components. However, even these require protection from the elements, especially during prolonged periods of rain or snow.
Protecting Your Lawn Mower When Kept Outdoors
Even if you decide to store your lawn mower outdoors, taking preventative measures can significantly extend its life. This section outlines the best protection methods.
Investing in a Protective Cover
- A waterproof, UV-resistant cover will shield your mower from rain, snow, sun, and dust.
Covers offer a basic level of protection against the elements. Ensure you select a cover tailored to your mower’s size to ensure adequate protection from the elements. Regularly inspect the cover for wear and tear and replace it as needed.
Regular Cleaning and Maintenance
- Regular cleaning will remove grass clippings, dirt, and debris, preventing corrosion and clogs.
Accumulated debris can lead to rust and damage over time. Cleaning your mower after each use is ideal. Always refer to your owner’s manual for specific cleaning instructions for your mower model.
Fuel Stabilization and Storage
- Use fuel stabilizer to prevent fuel from degrading and clogging the carburetor.
Degraded fuel is detrimental to your lawnmower. Fuel stabilizer maintains the fuel’s quality, preventing gumming and other problems that can damage the engine over time. Follow the stabilizer’s instructions carefully and store your mower in a well-ventilated area.
Alternative Storage Solutions: Sheds and Garages
While it’s possible to keep a lawn mower outside, indoor storage offers superior protection. This section covers suitable alternative storage.
Benefits of Indoor Storage
- Indoor storage provides the best protection against the elements, extending the lifespan of your mower.
Storing your lawn mower indoors protects it from rain, snow, extreme temperatures, and UV damage. This maximizes the lifespan and performance of your mower. Proper indoor storage minimizes the need for frequent repairs.
Choosing a Suitable Shed or Garage
- Choose a dry, well-ventilated space to prevent rust and corrosion.
Ventilation is crucial to prevent moisture build-up, which causes rust. A damp space is a breeding ground for mold and mildew, which can damage your equipment. Ensure the area is secured to prevent theft or unauthorized access.
Myths about Keeping Lawn Mowers Outside
Many misconceptions surround leaving lawn mowers outdoors. Let’s debunk some common myths.
Myth 1: A cheap cover is sufficient protection.
While a cover offers some protection, inexpensive covers often tear easily and don’t adequately protect against harsh weather conditions. A high-quality, durable cover is essential for lasting protection. A cheap cover can offer a false sense of security.
Myth 2: Regular cleaning makes it unnecessary to store it indoors.
While regular cleaning is crucial, it won’t fully protect against damage from extreme weather, rain, or snow. Indoor storage is still the best method to extend your mower’s lifespan. Cleaning removes surface debris but won’t prevent damage from sustained weather exposure.
FAQ
Can I leave a battery-powered lawnmower outside?
Battery-powered lawnmowers are more susceptible to damage from moisture than gas-powered ones. While a cover helps, it’s best to store them indoors, especially during winter. Protecting the battery is crucial to maintaining its charge and lifespan.
How can I protect my lawn mower from rust?
Regular cleaning and the use of a waterproof cover are crucial. Using a rust inhibitor spray can offer added protection, but storing the mower in a dry location is vital. Make sure the mower is completely dry before storing it.
What is the best type of cover for a lawn mower?
Look for a waterproof, UV-resistant cover made of heavy-duty material. Ensure it’s large enough to fully cover your mower, providing complete protection from the elements. Check reviews before purchasing a cover to see how it performs in different climates.
Does leaving a lawn mower outside reduce its lifespan?
Yes, prolonged exposure to the elements significantly reduces a lawn mower’s lifespan due to rust, corrosion, and damage from extreme temperatures and moisture. Consistent exposure to the elements accelerates wear and tear.
Is it okay to leave my lawnmower outside during the summer?
Summer conditions, particularly hot and sunny weather, can still cause damage to your mower. A cover and regular cleaning can help mitigate some risks, but storing it indoors remains the ideal option. Extreme heat can damage engine components.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the decision of whether you can keep a lawn mower outside depends on several factors, including your climate, the type of mower you own, and the level of protection you provide. While leaving your mower outside might seem convenient, the potential for damage far outweighs the benefits in many cases. Investing in a good quality cover or opting for indoor storage will significantly extend the life of your lawn mower and save you money on repairs in the long run. Consider these factors carefully to make the best choice for your equipment.
