Yes, you can store your snow blower for summer with a few simple steps. Learning how to store snow blower for summer the right way keeps it safe and ready for next winter.
I see this mistake every year. People just push their snow blower into a corner when spring comes. Then they get a nasty surprise when the first snow falls.
I’ve tested many storage methods over the years. Some work great, and some can ruin your machine. Let me share what I’ve learned.
This guide will walk you through the whole process. You’ll know exactly how to store snow blower for summer without any guesswork.
Why You Must Store Your Snow Blower Correctly
Here’s the thing. Your snow blower is a big investment. You want it to last for many winters.
Storing it wrong can cause big problems. Rust can form inside the engine. Old gas can turn into a sticky mess.
I learned this the hard way. One year, I skipped the fuel treatment step. The carburetor was completely clogged come November.
According to Consumer Reports, proper small engine storage prevents most repair issues. It’s much cheaper than a mechanic.
Learning how to store snow blower for summer protects your money. It also saves you a huge headache later.
Think of it as putting your machine to bed for a long nap. You want it to wake up happy and ready to work.
Step 1: Clean Your Snow Blower Thoroughly
Never store a dirty machine. Salt and road grime will eat away at the metal all summer.
Start by hosing off all the caked-on snow and salt. Use a soft brush for stubborn spots. Let it dry completely in the sun.
Pay special attention to the auger and chute area. This is where most gunk builds up. A clean chute rotates freely next season.
I like to use a simple garden hose for this job. High pressure washers can force water into bearings and seals.
Drying is just as important as washing. Trapped moisture is the main cause of rust. Let it sit for a full day if you can.
This first step in how to store snow blower for summer sets the stage. A clean machine is much easier to work on and inspect.
Step 2: Handle the Fuel System
This is the most critical step. Gasoline left to sit will turn into varnish. It clogs the tiny passages in your carburetor.
You have two good options here. The first is to run the engine until the tank is empty. This removes all the old fuel.
The second option is to add a fuel stabilizer. This chemical keeps the gas fresh for months. Fill the tank almost to the top.
I prefer the stabilizer method myself. It’s easier and it keeps seals from drying out. Run the engine for five minutes to circulate the treated fuel.
The Environmental Protection Agency notes that proper fuel management reduces emissions. It also prevents soil and water contamination from spills.
After treating the fuel, turn off the fuel valve if your model has one. This is a key part of how to store snow blower for summer safely.
Step 3: Change the Oil
Old oil contains acids and contaminants. These can damage engine parts during long storage.
Run the engine for a few minutes first. Warm oil flows out much easier. It also carries more sludge with it.
Place a drain pan under the engine. Remove the drain plug and let all the old oil flow out. Replace the plug once it’s empty.
Fill the engine with fresh oil to the proper level. Check your owner’s manual for the right type and amount. This is usually simple 10W-30.
I mark my oil change date on a piece of tape on the machine. It helps me remember when I did it last. No more guessing next fall.
Fresh oil coats all the internal parts. It protects them from corrosion while your snow blower sits. This step is vital in how to store snow blower for summer.
Step 4: Protect the Engine Cylinder
The piston and cylinder walls need special care. They can rust if left exposed to air.
Remove the spark plug first. This is important for safety. You don’t want the engine to accidentally start.
Pour a small amount of engine oil into the spark plug hole. About a tablespoon is enough. You just want to coat the cylinder walls.
Slowly pull the starter cord a few times. This spreads the oil around inside. It creates a protective film on all the metal surfaces.
Now put the spark plug back in. Don’t connect the wire though. This prevents any chance of starting.
This trick in how to store snow blower for summer is a pro tip. It ensures your engine turns over easily when winter returns.
Step 5: Check and Lubricate Moving Parts
All the parts that move need attention. Friction points will get stiff and rusty over the summer.
Look at the auger bearings and the drive shaft. Apply a light grease to any fittings you see. Don’t overdo it – a little goes a long way.
The chute rotation mechanism often gets neglected. Spray some silicone lubricant on the pivot points. This keeps it turning smoothly.
Check the skid shoes and scraper bar for wear. These are cheap to replace now. You won’t want to do it in the cold later.
I also put a light oil on the control cables. This prevents them from sticking or freezing up. It makes for much easier operation.
Proper lubrication is a must in how to store snow blower for summer. It fights off rust and keeps everything working like new.
Step 6: Choose the Right Storage Location
Where you put your snow blower matters a lot. A damp basement or garage floor is a bad choice.
Find a spot that is clean, dry, and out of the way. A storage shed is ideal if you have one. The key is to keep it away from moisture.
If you must store it on a concrete floor, use a wooden pallet. Concrete sweats and draws moisture. The pallet keeps the machine up and dry.
Cover your snow blower with a breathable fabric cover. A old bed sheet works great. Never use plastic – it traps moisture and causes condensation.
Make sure the storage area is safe from pests too. Mice love to nest in engine compartments over summer. They chew on wires and make a huge mess.
Your plan for how to store snow blower for summer needs a good home. The right location prevents so many problems.
Step 7: Battery Care for Electric Start Models
If your snow blower has a battery, it needs special love. A dead battery is the most common fall complaint.
Remove the battery from the machine first. Clean the terminals with a wire brush if they look corroded. Baking soda and water works for tough corrosion.
You have two good options for battery storage. The first is to use a maintenance charger. This trickle charger keeps it at full charge all summer.
The second option is to store it in a cool, dry place. Check the charge every month or two. Recharge it if it drops below 70%.
Never store a battery on a concrete floor. It will drain faster. Put it on a wooden shelf instead.
Battery maintenance is a key part of how to store snow blower for summer. A healthy battery means easy starts next season.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
I see people make the same errors every year. Let’s go through them so you don’t repeat them.
The biggest mistake is leaving old gas in the tank. This gums up the whole fuel system. It’s the number one cause of no-start issues.
Another error is storing the machine wet. You must let it dry completely after washing. Rust doesn’t take a summer vacation.
People often forget about the tires. If your blower has pneumatic tires, inflate them to the proper pressure. Flat spots can form over months of sitting.
Storing with the spark plug wire connected is risky. It could cause an accidental start. Always disconnect it for safety.
Using a plastic tarp as a cover seems smart. But it traps moisture and causes condensation. Stick with breathable fabric instead.
Avoiding these pitfalls is crucial in how to store snow blower for summer. Good habits save you time and money.
My Summer Storage Checklist
Here’s my personal list I follow every spring. It makes sure I don’t forget anything important.
First, I clean the whole machine inside and out. No salt or grime gets a free ride into storage.
Next, I add fuel stabilizer and run the engine. Then I change the oil while it’s still warm from running.
I remove the spark plug and fog the cylinder with oil. This protects the piston rings and cylinder walls from summer air.
All moving parts get a shot of grease or lubricant. I check the skid shoes and scraper bar for wear too.
I find a dry, elevated spot in my shed for storage. The machine goes on a pallet with a cotton cover over it.
This checklist for how to store snow blower for summer never fails me. My machine always starts right up in the fall.
When to Do This Storage Process
Timing matters more than you might think. Don’t wait until the middle of summer to do this.
The best time is right after your last use in spring. The steps are fresh in your mind, and the machine is already out.
If you wait, you might forget important steps. Life gets busy in the summer with other projects and vacations.
I aim to have my snow blower stored within two weeks of the last snow. This gives me time to do it right without rushing.
According to Family Handyman, proper seasonal equipment storage extends machine life significantly. It’s a small time investment for big returns.
Planning your timing is part of learning how to store snow blower for summer. Good habits lead to reliable equipment.
What to Do When Winter Returns
Storing it right is only half the battle. You also need to wake it up properly in the fall.
First, remove the cover and inspect for pests or damage. Look for mouse nests or chewed wires. Address any issues you find.
If you stored the battery separately, put it back in. Make sure the terminals are clean and tight. Charge it fully if needed.
Check the tire pressure and inflate if necessary. Flat spots usually round out after a few minutes of use.
Connect the spark plug wire. Add fresh gas if you ran the tank dry. If you used stabilizer, the old gas should still be good.
Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Listen for any unusual noises. Check that the auger and drive engage smoothly.
Your method for how to store snow blower for summer pays off now. A well-stored machine starts easily and runs well.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I store my snow blower with treated gas?
Fuel stabilizer keeps gas fresh for about 12 months. This is perfect for summer storage. Just make sure you use the right amount per the bottle instructions.
Should I store my snow blower with an empty or full gas tank?
A full tank with stabilizer is best. It prevents moisture from condensing inside the tank. An empty tank can rust from the inside out.</
