Lawn Mower Maintenance Tips During Winter Months in Colorado
Winter months are a busy time with holidays right around the corner. While we prepare our cool-season lawns for Colorado’s dry winter weather, it’s important to remember your lawn equipment needs care, too! Winterizing your lawn equipment and sprinklers is crucial before harsh cold temperatures kick in. We’ve covered how to winterize your Colorado irrigation systems, and the next step is lawn mower maintenance.
The Importance of Mower Maintenance
Taking good care of your lawn mower is crucial, especially during the winter months. Colorado’s winters can be harsh, with freezing temperatures and snow. Proper lawn mower maintenance helps protect your mower from damage caused by cold weather, rust buildup, or corrosion. Regular maintenance year-round extends the life of your lawn mower. It ensures it stays in top-notch condition, reducing the need for costly mower repairs or premature replacements. A well-maintained mower will perform better when you fire it up for the next mowing season. It’s all about ensuring a smooth and efficient mowing experience to ensure a healthy Colorado lawn.
Our Winter Mower Maintenance Checklist for Colorado Homeowners
First things first for any DIY project is safety! Our #1 safety tip before beginning any lawn mower maintenance is to disconnect the spark plug wire. For battery-powered mowers, remove the battery.
Lawn Mower Clean Up
Before putting your lawn mower in winter storage, give it a good cleaning. Remove grass clippings, dirt, and debris from the mower deck and undercarriage. A clean mower is less likely to experience rust or corrosion.
Drain the Fuel Tank
Stale fuel can clog your mower’s fuel line during the winter. Either run the engine until the fuel tank is empty or use a fuel stabilizer to prevent the gas from degrading.
Oil Change
Check your oil levels and oil age. Fresh engine oil ensures that your mower’s engine remains lubricated. Check your owner’s manual for the recommended oil type and change it if necessary.
Fresh Lawn Mower Blades
Damaged or dull blades can harm your lawn and make your mower work harder. Sharpen the blades or replace them if needed. When mowing season returns, sharp blades will ensure a healthy, clean cut on the grass blade and promote a healthy lawn.
Check the Spark Plug
A clean and properly gapped spark plug helps your mower start smoothly. Most sources will recommend changing your spark plugs after 25-30 hours of use. The best rule of thumb is to replace the spark plug each year.
Winter Storage and Protecting Your Mower’s Engine
Find a sheltered, dry place to store your mower. If you’re keeping it in a shed, ensure it’s elevated to prevent moisture buildup from snow or winter weather. Consider using a cover or tarp to protect your mower’s engine. This extra layer of protection can go a long way.
Schedule a Lawn Mower Tune-Up
Before the grass starts growing again, schedule a maintenance check or tune-up with a local lawn care professional to ensure your mower is in tip-top shape.
Colorado Springs Lawn Mower Maintenance Services Near You
As winter months roll around, a mower tune-up should be top of mind for Colorado homeowners. The team at Integrated Lawn Care is here to help! We offer winter lawn mower maintenance and tune-ups to keep your mower in its best shape. Our lawn mower maintenance includes cleaning, an oil change, and an added fuel stabilizer. We also include spark plug replacement and sharpening the mower blades. Our team will take care of the scheduled pick-up and drop-off for a hassle-free experience. We offer maintenance for push and riding mowers and service the Greater Colorado Springs area. Contact us today to get a quote for winter lawn mower maintenance to ensure you’re ready for a successful mowing season.