As winter sets in across Central Indiana, it's crucial for homeowners and lawn care professionals to transition from the mowing and landscaping routines of warmer months to winterizing their equipment. Properly caring for your lawn care tools during the winter not only ensures their longevity but also guarantees a smooth start to the upcoming spring season. Here are some of the best practices for winterizing your lawn care equipment in Indiana.

Clean and Inspect Your Equipment:

  • Before storing your lawn care tools for the winter, make sure to clean them thoroughly. Remove any dirt, grass clippings, and debris that may have accumulated during the last mowing season. Inspect each tool for damage, and address any issues promptly to avoid complications in the spring. This includes checking blades, belts, and other moving parts for wear and tear.

Fuel Management:

  • Unused fuel left in your lawn mower or other gas-powered equipment can cause problems, such as carburetor clogs, when left sitting over the winter. Either run the equipment until it's out of fuel or add a fuel stabilizer to prevent the fuel from breaking down. Check the manufacturer's recommendations for your specific equipment.

Oil Change:

  • Consider changing the oil in your lawn mower before winter storage. Fresh oil helps protect the engine during the colder months. Follow your equipment's user manual for guidance on the type of oil and the proper procedure for changing it.

Remove or Charge the Battery:

  • If your lawn care equipment, such as a leaf blower or trimmer, uses a battery, remove it before storing for the winter. Store the battery in a cool, dry place and recharge it periodically to maintain its health. For riding mowers and other larger equipment, it's often best to keep the battery in place but make sure it's fully charged.

Store Equipment Properly:

  • Find a dry and sheltered place to store your lawn care tools during the winter. If possible, store them indoors to protect them from harsh weather conditions. If storing outdoors is unavoidable, use waterproof covers to shield your equipment from rain and snow.

Sharpen Blades:

  • Before retiring your lawn mower for the winter, take the time to sharpen its blades. Sharp blades make for cleaner cuts, promoting a healthier lawn when you resume mowing in the spring. Dull blades, on the other hand, can tear grass, leaving it vulnerable to disease.

Winter Maintenance for Riding Mowers:

  • For those with larger properties and riding mowers, pay extra attention to winterizing. Drain the fuel from the tank, and either run the engine until it stops or use a fuel stabilizer. Remove the spark plug and add a small amount of oil into the cylinder, then slowly turn the engine over a few times to distribute the oil.

Winterizing your lawn care equipment in Central Indiana is an essential step in ensuring a smooth transition into the spring season. By following these best practices, you'll not only protect your tools from winter damage but also set the stage for a lush and vibrant lawn when warmer weather returns. Take the time to care for your equipment now, and you'll reap the benefits in the coming months. For more information, give us a call at (317) 350-1737.