Lawn Mower Care

Every year millions of dollars are spent on lawn and garden equipment from lawn mowers to tillers. These tools allow the home owner to make their property look its best and get the work done quickly and easily. Although buying these items seem expensive as a first time homeowner, it's good to know how to maintain them. Most home owners will purchase a large collection of lawn and garden equipment over the first five years of owning their home which typically represents a sizable investment. In order for you, the home owner, to protect your investment and ensure that next year when you reach for that weed whacker that it runs its best it's very important to take the proper steps to winterize your gas powered equipment.

Any equipment with an engine, from your gas powered blower to you lawnmower, should be winterized in a similar fashion. First, wash the equipment and clean off any dirt or debris followed by thoroughly drying the equipment to prevent rust. Second, drain the gas from the reservoir either by pouring it out or running the piece of equipment till empty. (Please note that you may also purchase fuel additives that may be mixed in the reservoir if you prefer). Third, remove the spark plug and place a few drops of oil into the cylinder and then pull the starter cord slowly three or four times to lightly coat the piston. This step prevents rust from forming over the winter months. And finally, look through the socket where you removed your plug and have someone pull the starter cord slowly until the piston is at top dead center (when the piston is closets to the opening of the socket). Replace your spark plug and store your piece of equipment with piece of mind that your investment will be protected over the cold winter months.