Can I store a lawn mower horizontally in my garage? Yes, you can store a lawn mower horizontally in your garage, but only if it’s designed for it, typically smaller, lighter models like push mowers or some battery-powered mowers. Improper horizontal storage can lead to oil leaks and engine damage.
Storing your lawn mower correctly in your garage is crucial for its longevity and your garage storage efficiency. Many homeowners ask how to store a lawn mower in the garage, especially when the mowing season ends. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from preparation to the best storage methods, ensuring your mower stays in top condition. Proper garage storage isn’t just about saving space; it’s about protecting your investment.
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Preparing Your Lawn Mower for Storage
Before you park your mower in its designated spot, a bit of preparation goes a long way. This isn’t just about shoving it into a corner; it’s about lawn mower maintenance that prevents future problems.
Cleaning Your Mower
A clean mower is a happy mower. Dirt, grass clippings, and debris can trap moisture, leading to rust and corrosion.
- Wash the Deck: Use a hose and a stiff brush to remove all grass and mud from the underside of the mower deck. Pay close attention to the blade area.
- Remove Debris: Clear out any grass clippings or leaves from the engine housing and cooling fins. A leaf blower or compressed air works well for this.
- Wipe Down: Use a damp cloth to wipe down the mower’s exterior. You can use a mild soap if needed.
Checking and Topping Off Fluids
This step is vital, especially if you’re storing your mower for an extended period, like over winter.
- Engine Oil: Check the oil level. If it’s due for a change, now is the perfect time. Old oil can contain corrosive particles. If you’re not changing it, ensure the oil level is correct.
- Fuel System: This is a critical step for winterizing lawn mower operations.
- Option 1: Empty the Fuel Tank: Run the mower until it runs out of gas. This prevents stale fuel and potential gumming up of the carburetor.
- Option 2: Add Fuel Stabilizer: If you can’t empty the tank, fill it almost completely with fresh gasoline and add a quality fuel stabilizer. Run the engine for a few minutes to allow the stabilized fuel to circulate through the fuel system. This is often the preferred method for modern engines.
Spark Plug Maintenance
A fouled or worn spark plug can make starting difficult.
- Inspect: Remove the spark plug and check for wear or fouling.
- Clean or Replace: Clean a fouled plug with a wire brush or replace it if it looks worn.
- Add Oil (Optional but Recommended for Long-Term Storage): With the spark plug removed, pour about a teaspoon of clean engine oil into the cylinder. Slowly pull the starter cord a few times to distribute the oil. This lubricates the cylinder walls and piston rings, preventing rust. Replace the spark plug but don’t tighten it fully if you plan to start it again soon.
Blade Care
A sharp, clean blade cuts better and is less likely to stress the mower’s engine.
- Sharpen: If your blade is dull, sharpen it.
- Clean: Ensure the blade is free of dirt and grass.
- Balance: Balance the blade after sharpening to prevent vibration.
- Lubricate (Optional): A light coating of oil can prevent rust on the blade.
Choosing the Right Storage Location and Method
Your garage offers a secure and protected environment for your mower, but how you position it matters.
Garage Storage Strategies
The goal is to make your garage work for you. Effective garage storage means your mower is out of the way but easily accessible when needed.
Mower Parking: Finding the Ideal Spot
- Flat Surface: Always park your mower on a level surface to prevent any potential leaks.
- Clearance: Ensure there’s enough space around the mower to easily access it for maintenance and to avoid bumping it into other items.
- Away from Flammables: Keep your mower a safe distance from flammable materials like paint thinner or gasoline cans.
Shed Storage vs. Garage Storage
While this guide focuses on garages, it’s worth noting the advantages of shed storage. Sheds can offer more space and dedicated areas for outdoor equipment, potentially keeping your garage less cluttered. However, garages generally offer better protection from extreme temperatures and pests if properly sealed.
Horizontal vs. Vertical Mower Storage
This is a key decision point for many.
Horizontal Mower Storage: Proceed with Caution
Can you store a mower horizontally? As mentioned, yes, but with caveats.
- Which Mowers Can Be Stored Horizontally?
- Lightweight Push Mowers: Many smaller, lighter push mowers can be tilted onto their side for storage.
- Battery-Powered Mowers: These are often designed with the ability to be stored on their side or even vertically.
- Zero-Turn Mowers: Some smaller zero-turn mowers might be manageable on their side, but their weight and complexity make it less ideal.
- Risks of Improper Horizontal Storage:
- Oil Leaks: The primary concern is oil leaking into the carburetor or air filter, causing engine damage and starting problems.
- Fuel Leaks: If the fuel tank isn’t properly sealed or is very full, fuel could leak from the cap.
- How to Store Horizontally Safely:
- Identify the Carburetor Side: Most engines have the carburetor on one specific side. This is the side you want to avoid resting the mower on.
- Tilt Towards the Air Filter: If you must tilt, orient the mower so the oil drain plug is accessible and the carburetor side is facing upwards.
- Secure: Use blocks or straps to keep the mower stable on its side.
- Check Oil Level: Before starting after horizontal storage, check the oil level and drain any excess if it appears overfilled due to shifting.
Vertical Mower Storage: A Space-Saving Solution
Vertical mower storage is becoming increasingly popular, especially for smaller garages.
- Which Mowers Can Be Stored Vertically?
- Most Walk-Behind Mowers: Many modern walk-behind mowers, particularly those with blade bearings designed to handle side loads, can be stored vertically.
- Battery-Powered Mowers: Many are designed with vertical storage in mind.
- Benefits of Vertical Storage:
- Space Efficiency: Takes up a much smaller footprint in your garage.
- Ease of Movement: Can be easier to maneuver into tight spots.
- How to Store Vertically Safely:
- Check Your Manual: Always consult your owner’s manual. Some manufacturers explicitly advise against vertical storage due to oil management systems.
- Prepare for Tilting: Follow the preparation steps above (cleaning, fluids, spark plug).
- Tilt Carefully: Gently tilt the mower onto its handle and control panel side. Ensure the carburetor and air filter are not facing downwards.
- Secure: Use wall-mounted racks, stands, or simply lean it securely against a wall with something to prevent slipping. Ensure it won’t fall over.
- Oil Check: After vertical storage, check the oil level before starting.
Compact Mower Storage Solutions
If you have a compact mower storage need, vertical storage is often the best bet. For very small garages or tight spaces, consider:
- Wall-mounted Racks: These can lift your mower off the floor, freeing up valuable ground space.
- Folding Handles: Some mowers have folding handles, making them even more compact for storage.
Protecting Your Mower During Storage
Once parked, what else can you do to protect it?
Using Mower Covers
Mower covers are an excellent way to protect your machine from dust, dirt, and moisture.
- Types of Covers:
- Fabric Covers: Made from durable, often water-resistant materials. They breathe, preventing condensation buildup.
- Plastic Tarps: A budget-friendly option, but they can trap moisture and don’t breathe well, potentially leading to rust.
- Benefits:
- Keeps dust and debris off.
- Provides a layer of protection against minor scratches.
- Can deter pests.
- Application: Ensure the mower is clean and dry before covering. A well-fitting cover will stay in place and offer the best protection.
Battery Care (for Electric and Battery-Powered Mowers)
If you have a battery-powered mower, proper battery storage is essential.
- Charge Level: Store batteries at around 50-70% charge for long-term storage. Storing them fully charged or completely dead can degrade their lifespan.
- Temperature: Store batteries in a cool, dry place, away from extreme heat or cold.
- Charging: Check the charge level periodically and top up if necessary.
Securing Your Mower
Even in your garage, securing your mower can prevent accidents.
- Wheel Chocks: If storing on a slight incline or where it might roll, use wheel chocks.
- Straps: For vertical storage, straps to the wall can prevent tipping.
Long-Term Storage vs. Seasonal Storage
The duration you plan to store your mower impacts the preparation steps.
Winterizing Lawn Mower Procedures
Winterizing lawn mower needs more thorough attention than simply putting it away for a few weeks.
- Fuel System: This is paramount. Either empty the tank or use a quality fuel stabilizer as described earlier.
- Oil Change: Always recommended for winter storage.
- Lubrication: A light spray of lubricant on moving parts and the blade can prevent rust.
- Battery: If it’s a gas mower with a battery, remove the battery and store it in a temperate location, charging it periodically.
Short-Term Storage (e.g., a few weeks)
For shorter periods, your preparation might be less intensive.
- Clean: A quick clean to remove grass clippings.
- Fuel: If leaving fuel in the tank, ensure it’s fresh. For very short periods (e.g., less than a month), fresh fuel without stabilizer might be okay, but it’s always safer to add it.
- Storage Location: Park it in its usual spot, ensuring it’s stable.
Frequently Asked Questions About Garage Mower Storage
Here are answers to common questions about storing lawn mowers in the garage.
Q1: Do I need to drain the gas from my mower before storing it in the garage?
A1: For long-term storage (over a month, especially through winter), it’s highly recommended. You can either run the mower until it’s out of gas or fill the tank and add a quality fuel stabilizer.
Q2: Can I store my electric mower with the battery attached?
A2: Yes, but it’s best to remove the battery and store it separately in a temperate location, ideally at a partial charge (50-70%). This protects the battery from extreme garage temperatures and prevents accidental discharge.
Q3: How often should I check on my mower during winter storage?
A3: If you’ve used a fuel stabilizer and followed all other steps, checking monthly is usually sufficient. If you removed the battery, check its charge level monthly as well.
Q4: Will storing my mower in the garage void the warranty?
A4: Generally, no. Proper storage and maintenance are usually expected. However, if you store it in a way that causes damage (like improper horizontal storage leading to oil leaks), that damage would likely not be covered. Always refer to your owner’s manual.
Q5: What’s the best way to store a heavy riding mower in the garage?
A5: Riding mowers are typically stored horizontally on all four wheels. Ensure the parking brake is engaged. For very long storage, consider placing it on jack stands to take the weight off the tires, preventing flat spots. Ensure adequate space and consider a cover.
Q6: Can I store a mower with a bagger or mulch plug attached?
A6: Yes, you can leave these accessories attached, but ensure they are clean and dry to prevent moisture buildup. If space is a concern, you might remove them and store them separately.
Q7: What if my garage gets very cold in the winter?
A7: Modern mowers are generally built to withstand cold. However, extremely low temperatures can affect batteries (both mower batteries and any backup batteries in electronic controls). Storing batteries separately in a more temperate part of your house or basement is a good idea if your garage experiences deep freezes.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure your lawn mower remains in excellent condition, ready for the next season. Proper garage storage and lawn mower maintenance are key to a long-lasting and reliable machine.