Lawn care can hit a rough patch during winter, with fewer hours of sunlight and damaging snow and ice storms. In the winter, you should be well-equipped to deal with anything mother nature throws your way. Snow blowers are one tool that can help you maintain the appearance of your lawn throughout the year. Keep reading to get the best tips for maintaining your snow blower.
Clean the Outside of Your Snow Blower
This is the first and easiest step in winterizing your equipment. You can use soap and water to clean off any dirt or debris that may have accumulated outside the machine during use. You can also use a damp cloth or spray cleaner if necessary, then dry off the machine thoroughly before storing it away for the season.
Clean the Spark Plug and Air Filter
The spark plug ignites the fuel in your snow blower, so this part of your machine must work properly. You can check the spark plug for signs of wear by removing it from the engine, cleaning it with a wire brush, and reinstalling it. If you see any signs of damage or cracks, replace them with a new one before storing your snow blower for the season.
A clogged air filter will reduce the fuel reaching the engine and lead to poor performance and increased fuel consumption when you use your snow blower again in the spring. Regularly cleaning or replacing your air filter will help keep your snow blower running all year smoothly.
Inspect and Replace Lubricant
Winter is the best time to inspect your engine and replace any lubricants that may have depleted over the year. If your engine runs smoothly before winter sets in, then there’s no need to worry about this step until spring arrives again. However, if you notice any decreased performance, such as stalling out or not starting, it’s probably time to change your oil before things get worse.
Clean the Auger & Chute
It’s common for debris and leaves to build up inside the auger and chute of your snow blower throughout the season, which can cause performance problems and damage to your machine. Before storing your snow blower for the winter, please take a few minutes to clean it out.
Inspect the Belts and Cables
Check all belts and cables to ensure they are not worn or frayed. Replace any that are damaged. Also, inspect the bearings and wheels to ensure they spin freely without excessive play. If a bearing seems tight, apply a light coating of grease before reinstalling it.
Sharpen Your Blades
The most important thing you can do to keep your snow blower working at its best is sharpening your blades. The more often you sharpen them, the longer they will last, and sharp blades make for a better experience when using a snow blower.
Conclusion
So there you have it, a brief rundown of what to consider to help maximize the lifespan and performance of your snow blowers. Whether you’re shopping for them or just trying to keep them in good working order, these pointers can help ensure that your snow blowers offer you a lifetime of reliable service without ever missing a beat, even during the long, cold winter months.
