A snow blower will help you simply free the local area from snow. This device will be especially useful for those with a lot of snow. It can save you time and make snow removal much easier. But to use it effectively, it must be stored correctly in cold weather.
This guide will consider how to prepare a snow blower for the winter. Its improper storage can lead to its damage. Namely, it may happen that your snow blower will not start. These steps have been helping me to keep my snow blower working for many years. And I did not need to fix it yet!
How to Prepare a Snow Blower for the Winter
- Here is the sequence of actions that you must do:
- Read the instructions carefully
- Fuel tank preparation before storaging
- Clean the snow blower chute
- Inspect the spark plug
- Lubricate and check the belts
- Store in a suitable place
Guide on How to Winterize Snow Blower
To prepare the snow blower for the winter, you need to make a few minor actions. First, you need to read the instructions and learn about the features of your snow blower. Next, it is worth doing a series of actions to help prepare the snow blower for the season. Also, you should inspect the entire snow blower to be sure it hasn’t been damaged after previous storage.
Step 1: Read the instructions carefully
Read the instructions carefully before using your snow blower. There may be a warning that may affect operation. This step will help you winterize snow blower. After reading, you will know the features of your device, this will help you better understand where each of the components that I will tell you about next.
Step 2: Fuel tank preparation before storaging
Before fueling the snow blower, it is worth adding a little fuel stabilizer. This is necessary for the snow blower to be turned on smoothly next season. Stabilization guarantees the next two factors.
First, the stabilizer prevents the transformation of gasoline into an incomprehensible substance that can clog the engine. This can happen due to ethanol in the gas, which takes the water. Ethanol can also oxidize and cause internal damage. Therefore, it is important to know how to empty the snow blower gas tank before leaving your snow blower for the next season.
Second, a stabilizer is added to absorb the moisture that ethanol can potentially absorb. Doing this will help keep your gasoline volatile, keeping it going properly. Adding a stabilizer is just an extra step to ensure the gas doesn’t go wrong and the snow blower starts up again. If you forgot to drain the fuel before leaving it to rest between seasons, the stabilizer would help keep your unit running.
Step 3: Clean the snow blower chute
Cleaning the chute is just as indispensable as handling the fuel tank. After the season ends, you must clean the line, muffler, and engine of debris. It could be:
- dust;
- trash;
- fat;
- dirt.
If not cleaned, rust may form during storage. It can affect the appearance and spoil important details inside the mechanism. Therefore, cleaning is significant after each season. You can also coat areas of the snow blower prone to rust with a thin coat of oil. You also need to wipe the snow blower from salt. This will help keep the device in good condition all year round.
Step 4: Inspect the spark plug
You should carefully inspect the spark plug. You need to look for signs of debris or corrosion. If you do not notice anything like this, the candle can be left, but if you are unsure, it is best to replace it. You can also use a brush during inspection to better inspect the candle for defects. It is essential to note that the meeting should be metal, not plastic.
Next, you will need to remove the spark plug. This is done quite simply. You will have to pour in about one tablespoon of engine oil and put the spark plug back in. recoil the engine and rotate it several times. This is done so that the cylinder walls are covered with oil.
Step 5: Lubricate and check the belts
The next step is to check the belts. This is done so that the straps do not break during preparation for winter. If you notice that the belts are already worn out during the inspection, then the belts should be replaced.
Step 6: Storage in a suitable place
There are also countless requirements for using a snow blower. Do not leave the snow blower outside under the high sun or rain. You can use a dedicated shed if you don’t have space to store your snow blower in your garage. You can make a canopy yourself or buy a ready-made one. If you are storing a snowblower outside, ensure it is raised off the ground. This must be done to prevent water damage during thawing.
Anyway, it’s better to store a snow blower inside. This place should be well-ventilated and dry, and the instrument should be covered. You can also use a snow blower mat. It will be a good solution. Also, the tool can be placed vertically. To have all the garden equipment serviceable, create a habit of storing it properly. For example, take care of your snowblower: summarize the snowblower or winterize it accurately.
FAQ About Winterizing a Snow Blower
Where should I store my snow blower for winter?
The snow blower is best stored in the garage on a special rug. But if you do not have the opportunity to keep the snow blower in the garage, then you can make a special canopy. But in this case, the snow blower must be above the ground so that the water does not spoil its parts.
Should I cover my snow blower?
Yes, the snow blower must always be covered. This will prevent dust from entering the notches or the formation of corrosion and rust. The snow blower must be protected not only when it is stored outside but also when stored in the garage.
How long do snow blowers last?
The life of the entire device depends uniquely on how you dispose of it. If you listen to my advice, the snow blower will last a long time.
To Conclude: Store or Not to Store
A snow blower can last long enough for many seasons if properly winterized. In this article, you receive steps to help you prepare a snow blower for the season. However, improper storage of the snow blower can lead to the fact that your device will not work for a long time. Still, it’s worth seeing a whole day preparing the snow blower for the season than having trouble later. Storage can be both in the garage and on the street. Both of these options will be allowed. But where do you store the snow blower?
