Winterize power tools

For this reason, it is better to store power tools indoors if they will be used over the winter. Most tools with electrical motors contain oils and grease which should be allowed to warm up a bit before using the tool. So if you have stored a saw or other piece of power equipment in a cold space, bring it indoors for two hours or so before using it. Lubricants will be more effective if they are allowed to warm up to room temperature before using the tools. This applies even if the tools will be used outdoors—bring them indoors first to warm up before taking them back outdoors to cut or drill.

Pneumatic tools usually come with instructions on what kind of lubricants to use if the tools will be used outdoors. Try to keep cordless power tool s and their chargers inside during cold weather.

Freezing temperatures seem to accelerate battery discharge, and many cordless tools come with a warning that the chargers won't work when cold. Lawnmowers, chainsaws, and other tools powered by gas engines have their own set of guidelines for storage in the winter. If not properly winterized, gasoline left in an engine can gum up the carburetor or other parts, unlubricated engine parts can corrode, and moisture may affect the ignition systems.

A standard winterizing procedure:. If you regularly work in a garage or outdoor workshop, equipping the space with a heater is a good idea.

You can either heat up the space to a comfortable temperature just before work sessions, or you can keep the heaters running all winter at a low setting to keep the temperature just above freezing.

Tools need not be at full indoor room temperature to operate well—a temperature just above freezing is all you need. You also get the added benefit of theft protection if you purchase a locking box. On those occasions where you have to leave your equipment outside overnight, such as outdoor power pumps or portable generators , cover them with a tarp, and secure the tarp to the ground with stakes and bungees to keep it from blowing away.

The tighter you stretch the tarp the less wind can get underneath and blow in, which helps to inhibit rust and other corrosion. Power washers and certain other outdoor power equipment depend on a water supply to function. Use pipe wrap to keep the water inside the lines insulated against freezing temperatures. Taking care of the little things is often one of the best steps for success.

Gasket seals, such as those around your fuel tank, often crack in the cold. Fuel and air filters are designed to trap particulates that can damage your equipment. This also causes moisture buildup, which can lead to ice formations. Make sure to replace disposable filters frequently. In the case of long-term filters, the time you spend cleaning out the folds and air-drying them can keep them functioning well despite adverse conditions.

Your spark plugs are essential to the operation of anything with a motor. They ignite the fuel on startup and while it runs. The constant passing of gas through the gap in the plugs can leave deposits.

These deposits interfere with the sparking, and in the cold they can freeze over. Carefully removing any buildup between operations ensures continued high performance and optimal fuel efficiency. Lubricate your moving parts. This is vital for hedge trimmer blades and saw chains. Tap it firmly against the inside of a trash can or spray it with compressed air use a dust mask if you do this. Spray hinges and moving parts with lubricant before storing equipment to prevent them from rusting into place.

Finally, wipe tung oil along wooden handles so that they don't dry out and crack. And enjoy a few months off from mowing! Cookie banner We use cookies and other tracking technologies to improve your browsing experience on our site, show personalized content and targeted ads, analyze site traffic, and understand where our audiences come from.

By choosing I Accept , you consent to our use of cookies and other tracking technologies. How to Winterize Yard Tools. By Sal Vaglica. Pinterest Email Pocket Flipboard. Keep your yard equipment in top shape Illustration by John Kachik As autumn gives way to the holiday season, yard work is usually the last thing on our minds. Don't let oil sit over the winter When a tool sits around unused, the oil inside gets sludgy, making the engine less efficient. Check for worn or missing parts Illustration by John Kachik Inspect equipment for missing screws and nuts, replacing as needed.

If you have outbuildings that are fairly dry and clean, use these. Store these items raised above ground level whenever possible. We have wooden pallets for mowers and other large equipment, while chainsaws and other hand-held power tools are stored on industrial wooden shelves.

In fact, if some of these power tools may be used throughout the winter months such as chainsaws , then store them within easy reach. This article contains incorrect information. This article does not have the information I am looking for. Your answer will be used to improve our content.

The more feedback you give us, the better our pages can be. Your privacy is important to us. Stay tuned for the first newsletter in the morning, straight to your inbox. For now, feel free to continue reading. Empty Fuel One of the worst things you can do with fuel-powered tools is to keep them full in storage.

Remove Batteries. Was this article helpful?