How to Winterize Lawn Equipment for Storage
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The short answer
For gas tools, either run the tank dry or fill it with ethanol-free gas plus stabilizer. Change the oil, clean the deck, and store upright. For battery tools, remove the packs, clean them, and store at roughly 50% charge in a cool, dry place. For all tools, sharpen blades and lubricate moving parts before storage.
STA-BIL Fuel Stabilizer
The single most important winter product for gas tools. Treat every tank before storage.
Winterizing is the difference between a tool that starts on the first pull in April and one that needs a carburetor rebuild. The work takes an afternoon and saves a weekend of frustration.
Gas Tools: Two Valid Approaches
| Method | Steps | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Run dry | Drain tank, run until engine stalls, run carb dry | Tools used infrequently |
| Stabilize full | Fill tank, add stabilizer, run 2 min to circulate | Tools used regularly or hard-to-drain carbs |
Both methods work. The wrong approach is leaving a half-tank of ethanol gas to gel and varnish over the winter. If you choose the stabilize route, use ethanol-free fuel or a stabilizer rated for ethanol blends.
Battery Tools
- 1Remove batteries from the tool and charger.
- 2Wipe dirt and grass off the contacts.
- 3Charge to roughly 50% — two of four LEDs on most packs.
- 4Store indoors in a cool, dry place, ideally 40–75°F.
- 5Check charge level every 6–8 weeks and top up if needed.
Blades, Belts and Moving Parts
- Sharpen mower blades and edger blades while they are off the machine.
- Scrape grass buildup from the mower deck to prevent rust.
- Lubricate pivot points, throttle cables and wheel bearings.
- Check drive belts for cracks and replace them now instead of next spring.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Should I change mower oil before winter?
- Yes. Old oil holds acids and contaminants that corrode engine parts during storage. Change it, run the engine for a minute to circulate, then store.
- Can I leave a battery on the charger all winter?
- No. Long-term storage on a charger holds the cells at high voltage and accelerates capacity loss. Remove the pack once it is charged.
- Do I need to drain a two-cycle trimmer?
- Either run it dry or fill the tank with stabilized mixed fuel. Do not leave a partial tank of mixed gas — it separates and gums up faster than straight gas.
- Where should I store gas cans?
- In a detached shed or garage, away from ignition sources and direct sun. Use an approved safety can with a flame arrestor.
The Gear We’d Buy
Everything referenced in this guide, in one place.
STA-BIL Fuel Stabilizer
EssentialThe single most important winter product for gas tools. Treat every tank before storage.
Typically $8 – $15
Battery Storage Case
Store battery packs at the right charge level, off the concrete, with terminals covered.
Typically $25 – $45
SAE 30 Small Engine Oil
Change the oil before storage so contaminants don't corrode engine parts over winter.
Typically $6 – $12 per quart
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Key Takeaways
- Run gas tanks dry or fill with stabilized ethanol-free fuel.
- Store batteries at ~50% charge in a cool, dry place.
- Sharpen blades and clean decks before storage.
- Never store gas tools with old oil or partial ethanol fuel.
Reviewed by
The Lawn Tool Hub Test Bench
We buy, borrow and break lawn tools on our own yards — clay in the back, sand-cut Bermuda in the front — and write down what actually changed the result.
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Essential
STA-BIL Fuel Stabilizer