Winter is Coming - Prepare Your Small Engine or Pay the Price

Storing your small engine the right way for this upcoming Winter isn’t just a “nice to have”; it determines whether you’ll pull the machine out in Spring and get going immediately or end up with costly repairs and maintenance before you’re able to get to work.  

Let's Break it Down:

Why Winter Storage Matters

• When gasoline sits in an engine for a long time, it can turn into thick deposit buildups that clog the carburetor, fuel lines, and injectors. 
• Fuels that contain ethanol, mixed with moisture in the fuel system, can damage rubber seals and lead to corrosion, and before you know it, vital parts start failing. 
• Leftover oil, dirt, and debris, as well as cooling fins packed with grime, all contribute to the onset of rust, which shortens the engine’s life and makes that first start in the Spring harder than it needs to be.   

Winter Storage Checklist - Don’t Skip These Steps

Here are the must-do steps to prep your small engine for winter so you’re not starting the season with an engine repair project on your hands:

       1. Drain all fuel and run the unit until it stops. If possible, use an ethanol-free fuel with a good stabilizer that can sit in it. 

       2. Do standard end‑of‑the‑year maintenance: change the oil, replace the spark plug, and replace the air filter.

       3. Clean off any debris or grease. Ensure that the cooling fins are clear of any buildup.

       4. Store the unit in a dry, covered area. If it has a battery, either remove it or make sure it’s fully charged to avoid damage.

Consequences & Costs of Skipping Winter Prep

Here's what you might face if you just store and forget without doing the necessary prep:

• Old fuel left in the tank can clog the carburetor and fuel lines: a repair that can cost up to $150 or more.
• Moisture or ethanol damage can corrode internal parts or seals, possibly forcing major engine repairs that can cost hundreds of dollars worth of parts and labor.
• A dead or ruined battery means you’ll need to pay for a replacement, often $80-$150 or more.
• Skipping care shortens the usable life of your equipment and lowers its resale value; the upfront time investment in the Winter always pays off in the Spring.

Don’t treat winter as downtime for your small engine. This season of rest is actually when your engine needs the most protection.