Snowblowers work hard throughout the winter, but once the snow stops falling, proper storage is key to keeping your machine in great shape. Proper off-season snowblower storage and care not only extends the life of your equipment but can also save you money on repairs or replacements in the long run. Follow this guide to learn how to store a snowblower!
Clean the Snowblower’s Exterior
If you’re wondering how to prepare a snowblower for storage, the first step is to remove all dirt, snow, and debris. Use a stiff brush to clean and clear clumps from the auger, impeller, and chute, and wipe down the exterior. For stubborn grime, use a damp cloth with mild soap or detergent, then dry all surfaces thoroughly to prevent rust. Salt and debris accumulated during winter can cause corrosion, so washing the machine with a low-pressure hose and mild dish soap in areas where grime collects is essential. Once the snowblower is clean and dry, treat rust spots by lightly sanding them and applying a coat of automotive paint.
Change the Oil
Old oil can thicken and harm your engine while in storage. As a part of your long-term snowblower storage plan, it’s important to drain the existing oil and replace it with fresh oil according to the instructions in your owner’s manual. Following these snowblower maintenance steps will help your machine stay in excellent condition, extending its life and keeping it ready for the next snow season.
Drain or Stabilize the Fuel
Managing leftover fuel is essential when storing a snowblower. For long-term storage lasting more than a month—or if you’re placing the snowblower in a storage unit—you should completely drain the fuel tank to prevent engine damage. Start by ensuring the engine is cool, then move the snowblower outdoors to avoid inhaling fumes. Use a siphon or turkey baster to remove most of the fuel, and run the engine until it stalls to clear any remaining fuel. For short-term storage of less than 30 days, adding a snowblower fuel stabilizer can be sufficient to keep gasoline from deteriorating. Simply add the fuel stabilizer to the fuel tank and run the engine for five to ten minutes to circulate it through the carburetor. Regardless of storage duration, always use fresh fuel, since old gasoline can degrade and damage the engine even when a stabilizer is used.
Clean & Remove the Spark Plug
An important step of snowblower maintenance is removing the spark plug and storing it separately in a dry place until the next season. This helps protect the spark plug from moisture and corrosion. Before storing, inspect the spark plug for any signs of rust, residue, or wear. If it appears excessively dirty, try cleaning it with a wire brush—and if it’s damaged, replace it completely to make sure your snowblower works well when it’s reinstalled.
Replace Any Worn or Damaged Parts
Inspect the belt, skid shoes, auger, impeller, shave plate, and rubber paddles for any signs of wear or damage. Check the belt and rubber paddles for cracks, fraying, or thinning, and examine the skid shoes and shave plate for uneven wear. When inspecting the auger and impeller, look for bends, chips, or other damage. If you find any damaged snowblower parts, refer to your owner’s manual for guidance on repairing or replacing them.
Lubricate Moving Parts
Protect your snowblower’s metal components with a rust preventative or lubricant prior to storage. Remove the bottom cover and apply a thin layer of grease to key areas such as the hex shaft, gears, auger shaft, and axle. This barrier will help keep moisture out, ensuring smoother operation when you need the machine again.
Cover & Store Your Snowblower
Investing in a snowblower cover designed for your model or using a tarp to shield the machine from dust, pests, and moisture is one of the best ways to store a snowblower. For optimal snowblower summer storage, keep your snowblower in a garage, snowblower storage shed, or a seasonal storage unit if possible. If storing a snowblower outside is your only option, elevate it off the ground and cover it completely to help protect it from the elements.
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Need a secure place to store your snowblower? Extra Space Storage offers convenient, climate-controlled storage units to help keep your snowblower and other winter equipment safe during the off season. Find a storage unit near you today!
