Extending the Lifespan of Your Outdoor Power Equipment

We’ve all faced it—that moment when you tug the starter cord on your lawn mower, ready to get to work, and… nothing; no sound or action. Meanwhile, the grass keeps growing. With a bit of care and maintenance, you can avoid these headaches and keep your tools running like a champ for years to come.

Let’s talk about extending the lifespan of your outdoor power equipment without making it feel like a chore.

Keep It Clean

It sounds simple, but cleaning goes a long way. Grass clippings, dirt, and debris can clog air intakes and overheat engines. After every use, wipe down your equipment. Use a leaf blower or compressed air to clear out hard-to-reach spots. It only takes a few minutes, but it prevents rust and overheating.

Check Your Oil regularly

Just like your car, small engines need fresh oil to function. Old oil turns into sludge, which damages engine components. Check the oil level before every use, and change it once a season (or every 25 hours of use). If the oil looks dark or gritty, swap it out immediately.

Use Fresh Fuel

Did you know gas goes bad in about 30 days? Stale fuel clogs carburetors and causes starting issues. If you don't use your equipment often, add a fuel stabilizer to the tank. For end-of-season storage, run the engine until it’s dry to prevent gum buildup in the fuel lines.

Inspect Your Spark Plugs

If your engine is hard to start, runs rough, or uses more fuel than usual, it might be time for a new spark plug. When choosing a replacement, it's important to know that most modern small engines need resistor plugs to function correctly with their electronic components.

These plugs reduce electrical noise that can interfere with engine sensors. To find the correct one, check your owner's manual for the specific parts your engine needs.

Sharpen Those Blades

Dull blades tear grass rather than cutting it, which stresses the engine and damages your lawn. Sharpen mower blades twice a season. For chainsaws, keep the chain sharp to avoid overworking the motor.

Store It Properly

Don't leave your tools out in the rain or sun, as this can cause rust and make plastic parts brittle. You can store your gear in a sheltered spot, like a shed or a garage. If you’re tight on space, a heavy-duty tarp works too.

Taking care of your tools doesn't have to be complicated. A few minutes of maintenance here and there make a huge difference. By extending the lifespan of your outdoor power equipment, you save money on repairs and get back to enjoying your weekend projects.