The end of spooky season tends to bring cooler temperatures. Before winter officially begins, managers are putting the finishing touches on the outdoor area of their facility. While cutting grass, raking leaves, and getting winter equipment together are essential parts of weatherization, so is properly storing warm weather outdoor power equipment.
How and when you prepare grounds equipment for seasonal changes can potentially save money and time later on. Outdoor Power Equipment Institute gives seven tips on how to do so:
1.) Review owner’s manuals. Re-familiarizing how to handle equipment can prolong the lifecycle of the machine. Lost manuals can easily be found online.
2.) Service all equipment. As the seasons change over, it is important that managers clean and service all machinery before putting it into storage. Meanwhile, when bringing out new equipment, see if any maintenance or repairs are required.
3.) Handle fuel properly. Before storing equipment, add fuel stabilizer to gas tanks and then run the equipment to evenly distribute it. Turn the engine off, allow the machine to cool, then restart and run until the gas tank is empty. For winter equipment, it is recommended to purchase the type of fuel no more than 30 days before use. It is important to use the recommendations provided by the manufacturer.
4.) Charge the battery. Remove and fully charge batteries before storing. Store batteries on a plastic or wood shelf in a climate-controlled environment.
5.) Shelter equipment from winter weather. Store warm weather machinery in a clean and dry structure, away from any winter equipment that may be used during the season.
6.) Prepare. Make space in your respective facility before seasons change. Clear paths that are regularly used and remove any items that can potentially destroy equipment.
7.) Have the right extension cord for generators. It is essential that managers keep outdoor-rated extension cords on hand. However, cords must be the right length in order to properly operate the generator from a safe distance from the building.
