Properly storing your leaf blower is important for maintaining its performance and extending its lifespan. There are a few key things to keep in mind when storing a leaf blower, whether for the off-season or just between uses. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover tips for both short-term and long-term leaf blower storage.
Quick Tips for Short-Term Leaf Blower Storage
If you are just storing your leaf blower for a few days or weeks between yard work sessions, here are some quick tips:
- Allow the engine to cool fully before storing.
- Drain the fuel tank completely or use a fuel stabilizer.
- Wipe off any dirt, debris, or grease.
- Store in a clean, dry location away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
- If possible, avoid placing directly on concrete floors which can promote rust.
- Clean or replace the air filter so it is ready for next use.
Following these simple steps will help prevent issues like clogged fuel lines, stuck starter cords, and fouled spark plugs when you go to use your leaf blower again.
Long-Term Leaf Blower Storage Tips
For long-term leaf blower storage between seasons or if you won’t be using it for several months, more extensive care is required:
- Clean the leaf blower thoroughly first. Wipe down the entire exterior, remove any dirt, debris, grass clippings, etc.
- Drain the fuel tank completely. Fuel left sitting for months can clog carburetors and fuel lines.
- If possible, drain the carburetor bowl. Consult your owner’s manual for proper carburetor draining technique. Be sure to catch any drained fuel in an approved container.
- Run the engine for 5 minutes to help burn any remaining fuel in the carburetor. This prevents sticky buildup.
- Disconnect the spark plug wire and remove the spark plug. Add about a tablespoon of engine oil into the cylinder through the spark plug hole. Reinstall the plug, but leave the wire disconnected.
- Clean or replace the air filter. Use compressed air to blow out any debris and inspect for damage. A dirty filter can restrict proper engine ventilation.
- Apply lubricating oil to any cables, linkages, or pulleys as directed in the owner’s manual.
- If possible, store the leaf blower with the recoil starter rope pulled out slightly to prevent the pulleys from sticking.
- Cover the muffler outlet with tape or a small plastic bag secured with a rubber band. This prevents moisture or insects from entering.
- Store the leaf blower in a clean, dry space away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and concrete floors if possible.
- If storing in a shed or garage, place on a shelf or hang from the wall or ceiling to reduce risk of rodent damage.
- Consider covering with a tarp or leaf blower storage cover for extra protection.
Fuel Storage Tips
It’s best to completely drain all fuel from your leaf blower before long-term storage. If gasoline is left in the engine, it can gum up and clog fuel lines, carburetors, and filters.
If you need to store fuel between seasons, follow these precautions:
- Use only approved fuel storage containers made from metal or specialized plastic.
- Fuel storage containers should have tight sealing lids and spouts to prevent spills and evaporation.
- Clearly label the container as “gasoline” and include the date.
- Store in a cool, dry location away from heat, sunlight, flames or sparks.
- Gasoline can deteriorate quickly. Replace stored fuel every 30-60 days.
- Consider adding a fuel stabilizer to lengthen the shelf life of stored gasoline.
- Always store fuel containers upright on a level surface.
Avoid plastic milk jugs, soda bottles, or other makeshift containers. Inexpensive portable gas cans or safety cans made for fuel storage are better options.
Battery Storage Tips
For cordless electric leaf blowers, proper battery storage is crucial:
- Fully charge the battery before storage according to manufacturer guidelines.
- Store the battery at room temperature if possible.
- Cool, dry spaces like a basement or closet are ideal for battery storage.
- Avoid locations prone to extreme cold or heat.
- Store batteries separately from the leaf blower if removable.
- Place batteries in a protective case or sleeve to prevent accidental contact with metal objects.
- Check stored battery charge levels every 2-3 months. Recharge as needed to avoid full discharge.
Taking these basic steps will maintain battery performance and extend its usable life. Consult the owner’s manual for battery-specific storage instructions.
Leaf Blower Maintenance Before Storage
Proper maintenance before storage is key to ensuring your leaf blower starts up reliably next season. Here are some tips:
Change the Oil
Old oil can become contaminated and acidic, leading to corrosion and wear inside the engine during storage. Drain and replace the oil prior to long-term storage.
Inspect Components
Check for worn, loose, cracked, or damaged parts like fuel lines, cables, spark plug, air filter, starter pulley, etc. Replace components as needed.
Sharpen/Replace Blades
On gas-powered leaf blowers, dull impeller blades reduce blowing power. Remove and sharpen the blades or install new ones.
Clean Exterior
Use a brush and cleaning solution to remove accumulated dirt, grass clippings, and other debris from the housing, vents, and handles.
Check for Rust
Look for any rust spots or chipped paint, especially around the muffler, fuel tank, and metal hardware. Sand and touch up paint as needed to prevent expansion.
Inspect Fuel System
Check fuel lines, filters, and carburetor for cracks or blockages. Clean or replace parts as necessary.
Test Functionality
Start up the leaf blower and test all functions. Ensure the starter cord recoils properly, no odd noises occur, and airflow is strong. Address any issues before storage.
Getting Leaf Blowers Ready After Storage
When getting your leaf blower ready for use after storage, here are some steps to take:
- Wipe off any dust or dirt accumulated during storage.
- Install fresh fuel if drained. Use only fresh, clean gasoline.
- Connect the spark plug wire if disconnected.
- Check and inflate the tires to proper pressure if pneumatic.
- Test the starter cord recoil mechanism.
- Prime the carburetor per owner’s manual instructions if dried out.
- Check that air filter is clean and undamaged.
- Review safety information and operating procedures.
- Start engine and test at different speeds, ensuring proper performance.
- Check that all controls, adjustments, and handles function correctly.
- Perform any lubrication as needed per owner’s manual.
Taking these steps will help get your leaf blower running at peak performance after storage. Consult your owner’s manual for model-specific guidance.
Leaf Blower Storage Checklist
Here is a summary checklist you can follow when preparing your leaf blower for storage:
| Storage Step | Completed |
|---|---|
| Drain fuel tank and carburetor | ☐ |
| Disconnect spark plug wire | ☐ |
| Clean air filter | ☐ |
| Wipe off exterior debris | ☐ |
| Lubricate cables and controls | ☐ |
| Tape muffler outlet | ☐ |
| Store away from sunlight and moisture | ☐ |
| Charge battery (cordless models) | ☐ |
Following proper storage procedures will extend the usable life of your leaf blower and ensure quick, reliable starts when needed again.
Common Leaf Blower Storage Mistakes
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when storing your leaf blower:
- Leaving fuel in the tank during storage – This can clog the carburetor and fuel lines.
- Storing in a damp location – Moisture promotes rust and corrosion.
- Putting away with dirt, grass, and debris – This can obstruct airflow and damage components.
- Not disconnecting the spark plug – The ignition circuit can be damaged by electrostatic discharge.
- Failing to maintain the air filter – A dirty filter reduces performance and engine life.
- Not lubricating components – Lack of lubrication leads to stiff cables, sticky linkages, and jammed starter pulleys.
- Leaving the recoil cord fully retracted – This can result in pulley jams and difficult starts.
- Ignoring rust and paint damage – Rust will expand during storage, damaging parts further.
- Storing at extreme temperatures – Very hot or cold conditions degrade fuel, batteries, and materials.
Being mindful to avoid these pitfalls will help ensure your leaf blower survives storage in good condition.
FAQs About Leaf Blower Storage
How do I clean my leaf blower before storage?
Wipe down the exterior housing, vents, and handles with a cleaning brush and solution. Use pressurized air to blow out debris from crevices. Clean the fuel tank and carburetor passages. Inspect and clean or replace the air filter. Sharpen or replace impeller blades if needed.
Where should I store my leaf blower in the winter?
Store in a clean, dry location like a shed, garage, basement, or closet protected from the elements. Avoid anywhere with large temperature swings or high humidity. Elevate on a shelf or hang from ceiling or wall to reduce rodent risk.
How do I prevent rust on my leaf blower during storage?
Wipe down any rust spots and touch up paint before storage. Lubricate cables and linkages. Store on a shelf or platform, not directly on concrete. Keep the storage space clean and dry. Consider covering with a tarp.
Should I drain the gas from my leaf blower for storage?
Yes, old gasoline left in the tank and carburetor over months of storage can clog fuel lines and damage the engine. Completely drain the system of fuel or use a fuel stabilizer if leaving some in during storage.
What should I do to the engine before storing my leaf blower?
Change the oil, remove the spark plug, add about a tablespoon of oil through the spark plug hole, then replace the plug. This lubricates the cylinder to prevent rust during storage. Disconnect the spark plug wire too.
Conclusion
Properly caring for your leaf blower with regular seasonal storage will extend its lifespan and performance. The most important steps are draining all fuel, disconnecting the spark plug, wiping off debris, lubricating components, taping the muffler, and storing in a clean, dry location. Avoid common mistakes like leaving in fuel or storing in damp conditions. Following the checklists and guidelines above will ensure your leaf blower remains in great shape for years of peak blowing power.
