Where do most homeowners store their snow blowers? There are a few common options people use to store their snow blowers in the off-season. Many choose to keep their snow blower in the garage or shed for convenience and protection from the elements. Others may keep it in the basement if space allows. Some who lack a good storage space will cover and stow it outside. Where you store your snow blower depends on your unique home setup and storage availability.
What are the benefits of storing a snow blower in the garage? Keeping your snow blower in the garage allows you quick and easy access when needed. The garage protects the machine from snow, rain, sun damage, and other exposure that could lead to corrosion or part degradation. Storing it indoors helps extend its lifespan. The garage also provides security from theft.
Garage Storage
Storing a snow blower in the garage is one of the most convenient and secure options for many homeowners. Here are some tips for storing your machine in the garage:
– Choose a dry spot away from windows and doors. This helps protect from precipitation, humidity, and condensation which can cause rust and decay.
– Raise the snow blower off the concrete floor using wooden blocks, a pallet, or shelves. Direct concrete contact promotes moisture buildup.
– Completely empty the gas tank and run the engine dry before storing to prevent stale fuel issues. Disconnect and remove the spark plug.
– Clean the equipment thoroughly after the final use for the season. Remove all dirt, salt, and debris which can corrode parts.
– Apply a corrosion inhibitor or lightweight oil to any unpainted metal parts like the augers and chute. This prevents rusting. Wipe down painted metal with car wax.
– Cover the snow blower with a breathable tarp or canvas. Avoid using plastic sheeting which can trap moisture.
– Store maintenance items like scrapers, fuel stabilizer, and touch-up paint nearby for next season.
– Consider battery-powered snow blowers. These avoid stale gas issues and require less prep for storage. Store indoors and recharge every 60-90 days.
Proper storage prep helps ensure your snow blower starts right up next winter. The garage provides protection from the elements and security from theft.
Hanging Storage
To maximize garage floor space, consider hanging storage options for the snow blower. You can install shelves high on the wall to set the blower on. Utility hooks screwed into ceiling studs allow you to hang it overhead. Use a solid engine hoist and chains to lift and secure it. Make sure to disconnect the fuel and remove other liquids first. This lifts the machine out of the way but still keeps it covered and secure in the garage.
Off-Season Accessories
The off-season is a good time to service your snow blower and acquire useful accessories:
– Replacement shear bolts – These are designed to break instead of the auger if you pick up a foreign object. Have extras on hand.
– Skid shoes – Check and replace worn skid shoes that allow proper clearance over the pavement.
– Scraper blade – A metal or hard plastic scraper helps remove packed snow and ice from the surface before blowing.
– Headlight kits – Headlights improve visibility in early morning or night snow removal. Upgrade older models without lights.
– Drift cutters – These angled blades on the auger housing help cut through deep snow drifts.
– Emergency starter kit – Handy if the pull cord breaks or the electric starter fails. Contains rope, handles, springs etc.
– Fuel stabilizer – Add this to the gas tank to prevent fuel breakdown during storage.
Performing maintenance and acquiring useful accessories helps ensure your snow blower is ready for next winter. The garage provides easy access to your machine and storage for related tools.
Basement Storage
After the garage, a basement is another good option for storing your snow blower. Benefits of basement storage include:
– Protection from outdoor weather elements including snow, rain, humidity, and temperature extremes. This prevents corrosion and deterioration.
– Security from theft – Less likely for a thief to break into a basement versus stealing from a backyard or shed.
– Convenience – Easy to retrieve from storage for first snowfalls. Avoid digging through piled junk in a shed.
– Electric supply – Often able to use a battery tender or charger if storing an electric snow blower. Requires outlet access.
– Work space – The basement provides room for maintenance, repairs, and off-season preparation.
– Existing ventilation – Most basements have some passive or mechanical ventilation that helps discourage condensation buildup.
There are some disadvantages that come with basement storage:
– Narrow stairs or doors may make it difficult to move the snow blower in and out. Measure first or consider dismantling into major components.
– Dampness and humidity are common in basements. Use a dehumidifier and moisture barriers to protect the equipment from rust.
– Take precautions filling gas tanks or handling fuel in an enclosed basement due to fire/explosion risk.
– The blower takes up usable floorspace that may be needed for other storage or activities.
With some preparation, the basement can be an effective place to store your snow blower. Take steps to protect from excess moisture and allow adequate access.
Maintenance Tasks
Prior to basement storage, perform end-of-season maintenance:
– Drain gasoline from the fuel tank and carburetor to prevent gumming or corrosion. Use a fuel stabilizer if leaving any gas.
– Disconnect and remove the spark plug. Check its condition and replace if needed.
– Clean dirt, salt, oil drips, and debris from the exterior to avoid deterioration. Touch up paint chips if present.
– Apply a thin coat of lubricating oil to unpainted metal parts. Avoid spraying motors directly.
– Fully charge electric starter batteries and apply battery tenders for storage duration. Gas engines may need battery removal.
– Inspect belts, augers, and skid shoes. Replace worn components so it’s ready for next use.
– Start the engine and let it run dry to prevent internal corrosion. This avoids fuel residue issues.
Taking care of maintenance prior to storage will extend the service life of your snow blower. The basement provides handy enclosed access.
Storage Space Options
How you arrange the basement storage space depends on your specific basement layout and snow blower size:
– Set aside a dedicated area like a corner or along a wall. Short on space? Use overhead hanging storage.
– Place the blower on wooden planks or pallets to raise it off the concrete floor. This discourages moisture buildup.
– For organized storage, install shelving units or cabinets. Attach wheels to the snow blower for easy rolling access.
– Use a waterproof tarp or breathable cover to protect from dust and humidity. Avoid wraps that trap condensation.
– Store fuel, oil, tools, and accessories nearby in a locked cabinet for safety and convenience. Mount them on the wall for accessibility.
– Improve ventilation with a dehumidifier or fan. Position the blower to allow air circulation around it.
Take measurements first and make any needed access improvements before storing in the basement. Arrange your storage setup to keep the snow blower secure, protected, and accessible.
Outdoor Storage
If garage or basement storage is not an option, you may have to resort to storing your snow blower outside. This exposes it to the elements but is possible with the right preparation and protective measures:
– Choose a spot that is dry, level, and preferably covered. Avoid low areas that can flood. An awning, roof eave, or deck helps shield it from rain and snow accumulation.
– Set the blower on wooden planks or a pallet to raise it up several inches off the ground. This prevents moisture damage below.
– Remove any batteries and drain all gas from the tank & carburetor. This eliminates fire hazards and stale fuel issues.
– The snow blower must be completely covered when storing outside. Use a waterproof canvas tarp or breathable cover secured tightly to the frame.
– Apply lubricating oil or corrosion inhibitor spray to all unpainted metal parts before covering. The augers are especially prone to rust.
– bungee cords or tie-downs help secure the cover if stored in a windy location. Weigh down the edges if needed.
– Check periodically for water intrusion and re-oil components. Uncover during dry periods to allow ventilation.
– Consider installing an outdoor shed or enclosed shelter if permanent outdoor storage is needed. Choose a floorless shed for ground moisture protection.
Storing a snow blower outside leaves it susceptible to premature deterioration from the elements. With careful prep and protective covering, you can extend its lifespan for several seasons.
Long-term Storage
For long-term snow blower storage exceeding 1 year, more extensive steps help prevent corrosion damage:
– Drain all fuel and run the engine until empty. This eliminates internal fuel residue. Disconnect the spark plug.
– Clean off all dirt, salt, and debris from the housing, augers, and chute. Touch up paint and lubricate wear points.
– Remove shear pins, auger rakes, and skid shoes. Coat bare metal pins and interior surfaces with lubricating oil.
– Seal the exhaust and intake openings like the carburetor with plastic bags and tape. This prevents internal rust.
– Clean or replace the air filter and change the engine oil. Grease any zerks and lubricate cables.
– Fully charge batteries before covering and remove for separate climate-controlled storage if possible. Apply battery tenders.
– Use a high quality breathable cover designed for long-term equipment storage. Check and re-secure it periodically.
Taking extra steps protects your investment if storing the snow blower unused for over a year. Keeping moisture out is key to preventing corrosion damage.
Avoiding Theft
Snow blowers are an attractive target for theft, especially when stored outdoors. Here are some tips to help prevent your machine from being stolen:
– Store in a locked garage or shed whenever possible. Make sure windows and doors are properly secured.
– Park against a wall or large object that blocks quick access or loading. Disable by removing a key part like the battery.
– Use a hidden cutoff switch that disables the starter system. Or chain the auger to a fixed object.
– Lock the skids or treads together with a padlock or chain. This prevents rolling away.
– Install a GPS tracking device on the body in case of theft. Register the serial number with police.
– Chain the entire snow blower to a ground anchor, pipe, or cinder block with a hardened steel chain and lock.
– Mark the unit with identifying information like your name, address, or driver’s license using an etching tool.
– Keep the snow blower covered when not in use so it’s out of sight. Park leftover scrapers/tools inside.
– Install security lighting and cameras covering the storage area. Post signage about surveillance.
Properly securing your snow blower makes it less enticing for opportunistic thieves looking for an easy score. Take preventative measures to avoid the hassle and costs of replacing stolen equipment.
Registration
Registering your snow blower can help recover it if stolen:
– Keep a record of the model, serial/VIN number, color, and any distinguishing features.
– File this information along with product manuals in a safe place for reference.
– Take photos showing identifying details from all angles.
– Engrave your initials or other markings in a hidden location.
– Register with the manufacturer and your local police department if available.
– Report theft promptly with all identifying details and provide copies of registration records.
– Check online auction/retail sites if stolen. Marking aids identification.
– Maintain insurance coverage like homeowners or renters that covers theft.
Registering your snow blower creates a record that assists police in identifying stolen equipment. Displaying identification markings can deter theft.
Conclusion
Properly storing your snow blower is crucial for keeping it in working order year after year. The most secure and protective options include locking it inside a garage or basement when not in use. This shields it from weather, prevents corrosion, and deters theft. If indoor storage isn’t possible at your home, you can still take steps to prepare the equipment and cover it securely outside. Avoid moisture buildup, drain fuel, lubricate components, and use a quality breathable cover designed for outdoor storage. Take time to clean and service your machine at the end of each season. Your snow blower represents a significant investment that, with proper care, should provide many years of reliable snow removal.
| Snow Blower Storage Options | |
|---|---|
| Garage | – Convenient access – Theft protection – Sheltered from elements |
| Basement | – Secure from theft – Work area for maintenance – Protection from weather |
| Shed | – Covered storage – Raises machine off ground – Not theft proof |
| Outdoors | – No indoor space – Requires protective cover – Susceptible to damage |
