Cleaning an Electric Mower Ahead of Winter
Cleaning Your Electric Mower Ahead of Winter: A Step-by-Step Guide
As the leaves begin to fall and the air turns crisp it's time to prepare your electric mower for the winter months. Proper maintenance and cleaning not only extend the life of your mower but also ensure it's ready to go when spring arrives. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you clean and store your electric mower effectively.
Why Clean Your Electric Mower?
Before diving into the cleaning process, let’s quickly cover why it’s essential:
- Prevent Corrosion: Dirt, grass, and moisture can cause rust and corrosion on metal parts.
- Enhance Performance: A clean mower runs more efficiently providing a better cut when it's time to mow again.
- Extend Longevity: Regular maintenance helps prolong the life of your mower saving you money in the long run.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Process
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
You'll need:
- A bucket of warm water
- A soft brush or sponge
- A garden hose (if necessary)
- A cloth or rag
- Lubricating oil (WD40)
- A screwdriver (for removing parts)
- A leaf blower (optional)
Step 2: Disconnect Power
Safety first! Always remove the battery or unplug the safety key before you start cleaning. This prevents any accidental starts while you’re working. You will need to clean the battery compartment anyway.
Step 3: Remove Debris
Start by removing any grass clippings, leaves or debris stuck to the mower. Use a soft brush or cloth to wipe down the exterior including the chassis and handlebars. You could use a leaf blower to get the worst of the debris off from around the cylinder if you have one. We don't advise using a hose pipe on your mower- this is far too much water to get inside electric components. Check the battery compartment for a build-up of grass. Make sure your sponge is not dripping wet- you don't want to be applying too much water to your mower. Pay special attention to the underside, where grass build-up can lead to rust and decreased performance- you will need to get the mud off your front and rear roller too- If there are tough spots, you can use a plastic scraper to gently remove the build-up. You may want to remove the side guard of the mower to make sure there is no build up around your belts as well as the top housing.
Step 4: Clean The Cylinder
Using your water and a sponge wipe down the cylinder. You can use a plastic scraper to scrape any firmer mud off and a hose pipe on the cylinder as long as it is out of the mower.Use WD40 on your cylinder after to displace any water. Use this time to inspect for damage and any stone chips- you will need to get it professionally ground by an Allett Dealer to repair. We advise getting your cylinder looked at annually during your service and your dealer can ensure it is cutting paper all the way across and set correctly.
Step 5: Dry the Mower
Wipe down all surfaces with a dry cloth to remove any moisture. Ensure that the mower is completely dry to prevent rusting.
Step 6: Store Properly
Store your mower in a dry, cool place away from extreme temperatures. If you have a storage cover, use it to protect your mower from dust and debris. You may want to raise your mower off the ground. Remember you can fold your handlebars for storage to save space in your shed or garage. Store your battery indoors over winter- ideally in your house where it is warmer.
Final Thoughts
Taking the time to clean your electric mower before winter can save you a lot of hassle when spring rolls around. Not only will your mower be in better shape, but you'll also enjoy a more efficient and effective mowing experience when the grass starts to grow again. It is a good idea to get your mower serviced once you have cleaned it up. Dealers will check your belts, cables, bearings etc and ensure your cylinder is nice and sharp. They will also check electrical components and any micro switches on your mower.