One of the most common problems for mowers not starting in the spring is old fuel. Adding a fuel stabilizer purchased from the hardware or auto parts store ensures this isn’t a problem. It is also a good idea to add this to your gas can. Use the recommended rate on the fuel stabilizer bottle.

Run the mower after the stabilizer is added to ensure there isn’t old gas in the carburetor. You can also run the mower out of gas after dumping the excess out.

If you have a riding mower or an electric start, remove the battery and store it in a cool, dry location away from anything flammable like gasoline. Before you install the batter back on the mower in the spring, throw it on the charger to get it to full capacity.

If you have a battery powered mower, it is also a good idea to take the battery off and store it inside for the winter.

Replace the spark plug with one recommended by the manufacturer. Remove the spark plug and spray a shot of oil into the cylinder. Pull the recoil handle several times to ensure that the oil is evenly distributed on the wall of the cylinder. Replace the old spark plug with a new one.

Depending upon the owner’s manual recommendations for your mower, you may either need to clean your air filter or replace it altogether. This can sometimes be determined with a visual inspection of the filter. Be careful using compressed air on the filter to clean it as this can damage the filter.

Drain the oil from the mower and replace with the exact type and weight recommended in the owner’s manual. Recycling of the old oil can be done at a car-repair shop or auto parts store.

Sharp blades are super important to cutting the lawn properly. Before dealing with the blade, take the wire off of the spark plug for safety. Remove the blade and sharpen it yourself with a grinder or take it to a mower shop to have it sharpened for you. While the blade is off is a great time to clean/scrape the bottom of the deck ensuring you remove all caked-on grass clippings. Re install the blade following the guidelines set forth in your owner’s manual. Once blade is replaced, grease all areas of the mowers with moving parts and spray oil on all cables and pivot points.

Finally, store the mower preferably inside the garage or shed. If this isn’t possible, tarp the mower. If mice are present, place tamper-resistant, pet safe bait stations under the mower to discourage mice from chewing up electrical wiring.