Don't Let the Winter Weather Harm Your Engine

As the seasons change and fall ushers in cooler weather, it’s important to prepare not just your home, but also your small engines for the winter months ahead. Whether you have lawn mowers, snow blowers, generators, or other equipment that runs on small engines, taking the time to perform essential maintenance now can save you costly repairs down the road. At Salisbury Pro Sealers, we don’t just focus on sealing driveways—our expert team also offers comprehensive small engine repair services to keep your equipment running smoothly year-round.

Here are some essential maintenance and repair tasks that should be performed on your small engines before freezing winter weather sets in.

1. Change the Oil and Filter
One of the most important steps in maintaining a small engine is to regularly change the oil and filter. Over time, oil breaks down and becomes less effective at lubricating the engine’s moving parts, which can lead to increased wear and tear. Changing the oil before winter ensures that your engine is properly lubricated, reducing the risk of engine damage caused by cold starts during the winter months. Be sure to use the correct oil grade recommended by the manufacturer for your specific engine.

2. Inspect and Clean the Air Filter
Air filters play a crucial role in keeping dirt and debris out of your engine, which can prolong the life of your equipment. Over time, air filters can become clogged, reducing the efficiency of the engine and causing performance issues. Cleaning or replacing the air filter before storing your equipment for the winter is essential. A clean air filter helps maintain proper air flow, ensuring that the engine runs smoothly when you start it up in the spring.

3. Check and Replace Spark Plugs
Spark plugs are often overlooked during routine maintenance, but they are a critical component of any small engine. Worn-out or dirty spark plugs can cause hard starts, misfires, and poor engine performance. Before winter hits, inspect your spark plugs and replace them if necessary. A fresh spark plug ensures a strong ignition, helping your engine start up easily even in colder temperatures.

4. Stabilize the Fuel
Fuel can break down over time, especially when left sitting for months in storage. This can lead to clogged fuel lines, carburetor issues, and poor engine performance. Adding a fuel stabilizer to the gas tank before winter storage can help prevent the fuel from breaking down and protect your engine from potential damage. Be sure to run the engine for a few minutes after adding the stabilizer to ensure it circulates through the fuel system.

5. Check the Belts and Blades
If your small engine powers equipment like lawn mowers or snow blowers, it’s a good idea to inspect the belts and blades before winter. Worn or cracked belts can snap during use, causing damage to your equipment. Similarly, dull or damaged blades can reduce efficiency and strain the engine. Fall is the perfect time to sharpen or replace blades and check for any belt issues that could lead to bigger problems down the road.

6. Drain Water and Clean the Exterior
For outdoor power equipment like pressure washers, it’s crucial to drain any water from the system before storing it for winter. Water left in the pump or hoses can freeze, expand, and cause serious damage. Cleaning the exterior of your equipment and checking for any signs of rust or corrosion will also help preserve the life of your tools. Removing dirt, grass clippings, and debris from your engine will help prevent blockages and ensure optimal performance.

7. Battery Maintenance
If your equipment runs on a battery, it’s essential to maintain it properly through the winter. Disconnect the battery if your equipment won’t be used for several months, and store it in a dry, cool place. It’s also a good idea to check the battery terminals for corrosion and clean them if necessary. Keeping your battery charged and in good condition will ensure it’s ready to go when you need it.

Professional Small Engine Repairs and Maintenance
While some maintenance tasks can be done at home, there are times when professional small engine repair services are needed. At Salisbury Pro Sealers, our team is experienced in diagnosing and repairing all types of small engines, from lawn mowers to snow blowers and beyond. Whether you need a simple tune-up or a more complex repair, we are here to help. Our goal is to ensure your equipment is running smoothly and efficiently, no matter the season.

Schedule Your Small Engine Maintenance Today
Don’t wait until the freezing winter weather hits—take the time this fall to ensure your small engines are properly maintained and ready to tackle whatever the winter throws at them. Salisbury Pro Sealers is your one-stop shop for small engine repairs, offering expert service and maintenance to keep your equipment in top shape.

Contact us today to schedule your small engine maintenance and get ahead of winter. Your equipment—and your wallet—will thank you!