Don't let winter damage cost your Saint George landscaping business thousands! TenEyck Distributing shows you how to winterize landscaping equipment properly with AMSOIL synthetic protection for reliable spring startups.
Winter preparation isn't just about protecting your home—it's crucial for safeguarding the valuable landscaping equipment that keeps Saint George's commercial and residential properties looking pristine year-round. Whether you run a landscaping business or maintain your own property, knowing how to winterize landscaping equipment properly can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars in spring repairs and replacement costs.
Saint George's unique desert climate presents specific challenges for outdoor power equipment. While our winters are milder than northern regions, the dramatic temperature swings from 70°F days to freezing nights create condensation issues that can wreak havoc on small engines. Additionally, the extended off-season means equipment sits idle for months, making proper winterization essential for reliable spring performance.
Start by removing all grass clippings, dirt, and debris from mowers, trimmers, and blowers. Desert dust combined with organic matter creates a corrosive mixture that accelerates wear on metal components. Pay special attention to air intake screens and cooling fins, as clogged areas can cause overheating when equipment returns to service.
Old fuel is the leading cause of spring startup problems. Drain fuel tanks completely or add a high-quality fuel stabilizer to prevent gum and varnish buildup. For commercial operations running multiple pieces of equipment, consider using AMSOIL Quickshot fuel additive, which cleans fuel injectors and combustion chambers while providing superior storage protection.
Fresh oil prevents acid buildup and corrosion during storage periods. When you winterize landscaping equipment, always use high-quality synthetic oil that maintains viscosity across temperature ranges. AMSOIL Small Engine Oil provides exceptional protection against temperature extremes and extends equipment life significantly compared to conventional oils.
Lubricate all grease fittings, pivot points, and control cables. Desert conditions can dry out lubricants quickly, leaving components vulnerable to seizure. Apply a light coating of AMSOIL Multi-Purpose Grease to exposed metal surfaces to prevent rust formation during winter storage.
Landscaping businesses face unique winterization challenges with large equipment fleets. Develop a systematic approach by creating equipment-specific checklists and assigning responsibilities to team members. Document maintenance performed on each piece to track service intervals and warranty requirements.
For commercial mowers and larger equipment, consider these additional steps:
Battery Maintenance: Remove batteries from zero-turn mowers and store in a temperature-controlled environment. Clean terminals and apply protective spray to prevent corrosion.
Hydraulic System Care: Check hydraulic fluid levels and condition. Replace if contaminated or degraded, as hydraulic repairs can be extremely costly.
Deck and Cutting System: Remove mower decks when possible for thorough cleaning and blade maintenance. This prevents grass acid from corroding metal surfaces during storage.
Choose storage locations that provide protection from moisture and temperature extremes. Avoid storing equipment directly on concrete floors, which can promote condensation. Use wooden pallets or platforms to improve air circulation underneath equipment.
When you properly winterize landscaping equipment, spring preparation becomes much simpler. Create a spring startup checklist that includes checking oil levels, inspecting air filters, and testing safety systems. This systematic approach ensures reliable equipment performance when the busy season begins.
While basic winterization can be handled in-house, complex equipment may benefit from professional service. Certified technicians can identify potential problems before they become expensive repairs and ensure warranty compliance on newer equipment.
Regular use of premium synthetic lubricants like AMSOIL products extends equipment life and reduces long-term operating costs. The superior protection and performance characteristics of synthetic oils make them especially valuable in demanding commercial applications where equipment downtime directly impacts profitability.
Investing time and quality products in proper winterization pays dividends throughout equipment lifecycles. Commercial operators report significant reductions in spring service calls and unexpected breakdowns when following comprehensive winterization procedures with high-quality synthetic lubricants.
Remember that equipment winterization isn't just about storage—it's about maintaining your investment and ensuring reliable performance when you need it most. Taking time now to winterize landscaping equipment properly sets the foundation for a successful and profitable landscaping season ahead.