How to Store Petrol Garden Tools for Autumn and Winter

As autumn arrives and garden tasks slow down, it’s the perfect time to think about storing your petrol-powered equipment. From lawnmowers and hedge trimmers to chainsaws and leaf blowers, the way you prepare your machinery for winter makes all the difference when spring returns.
Improper storage is one of the leading causes of breakdowns in garden machinery. Stale fuel, corrosion, and neglect can leave you with tools that won’t start or need costly repairs. The good news? With just a little time and care, you can avoid these issues and ensure your equipment runs smoothly next year.

Here’s a complete step-by-step guide to winterising petrol garden tools.

Clean & Inspect Thoroughly Before Storage

Before putting any machine away for the season, it’s essential to give it a good clean.
• Remove debris: Scrape away grass, soil, mud, and plant matter from blades, decks, and vents. Pay special attention to mower undersides, cooling fins, and exhaust areas.
• Wipe down external parts: A damp cloth or brush can clear away dirt, oil, or fuel residue. This prevents corrosion and reduces the risk of pests.
• Check for wear and tear: Look over blades, spark plugs, cables, and belts. Tighten loose fasteners and replace worn parts now rather than leaving issues to worsen over winter.
A clean machine not only stores better but also gives you a head start when spring arrives.

Fuel Management: Drain or Use Aspen Fuel

Fuel is the number one cause of winter storage problems. Standard petrol begins degrading within weeks and by spring it can form sticky deposits that clog carburettors and fuel lines.
You have two reliable options:
• Option 1: Drain the fuel completely
Run the engine until it stops so there is no petrol left in the tank or carburettor. This prevents stale fuel from hardening inside the system and ensures a trouble-free restart.
• Option 2: Switch to Aspen Alkylate Fuel
Aspen is a cleaner, ethanol-free fuel that stays stable for up to 4 years. This means you can leave Aspen in the tank all winter and your machine will start just as easily in spring. It also reduces harmful emissions, keeps the engine cleaner, and eliminates the need for draining every season.
At Godfreys, we recommend switching to Aspen fuel if you want a hassle-free start-up in spring and longer life from your tools.

Oil, Filters & General Fluids

Engines that sit for months with old oil or clogged filters are more likely to suffer damage.
• Change the oil: Old oil contains moisture and dirt that can cause corrosion while the machine is stored. Replacing it with fresh oil provides a protective layer for engine components.
• Replace filters: Check and change air filters and fuel filters as needed. A blocked filter left all winter can cause poor running and hard starting later.
• Spark plugs: Inspect and replace if necessary. A fresh spark plug ensures easier starting and reliable ignition when the machine is used again.

Battery Care (If Your Machine Has One)

Some modern mowers and ride-ons use a battery system. If that’s the case:
• Disconnect the battery or remove it entirely.
• Store indoors in a dry, frost-free location.
• Recharge periodically: Give the battery a top-up charge every 4–6 weeks, or use a trickle charger to maintain it at the correct level.
This simple step prevents a flat or damaged battery when you come to use the machine again.

Lubrication & Rust Protection

Moving parts and exposed metal are particularly vulnerable during damp winter months.
• Lubricate joints and cables: Apply grease or oil to wheels, linkages, and moving parts to prevent stiffness and corrosion.
• Protect blades and bars: Wipe mower blades, hedge trimmer blades, and chainsaw bars with an oily rag to stop rust forming. For chainsaws, ensure the bar and chain are properly cleaned and oiled before storage.
A few minutes with oil and grease can save hours of frustration in spring.

Storage Location & Conditions

Where and how you store your tools is just as important as the prep work.
• Choose a dry, sheltered spot: A garage, shed, or outbuilding is ideal. Avoid damp areas where condensation might form.
• Use breathable covers: A dust cover keeps machinery clean but allows moisture to escape. Avoid tarps or plastic sheets that trap condensation.
• Elevate from the floor: If possible, raise machinery slightly to prevent contact with damp ground, which can encourage rust.

Spring Preparation Made Easy

By following these steps in autumn, you’ll make spring start-up quick and stress-free. When the new season arrives:
• Check blades for sharpness: Sharpen mower blades or hedge trimmer blades for clean, efficient cutting.
• Top up fluids: Fill tanks, check oil levels, and inspect filters.
• Start machines early: Don’t wait until the first big mowing day—test your equipment a little ahead of time to make sure everything runs smoothly.

Conclusion

Taking care of your garden machinery now saves you time, money, and frustration later. The choice is simple:

• Drain the tank completely before storage
• Or switch to Aspen alkylate fuel for a cleaner, safer, and ready-to-go machine in spring

By cleaning, inspecting, and storing your petrol tools properly, you’ll protect your investment and make next year’s gardening season a breeze.
At Godfreys, we stock Aspen 2 and Aspen 4 fuels alongside a full range of servicing and spare parts. If you’d like expert advice or help preparing your machinery for winter, our team is here to help.