The job of a snow blower during the off-season is to sit in relative peace and quiet and not rust. You can help your snow blower with this task by putting it into storage properly. If you didn't prepare your snow blower for storage at the end of last winter, now is the time to check on your snow removal equipment and get it stored the right way. These tips will help. 

Drain the Tank

Gas breaks down over time, and with the high ethanol content in modern gas, this is even more true now than it was in the past. You need to add fuel stabilizer to your snow blower's gas tank at the end of the winter before you place it in storage. If you didn't do this last winter, now is the time to drain the fuel tank and add fresh gas with stabilizer. Use a siphon to get the old fuel out of the tank. Contact your local sanitation department to find out what your community's policies are regarding the disposal of hazardous waste like gasoline. 

Wash and Dry

Your snow blower is likely covered in salt from last year's winter. Over time, salt will degrade the paint job on your snow blower and cause the metal parts to rust. Wash your snow blower properly with automobile detergent and warm water mixed together in a bucket. Use a sponge to wipe down the entire exterior. Rinse your snow blower with a concentrated spray of water from a hose, then dry it with the same rags you use to dry your car. Don't put the snow blower into storage until it's been dried off. 

Change the Oil

If your snow blower has a four-cylinder engine, it will have a separate tank for oil. To drain the oil on your four-cylinder snow blower, remove the oil plug and drain the oil into a disposable container. Next, pour fresh oil into the tank and put the plug back in place. As with the gasoline, you'll need to contact your local sanitation department to find out the best method for disposing of the old oil. 

Cover and Store

Now your snow blower is officially ready to go to into storage for the remainder of the off-season. Pick a cool, dry spot in your garage or storage unit. Cover your snow blower with a tarp or a cover fitted for the unit.

It's never too late to put your snow blower into proper storage. Get started today to help ensure the long life of your snow removal equipment. Contact a supplier like Drake-Scruggs Equipment Inc for more information.