November 6, 2015

5 Simple Tricks for Storing Your Summer Tools Over the Winter

Tools

Treat your tools properly, and they’ll take care of you. That means that you must correctly store your summer tools over the winter so when the temperatures rise again, they’ll be ready for service.

Read on to learn five easy things you can do to store your summer tools over the winter.

1. Take Out Removable Batteries From Tools

This can include lawnmowers. First, remove the battery. All you need to do is disconnect the battery cable. You should disconnect the negative cable first (that’s the one with the minus sign on it). Once you’ve taken it out, wipe it down with a cloth. You should also clean the battery terminal with a metal brush. If you want to go the extra mile, coat the terminals with a terminal protector.

2. Clean, Sharpen and Oil Your Blades

Clean and sharp blades work better. You can clean off dirt and grass from blades with a damp cloth or a wire brush. A file will sharpen blades, although many hardware stores offer sharpening services for a low cost. A coat of oil will prevent rust as well as the breakdown of the blade or point. You don’t have to use a heavy hand – a light coat will do the job.

3. Either Drain the Fuel or Add a Preservative

Make sure you label your gas containers. Your lawnmower or weed eater may take a blended fuel, whereas your chainsaw may take straight gas. Or vice versa.

Next, drain any fuel‑powered tool that is done for the season, or give them an additive to protect the fuel line.

4. Use Hooks and Shelves

Your shovels, rakes and hedge clippers need to give way to the snow shovel, bucket of salt and snow blower. So let’s give them some room.

If you haven’t installed shelves or hooks on your garage wall, now is a good time to do so. This is a great way to get your garage organized and keeps your tools off the ground. You also may have an exposed loft in your garage, or roof beams that can also be used to store things like sporting goods and bigger tools.

These could give you twice the space in your garage. This is particularly important if you want to park your car in there over the winter months.

5. Get Rid of What You Don’t Need

This is the perfect time to look at some of the junk or clutter and ask, “Do I still need this?” Is your son too big for that bike? Has your daughter stopped playing in that princess castle? Consider donating them.

It’s also a good time to throw out broken tools or anything you’re keeping around “just for parts.”

And of course, it’s important to remember to keep your garage insulated and warm over the winter to protect its contents. If your current garage door won’t keep the cold out, contact us right away for a free quote around getting an upgrade!

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