When it comes to outdoor equipment, a common concern is how susceptible they are to weather conditions, particularly exposure to rain and moisture. Lawnmowers are no exception, and understanding whether your lawnmower can get wet is important for ensuring proper care and longevity of the device.
Lawnmowers, both electric and petrol-powered, are designed to handle some level of moisture as they’re frequently used outdoors. However, this doesn’t mean they are impervious to water damage. When lawnmowers are exposed to excessive amounts of water or left out in heavy rainfall, sensitive components such as air filters, petrol tanks, spark plugs, power connections, and batteries can be negatively affected. Corrosion of metallic parts may also occur, leading to further complications.
While light rain showers and damp grass won’t cause significant harm to your lawnmower, it is important to take the necessary precautions to protect your equipment from water damage. Ensuring that your lawnmower is stored in a dry, sheltered area is of utmost importance in maintaining its functionality and lifespan.
Lawn Mower Exposure to Wet Conditions
Whether you have an electric or gas-powered lawn mower, it’s important to know how much moisture it can handle and how to prevent water damage. This section will delve into the impacts of moisture on lawn mower engines and provide tips for protecting your equipment – electric and gas-powered – from rain and damp conditions.
The Impact of Moisture on Lawn Mower Engines
Moisture can have adverse effects on both electric and gas-powered lawn mower engines. For electric lawn mowers, excess water can lead to short circuits, electrical malfunctions and, in some cases, complete electrical failure. With gas-powered lawn mowers, water can mix with the fuel and corrode metal components.
When a lawn mower is exposed to wet conditions, its performance may drop, and it might not start at all. It’s important to keep your lawn mower dry and well-maintained, especially if it has experienced prolonged exposure to water.
Preventing Water Damage to Electric Lawn Mowers
To protect your electric lawn mower from water damage, follow these precautionary measures:
- Store it indoors: Keep your electric lawn mower in a dry, well-ventilated indoor space when not in use.
- Use a waterproof cover: If outdoor storage is unavoidable, use a waterproof cover to protect the mower from rain and moisture. Ensure the cover does not trap condensation, as this can cause problems too.
- Avoid mowing in wet conditions: Refrain from mowing the lawn during or immediately after rainfall to prevent water-related issues.
- Inspect for damage: Routinely check the mower for signs of water damage, such as rust or discolouration.
Protecting Gas-Powered Lawn Mowers from Rain
While gas-powered lawn mowers are somewhat more resilient to moisture than their electric counterparts, they still need protection. Follow these steps to keep your gas-powered mower safe from rain:
- Use a water-resistant cover: When storing your gas-powered lawn mower outdoors, make sure it is under a water-resistant cover that allows air circulation to prevent condensation and corrosion.
- Elevate the mower: Consider using a tarp or a raised platform to keep the mower off wet and damp surfaces.
- Drain the fuel tank: If you suspect water has entered the fuel tank, drain it before using the mower to prevent engine damage.
- Regular maintenance: Routinely inspect your lawn mower for indications of water damage and perform necessary cleaning and maintenance, such as oiling and greasing components, to help prevent corrosion.
Maintenance and Storage Best Practices
Correct Storage Solutions for Lawn Mowers
It’s important to store your lawn mower in a proper manner to prevent any damage from moisture. A suitable storage option is a dry and well-ventilated garage. This ensures your mower stays protected from the elements while allowing air circulation to prevent humidity build-up.
A tarp is another effective storage solution, especially when a garage is unavailable. Make sure to cover your mower entirely with a high-quality, waterproof tarp to keep it safe from rain and other moisture sources.
Here are a few additional tips for storing your mower:
- Opt for a raised, level surface to prevent direct contact with damp ground
- Keep it in a secure place, away from children and pets
- Regularly check on your mower, ensuring the tarp or other cover remains in place
Post-Rainfall Lawn Mower Care
In the event that your lawn mower accidentally gets wet, it’s important to take the following steps to ensure its longevity:
- Drying: Thoroughly dry the mower’s exterior using a soft cloth or towel. For hard-to-reach areas, a hairdryer on a low setting or compressed air can be used. Avoid using high heat settings as it may damage the paint or plastic components.
- Cleaning: Clean any dirt or debris from the mower, paying close attention to the blade, air filter, and other critical components. In other words, you need to prevent any blockages or rust formation.
- Checking Electrical Parts: Inspect any exposed wires or connections for signs of damage, such as corrosion or fraying. If anything looks suspect, contact a professional for repair.
- Starting the Mower: Once everything is dry and clean, start the mower and let it run for a few minutes. This will help dry out any remaining moisture in the engine and reduce the risk of rusting.
- Ongoing Maintenance: Keep a regular maintenance schedule to ensure your lawnmower stays in top shape. This includes checking oil levels, cleaning air filters, and sharpening blades as necessary.
Safety and Operational Precautions
Mowing Wet Grass: Risks and Recommendations
Mowing wet grass poses several safety risks and can affect the efficiency of your lawn mower. Wet grass can cause slips and accidents, as well as clog the mower’s deck, making the task more challenging. When dealing with an electric lawn mower, there’s an increased risk of electrocution due to water making contact with the motor.
To minimise potential hazards, follow these recommendations:
- Wait: If possible, hold off on mowing until the grass has dried.
- Tread carefully: Wear slip-resistant shoes and maintain a steady pace when walking on damp grass.
- Go slow: Mow at a slower speed than usual to avoid slips and provide the mower with ample time to manage the wet clippings.
- Raise the cutting height: By raising the cutting deck, you’ll reduce mower strain and the risk of clogging.
- Clean as you go: Regularly clear the mower deck and blade of damp grass clippings to avoid clogging.
Immediate Actions After Exposure to Water
If your lawn mower gets wet, act quickly. Here are some steps to follow:
- Turn off: Immediately shut off the engine (for petrol mowers) or unplug the machine (for electric mowers).
- Dry the exterior: Wipe down the lawn mower with a dry cloth to remove excess water.
- Check the air filter: If the air filter is wet, let it dry out or replace it as necessary.
- Inspect the carburettor: For petrol mowers, ensure there’s no water in the carburettor. If present, clean it to prevent corrosion and engine problems.
- Store correctly: Keep the lawn mower in a dry, well-ventilated area to allow it to dry out completely before using it again.
Troubleshooting and Repair
In this section, we will discuss identifying and fixing water-related problems and the pros and cons of professional repair versus DIY fixes.
Identifying and Fixing Water-Related Issues
If you suspect your lawnmower has suffered water damage, begin by conducting a thorough inspection. Look for signs of rust and corrosion on metallic components, as well as any discolouration or damage to electrical parts.
- Spark Plugs: Check the spark plug for any signs of rust or water damage. If necessary, remove it, clean it carefully, and allow it to dry before reinstalling it.
- Battery: Inspect the battery for any visible damage. If it’s visibly damaged or corroded, consider replacing it.
- Carburettor: Look for water in fuel lines or the carburettor itself. This may require draining the fuel tank and cleaning the fuel lines, and possibly cleaning or replacing the carburettor.
- Air Filter: Examine the air filter for water-logging and damage. If it’s soaked, allow it to dry or replace with a new one.
Once you’ve identified the issue/s, take the necessary steps to rectify the problem before attempting to start the lawnmower again.
Professional Repair Versus DIY Fixes
When it comes to fixing water-related issues on your lawnmower, there are a few factors to consider when deciding between professional repair or DIY fixes.
Professional Repair
Pros:
- Specialists trained to handle complex repairs
- Warranties or service guarantees provided
- Peace of mind knowing a professional has handled the issue
Cons:
- Higher cost compared to DIY fixes
- Time spent without your lawnmower during the repair
DIY Fixes
Pros:
- Lower cost compared to professional repairs
- Opportunity to learn about lawnmower maintenance
- Able to complete fixes at your own pace
Cons:
- Limited knowledge of potential damage
- Lack of professional tools and equipment
- No warranty or service guarantee
