Small Engine Storage Guide | Seasonal Prep
Proper storage prevents the majority of seasonal starting problems. Equipment that sat with old fuel, depleted batteries, or inadequate protection creates spring frustration. Spending 30 minutes on proper storage saves hours of troubleshooting later.
Table of Contents
- Fuel Management
- Engine Preparation
- Battery Care
- Physical Protection
- Equipment-Specific Tips
- Frequently Asked Questions
Fuel Management
Fuel issues cause most post-storage problems. Handle fuel correctly and eliminate the primary failure point.
Option 1: Run Dry
The most reliable method for short-term storage.
- Close fuel valve (if equipped) or disconnect fuel line
- Run engine until it dies from fuel starvation
- This empties the carburetor bowl
- No fuel means no varnish formation
Best for: Seasonal storage, equipment stored 3+ months
Option 2: Stabilize
Good alternative when running dry isn’t practical.
- Add fuel stabilizer to fresh fuel (follow product ratios)
- Run engine 5-10 minutes to circulate stabilized fuel
- Fill tank completely (reduces condensation space)
- Store with stabilized fuel in system
Best for: Equipment that may be used during storage period, shorter storage times
Fuel Stabilizer Products
- Sta-Bil: Industry standard, widely available
- Sea Foam: Also cleans as it stabilizes
- Star Tron: Enzyme-based formula
- Marine formulas: Better water absorption
What NOT to Do
- Leave old fuel in tank and carburetor
- Store with half-empty tanks
- Assume fuel will be fine for “just a few months”
- Use fuel from last season without treatment
Engine Preparation
Beyond fuel, prepare the engine itself for storage.
Oil Change
Change oil before storage, not after. Used oil contains acids and contaminants that corrode internal parts during storage.
- Run engine to warm oil
- Drain completely
- Refill with fresh oil
- This protects internals during storage
Cylinder Protection
For extended storage, protect cylinder walls:
- Remove spark plug
- Add small amount of oil (1 tablespoon) into cylinder
- Pull starter slowly several times to distribute
- Replace spark plug
Air Filter
Clean or replace air filter. A dirty filter holds moisture that promotes rust during storage.
Exterior Cleaning
Clean all debris, grass clippings and dirt from the engine and deck. Debris holds moisture and promotes corrosion.
Battery Care
Batteries left unattended during storage often fail.
Lead-Acid Batteries
- Clean terminals (baking soda paste, wire brush)
- Check electrolyte level (add distilled water if low)
- Fully charge before storage
- Store in cool, dry location OR connect to battery maintainer
Charging Options
Battery maintainer/tender: Best option. Maintains full charge automatically without overcharging.
Monthly charging: If no maintainer, charge monthly during storage.
Removal and indoor storage: Batteries last longer when stored in moderate temperatures.
Cold Weather Considerations
- Fully charged batteries resist freezing
- Discharged batteries can freeze and crack
- Store indoors if temperatures drop below 0°F
Physical Protection
Protect equipment from environmental damage.
Storage Location
Ideal: Climate-controlled garage or shed Acceptable: Covered, dry area Avoid: Outdoor exposure, damp locations
Covering
Use breathable covers that prevent dust accumulation without trapping moisture. Avoid plastic tarps directly on equipment (trap condensation).
Tire Care (Riding Mowers)
- Inflate to proper pressure
- Consider tire blocks to prevent flat spots
- Alternatively, move equipment occasionally
Rust Prevention
- Apply light oil to unpainted metal surfaces
- Touch up paint chips
- Consider rust preventive spray on vulnerable areas
Equipment-Specific Tips
Lawn Mowers
- Sharpen or replace blade
- Scrape deck underside clean
- Lubricate cables, wheels, height adjusters
- Disengage blade engagement
Chainsaws
- Remove bar and chain, clean
- Oil bar and chain for storage
- Clean air filter thoroughly
- Run dry (two-stroke)
String Trimmers
- Remove trimmer line (prevents set)
- Clean debris from head
- Run dry (two-stroke)
Snowblowers
- Run fuel system dry or stabilize
- Lubricate auger shaft, chute controls
- Apply rust preventive to unpainted metal
- Touch up paint chips
Generators
- Run dry or stabilize fuel
- Change oil if due
- Clean air filter
- Test run before extended storage to verify operation
Spring Recommissioning
When bringing equipment out of storage:
- Check oil level
- Add fresh fuel (if run dry)
- Check air filter
- Inspect for pest damage
- Check spark plug
- Test run before needed
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can gas sit in a small engine?
Without stabilizer, gasoline causes problems within 30-90 days. With stabilizer, fuel remains viable for 6-12 months depending on product.
Should I disconnect the battery for storage?
Not necessary if using a battery maintainer. If storing without power, disconnecting prevents parasitic drain.
Is it better to store fuel tanks full or empty?
Full tanks with stabilized fuel reduce condensation. Empty tanks with dry carburetors prevent varnish. Both work—choose one approach consistently.
How often should I start equipment during storage?
If stored properly (dry or stabilized), no need to run during storage. If you want to run equipment, run until fully warm, not just briefly.
Can I leave gas in my lawn mower over winter?
Not without stabilizer. Untreated fuel degrades and causes carburetor problems. Either run dry or stabilize.
What temperature should I store small engines?
Cool, dry conditions are ideal. Avoid temperature extremes and high humidity.
Internal Link Suggestions
- Small Engine Fuel Problems - anchor: “fuel issues”
- Lawn Mower Maintenance - anchor: “maintenance guide”
- How to Clean Carburetor - anchor: “carburetor service”
External Link Suggestions
- Sta-Bil Storage Products (goldeagle.com)
- Battery Tender (batterytender.com)
- Equipment Manufacturers Storage Guides
Last updated: January 2026