Once the grass gets its final cut and the leaves are handled, it’s time to swap out the lawn mower, blower, and trimmer for the snow thrower, generator, and chainsaw. The Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI) says handling equipment this fall sets the stage for when the weather turns colder.
“A little prep now means less stress—and fewer repair bills—later,” sums up
Kris Kiser, OPEI President and CEO of OPEI, an international trade association representing manufacturers and suppliers of outdoor power equipment, small engines, battery power systems, portable generators, utility and personal transport vehicles, and golf cars.
Here are OPEI’s eight quick tips for getting ready for fall equipment storage and winter weather:
1. Follow the manual. Review the manufacturer’s guide and follow all safety steps—especially how to shut down equipment quickly. Never disable or remove safety features.
2. Service before storage. Do all maintenance as directed by the owner’s manual. Clean, change oil, swap filters, and handle any repairs before parking summer gear. Give winter equipment a once-over, too.
3. Manage fuel smartly. Be sure to run tanks empty before storage. For winter equipment, use fresh fuel (most engines run on no more than 10% ethanol), add stabilizer according to manufacturer’s guidelines, and use fuel within 30 days.
4. Charge and store batteries correctly. Fully charge batteries, keep them away from metal, and store in a climate-controlled space.
5. Keep gear sheltered. Store summer equipment where it’s clean and dry. Keep winter gear handy but out of the weather.
6. Clear the way. Make space in the garage or shed now. Remove yard debris, toys, and other hazards from the yard before tree leaf piles or snow hide them.
7. Be generator-ready. Stock heavy-duty, outdoor-rated cords long enough to run your generator at a safe distance from the house. Never operate indoors or near openings.
8. Keep what’s most important inside. When operating any outdoor power equipment, kids and pets should be indoors and supervised.
For more on safety, visit OPEI.org.
About OPEI
OPEI is an international trade association representing manufacturers and suppliers of power equipment, small engines, battery power systems, portable generators, utility and personal transport vehicles, and golf cars. OPEI is the advocacy voice of the industry, and a recognized Standards Development Organization for the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and active internationally through the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) in the development of safety and performance standards. OPEI owns Equip Exposition, the international landscape, outdoor living and equipment exposition, and administers the TurfMutt Foundation, which directs the environmental education program, TurfMutt. OPEI-Canada represents members on a host of issues, including recycling, emissions and other regulatory developments across the Canadian provinces.
