When you’re ready to start putting together your winter projects, your power equipment can be instrumental in getting the job done quickly and efficiently. But if you don’t know how to use it properly, you could damage valuable pieces of equipment, or worse yet yourself! Check out these 5 ways to get the most out of your power equipment this season to help ensure that you’re using it safely and effectively every time you start up the engine.
Check the oil
Checking oil is an important safety measure for any type of engine. Change it once a year, but do so more often in cold weather because oil becomes thicker and needs to be changed more often in cold climates. Oil helps lubricate moving parts, so when you check it, you’re making sure that everything has enough protection for optimal performance. If you want to get the most out of your power equipment this winter season, make sure to change the oil and blade sharpening before you start using it again.
Clean and sharpen blades
Sharpen blades. When blades become dull, they can’t cut through snow and ice as effectively, so you might need to sharpen them after each use. You can do this on a grinder by running the blade along the disc at about a 45-degree angle, or for a cheaper alternative, you can purchase an inexpensive blade sharpener from hardware stores that usually come in packs of two or three. They work surprisingly well and are easy to store in your garage until next winter. If you have a hand saw, use it instead of a blade sharpener to save time. Place one end on the cutting surface and hold the other end against a concrete wall while pulling back towards yourself. With blades lying flat against each other and perpendicular to the wall, push down on the top blade while pulling up on the bottom blade. Keep sawing back and forth across each side of the blade alternating between top and bottom until both sides meet up in center. Repeat process for all blades. Make sure blades are dry before storing them away or adding oil to prevent corrosion
Check spark plug
It’s important to keep a close eye on your engine and blade sharpening. This way you can ensure that any potential issues are taken care of before they become serious problems. A spark plug is also an important part to look after, as it provides essential ignition to the engine. If it’s not maintained correctly, like changing the plugs when they need it and replacing them when necessary, you may be left without electricity for your outdoor power equipment. Anderson Outdoor Power Equipment has a wide range of replacement parts for anything from generators to chainsaws, so make sure you visit their website for more information about keeping up with maintenance and repairs.
Keep blades sharp
#1: Keep blades sharp to avoid unnecessary wear and tear.
#2: Clean out debris and dirt. This can be done by spraying a water hose or using compressed air. #3: Check pulleys and belts for wear or damage. Replace as needed.
#4: Inspect the fuel tank, filters, muffler, spark plug and seat for signs of clogging, leaks or damage. Replace as needed.
#5: Schedule routine maintenance appointments with Anderson Outdoor Power Equipment to get a thorough check-up from our technicians before next summer begin!
Use it, don’t lose it!
Use it, don’t lose it! You’ll get more use and enjoyment from your investment if you actually use it. Anderson Outdoor Power Equipment provides a variety of storage options for all sorts of equipment, including sheds, garages, and patio enclosures to keep everything organized.Take care of your machine. Keep on top of regular maintenance so that you can avoid more costly repairs down the road. Anderson Outdoor Power Equipment offers an array of products and services to help you with any need at any time: propane tanks, engine oil changes, tune ups, blades sharpening… whatever it is that’s needed to keep things running smoothly.
