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Maintain Outdoor Power Equipment
Get more from your outdoor power equipment. These tips should help your machines run better and longer, saving you money and time.
Tips for Outdoor Power Equipment
1. Change the engine oil after the first 5 hours of operation (or as recommended by the manufacturer) of a new machine. New engines naturally create mineral deposits over this break-in period that affect power and performance.
2. Add fuel stabilizer to your gas supply can to prevent deposits that affect engine efficiency.
3. Improve performance and prolong the life of your 2-cycle gas engine - take care to measure correctly when mixing the gas/oil ratio. (Follow the manufacturer’s specifications.)
4. For a clean look and to promote healthy grass, sharpen the blades on push and riding mowers prior to mowing season.
5. Change your spark plug regularly as directed by the product manufacturer.
6. Check the string regularly on your trimmer and have replacement line or a new spool ready when you need it.
7. Clean or replace air filters in all power equipment prior to first use and throughout the season.
8. Check the o-rings and hose connections on your pressure washer before first spring use.
9. Check for loose bolts and screws on machines that experience a lot of vibration during use (such as tillers and mowers).
10. Start each cutting season with a new or newly-sharpened chain saw blade.
11. Check oil level before each use in any and all engines. This simple step can save you much money and distress.
12. Make sure you use the proper gauge outdoor-rated power cord for electric power equipment. The smaller the gauge number, the more watts it can conduct. Check the owner’s manual for recommendations.
13. Use Pump Saver every time the pressure washer will sit for extended periods. It will increase the life of the pump by preventing corrosion and build up of other sediments.