Garden Power: Springtime maintenance checklist

As we enter spring, we begin to get our garden tools out to prepare our garden for the sunny weather. But it’s not only the garden we need to prepare, but we should prepare our tools before we use them. In this article, we look at the essentials to cover for each of your appliances when you take them out of storage for the spring. 

Please note, these tips are general advice. You may have specific maintenance to undertake for your equipment so allows refer to your user manual for more help. Always have the equipment turned off completely when carrying out these checks. 

Petrol lawn mowers

You’ll need your lawn mower running smoothly to effectively cut your lawn for the first time in the spring. Here are the main checks to cover: 

• Check and clean the air filter for any dust/debris that may have built up during storage. 
• Sharpen the blades if applicable to ensure you get a clean cut. 
• Change the fuel in the tank for fresh petrol, filling to the max line. This is essential as running the lawn mower on older fuel may result in it not turning on at all. 
• Lubricate any moving parts such as wheels so that it runs smoothly.

Grass strimmers

The grass strimmer is important in getting those edges perfect and cutting hard to reach places. You’ll need this equipment to be running smoothly to get your garden tidy: 

• Inspect the strimmer line for any damage. If it is worn out, replace the line. This is important as the strimmer line is the part which cuts the grass. 
• Check and clean any air filter or intakes. This ensures there is good air flow for the engine to keep it running smoothly. 
• Lubricate the trimmer head so it can spin smoothly, giving great cutting results.

Hedge trimmers

Over winter, hedges can grow and will need to be tidied up. The hedge trimmer is a tool you’ll need to get that tidied look. Here are the basics to follow: 

• Sharpen the blades so they can effectively cut the hedge. 

• Clean any air filter or intakes of any dust that could have built up within storage. 
• Lubricate the blade mechanism if available to help operation.

Chainsaws

If you’re looking to get your garden in the best shape, you may be looking to cut branches from overgrown trees. To do this, you’ll need a chainsaw. Here are some maintenance checks to follow before using: 

• Sharpen the chainsaw chain if available. This helps to ensure your first cuts in spring are effective and reduce the strain on the chainsaw. 
• Check the tension of the chain and adjust if necessary. 
• Lubricate the sprocket in the tip of the bar.

Pressure washers

To tackle dirt build-up and get your patio clean, you’ll want to use your pressure washer. Here are the essential maintenance checks to follow before using: 

• Inspect any hoses for leaks or damage and replace if necessary. Tight bends that can happen if stored incorrectly can restrict the water flow, so straighten out these connections before use. 
• Check that all parts of the unit are secure and tight. This will prevent any leaks from the connections and ensure it stays together during use. 
• Check the tap that will be used is not leaking, as this can affect the overall flow and pressure to the washer.

Battery powered garden tools

• Inspect the battery for any damage. If damaged, the battery may need replacing. 
• Give the battery a full charge, ideally indoors in standard room temperature and avoiding cold environments. 
• Check that the battery is fully inserted and meeting the contacts on the tool. This ensures it will power up correctly.