We’ve all been there. You’re in the middle of mowing your lawn, and suddenly you notice that ominous dark cloud overhead. The next thing you know, it’s raining cats and dogs! Now you’re left with a half-mowed lawn and a wet lawn mower. This begs the question: can lawnmowers get wet? In this blog post, we will delve into this topic to uncover the potential risks of a damp mower and provide tips for keeping your trusty garden tool safe from water damage.
Understanding Your Lawn Mower: Gas vs Electric
Before we dive into whether or not your lawn mower can get wet, it’s important to understand the two main types of mowers: gas-powered and electric.
Gas-Powered Lawn Mowers
Gas-powered mowers run on gasoline (obviously) and have an internal combustion engine. These engines are designed to be fairly resilient against moisture but are not completely waterproof. The carburetor, air filter, spark plug, and other components need to stay dry for the engine to function properly.
Electric Lawn Mowers
Electric mowers come in two varieties: corded and battery-powered. They rely on electrical motors to power their blades instead of an internal combustion engine. As with most electronic devices, water is generally not their friend. However, some electric mowers are built with weather-resistant features that make them more resistant to moisture than others.
Now that we have a basic understanding of the two main types of lawnmowers let’s discuss how they react when exposed to water.
When Can Getting Wet Be A Problem?
As mentioned earlier, no lawn mower is completely immune from getting wet; however, different types may experience varying degrees of issues due to moisture exposure:
Moisture Issues for Gas-Powered Lawn Mowers
Carburetor Issues: If water gets into the carburetor, it can cause your mower to sputter or not start at all. Water mixed with gasoline in the carburetor can also lead to corrosion and damage over time.
Air Filter Damage: A wet air filter will restrict airflow, causing your engine to run poorly or not at all. Furthermore, a damp air filter can become a breeding ground for mold and mildew.
Spark Plug Issues: If water seeps into the area around the spark plug, it can prevent the necessary electrical spark from igniting the gas mixture inside the engine’s combustion chamber.
Moisture Issues for Electric Lawn Mowers
Short–Circuiting: Electric mowers are susceptible to short–circuiting when exposed to excessive moisture. This could potentially damage sensitive electronic components or even pose a fire hazard.
Battery Damage: Battery-powered mowers rely on lithium-ion batteries that need to stay dry to function properly and maintain their lifespan. Exposure to moisture could cause battery degradation or failure.
Motor Damage: While some electric mowers have weather-resistant features, consistently exposing them to water may eventually take its toll on the motor’s performance over time.
Now that we know what issues our lawnmowers might face when exposed to moisture, let’s discuss how we can protect them!
Tips for Keeping Your Lawn Mower Safe From Water Damage
Avoid Cutting Wet Grass
This may seem obvious, but sometimes you might be tempted just to get the job done despite damp conditions (we’ve all been there). However, cutting wet grass is not only bad for your lawn due to clumping and uneven cuts but also exposes your mower – particularly gas-powered ones – to an increased risk of ingesting water through their air filters or carburetors while they’re running.
Store Your Lawn Mower Properly
A little bit of rain won’t necessarily damage your lawn mower, but long-term exposure to moisture can. Make sure to store your mower in a dry, well-ventilated space like a garage or shed when it’s not in use.
Check the Weather Forecast
Keep an eye on the weather forecast so you can plan your mowing sessions around any potential rainstorms. This way, you’ll minimize the risk of getting caught off guard by surprise showers while you’re working.
Perform Regular Maintenance
Regularly inspect and maintain your lawn mower to ensure that all parts are functioning properly and free from debris. Check for any signs of rust or corrosion, particularly on metal components such as blades and engine parts.
Dry Your Lawn Mower After Rain Exposure
If your lawn mower does get wet during use or storage, make sure to thoroughly dry it off before attempting to start it up again. For gas-powered mowers, remove the air filter and spark plug if they’re damp, then clean and dry them before reassembling everything.
For electric mowers, allow them to completely dry out – preferably in a warm environment – before using them again. Additionally, check for any visible water droplets on battery contacts or other electrical components.
What To Do If Your Lawn Mower Gets Soaked
Accidents happen! If your lawn mower becomes completely soaked due to heavy rainfall or accidental submersion (like rolling into a pond), don’t panic – there may still be hope for reviving it:
- Turn off the engine (if applicable) immediately.
- Remove any excess water from the exterior.
- For gas-powered mowers: Disassemble the carburetor and air filter housing; clean and dry all components thoroughly.
- For electric mowers: Allow them to fully dry out in a warm environment for at least 24 hours (or longer if necessary).
- Inspect for any signs of corrosion or damage; repair or replace parts as needed.
- Reassemble your mower and test it out.
Remember, safety should always be the top priority when dealing with water-damaged electrical equipment. If you’re unsure about how to proceed or feel uncomfortable working on your mower, consult a professional for assistance.
Can Lawn Mowers Get Wet Conclusion
So, can lawnmowers get wet? Well, yes – but that doesn’t mean they’re doomed if it happens! With proper care and maintenance, you can minimize the risk of damage from moisture exposure and keep your trusty garden companion running smoothly for years to come.
