Snowblower Storage Mistakes That Put Homes and Families at Risk

Now that winter is in full swing, your snowblower may be your best friend.

Compared with shoveling snow, this handy machine is more efficient and safer on your body—reducing the risk of strain on your back, shoulders, and heart. 

While it might not seem like a big deal, proper storage is the key to ensure your snowblower remains in optimal condition and serves you (and your home) all winter long.

How a snowblower makes life easier (and safer)

Many winter injuries arise after snowstorms, when homeowners rush to clear snow manually with a shovel. That’s where a snowblower comes in.

“A snowblower allows for the faster, safer clearing of driveways and walkways, preventing slips, and reducing wear on joints and backs during the winter months,” says Albert Bou Fadel, founder of SmartBarrel in Miami.

When you push the snowblower over the snow, an internal mechanism called an auger churns up the flakes into the drum of the machine. Some snowblowers will then shoot the snow ahead of you, while others will shoot it off to the side.

The act of pushing the machine is far less stress than shoveling, which requires lifting the snow yourself, which can be much heavier than people realize.

If you have a large driveway, corner lot, or simply live in an area that gets excessive or frequent snow, a snowblower can be a real game changer. 

How to store your snowblower

Properly storing your snowblower during the winter can make it safer and much easier to grab after every snowstorm. 

“Once you know exactly where and how to park your snowblower, you can reap the benefits of quick access and minimal prep. Plus, you’ll prevent common issues caused by cold, moisture, and fuel problems,” explains Skye Durrant, co-founder of LawnGuru in Ann Arbor, MI.

The type of snowblower you own will dictate the ideal storage situation. Here’s some expert guidance to keep in mind based on the most common machines on the market. 

Gas snowblowers

“Store gas-powered snowblowers in a dry, well-ventilated area, such as a garage or shed, to prevent the snow and ice from constantly melting and refreezing on it,” says Durrant. 

Keep the fuel tank reasonably full to reduce condensation, and make sure you use fresh fuel at the start of each winter. You may also want to add a fuel stabilizer to your blower to prevent cold-start issues. 

“After each use, let the machine run for a minute to melt off packed snow. Then, brush it clean so that the controls, chute, and auger don’t freeze up before the next storm,” adds Durrant.

Electric and battery snowblowers



For electric or battery-powered snowblowers, dry storage is even more important. If you have a corded model, wrap the extension cord neatly and keep it off the floor to prevent damage or freezing.

If you have a battery-powered unit, Durrant recommends you bring the battery indoors between uses. “Cold temperatures can dramatically reduce battery performance, so storing and charging it inside makes a big difference ahead of snowstorms,” says Durrant. 

In the event you store your snowblower in a heated garage, be sure to keep an eye on snow and ice melting off after each use. 

“You might be surprised by how much water ends up on the garage floor. Parking it on an old towel or mat can help catch the melt and make cleanup easier,” explains Durrant.