News > Rural Lifestyle > Outdoor Power Equipment Spring Checklist

Outdoor Power Equipment Spring Checklist

Apr 17, 2023

Your outdoor power equipment may need maintenance after sitting idle all winter. A quick inspection could add hours of life to your equipment and result in more efficient, reliable performance. The spring season is the perfect time for a tune-up and to make any necessary repairs before the grass and other vegetation overrun your lawn.
 
We’ve compiled a list of the most common maintenance tasks for riding mowers, push mowers, leaf blowers, and trimmers to make your job even easier!
 
Riding Lawn Mowers
  1. Make sure the battery is fully charged.
  2. Check the electrical for loose or dirty connections.
  3. Clean debris from the spark plug and replace if needed.
  4. Fully inflate all tires.
  5. Check the oil, oil filter, and air filter.
  6. Inspect the blades.
  7. Brush off all grass clippings caught in your mower deck.
 
Push Lawn Mowers
  1. Siphon and dispose of stale fuel.
  2. Sharpen the blades.
  3. Clean old grass clippings from the cutting deck.
  4. Ensure pull cords are not frayed.
  5. Check the oil, spark plugs, and air filters.
  6. Oil the wheel axles and control pivot points.
 
Leaf Blowers/Vacuum
  1. Make sure the bottom inlet cover or vacuum tube is locked in place.
  2. Check that all straps, handles, nuts, and bolts are secure.
  3. Brush off any debris from the air vents, cooling fins, and flywheel blades.
  4. Clean or replace the air filter.
  5. Remove the spark plug, clean it, and reinstall if it does not need to be replaced.
  6. Change the oil if using a gas blower.
 
Trimmers
  1. Make sure the spool is full.
  2. Clear cutter head of dirt or cuttings.
  3. Tighten all fasteners.
  4. Check and replace the air filter.
  5. Clean or replace the spark plug.
  6. Adjust the idle speed.
  7. Check and add oil if needed.
 
Your local Co-op carries a variety of hardware and repair parts for your outdoor power equipment needs. Don’t hesitate to stop by the store or give us a call with any questions. Find the nearest location here.
 
For more content like this, check out the latest issue of The Cooperator.
 
 

Read More News

Celebrate Pollinators on June 17
Jun 09, 2025
The University of Tennessee Bee Campus Committee, a group comprised of UT faculty, staff, and students, in partnership with the Tennessee Valley Authority and UT Gardens, invites communities across the state to celebrate national Pollinator Week at a series of “Garden Buzz” pollinator events on June 17.
 
Strawberry Season Going Strong Despite Challenges
May 26, 2025
The Tennessee Department of Agriculture reports in a May 27th release that after a growing season marked by unpredictable weather and other hurdles, Tennessee’s farmers persevered, and strawberry season is going strong statewide. You can still savor the sweet taste of spring for a few more weeks, with Tennessee strawberries available at farmers markets and at local farms. 
 
Pond Maintenance 101
May 19, 2025
Pond maintenance requires a little bit of research before you start. Knowing the size of the pond, using proper preventative maintenance products, and properly identifying any growth are key factors in successful pond management.