Cold weather places more demands on all machines and especially outdoor power equipment, and users must show foresight and thoughtfulness to keep them running as temperatures plunge. Here are some tips for keeping equipment working during the cold winter months.
#1 RULE IS TO WARM UP EQUIPMENT FIRST BEFORE USING!
Warming up Snow throwers, Sweepers and other snow removal equipment before putting it to work is a good practice at any temperature. However, it’s essential in cold climates and remember that cold affects fluids and makes them behave differently than they do in summer months. That’s why warming up a machine is critical in cold weather.”
Engine oils and hydraulic fluids become thicker when cold. There’s an elevated chance of component failures as they circulate through the system’s hoses. It is always good for your engine oil to come up to the proper temperature first since there is a risk of colder, thicker oil blowing gaskets, etc inside the engine.
With Backpack Blowers too, warming up before using is essential! As most brands are not really made for these cold Alberta winters, backpack blowers can be a great alternative to clear the cold, fluffy white snow when used correctly.
Recently, one brand (STIHL), designed a ‘winter mode’ switch inside the air filter box. When switching to winter mode (deflector open), it pulls in the warm air from the engine to keep the carb box/intake warm, rather than having the cold air pull in from the outside (when deflector is cold). But always remember to switch back to summer mode when the temps rise so your engine won’t overheat in the spring!
BATTERY EQUIPMENT BELONGS INSIDE!
Cold weather is harsh on batteries, plain and simple! And although a few brands (TORO/EGO) have a variety of battery snow equipment that do a great job, they are still limited to the amount of time you spend outside in -30+ temps! Pre-maintenance and warmer storage solutions are your best bet for getting the most out of your outdoor power equipment battery use.
Some of the basic ways of good battery life is to store them inside your office/home. Most manufacturers recommend that you do not store your batteries in temps below freezing (0 degrees). The equipment you are using with your batteries can be stored in a garage (preferably heated), or if handheld, inside as well. Testing your batteries before temperatures drop is a good plan. It’s also useful to check that the terminals and connections are sufficiently tight and free from corrosion. Replacing a battery that is more than five years old before the cold weather comes is another good strategy to keep your equipment running efficiently.
Lithium-ion batteries will damage quickly in the colder weather… cold temps increase the internal resistance of a battery. The lower the battery’s capacity, the harder it will be for the battery to retain a charge.
COLD WEATHER ADVICE
Our advice: Be prepared and pre-emptive when the really cold weather hits! And if unsure about your specific piece of equipment; do whatever the owner’s manual says to do! And if you don’t have the manual most manufacturers post them online. And finally, if still unsure, give us a call or bring in your equipment, and one of our knowledgeable staff in our service department will be able to help you out. Stay warm, stay smart and spring will be just around the corner!
service@abforest.com or 403-248-0878