Can Lawn Mowers Get Wet? Or Rained On? What You Should Know
You probably know that the lawn mower needs to be properly put away after you use it, but what if you forgot or you just don’t do it?
Is it okay if the mower gets wet, like from the rain?
The short answer is Yes, lawn mowers can get wet, but there are some caveats here.
So let’s look at what you need to know about getting a lawn mower wet.
Can Lawn Mowers Get Wet?
Lawn mowers are not immune to the elements, and one of the most common questions people ask is whether lawn mowers can get wet.
The answer is yes, but it depends on how wet and for how long.
Let’s look at the effects of water on lawn mowers and what you can do to prevent or mitigate any damage.
What Happens When A Lawn Mower Gets Wet?
When a lawn mower gets wet, it can cause several problems.
Excess water can get into the engine, mix with fuel, and cause problems with the spark plugs or electrical connections.
Water can also corrode the metallic parts of the lawn mower, causing rust and other damage.
Both electric and gas lawnmowers are sensitive to water or excess moisture, and it is essential to take precautions to prevent damage.
Preventing Lawn Mowers from Getting Wet
The best way to prevent lawn mowers from getting wet is to store them in a dry, cool place away from the elements.
If you must leave your lawn mower outside, consider using a waterproof cover to protect it from rain or other moisture.
Additionally, it is a good idea to keep the lawn mower clean and dry after each use to prevent any moisture buildup.
What To Do If Your Lawn Mower Gets Wet
If your lawn mower gets wet, it is essential to take action quickly to prevent any damage.
First, turn off the lawn mower and unplug it if it is electric.
Next, remove any excess water with a towel or cloth.
If the lawn mower has been soaked, you may need to let it dry completely before attempting to use it again.
It’s also a good idea to take the lawn mower to a professional for inspection and maintenance to ensure that there is no lasting damage.
Which Parts of the Lawn Mower Are Most Vulnerable to Water?
While lawn mowers are designed to be used outdoors, they are not designed to be submerged in water or exposed to excess moisture.
The most vulnerable parts of a lawn mower are the engine, spark plugs, air filter, carburetor, and electrical connections.
These parts can be damaged by water and should be protected from moisture as much as possible.
The metallic parts of the lawn mower can rust and corrode over time, leading to long-term damage if not properly maintained.
Can Lawn Mowers Get Rained On?
One of the most common questions among lawn mower owners is whether or not their machines can withstand a downpour.
The answer is yes, lawn mowers can get wet, but the extent of the damage will depend on the type of lawn mower and the duration and intensity of the rain.
What To Do If Electric Lawn Mower Left In Rain?
If you have an electric lawn mower, it is important to take extra precautions when it comes to rain.
Water and electricity don’t mix well, and leaving your electric mower out in the rain can cause serious damage to the motor and other electrical components.
If your electric lawn mower is left in the rain, the first thing you should do is unplug it from the power source.
Then, you should remove the battery and dry it off with a towel.
If there is any visible water inside the battery compartment, use a hair dryer on a low heat setting to dry it out.
Once you have removed the battery, tilt the lawn mower on its side and allow any excess water to drain out.
Use a towel or rag to dry off any visible water on the body of the lawn mower.
If the rain was particularly heavy, you may want to let the lawn mower dry out in a covered area for a few hours before attempting to use it again.
While electric lawn mowers are more susceptible to damage from rain, gas-powered lawn mowers can also be affected.
If your gas-powered lawn mower is left out in the rain, you should remove the spark plug and dry it off with a towel.
This will prevent any moisture from getting into the engine and causing damage.
You should also check the oil level and make sure that no water has entered the oil tank. If there’s any water in the oil, you will need to drain it and replace it with fresh oil.
It’s best to avoid leaving your lawn mower out in the rain if possible.
If you know that rain is in the forecast, try to store your lawn mower in a covered area or garage.
If your lawn mower does get wet, take the necessary precautions to prevent damage and allow it to dry out completely before attempting to use it again.
Are Lawn Mowers Waterproof?
Many people wonder whether lawn mowers are waterproof.
The answer is yes, most lawn mowers are waterproofed to protect them from rain and other wet conditions.
However, this does not mean that they are completely immune to water damage.
While most lawn mowers are designed to handle light rain or moisture, prolonged exposure to water can cause damage to the engine and other sensitive parts.
Electric lawn mowers, in particular, are more susceptible to water damage due to their electrical components.
It’s important to note that not all lawn mowers are created equal when it comes to waterproofing.
Some models may be more waterproof than others, so it’s important to check the manufacturer’s specifications before purchasing a lawn mower if you live in an area with frequent rain or moisture.
While lawn mowers are designed to withstand wet conditions, it’s important to take care of them and protect them from prolonged exposure to water to ensure they continue to function properly.
What If Your Lawn Mower Doesn’t Start After Getting Wet?
It’s frustrating when your lawn mower won’t start after getting wet.
However, it’s a common problem that can be solved with a few simple steps.
Here are some things you can do:
- Dry the Mower Out: The first step is to let the mower dry out. You can speed up the process by using a leaf blower or an air compressor with an air gun to blow the unit off. Be sure to remove the spark plug and dry it off as well.
- Check the Spark Plug: A wet spark plug is one of the most common problems with a lawn mower that won’t start after getting wet. If water gets into the engine, it can cause the spark plug to become wet, preventing the engine from starting. So, check the spark plug and replace it if necessary.
- Check the Carburetor: If the carburetor is wet, it can cause the engine to flood and prevent the mower from starting. You can remove the carburetor and dry it out using a clean cloth. If there is any debris or dirt, clean it out as well.
If none of these steps work, it may be time to consult a professional.
Lawn mower repair technicians can diagnose and fix more complex issues that may be causing your mower not to start after getting wet.
If the mower has sustained extensive water damage, it might need a more thorough inspection, repair, or replacement of certain components to get it back up and running.