Winterizing a Gas Leaf Blower: Fuel, Cleaning, and Storage

To winterize a gas leaf blower, use the fuel-storage method specified in its manual, clean and inspect the machine, and store it somewhere dry and secure. Fuel instructions can differ, especially between two-stroke and four-stroke engines, so don’t guess at the fuel mix or assume every blower should be stored the same way.

Choose the right fuel-storage method

Most handheld gas leaf blowers use a two-stroke fuel mix, but check your manual. Use only the fuel type and oil ratio specified there. Four-stroke models have different fuel and oil requirements.

For seasonal storage, manuals commonly recommend one of two approaches:

• Drain the fuel system: If the manual directs this, drain the tank into an approved fuel container. It may also instruct you to run the engine outdoors until it stops so less fuel remains in the carburetor. Don’t run an engine in a garage or other enclosed space; exhaust contains carbon monoxide.
• Store with treated fuel: If the manual recommends stabilizer, add the specified amount to fresh, correctly mixed fuel. Run the blower outdoors as directed so treated fuel reaches the fuel system. Follow the stabilizer label and the blower manual.

Don’t combine methods or leave untreated gasoline in the blower unless its manual says to. Handle fuel outdoors, away from flames, sparks, and hot surfaces. Dispose of old fuel through an appropriate local collection program rather than pouring it down a drain or onto the ground.

Clean and inspect the blower

Turn the blower off, let it cool completely, and follow the manual’s safety instructions before cleaning or maintenance. Brush or wipe leaves and dirt from the housing, air intake, and tubes. Don’t force tools into the housing or disassemble the fan unless the manual explains how.

Check the air filter and clean or replace it as directed. Inspect the tubes, housing, fuel lines, and fuel cap for cracks, looseness, or leaks. Replace damaged parts before the next season; have a qualified repair shop handle fuel-system damage you’re not equipped to service. If the manual calls for spark-plug or engine-oil maintenance, do that using its instructions and specified parts or fluids.

Store it safely

Store the blower clean and dry, in the orientation specified by the manufacturer. Keep it out of direct sunlight and away from heaters, pilot lights, sparks, and other ignition sources. Secure it where children cannot reach it. Store any gasoline separately in an approved, tightly closed container in a suitable location, following local fire-safety rules.

If the blower was stored with old fuel

If it won’t start after storage, don’t keep pulling the starter. Check the manual’s starting procedure, then address stale fuel first: drain and dispose of it safely, and add fresh fuel with the correct mix. Check that the air filter isn’t clogged and that the fuel cap and lines aren’t damaged. If it still won’t start, or you find a leak, have the fuel system inspected rather than continuing to run it.