Storing Snowblowers: A Complete Guide
Sep 4, 2026 / Public Storage
How do you store a snowblower for the off-season?
Clean it thoroughly, properly handle the fuel, change the oil if required, lubricate moving parts, and keep it in a cool, dry place. Proper storage helps protect your snowblower from rust, moisture, and fuel-related problems so it’s ready when winter returns.
Snowblower Storage: Key Takeaways
- Clean and dry the machine before storing it to help prevent rust and corrosion.
- Drain or stabilize the fuel according to your snowblower manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Change the oil on gas-powered models if recommended in the owner’s manual.
- Inspect the spark plug, belts, cables, and moving parts before putting the machine away.
- Store it in a cool, dry location away from moisture and extreme temperature changes.
- Use a breathable cover rather than plastic, which can trap moisture.
How to Store a Snowblower
1. Clean Off Slush, Salt and Debris
Remove dirt, salt and packed snow from the auger, chute and other surfaces. Use a gentle spray or stiff brush rather than a pressure washer, which can force water into sensitive components.
Dry the snowblower completely with a towel or leaf blower. Before cleaning around moving parts, disconnect the spark plug wire and follow the safety instructions in your owner’s manual.
2. Drain or Stabilize the Fuel
Old gasoline can cause starting and fuel-system problems. Depending on your model and manufacturer recommendations, you can either:
- Drain the fuel: Empty the tank and run the engine until it stops, if your owner’s manual recommends this method.
- Stabilize the fuel: Add the appropriate fuel stabilizer and run the engine for several minutes so treated fuel moves through the system.
Always handle gasoline outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. Never drain or store gasoline inside a storage unit.
3. Change the Oil
For gas-powered snowblowers, check the owner’s manual for oil-change recommendations. Changing the oil at the end of the season can help ensure the engine is not sitting with dirty, used oil for months.
While you’re at it, inspect the spark plug. Replace it if it is worn, damaged or due for replacement according to the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule.
4. Lubricate and Inspect Moving Parts
Lubricate the points specified by your owner’s manual. Then inspect the machine for signs of wear or damage.
Check:
- Belts and cables
- Auger and chute components
- Fasteners and hardware
- Tires or wheels
- Rust or corrosion
Addressing small maintenance issues now can make it easier to get your snowblower running next winter.
5. Choose the Right Storage Location
Snowblowers should be stored somewhere clean, dry and protected from moisture. If your garage or shed doesn’t have enough room, a storage unit can provide additional space for your snowblower and other seasonal equipment.
A 5×5 or 5×10 unit may accommodate many residential snowblowers, but the best unit size depends on the machine’s dimensions and what else you plan to store.
| Storage Option | Best For | Considerations |
| Garage | Snowblower plus frequently used tools | Convenient but takes up valuable space |
| Shed | Seasonal equipment | Requires a dry, secure location |
| 5×5 storage unit | Snowblower and a few smaller items | Compact option for limited storage needs |
| 5×10 storage unit | Snowblower plus additional winter gear | More room for shovels, salt and equipment |
Before renting a unit, check the facility’s rules regarding gasoline, fuel containers and motorized equipment.
6. Cover and Protect the Snowblower
Use a breathable fabric cover to keep dust off while allowing moisture to escape. Avoid wrapping the machine tightly in plastic, which can trap condensation.
Keep the snowblower elevated from damp floors if appropriate and avoid storing heavy items on top of it.
Snowblower Storage Checklist
Before you walk away for the season, make sure you’ve:
- ☐ Cleaned off dirt, salt and debris
- ☐ Dried the snowblower completely
- ☐ Drained or stabilized the fuel as recommended
- ☐ Changed the oil if required
- ☐ Checked the spark plug
- ☐ Inspected belts, cables and moving parts
- ☐ Lubricated recommended components
- ☐ Checked for rust or damage
- ☐ Stored the machine in a dry location
- ☐ Covered it with a breathable cover
FAQs
Can you store a snowblower in a storage unit?
Yes, a storage unit can be a convenient place to store a snowblower during the off-season, provided the facility allows it and you follow its rules for motorized equipment and fuel.
Should you drain gas from a snowblower before storage?
It depends on the snowblower and the manufacturer’s recommendations. Some manufacturers recommend draining the fuel, while others allow stabilized fuel to remain in the system.
Should you cover a snowblower when storing it?
Yes. A breathable cover can help protect the snowblower from dust while allowing moisture to escape. Avoid airtight plastic coverings that can trap condensation.
Where should you store a snowblower?
Store it in a clean, dry location protected from moisture and extreme conditions, such as a garage, shed or permitted storage unit.
What should you do before using a stored snowblower?
Inspect the machine, check the oil and fuel system, reconnect the spark plug wire, and follow the manufacturer’s startup and maintenance instructions before operating it.
