To protect small engine equipment from Texas summer storms, store it covered and elevated off ground level if possible, keep the fuel tank either full (with stabilizer) or completely empty, and make sure the battery on electric-start equipment is charged. A quick pre-storm inspection takes 10 minutes and can prevent expensive repairs from water damage or corrosion. If equipment gets wet or won’t start after a storm, Doc Wally’s mobile service covers the New Braunfels area.
Key Takeaways
- Covered storage in a shed or garage is far better than outdoor exposure
- Full tanks with stabilizer or completely drained are both valid storage approaches
- Water intrusion into the air intake or exhaust can hydro-lock an engine
- Electrical connections and battery terminals benefit from dielectric grease
- If storm water gets into an engine, do not try to start it — call Doc Wally’s first
Why Texas Summers Are Hard on Small Engines
Texas summer storms aren’t just rain — they bring high humidity, flooding conditions, hail, and in some areas, wind that can knock equipment off its storage location. Heat accelerates fuel degradation. Humidity accelerates corrosion on metal components and electrical connections. Equipment that sits outside through a Texas summer is working against those conditions constantly.
Covered Storage Is Worth the Effort
If you have a shed or garage, use it. For equipment that must stay outside, a fitted equipment cover (not a tarp thrown loosely over it) keeps rain from pooling in the seat, on the engine, and in the exhaust opening. Water sitting in an exhaust port can cause rust and, in severe cases, get drawn into the cylinder if the engine is turned over.
Managing Fuel During Storm Season
Fuel management during summer is a balancing act. For equipment used regularly, keep the tank at least half full to minimize condensation in the tank. For equipment that may sit for weeks between uses, fuel stabilizer added to a full tank prevents degradation. For equipment being stored for a month or more, running the tank dry and then running the carburetor out of fuel prevents gumming.
Battery and Electrical Care
Battery terminals on riding mowers and ATVs corrode faster in high humidity. A light coating of dielectric grease on the terminals prevents oxidation. Disconnect the battery for extended storage. If the battery has been sitting and won’t hold a charge, have it tested before storm season — not the week before you need the equipment.
If Your Equipment Gets Wet
If water entered the air intake or was drawn into the exhaust during flooding, do not attempt to start the engine. An engine with water in the cylinder will hydro-lock and bend a connecting rod. Pull the spark plug, crank the engine slowly by hand to push out any water, then let it dry before attempting to start. When in doubt, call Doc Wally’s first.
Doc Wally’s provides mobile small engine repair throughout the New Braunfels area. Call to schedule a service visit.
People Also Asked
Q: Should I store my generator with fuel in it or empty?
For short-term storage (1 to 3 months), use fuel with stabilizer. For long-term storage, run the carburetor dry to prevent varnish deposits from forming.
Q: Can I start my lawn mower right after heavy rain?
If the mower was covered and water didn’t enter the engine, yes. If the air filter is wet, remove and dry it first to avoid pulling moisture into the engine.
Q: Does humidity alone damage a small engine in storage?
High humidity accelerates corrosion on metal parts and electrical connections but won’t damage the engine internally if it’s stored clean and dry. The bigger risks are fuel degradation and pests nesting in the exhaust.