Honda trimmers are designed to go the distance, lasting many years, as long as they’re properly maintained. For the HHT trimmer, fuel system maintenance is a key way to ensure that the equipment is operating efficiently and safely over the long-term. Varying maintenance requirements and routines are needed throughout the year, based on temperature, season, and frequency of use. Here’s what equipment owners need to know to get the job done and keep their trimmer in great shape.

Warm Weather Maintenance

Since trimmers are most actively used during the spring, summer, and early autumn months, the warmer months of the year typically require more careful attention to detail during maintenance. A greater degree of maintenance is also required when the trimmer is being frequently used. When getting started with the Honda HHT trimmer’s fuel system, here’s what to keep in mind:

• Octane and ethanol: Fuel composition is essential to trimmer operation and efficiency. Honda recommends a low-octane fuel that contains no more than 10 percent ethanol; too much ethanol could attract moisture and encourage rusting.
• Excess fuel: It’s normal to have at least a little extra fuel after filling the tank. Store remaining fuel in an airtight container designed specifically for gasoline storage. Extra fuel older than 60 days may not function properly with the HHT trimmer.

Preparing for Trimmer Storage

As the weather cools, it’s time to think about proper trimmer storage during the winter months. There are a few essential steps to take that will ensure the trimmer doesn’t freeze, rust, or suffer from other damage while it’s in storage.

• Drain fuel: Leaving leftover fuel in the trimmer during the winter can cause oxidation and cracking. Drain remaining fuel instead, placing it in an approved disposal container that will be accepted by eco-friendly waste disposal sites. Alternatively, fuel can be stored for use with a stabilizer additive in the spring.
• Run the trimmer out: To make sure that all fuel has really been drained from the trimmer, replace the fuel cap and run the equipment until it turns off. This will indicate that no fuel is left in the tank. The trimmer can now be safely stored for the winter.

Preparing the Trimmer for Active Use

After the last snow has melted and the spring thaw is in full swing, the trimmer will need to be pulled out of storage and prepared for another summer of routine lawn maintenance. Some maintenance considerations in the spring can prevent equipment malfunctions all summer long.

• Ensure the quality of stored fuel: If any fuel was drained and stored at the end of the previous summer, it’s time to add a fuel stabilizer and get that gasoline ready for active use.
• Fill the fuel tank: Using either the newly stabilized fuel, or fresh gasoline, fill the trimmer’s fuel tank to capacity. This will allow the trimmer to run, reduce the amount of air in the fuel tank, and ensure maximum efficiency when the trimmer is first used to maintain the home’s outdoor spaces after a long stretch in storage.

Proper Maintenance Means Easier Landscaping

Honda trimmers, when paired with attentive and seasonal maintenance, can be a great investment for homeowners who won’t settle for second-rate curb appeal. To get started with fuel system maintenance, and the OEM Honda parts that might be needed to keep the HHT trimmer in excellent shape, visit HondaLawnParts.com. With a full selection of OEM replacements, it’s a great place to start getting ready for winter storage or the spring thaw.