Can You Store A Log Splitter Outside?

If the weather is rainy or if it has rained overnight, does rain affect the log splitter? Did you think it wouldn’t be affected? Is this even a good idea to store wood inside a shed that has got puddles of water on the floor? Let’s look into details of the effects of rain on a log splitter and the tips for its storage.

Can you store a log splitter outside?

Wood splitters are expensive and to safeguard the investment, it is always best to store it somewhere dry, such as a shed or garage. However, this isn’t always an option for everybody. So in those situations, would it be harmful to leave anything like this outdoors in the scorching sun, rain, or snow? The answer is you can certainly leave a log splitter outside for as long as you want, provided the necessary precautions are taken.

Is it okay for the log splitter to get rained?

Are you wondering what happens when the log splitter gets drenched in rain? Is there any effect on the splitter’s success or protection as a result of this? Almost always, the answer is yes. Rain appears to dampen the performance of a log splitter, according to recent independent research and user experience. The efficiency of a splitter is reduced by a few percent when water droplets fall on it. Of course, this is just a slight dampening, but it can be taken to mean that rain would dampen the performance of your log splitter for most practical purposes. If you’ve been thinking about getting a log splitter, rain is something you should remember. As a result of several reports of the Log Splitter getting wet while in service, the device has been deemed potentially harmful. The explanation for this is that the forklift’s waterproof cover can get wet, brick-wall, and then there’s nothing to keep water out of the forklift itself.

What are the drawbacks of storing it outside?

Condensation:

When covering the log splitter while storing it outside, make sure to leave an opening or two, ideally at the bottom, for air to come in and out when covering with your chosen material. Bear in mind that fully sealing the log splitter will result in a slew of condensation issues.

Protection from pests:

The thing about wood splitters is that they make excellent nesting materials for a variety of animals. Rats, mice, squirrels, you name it, one of them will inevitably find a home near your splitter and almost probably chew through a hose or something similar. The important thing is to be mindful that these rodents will nest there and to be prepared to take the required precautions if you see them approaching. The easiest method is to purchase a sprayer full of mint repellent and add it to the majority of the splitter’s surface. This should suffice.

Security:

Simply by backing a truck up, hooking it up, and it’s gone in minutes, leaving a log splitter out in the open exposes you to the risk of getting it stolen. Covering the item will certainly minimize the amount of attention it receives, but it won’t stop a persistent thief.

How to store a splitter outside?

If you want the thing to keep going after being left out in the elements, the most important thing you can do is cover it. Some may use tarps, while others simply cover the engine with a tub or something similar, but it is generally advised to use a material that is specifically designed to shield certain splitters in this situation. The reason for this is that tarps can be sometimes difficult to put up – you have to bungee it, tie it down with wood splits, and so on to keep it from blowing away. There’s no need to fiddle with a cover; it just goes on and stays put. if you have a decent tarp that you know can withstand the elements, you can use it instead.

Placing wood blocks, such as a pallet, under each of the splitter’s tires will help them last longer. You should also think about covering the tires to protect them from UV damage. All of this will aid in the prevention of dry rot, which leads to premature tire wear and, eventually, tire replacement, particularly if you tow the log splitter around.

Log splitter storage Ideas

After usage, a lot of attention has to be paid for the storage of the log splitter so that the efficiency is retained for a long time. Ensure to check the operator’s manual for information on long-term storage.

First, the spark plug should be disconnected and grounded against the motor since it shouldn’t restart by mistake. Push the value lever from forward to reverse several times to alleviate any strain in the hydraulic system.

Examine the fittings, hoses, tubes, and other parts and make sure everything is in order. This increases the log splitter’s durability, as well as your protection. Remove any leftover fuel from the fuel tank before storing it as an extra precaution.

As a next step, clean the hydraulic log splitter thoroughly. It is vital to get into those nooks and crannies, but pressure washers and garden houses should be avoided. Water is similar to kryptonite in that it can destroy bearings and even the engine.

Then, wipe down the rig with a lightly oiled cloth, paying particular attention to the wedge and beam. That will keep rust at bay. After finishing the cleaning, move the splitter to a clean and dry place. It should be kept away from mould and corrosive products like fertilizer or acid. It is also a good idea to add a rust-proof coating if you’re storing it in an unventilated or metal shed.