Chainsaw Storage and Maintenance: Keeping Your Saw Ready to Go
A chainsaw that's stored wrong is a chainsaw that won't start when you actually need it. A few basic habits keep it reliable and safe between jobs — here's what actually matters.
Empty the tank before long storage
Petrol left sitting in a chainsaw for more than a few weeks starts to break down and gum up the carburettor. If you know it'll be sitting for a while, run the tank dry rather than leaving fuel in it.
Bar and chain care takes two minutes
Wipe the bar and chain down after use, and back the chain tension off slightly before storing — leaving it fully tensioned while cold puts unnecessary strain on the bar. A drop of bar oil on the chain before storage stops surface rust forming.
Storage position matters more than people think
Store the saw with the bar horizontal, not standing on its tip, to avoid bar oil pooling unevenly or leaking. Keep it somewhere dry and out of direct sun — UV breaks down the plastic housing and rubber seals over time.
Electric vs petrol: different storage needs
- Electric chainsaws need almost no maintenance between uses — just check the cord and blade guard, and store away from moisture.
- Petrol chainsaws need the fuel and bar care above, plus an occasional air filter check if used regularly.
Before the next job
Check chain tension, top up bar oil, and give the air filter a quick look before starting up after storage — a 5-minute check that saves a lot of frustration on site.
A spread of chainsaws to suit different jobs:
Browse the full range in Chainsaws.
For chainsaw and outdoor power equipment safety guidance, see Safe Work Australia.
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About the author: Ryan Griffiths is based in Newcastle, NSW, and works with the Toolaroo team helping tradies, farmers, and home workshop owners choose the right storage and equipment for their setup.