Types of Lawn Mowers
There are several types of lawn mowers available in the market to choose from depending on the size of your lawn and your budget. Some of the most common types are:
Push Mowers: Push mowers, also called self-propelled mowers, have engines and are powered by the user pushing them along. Lawn Mower are best suited for small to medium-sized lawns of up to 0.5 acres. Push mowers are affordable and easy to maneuver but require physical effort to operate.
Gas-Powered Riding Mowers: Riding mowers have large cutting decks and are powered by small gas engines mounted on the mower unit. They feature foot pedals for driving and a steering wheel for controlling direction. Gas riding mowers can handle large lawns up to 3 acres quickly but are more expensive than push mowers.
Electric Riding Mowers: Electric riding mowers work on rechargeable battery power instead of gasoline. They have lower emissions, are quieter to operate, and have no engine maintenance. However, their battery needs recharging after use and they have a smaller coverage area per charge compared to gas mowers.
Robotic Lawn Mowers: Robotic lawn mowers function autonomously once programmed for a lawn’s boundaries. Powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, they mow automatically according to a preset schedule. While convenient, robotic mowers are significantly more expensive than manual mowers.
Parts of a Lawn Mower
A basic lawn mower consists of a few key components that work together to cut the grass. Understanding these parts will help you operate and maintain your mower properly.
Blades: Mounted under the mower deck, the sharp blades rotate to cut grass. Dull or damaged blades should be replaced for a clean cut.
Deck: The mower deck houses the cutting chamber where the blades are located. It determines the width of cut.
Engine: Gasoline powered mowers use small engine motors to drive the blades. Electric mowers have electric motors.
Wheels: Wheels help maneuver and guide the mower. Air-filled pneumatic tires are easier on lawn surfaces than solid wheels.
Handle: The handle bars allow controlling direction and have safety features like kill switches.
Bag/Chute: The bag or chute collects clippings. Discharge chutes expel clippings out the back or sides.
Choosing a Lawn Mower
Here are some factors to consider when choosing a lawn mower:
- Lawn size - Measure your lawn area to select a mower capacity.
- Terrain - Consider the yard's gradient and ground conditions for stability and ease of use.
- Power Source - Gas mowers are powerful but noisier, while electric is quiet and available with battery packs.
- Budget - Prices range from $100 for basic push mowers to $2,000 or more for premium zero-turn riders.
- Features - Compare available amenities like bagging, mulching, height adjustability, storage covers.
- Maintenance Needs - Consider the effort involved in tasks like refueling, blade sharpening, oil changes, battery replacements or recharges.
- Warranty & Support - Check the manufacturer's offered warranty period and quality of after-sales service.
By understanding your yard and needs, you can select the most suitable mower type and features to suit your lifestyle and budget. Buying from reputed brands also assures better product support.
Mower Maintenance Tips
Regular maintenance is key to optimizing your lawn mower's performance and longevity. Here are some simple best practices:
- Empty the grass collection bag after each use to prevent clogging.
- Inspect blades for nicks and sharpen or replace dull blades once a season.
- Clean underneath the mower deck to remove built-up grass clippings periodically.
- Change engine oil at the start of each mowing season as specified in the manual.
- Replace air filters annually or as clogged to maintain good air flow.
- Check and fill engine fuel, transmission fluid and battery water levels regularly.
- Grease moving parts like wheels and deck spindles with waterproof grease monthly.
- Inspect belts, cables and hoses for cracks or wear every 50 hours of use.
- Store the mower safely under a cover in a dry place during off-seasons.
By adhering to the maintenance schedule, you can optimized your mower's cutting efficiency and ensure it lasts for many seasons of use. Proper care is important for safety, performance and maximizing your investment.
Safety Tips for Operating Lawn Mowers
Mowing the lawn is considered one of the most dangerous chores at home. Observing basic safety practices helps prevent injuries while operating a lawn mower:
- Wear long pants without loose cuffs, sturdy shoes, safety goggles and other protective gear.
- Never allow children or pets to be nearby when mowing. Keep them indoors.
- Only refuel when the engine is off and cool to prevent fire hazards.
- Check the underside and surrounding areas for hidden objects before starting the mower.
- Keep body parts away from moving blades and discharge areas.
- Be alert for foreign objects that could damage or be projected by the blades.
- Always push the mower forward, not in reverse for better visibility of the discharge area.
- Disengage all blade and motion controls before making any adjustments or emptying the bag.
- Store fuel safely away from heat sources or flames in a ventilated area.
- Keep safety guards, covers and shields securely in place to prevent accidental contact.
Following basic maintenance routines and operating safely are keys to enjoying your lawn mower safely for many seasons.
Get this Report in Japanese Language: ่ๅใๆฉ
Get this Report in Korean Language: ์๋ ๊น๋ ๊ธฐ๊ณ
About Author:
Money Singh is a seasoned content writer with over four years of experience in the market research sector. Her expertise spans various industries, including food and beverages, biotechnology, chemical and materials, defense and aerospace, consumer goods, etc. (https://www.linkedin.com/in/money-singh-590844163)
