Things to Look Out for When Buying a Lawn Mower
A well-maintained lawn is the pride of every homeowner. It not only adds an aesthetic appeal to your property but also provides a safe and clean space for your family to enjoy.
The key to achieving a beautiful and lush lawn lies in regular maintenance, and at the heart of this task is the lawn mower. A lawn mower is not only a tool; it's an investment that shapes the look and health of your lawn.
Selecting the right lawn mower can make the difference between having an okay lawn and having a lawn that's healthier and easier to maintain. Therefore, understanding the features and needs of a good lawn mower is crucial for households to make an informed purchase.
Read on for our top tips in selecting the right lawn mower for your individual circumstances.
Size of Your Lawn
Knowing the size of your lawn will help you determine the type and size of lawn mower that best suits your needs. For instance, opting for riding lawnmowers at Tractor Supply for bigger lawns may be a cost-effective option.
However, if your lawn is small, investing in a riding lawnmower may not be necessary, you can go for a walk-behind mower instead. From your local store that specializes in lawn equipment, to online retailers, there are various options available for different lawn sizes.
Type of Mower
There are different types of lawnmowers including push, self-propelled, riding, and robotic. Each has unique features and is suitable for different types of lawns.
Push mowers are ideal for small flat lawns
Self-propelled mowers work well on larger and hilly lawns.
Riding mowers are great for bigger yards.
Robotic mowers are best suited for those with busy schedules or those who prefer low-maintenance options.
It's essential to consider the terrain of your lawn when selecting a mower type. For instance, if your lawn has many obstacles, a push mower may be more suitable than a riding mower.
Power Source
Lawnmowers are powered in different ways, such as gasoline, electricity, or battery. Each has its benefits and drawbacks.
Gas-powered mowers are more powerful and suitable for larger lawns but require regular maintenance.
Electric mowers are quieter, eco-friendly, and easy to maintain, but they may have limited power compared to gas mowers.
Battery-powered mowers offer a balance between convenience and power, making them ideal for small to medium-sized lawns.
Most importantly, consider the availability of power sources in your area before making a purchase.
Deck Size
The width of the mower's cutting area determines how many passes you'll have to make to cut your entire lawn. The bigger the deck size, the more area you can cover in one pass. Smaller deck sizes are suitable for smaller lawns and tight spaces, while larger deck sizes are ideal for bigger yards with fewer obstacles.
Furthermore, the deck size affects the maneuverability of the mower. A smaller deck size makes it easier to navigate around bushes, trees, and flower beds. For example, if your lawn has many obstacles or tight spaces, a smaller deck size may be more suitable than a larger one.
Cutting Height Adjustment
Options to adjust the cutting height can ensure your lawn isn't cut too short, which can stress it, or left too long, which can make it look unkempt. Most lawnmowers offer different cutting height options, typically between 1-4 inches.
It's essential to choose a mower that provides the desired cutting height range for your lawn's specific needs.
If you want a manicured lawn, look for mowers with multiple cutting height options. When it comes to cutting height adjustments, some mowers offer a single lever for quick adjustments, while others may require individual adjustment of each wheel.
Mulching and Bagging Options
Some mowers can mulch your clippings and redistribute them on your lawn, providing natural fertilizer. Others bag clippings for disposal.
If you prefer to mulch, look for a mower with a mulching feature that finely chops clippings and disperses them evenly on the lawn. If you don't want clippings left behind, consider a mower with bagging capabilities.
Some mowers even offer both mulching and bagging options, providing versatility for different lawn care needs. Furthermore, consider the size of the bag or mulching capacity to ensure you don't have to frequently empty or change bags during mowing.
Warranty & Support
Look for a lawn mower that comes with a good warranty and solid customer support. A warranty will protect your investment and provide peace of mind in case of any defects or malfunctions.
Furthermore, reliable customer support is crucial for any technical issues you may encounter while using the mower. Consider reading reviews on the brand's customer service before making a purchase.
If possible, opt for a brand with a local service center for convenient repairs or maintenance. Warranty and support are often overlooked but can make a significant difference when it comes to the overall ownership experience.
Get your lawn ready in 2024 and beyond
Purchasing a lawn mower is an important decision that shouldn't be taken lightly. Understanding your lawn's specific needs and the features of different types of mowers will help you make an informed purchase that meets your expectations and budget.
Additionally, it's essential to consider regular maintenance tasks such as blade sharpening and oil changes for gas-powered mowers or charging batteries for electric mowers.
With the right lawn mower, maintaining a beautiful and healthy lawn can be an enjoyable task. So, take your time, do your research, and invest in a quality mower that will provide you with years of hassle-free use.
Jenny Kakoudakis likes to blog about interiors. She launched the award-winning Seasons in Colour in 2014. When she is not chasing criminals out of the financial system (her day job), she gets creative by redecorating her own home.
Download her free bathroom renovation guide here.
