5 Things You Should Know Before Buying a Lawn Mower

Maintaining a healthy, beautiful lawn starts with the right lawn mower. As a homeowner, choosing the best lawn mower can feel overwhelming given the variety of options and features available. Whether you have a small patch of grass or a large yard, selecting the right mower is essential for efficient and enjoyable lawn care. To help you make the best decision, here are the five key things you need to know before buying a lawn mower.

1. Understand the Different Types of Lawn Mowers

Not all lawn mowers are created equal. There are several types, each suited for different needs. Knowing the options available will help you choose the one that best fits your yard and lifestyle.

Push Lawn Mowers:

These are ideal for smaller yards and homeowners looking for a budget-friendly option. With push mowers, you’ll be doing most of the work as they require manual effort to move across the lawn. They offer a great workout and are a cost-effective solution for maintaining small, flat lawns.

Self-Propelled Lawn Mowers:

For medium to large lawns, or if you want to make mowing less strenuous, self-propelled mowers are a great choice. These mowers have a motor that drives the wheels, making it easier to move them over uneven or hilly terrain. All you need to do is steer them in the right direction.

Electric Lawn Mowers:

If you’re environmentally conscious or looking for a mower that’s low maintenance, an electric lawn mower might be for you. They are available in battery-powered models. While they are quieter and more eco-friendly, electric mowers are generally suited for regular sized lawns since the battery life or cord length can limit range.

Ride on Lawn Mowers:

For homeowners with large properties, riding mowers are the most efficient option. They allow you to cover large areas quickly without tiring yourself out. Riding mowers come in various sizes and models, with features that make them easy to operate even over extended periods.

2. Consider Your Lawn Size and Terrain

The size and layout of your lawn will significantly influence the type of mower you should buy.

Small Lawns:

For a small lawn, a push or electric mower can do the job efficiently. These mowers are typically lightweight and easy to maneuver, allowing you to get around tight corners and obstacles with ease.

Large Lawns:

If you have a larger lawn, a self-propelled or riding mower is a better investment. These machines cover more ground in less time and reduce the physical effort required. Riding mowers are especially ideal if you have a lawn over half an acre.

Hilly or Uneven Terrain:

If your lawn has slopes or uneven terrain, you’ll need a mower that can handle it without stalling or becoming difficult to push. Self-propelled mowers or riding mowers with excellent traction and larger wheels are best for these conditions.

3. Look for Key Features that Matter

When it comes to lawn mowers, certain features can make all the difference in performance and convenience. Here are some of the most important ones to consider:

• Engine Power: For gas-powered mowers, the engine’s horsepower or cubic centimeter (cc) rating determines how powerful the mower is. More power is ideal for large or thick lawns, while a lower-power mower may suffice for smaller, well-maintained yards.
• Cutting Width: The wider the cutting deck, the more grass the mower can cut in a single pass. For small lawns, a narrow cutting width (around 20 inches) is fine, while larger lawns benefit from wider cutting decks, up to 30 inches or more.
• Mulching, Bagging, and Discharge Options: Many modern mowers offer three modes: mulching, bagging, and side discharge. Mulching mowers cut grass finely and return it to the lawn as natural fertilizer, while bagging collects clippings for disposal. Side discharge is useful for quick mowing but leaves clippings behind. Choose a model with multiple options for greater flexibility.

4. Prioritize Ease of Use and Maneuverability

Mowing the lawn shouldn’t be a chore, and selecting a mower that’s easy to handle will make your lawn care routine much more enjoyable.

• Weight and Handling: Push mowers can vary greatly in weight, with some being much easier to handle than others. For small or intricate lawns, lightweight electric mowers or self-propelled models will be much easier to maneuver around trees, flower beds, or lawn furniture.
• Self-Propelled vs. Push Mowers: If you prefer minimal physical effort, opt for a self-propelled mower. These machines handle much of the work, allowing you to simply guide them where you want them to go. Push mowers, on the other hand, offer more control but require more exertion.
• Adjustable Handle Heights: Comfort is key, so look for mowers with adjustable handles to match your height. This helps prevent back strain and makes the task more comfortable, especially if you have a larger lawn to mow.

5. Don’t Forget About Maintenance and Longevity

Just like any other piece of outdoor equipment, your lawn mower needs proper maintenance to ensure it lasts and performs well over time.

• Maintenance Requirements: Gas mowers need more maintenance than electric ones, including oil changes, spark plug replacements, and air filter cleaning. Electric mowers are lower maintenance but may require battery or cord replacements over time.
• Warranty and Servicing: Check if the mower comes with a good warranty. A robust warranty can save you a lot of money in repairs, especially for more complex models like self-propelled or riding mowers. Some brands offer extended service plans that cover regular maintenance and repairs.

Taking these factors into consideration will not only help you choose the right mower but also ensure you get the most out of your investment.

Make an Informed Decision for a Healthy Lawn

Choosing the right lawn mower can seem overwhelming, but focusing on these five key aspects

• Types of mowers
• Lawn size and terrain
• Important features
• Ease of use
• Maintenance

will make the process much simpler. Whether you’re mowing a small city lawn or a sprawling suburban yard, selecting the right equipment will keep your lawn looking its best and save you time and effort.

Ready to find your perfect lawn mower? Explore our wide range of high-quality mowers at Parkland Products, designed to meet the needs of every homeowner.