Best Lawn Mower Guide

If you’re about to purchase a lawn mower, you could be looking at a significant investment if you’re interested in buying a quality piece of equipment.

However, if you’re going to spend the money to get something that is good, you’d better do the research to make sure you choose the right lawn mower for your yard needs. Below are some factors that you need to consider when narrowing down your mower options.

The Three Types of Mowers

Before you get too far into your mower shopping, you should learn the differences between the three major types of mowers available. You’ll want to choose the right one for your needs.

If you’re interested in having that manicured lawn look that you see in the suburbs and on home and gardening shows, you’re going to look for cylinder mowers. Because their rotating blades are vertical, they can get this close cut that you need.

The good thing about cylinder mowers is that you’ll be able to find electric, gas, and push models available to fit your power needs as well.

If you’re more worried about getting the job done in a satisfactory manner so you’re family can get back to enjoying the backyard, think about buying a rotary mower.

Unlike the cylinder models, these blades are rotating horizontally which means you can’t get that close cut but they can be better at dealing with uneven terrain as well as weeds. You’ll also find a large assortment of these types available, including self-propelled, push, gas, and electric models.

If you have a smaller yard or a lot of narrow areas which would be hard to cut with a traditional mower, you may want to consider buying a hover mower. Unlike the other mowers, these models literally float over the surface of your lawn and keep it cut without giving it that close cut some people prefer.

However, it is easier to use because of its lighter weight. It can also do the job much faster than other mowers. One drawback is that these mowers only come in electric varieties.

Power Source

In the old days, all yard work had to be done without the benefit of an engine. That meant large yards were a hassle not a blessing. Today, however, there are more options and you’ll need to carefully consider the choices available in order to pick the right one for your next lawn mower purchase.

Push or Self Propelled

Your first decision needs to be between a push or self-propelled model. Push models are generally less expensive and can do a very good job of mowing your lawn because you have total control over the cutting experience.

However, if you have a very large lawn, this may not be something you even want to consider because of the physical strain and time commitment it would require, However, push mowers are better for the environment. But they rarely come with the features for mulching, adjustable handles, or any of those extras.

Now if you’ve decided to choose a self-propelled model, you’ll have to decide between gas and electric power. There are some clear advantages to both options.

Electric Powered Mowers

Electric powered mowers do tend to be more lightweight which can be a great asset for many people who have trouble moving those heavy mowers around the lawn. Plus, that lightweight feature means you’ll be able to maneuver the mowers much easier around your lawn and that usually means a better job.

Most of them are also easier to take care of and to use than the gas-powered models, mostly because you don’t have to worry about transporting gasoline to fill them up.

Gas Powered Mowers

Gas powered models, on the other hand, are almost always capable of generating more power and that means you’ll be able to finish your mowing duties in record time. You also don’t have to worry about the engine overheating during larger jobs. Some models come with speed adjustments so you can make them even easier to use.

They even work well in damp conditions, including still wet grass. That’s not something you want to try with an electric mower. Modern gas mowers no longer rely only on the recoil method of starting either. Some have starters that make them easier to use for a larger number of people.

Now if you’ve chosen a gas-powered mower, that’s the end of your choices. However, if you’re going for an electric version, you’ll also want to consider either a corded or a cordless model. With a corded model, you’re going to need to make sure the outlet is located in a place that will allow you to reach your entire yard easily.

You’ll also have to deal with the cord trailing behind you. On the other hand, if you go for the cordless model, you’ll end up sacrificing power, as well as the length of time you can mow. Since the battery can only last so long between charges, if you have a large yard you may not get it finished on one charge.

Your Lawn

You’ll also need to factor in your own lawn when you’re deciding on a mower. For example, the size of your yard should determine the cutting width you choose in your mower. If you have a very large yard (more than three-fourths of an acre), you’re better off skipping a traditional mower altogether. Purchase a lawn tractor instead.

Otherwise, you’ll never be able to get that entire lawn cut. If you have a smaller yard (one-half to three-fourths of an acre), look for mowers that have a cutting width of at least 21 inches.

Any smaller width should be used on lawns that are smaller than one-half acre in size. With larger lawns, you’ll also want to purchase mowers with higher horse power engines so you can get the job done faster.

Final Thought

Finally, you’ll need to look at your yard’s terrain. If you have a lot of rough spots, make sure you choose a mower that can go up high enough to clear those parts. You’ll definitely want to avoid push models if you have any hills or elevated areas in your lawn.

Rear baggers and mowers with larger bag wheels are good if you have lots of obstacles to navigate while you’re mowing.



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