5 Things NOT To Do To Your Lawnmower

In the world of backyard maintenance, your lawnmower plays a crucial role. It keeps your lawn neat and presentable, enhancing your home's curb appeal. However, many people unknowingly commit several lawn mower mistakes to avoid. Maintaining your lawnmower appropriately doesn't just extend its life—it ensures you'll have a healthier looking lawn. Let’s explore five common blunders and how you can sidestep them.

1. Neglect Regular Maintenance

Your lawnmower is much like any other piece of machinery; it requires regular upkeep. Many owners ignore this simple truth. Routine maintenance includes changing the oil, checking spark plugs, and changing the oil, checking spark plugs, and cleaning out the air filter. This maintenance keeps your engine running efficiently and reduces the risk of breakdowns. You wouldn’t neglect car maintenance—your lawnmower deserves the same attention!

Unfortunately, neglecting a maintenance schedule can lead to decreased performance. A lawnmower that sputters and stalls might signal the need for maintenance. An unsharpened blade can tear rather than cut grass, leaving your yard looking uneven and unhealthy. Proper upkeep increases your mower’s lifespan, saving you money in the long run. Here are some key maintenance tasks:

• Change the oil every 25-50 hours of mowing.
• Check and replace the spark plug annually.
• Clean or replace air filters regularly.
• Sharpen the blades at least twice a season.

2. Mow Over Large Debris

Large obstacles in your lawn pose a significant risk to your mower. Running over rocks, sticks, or other objects can seriously damage the blade, or worse, harm the machine’s engine. Taking a few extra minutes to walk through your yard before mowing can prevent these mishaps. Carefully remove any visible debris. Protecting your mower prevents costly repairs!

Keep in mind, mowing over debris not only damages your equipment—it can also fling hazardous objects into the air. This poses a risk to windows, property, and even people nearby. Always emphasize safety first! Here are a few steps to help:

• Conduct a quick scan of your yard for debris.
• Move any movable objects out of the way.
• Dispose of rocks and sticks properly.

3. Cut Wet Grass

Mowing a wet lawn can create a whole mess—literally! Wet grass clumps and sticks to the mower’s undercarriage, leading to clogging issues. A clogged deck can strain the engine, leading to increased wear and possibly shortening the mower’s lifespan. In addition, wet grass blades don’t cut as cleanly, often tearing and resulting in ragged, unattractive edges.

Moreover, mowing wet grass increases the risk of accidents. Slippery conditions can cause you to lose control of the mower, making it a safety hazard. Wait for the grass to dry after rain. This will ensure both your safety and the health of your lawn.

Avoid These Rainy Day Mistakes

• Wait until your lawn dries completely.
• Regularly inspect the deck for clogs.

4. Store Improperly

Your storage habits have a significant impact on your lawnmower’s longevity. Leaving it exposed to the elements can cause rust, corrosion, and other damage. Rain and humidity can wreak havoc on metal components, leading to rust that is difficult to fix. While a tarp offers some protection, it isn’t the best solution.

Storing your mower correctly involves more than just keeping it dry. Fuel stabilizers should be added to the tank for off-season storage, preventing the fuel from degrading and damaging your engine. Ideally, use a garage or shed to protect your lawnmower. And remember: clean your mower before storing it. Grass clippings can hold moisture and promote rust.

5. Use the Wrong Fuel

Fuel is the lifeline of your lawnmower’s engine. Using the wrong type can cause serious damage. Most lawnmowers require gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher, and it's essential to avoid high ethanol content. Ethanol attracts moisture, leading to the formation of deposits inside the engine. These deposits can cause performance issues and reduce your mower's efficiency.

Make a habit of reading the owner's manual for specific fuel recommendations. Fresh fuel is necessary as stale fuel can break down over time, causing clogs in the engine system. Here are some essential tips for fueling your mower correctly:

Fuel Tips

• Consult the owner's manual for the fuel type.
• Always use fresh, good-quality gasoline.
• Avoid using high-ethanol-concentration fuel.

Taking proper care of your lawnmower by avoiding these common mistakes will keep your lawn looking pristine. Just like any prized possession, a little attention and care for your equipment go a long way. Protect your investment and enjoy a vibrant, healthy lawn season after season!

Related Blog

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• How to Change Your Lawn Mower Air Filter: Quick Guide