When you shop for lawn mowers consider the quality of the engine, the features of the mower itself and of course the size and terrain of your yard. Now here are some basic tips to make your mowing shopping a little bit easier. There are basically two different types of lawn mowers. Walk behind mowers and riding mowers. Let us take a look at both of them.
Riding mowers are ideal for yards three quarters of an acre or larger. Plus, there are many variations in engine power, mower deck size and maneuver ability. For example a zero turn radius mower is quick and turns tightly around trees, shrubs and other landscape features. Some riding mowers, generally smaller ones, have rear mounted engines which allow them to turn tightly. The traditional riding mower with the engine in the front offers engines sizes to suit lawns up to several acres in size. The mower decks come in different sizes to suit your needs. The wider the deck, the more lawn you will cut in one pass.
Walk behind mowers are the most popular mowers. Perfect for yards up to about one half to three fourths of an acre. If you have a small flat yard, a walk behind mower that you push, may be the right choice for your yard. If you have a larger yard or a sloped yard, you will probably want a self-propelled mower. One that will move forward on it’s own without you pushing it. You simply walk behind the mower to guide it.
Walk behind mowers come in a variety of sizes. It is important to match the mower to the size of your yard. Generally speaking, the larger the yard, the more powerful your mower needs to be. Look for a higher torque rating on the engine and the larger mower deck to get the job done quickly and easily.
When choosing a walk behind mower, consider the size of your yard and the type of terrain you have. If your yard sloped, a self-propelled mower that moves forward on its own will make lawn care easier. The more powerful the engine, and the larger the mower deck, the more easily you will get your mowing done. Also check out the wheels. Standard size wheels are fine for most yards but large back wheels will help you travel through rough or bumpy terrain and are helpful when mowing ditches. See our selection guide at www.yardsmarts.com.
It is good to know the key parts of the mowers so you know what you will be looking at in the store or at your lawn mower dealer. The engine is the most important part of your lawn mower. It provides the all-important cutting power and then a self propelled or riding mower, it also moves the mower forward. A durable high quality engine will make lawn care easier by starting quickly and providing the needed power to cut through even tall, thick grass.
Look for the torque rating on the engine. The higher the number, the more power the engine will provide. A mulching mower has a special blade that cuts grass blades into very small pieces and returns them to the lawn where they decompose and become a natural fertilizer. With a mulching mower, you never have to catch and dispose off clippings.
With a non-mulching mower, you can choose options that allow you to attach a bag to the back or side of the mower to catch the grass clippings as they are expelled from beneath the mower. Keep in mind that a rear bagging mower can be easier to maneuver around trees, bushes and along fences because the bag will not get into the way. A side bag works well where tress and other items are not an issue.
When you are shopping for lawn mowers, ask questions. Discuss your yard with your lawn mower dealer and compare other lawn mower brands. And do not forget, look for quality, Briggs and Stratton Engines.
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