A well-manicured lawn is the heart of any beautiful yard, and proper lawn mowing maintenance is key to keeping it healthy and vibrant. Regular mowing not only keeps your grass looking tidy but also promotes even growth, improves nutrient distribution, and helps prevent weeds. Consistency in lawn care practices ensures your yard stays lush, green, and inviting throughout the seasons.
However, achieving the perfect lawn requires more than just cutting the grass—it’s about timing, technique, and knowing what your yard needs to thrive. In Denver, Mile High Lifescape is the trusted expert in tree and lawn care, offering professional services to keep your lawn in top shape. Ready to elevate your yard with expert maintenance?
Let’s explore how proper mowing practices can transform your outdoor space!
Why Lawn Mowing Maintenance Matters
Taking care of your lawn mower is important to keep your lawn looking its best. Regular lawn mowing maintenance helps your mower work well and last longer. Here are 5 easy tips to keep your mower in top shape:
Sharpen the Blades Regularly
Sharp blades make a clean cut, while dull blades tear the grass, causing it to turn brown and making it more likely to get sick. Sharpen your mower blades at least once a season for a clean, healthy cut.
Change the Oil
Just like a car, your lawn mower needs clean oil to run smoothly. Changing the oil regularly helps prevent the engine from wearing out and keeps it running efficiently. Check your mower’s manual to see when it’s time for an oil change.
Clean or Replace the Air Filter
A clean air filter helps the mower’s engine run better. If the filter gets clogged, it can slow the engine down or even damage it. Clean or replace the air filter to keep things running smoothly.
Inspect the Spark Plug
The spark plug helps start your mower and keeps it running well. Check it regularly for any signs of damage or buildup. If needed, replace it to make sure your mower starts easily and runs reliably.
Keep the Deck Clean
Grass clippings and debris can get stuck under the mower’s deck, making it work harder and leading to rust. After mowing, clean the deck to keep it in good shape, help the mower cut evenly, and make it last longer.
The 10 Steps of Lawn Mowing Maintenance
At some point, you may need to replace your lawn mower, but by following these 10 simple maintenance steps, you can make your mower last longer and avoid expensive repairs in the future. Regular lawn mowing maintenance is key to keeping your mower running smoothly.
Step 1: Keep the Fuel Fresh
Fuel that sits in your mower for too long can clog the carburetor. If you use your mower regularly, this isn’t usually a problem. But if it sits unused for over 30 days, you should add a fuel stabilizer. It’s a cheap product, costing less than $10, and can be found at most garden stores.
Adding it before storing your mower for the off-season can save you from costly repairs, like needing a professional cleaning of the carburetor. Always follow the instructions on the product, and check your mower’s manual for more details.
Step 2: Change the Oil Regularly
Changing the oil in your mower helps the engine last longer. Oil keeps the engine parts moving smoothly and prevents them from overheating. Be sure to refill the oil to the correct level as shown on the dipstick.
Don’t add too much, though! It’s also a good idea to use high-quality oil to help the engine run better and save on fuel. Check your mower’s manual to know how often to change the oil.
Step 3: Invest in a Reliable Battery
A fully charged battery makes your mower work better. It helps power the mower’s lights, sensors, blades, and other parts. Make sure the battery is always charged and in good condition for maximum performance.
Step 4: Keep the Mower Deck Clean
Grass clippings can build up under the mower deck, leading to rust. After mowing, rinse the deck with water and wipe it down. Use a blower or scrub brush to clean areas that are harder to reach. Some people also use silicone spray to keep the deck clean and prevent buildup.
Step 5: Replace the Spark Plugs
Spark plugs are really important for starting your lawn mower. They provide the electricity needed for the engine to start and run. You should replace the spark plug every 100 hours of use, or sooner if the engine is running rough.
If the mower isn’t starting well, it might be time for a new spark plug. A spark plug costs around $5 to $10, depending on the size of your mower. Always check the owner’s manual for specific instructions on when and how to replace it.
Step 6: Sharpen the Blades
Sharp blades are key to cutting grass well. Dull blades make the engine work harder, and they can tear the grass instead of cutting it cleanly. This can leave your lawn looking white and ragged for a few days. If you mow often or have fast-growing grass, sharpen the blades regularly.
It’s also a good idea to keep an extra set of blades just in case. A new set of blades costs around $30, depending on your mower size. For safety, always use the blades that are recommended by the manufacturer.
Step 7: Clean the Air Filter
The air filter helps the engine get the right amount of air for burning fuel properly. Over time, dust and grass clippings can clog the filter, which makes it harder for the engine to run smoothly. Clean the filter with mild soap and water, or replace it if it’s too worn out.
Cleaning or replacing the filter helps your mower run better. Air filters usually cost less than $10. Check your mower’s manual to know when to clean or replace it.
Step 8: Replace the Fuel Filter
For your lawn mower to run smoothly, it needs clean fuel. The fuel filter helps clean the gas as it moves from the tank to the engine.
Sometimes, dirt from the gas can get into the tank, but the filter catches it before it reaches the engine. Smaller lawn mowers might not have a fuel filter, but larger mowers usually do. Check the filter regularly and replace it if it’s dirty.
Also, if you have smaller equipment, remember to check and replace the fuel primer bulb. Always read your mower’s manual to know when to clean or replace the fuel filter.
Step 9: Maintain Proper Tire Pressure
Believe it or not, the air pressure in your mower’s tires affects how evenly the grass is cut. If the tire pressure is low on one or more tires, it can make the mower uneven, leaving parts of your lawn too high or too short.
Proper tire pressure also makes your ride smoother and prevents putting extra strain on the engine. Regularly check the tire pressure and make sure the tires are in good condition for the best results.
Step 10: Check and Service the Belts
Check the belts on your mower for any cracks or signs of wear. If the belts are damaged, they can break or cause the mower to stop working properly. Belts are what help turn the pulleys and make the blades spin, so worn-out belts mean less power and harder cutting.
If your mower is used on slopes, it’s especially important to keep the belts in good condition so the mower can perform at its best.
How to Maintain a Lawn Mower?
Many people take their lawn mowers to a professional for service at the start or end of the mowing season, but others prefer to handle the maintenance themselves. Taking care of your mower can be a messy job, but it’s necessary to keep it running well. If you decide to do your own lawn mowing maintenance, here are some simple tips to help you:
- Review the Owner’s Manual for Guidelines: The best way to avoid damaging your lawn mower is by understanding how it works. The owner’s manual gives you all the info you need to take care of your mower and make it last longer.
- Remove or Disconnect the Spark Plug: It’s important to remove the spark plug before starting maintenance. You should replace the spark plug every year to help your mower start easily, and removing it also keeps things safe by preventing the mower from accidentally starting.
- Empty the Gas Tank (If It’s the End of the Season): At the end of the season, it’s a good idea to drain out any leftover gasoline. You can either let the mower run until it uses up all the gas or drain it out. Starting the season with fresh gas helps your mower start up better.
- Give Your Lawn Mower a Thorough Cleaning: Cleaning the mower is essential for good performance. Make sure to remove any grass, dirt, or debris stuck under the mower after each use.
- Refill or Change the Oil: Check your owner’s manual to learn how to change the oil. If the oil is old or dirty, drain it out and add fresh oil. Be sure to dispose of the old oil properly by taking it to a recycling center.
- Clean or Replace the Air Filter: A clean air filter helps your mower work at its best. If it’s clogged, clean it or replace it with a new one following the manual’s instructions.
- Sharpen and Balance the Blades: Over time, the blades can get dull. While you can sharpen them yourself, it’s usually best to let a professional handle it unless you’re comfortable doing it.
- Protect the Engine by Fogging It: If your mower will sit unused during winter, the engine could get damaged from moisture in the air. Fogging oil helps prevent this by protecting the engine from rust. Check the manual to see if your mower needs this, and be sure to follow the directions carefully.
These easy lawn mowing maintenance steps will help keep your mower running smoothly and ensure you get the most out of each mowing season!
Mile High Lifescape: Best Lawn Care Service in Denver
Mile High Lifescape is Denver’s premier lawn care service, dedicated to transforming your outdoor space into a lush, vibrant oasis. With nearly two decades of experience, our team offers comprehensive services tailored to your lawn’s unique needs, ensuring both beauty and health.
From regular mowing and edging to fertilization and weed control, we employ best practices to maintain your lawn’s pristine condition year-round. Our commitment to customer satisfaction and attention to detail has earned us a reputation as the go-to lawn care experts in Denver.
Lawn Mowing Maintenance FAQs
What maintenance does a lawn mower need?
Regular maintenance includes cleaning the mower deck, changing the oil, replacing or cleaning the air filter, sharpening the blades, and checking the spark plug. These steps ensure optimal performance and longevity.
How do I maintain my riding lawn mower?
For riding mowers, in addition to standard maintenance, inspect the battery, check tire pressure, and ensure the belts are in good condition. Regularly clean the undercarriage and lubricate moving parts to keep the mower running smoothly.
How often should you service a lawn mower?
It’s recommended to service your lawn mower at least once a year, preferably before the mowing season begins. However, frequent use may necessitate more regular maintenance checks to ensure optimal performance.
Conclusion
Lawn mowing maintenance is key to keeping your yard looking fresh and healthy. Simple steps like sharpening blades, changing oil, and cleaning air filters help your mower run better and last longer. These tips make mowing easier and ensure your grass stays neat and green. For expert care, Mile High Lifescape provides top-notch lawn services in Denver, taking the hassle out of yard work. With their help, you can enjoy a lush, beautiful lawn all season long!
