Identify the size of your lawn, its shape, and the terrain. Do you have a small lot or a big open expanse? Consider also how you’re going to mow. Are you mowing along fences, up and down hills, between trees and shrubs? These things will help you determine the kind of mower that’s best for your place. You can also go online search for best electric lawn mower buyers guide. It will give you ideas on what you need and help you narrow down your choices.
As with any purchase, it’s important to have a set budget before shopping for anything. Lawn mowers don’t usually come in cheap. That’s unless you have a small and flat patch of lawn and you would settle for a manual reel mower that’s only around $100.
For small yards, electric mowers cost around $200 to $500. The bigger the lawn, the bigger the budget you need. Medium to large sized lawns often require electric mowers with more muscle that range from $500 to $2000.
Generally there are 3 types of mowers: Manual reel mowers, electric mowers, and gas engine mowers.
Manual reel mowers are the old fashioned type that spins its blade as you push it along. They have no engine, and are quiet, low maintenance, and affordable. The only problem is you have to walk it faster if you want to blades to spin faster too. So most of the time it only tends to flatten the weeds and roll smoothly over the grass. Still a good option for small and flat yards.
Push Mowers are also quiet and efficient. For corded electric mowers, just plug it in and start working. You’re cleaning range is limited by the length of the cord. But it’s okay for small lawns with minimal obstacles like shrubs and fences. If you don’t want the cord getting in your way, you can get a cordless electric mower instead.
Self-propelled mowers (gas engine) are also an option. They’re noisier, heavier, and need maintenance. But only rightly so because they’re more powerful and can easily cut tall grass and weeds.
Different mowers, different powers. If you’re doing the maintenance yourself, you don’t want to suffer with an aching back pushing a manual mower across your lawn for hours. Most small to medium scale mowers are manually pushed. Comfort is a big factor in buying an equipment. There are several brands offering mowers with seats, suspensions, and pivoting axle that generally make it easier for the user. Make sure to ask your dealer about the operability of the equipment. And don’t forget to check if you will be comfortable using it.
Consider getting a push-button start engine. This is easier than having to yank a pull cord.
Get a mower that has a washout port for easier cleaning. This port enables you clean the underside of your mower without having to tip it over.
Everybody wants a clean and well maintained lawn, free from unruly weeds and uneven grass lengths. A healthy lawn has a lot of benefits. It’s a place for kids to play on and it has a cooling effect to the air around it. A clean and well landscaped lawn also adds curb appeal to your home and definitely makes your house look prettier!
Thanks for these great tips. We could really use a new lawn mower.
This is perfect information for me. I’m looking to move to the country, and we’ll be needing a mower. More to think about than I realized.