How do you take care of your lawn mower to make it last as long as possible?
A lawnmower is one of the most important pieces of equipment in the garden, without which it is difficult to imagine maintaining a nice and well-kept lawn. However, in order for the mower to serve us for many seasons, it is necessary to take care of it in the right way. In this article, we will provide some tips to keep your lawnmower in the best possible condition.
Regular cleaning
The first step in taking proper care of your mower is to clean it regularly. After each use, remove grass residue, leaves and other debris from the mower. This can be done with a brush or blower. It is also important to regularly unscrew and clean the air filter. A dirty air filter can lead to a decrease in engine power and, in extreme cases, even engine damage.
Regular oil and oil filter change
Lawnmowers equipped with a combustion engine require regular replacement oil and oil filter. Depending on the mower model, the manufacturer may recommend replacing it every 50 or 100 operating hours. Changing the oil keeps the engine in good working order, and the oil filter prevents oil contamination and engine damage.
Spark plug replacement
Spark plug is one of the most important parts of an internal combustion engine. It is responsible for creating the spark needed to ignite the fuel-air mixture and fire the engine. Regular replacement of the spark plug helps maintain proper ignition, which affects engine performance and longevity.
Regular inspection of the condition of the cutting blades
The cutting knives are the components that are most prone to wear and tear during the operation of the mower. Therefore, it is important to regularly check their condition and replace them when they are worn out. Dull cutting knives lead to a deterioration in the quality of the cut and increase fuel consumption. Replacement or sharpening of cutting blades should be done at least once a year.
Store the mower in a suitable place
Store the mower in a dry and shady place, preferably in a garage or garden shed. It is also important to thoroughly clean the mower and dry its components after mowing to avoid corrosion and other damage.
Regular maintenance of moving parts
Moving parts of the mower, such as the starter, drive, or gas cable, chains, and wheels, require regular maintenance in order to operate smoothly. Lubricate cables and chains regularly and check that the wheels turn smoothly and without resistance.
Paying attention to weather conditions
To prolong the life of the mower, it is worth remembering that you should not mow the lawn in the rain and also when the grass is wet. In the case of an electric mower, this can be dangerous for the mower operator. On the other hand, in the case of a petrol mower, this can lead to the deterioration of the turf, as well as the failure of the machine because wet grass that sticks to the blades can cause the machine to become clogged and overheat.
Replacement of worn or damaged components
If you notice that a component of the mower is worn or damaged, do not delay in replacing it. Worn or damaged components can lead to deterioration of the mower's operation or even damage to it. Replacement of components should be carried out in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations.
In conclusion, taking care of the mower is key to its long-term use. Regular cleaning, changing the oil and filters, replacing the spark plug, checking the condition of the cutting blades, storing in a proper place, regular maintenance of moving parts, paying attention to weather conditions, and replacing worn or damaged parts will all keep your mower in the best possible condition for many seasons to come.
