The appearance and health of your grass largely depends on your lawn mower. The best lawn mowers cost hundreds of dollars, so it's best to keep your mower well maintained. Here are some important tasks that you can do to preserve and maintain the quality of your lawn mower:
- Change your lawn mower's oil every spring. You can do this yourself, or you can take it to a shop and have it done by a professional.
- Drain the gas from the engine each fall to ensure that your mower will be in optimum condition during the spring. This is because the gas becomes stale and volatile and won't be able to run your mower's engine when you start it the following spring. You can drain the gas yourself or you can use the mower until all the gas runs out.
- Change your spark plugs as needed. This is usually done every season or two.
- Replace air filters every two years. Since air filters are inexpensive, it's ideal that you keep a spare one in your garage in case you need replacements. The quality of your air filter also affects your spark plugs, so make sure that you clean it regularly to prevent clogging.
- After each use, wipe the body of your lawn mower to prevent rust and the buildup of dirt and grass.
- Clean the underside of your mower every month. Scrape off any grass clippings or dirt that have accumulated on the blades. Doing this regularly makes your blades run smoothly whenever you start your lawn mower.
- Don't mow your lawn when it is wet. The wet clippings tend to clump on the underside of your mower, creating rust. This also affects the quality of your lawn mower blades. Replace or sharpen your blades each year to ensure a more even cut.
By keeping a regular maintenance schedule and following the tips listed above, your lawn mower is guaranteed to work efficiently for a long period of time.
