You would agree that a lawn is beautiful when the grass is well-cut. Thus, to achieve this, you should cut the grass; perhaps even trimming would be better. Sometimes homeowners decided to cut their grass manually; that is never a good idea. Truth be told, the grass will be uneven, and everyone will notice the difference.
When you want to buy a new lawnmower you have to look at the following points:
- The type of lawnmower
- Size of the lawn
- Terrain
- Deck size
- Power
- Attachments
- Performance
- Comfort
- Durability
- Your budget
Contents
Types and Features of Lawn Mowers
First, getting the best lawnmower is not an easy job. You have to pay close attention to its components to gauge whether it is the right one. You should note that cutting grass is a nightmare if you do not have the right machine.
Therefore, don’t be in a hurry while purchasing a lawnmower. This is where most people go wrong. They think that having money is enough to get the perfect fit. You need to consider some vital factors to get the right lawnmower.
While some are lucky to find one without much struggle, others are not so fortunate. If you are not confident that you will pick the right lawnmower, ask a friend who has mower experience to accompany you. After all, two heads are better than one! Below are the types of lawnmowers, their pros, and their cons.
●1. Gas or Electric:
– Electric Lawnmowers: Corded Vs. Cordless
It feels nice to have a neat lawn, especially if you are expecting guests. You can only achieve that if you invest in a grass cutter, and that is where a lawnmower comes in. Gone are the days when people used to cut their grass manually.
Additionally, because cutting grass has become an art, it needs perfection. Meaning, you need to purchase the right device for this job. Obviously, you don’t want a bushy compound when you are expecting guests. Moreover, lawnmowers are affordable and accessible. If you are not sure about which lawnmower to buy, this article gives insight into different types of lawnmowers to consider.
– Gas mowers
This type uses gas to operate and is easy to maneuver, powerful, and does a good job. Additionally, this type is meant for heavy-duty tasks. The downside with gas mowers is that they are noisy. They are not the best if you live in a neighborhood that does not tolerate noise.
Moreover, gas mowers are heavy and challenging to operate individually. You will need help to move them around which is inconvenient as it takes time to start and operate. Lastly, they use a lot of fuel and require regular maintenance to function optimally.
●2. Front-wheel
These are easy to manoeuvre and use and don’t need high notch experience to operate. Many people prefer using this lawn mower because of its efficiency. However, it only produces excellent results in flat lawns.
Note; don’t make the mistake of using a front wheel in a hilly place.
●3. Four-wheel
This mower is loved by many because it is fast, powerful, and does wonder in a hilly landscape. It works in any environment, which makes it the perfect choice for all terrains. If you do not know the type of mower that fits your yard, go for a four-wheel, and you will not be disappointed.
Despite its pros, it has cons that should be considered before buying. First, it is heavy and needs a heavy workforce. You cannot go about your business of cutting the grass without an adequate workforce. Moreover, it is expensive.
Lastly, getting a mower that can work on any terrain is not a simple thing. But for this type, you can use it in your yard and rent it to people. It is a good investment if you have the cash.
●4. Rear-wheel
Rear wheels are perfect for uneven and sloppy terrain. They are efficient and do a good job. Many people with hills on their yards use rear wheels for a quick fix. The main challenge with this mower is that it is uncomfortable when turning. Lastly, you spend a lot of time and energy maneuvering around this machine. Such is because you have to stop from time to time to lift this model.
●5. Rotary mower
A rotary lawnmower is wonderful for uneven terrain. However, it requires an engine to operate. But the downside after using this model is your grass will look unkempt once it dries up. Reason being that the grass gets bent during the cutting process.
Initially, people bought this type with the hope of receiving excellent services. Some of them did not understand how rotary mowers work. Therefore, they regretted their decision to buy the machine. While it is affordable, the device will not provide you with a neat-looking service. It is best used in unexposed lawns.
●6. Mechanical mower
This is one of the best mowers because it is environmentally friendly, affordable, and silent during operations. Nothing compares to a machine that does an excellent job without producing some sound. Furthermore, a mechanical mower is suitable for young grass as well. Instead of waiting for the grass to grow immensely, you can be cutting it little by little. Another added advantage of a mechanical mower is that it works in any weather.
Note, a corded lawn mower cannot work in a wet environment. You have to wait until the rain stops before you proceed. Regardless of its benefits, a mechanical mower has its challenges. It requires some workforce to move and operate.
As the user, you will also be required to have excellent operating skills since it can be disastrous if mishandled. Additionally, pushing the mower is time-consuming and uses a lot of energy.
Just a heads up, be ready to sweat when using this mower because it does not do an excellent job in dense grass. Consider these challenges before you buy a mechanical lawnmower.
Things to Consider when Buying a Lawn Mower
Whether you are a new homeowner or a professional who wants to improve your compound, it is essential to invest in the right lawnmower. Do you want a mower that is fast and efficient? You can cut quickly and save the money you could have used to hire a professional. Previously, people used to hire professional lawn mowers until they discovered the secret- a good mower. Mowers are easy to use and require little attention.
All of them have wheels to move around and cut grass. Another added advantage of using a lawnmower is that you do not use a lot of energy. It is powered by electricity, which gives you an easy time. There are several styles of lawnmowers, such as push mowers, robotic mowers, and riding mowers. Lawnmowers can be affordable or expensive, depending on what you want. If you do not want to spend a ton of money on a lawnmower, find out if there is one that fits your budget.
You should consider many factors when buying a lawnmower. These factors will give you an easier experience when cutting the grass.
● Size of the lawn:
You need to consider lawn size before you buy a lawnmower. If you buy a mower that is bigger than your yard, you will have trouble cutting the grass evenly. Secondly, you will use a lot of energy pushing the mower around frustrated, and you might even give up entirely.
Therefore, double-check the size of your lawn before you purchase a lawnmower. The size of the lawn determines the kind of mower to use. A big yard needs a gas mower to cover the entire space.
● Terrain:
You must consider the terrain of your compound when purchasing a mower. Know whether the yard is sloppy or flat. Moreover, determine if there are hills and places that may be hard to navigate. If you are a small homeowner with a flat lawn, you can use a push lawnmower. However, if the yard has hills, use a self-propelled mower to navigate the place. The terrain determines which lawn mower you buy.
● Deck size:
The size of the deck determines the width of the blades on a mower. A big deck needs big blades. Most people prefer the blades to be 30′ to 60.’ Note that the deck size is vital because wide ones cut large paths easily, thus saving your time and allowing you to focus on other things. However, this is possible only if your yard is flat. While wider decks cut grass quickly, they make it challenging to navigate obstacles.
● Power:
Lawnmowers are powered by electricity and Gas. Gas mowers are advantageous because they have more power and last longer compared to electric mowers. However, gas mowers are difficult to use because they come with pull cords and are hectic to maintain. On the contrary, electric mowers are efficient, easy to use, cleaner, and quieter. However, these electric mowers are not as powerful as gas mowers.
● Attachments:
Some lawnmowers come with attachments to increase efficiency. Ensure that you get all the attachments that increase the utility of a mower you buy.
● Performance:
Before you buy a lawnmower, check its performance. Do not buy something for the sake of it. Some stores do not accept returns, and it will be a big loss if you buy an expensive mower that is useless.
While it is an excellent idea to have a mower that is similar to that of your friend, it may not be the right one for you. As stated above, you need to consider the terrain of your yard. Your friend may have a flat yard, and that is why a certain mower works for him/her. The most crucial factor to consider when buying a lawnmower is performance. It will save you the pain and agony of cutting the grass. Moreover, it will save you time and energy.
A good mower is long-lasting and requires little maintenance. There is a reason why they say cheap is expensive. Be ready to spend if you want a good mower. You can wait until you have enough money so that you do not buy a poor-quality mower. Once you are sure that a certain mower matches your lawn and budget, buy it. Also, go to a shop with something in mind.
One of the reasons why people buy bad mowers is because they do not know what they are looking for. They expect the shop attendant to recommend and sell them quality mowers without knowing their lawns. A shop attendant only wants to sell, simple. He/she may not have your best interest at heart. Some shops allow customers to test the mowers on their lawns before buying. Take advantage of this offer before you buy.
● Comfort:
Is the lawnmower comfortable to use? Go for one that is easy to manipulate and move around. Otherwise, you will spend a lot of energy navigating the mower around your lawn. There is no need to buy a lawnmower that will give you a hard time.
If you are comfortable with how it looks, feels, and works, buy it. Don’t let someone convince you to buy a mower that you are not sure about. After all, you are the one paying for it. A shop attendant can only recommend a brand to you, but not force it down your throat. If you feel pressured, go to the next shop.
● Durability:
Buy a machine that will last long enough. You know you have found a good lawnmower when the pull cord is replaceable. Buy mowers from established brands. You can also look at reviews only to know the best ones in the market. Another tip is to consult an expert. It could be a friend who has mown his/her yard before. It helps if you have the same terrain. You can never go wrong with buying from an established brand. They are usually more expensive than the rest in the market. However, the fact that it is costly does not mean that it will do a good job.
● Your budget:
You may be wondering if spending a couple of dollars on a mower is a good idea. Besides extra features that come with expensive mowers, most of them are long-lasting. Moreso, they come with a warranty, which means that you can return the mower if it becomes faulty before the stipulated period.
Meaning you will save money by buying an expensive mower. There will be a few repairs, compared to cheap ones. You may think that you are saving by buying a cheap mower, but you will spend more on repairs.
You will only realize the mistake when you start doing countless repairs. Save yourself such trouble by buying a quality mower once and for all. If you have less cash, save it until it reaches the expected amount. You will thank yourself for waiting.
● Check out your local dealer:
Some people think they cannot get quality products from local dealers. Just because the person is not located in an expensive area does not mean that his/her products are bad. You may find a good mower at a fair price locally.
If you have transacted with the local dealer before, you might have confidence in him/her. Buying from a local dealer is good because the person is easily accessible, and in case you want a repair, you know who to go to. Moreover, you can get the best advice on which mower to buy from dealers around you. Such is because they know you live near them, and they are in fear of tarnishing their reputation.
● Adjust the cutting height:
Try to adjust the cutting height to see if it works properly. A good lawn mower should have adjustable cutting height. If you cannot adjust the height after a few attempts, move to the next one. It might take a while before you find the right one, but do not settle for a bad one.
Take time to analyze the features to get the best one. Don’t forget to check the hour meter. Lawn tractors need maintenance based on usage. Go for a lawnmower with an in-built hour meter to track usage. You can set aside the cost for the meter usage, but having an in-built meter eliminates stress.
Corded Lawn Mowers
As the name suggests, corded lawnmowers use cords to connect to power. They are used by many because they are efficient. Below are the pros of corded lawnmowers.
●1. Unlimited time of operation:
The corded mower is considered the best based on its time efficiency. Once it is connected to electricity, you can operate it for an unlimited time. Unlike cordless mower, which restricts users to a certain duration? If you have a big yard that will take some time to clear, use a corded lawnmower.
●2. Affordable:
The corded lawnmower is more affordable than a cordless mower. Moreover, you get excellent service using a corded lawn. People who have used this mower attest to its efficiency. The fact that it does not need a battery to operate makes it less expensive.
●3. It is silent:
Similar to the cordless lawnmower, the corded lawnmower operates quietly. Many people are sensitive and prefer to work in a quiet environment. Mowers that make a lot of noise make it difficult to focus on the task at hand. If you are the type that loves silence, a corded lawn mower is perfect for you.
Disadvantages of Corded Lawn Mowers
-1. Carrying a cord
A corded lawn mower needs a cord to operate. This means that you have to carry a cord with you to the garden. It can be an obstacle when you are cutting grass. Moreover, you need to look after the cord to prevent any harm. Carrying a cord to the garden is an obstruction because you must focus on it.
-2. Restricted operation space
The cord is connected to the power source, which means that you can pull it as you like. The cord may be short, and this limits the amount of grass you cut. It is inconvenient if you have a big yard. Furthermore, you need to install power sockets in the yard, which is an added cost. Therefore, a corded lawnmower is only ideal for a small space.
-3. Dangerous
Because corded lawnmowers are connected to a power source, they pose great danger. You have to be extra cautious if you have children around. Most people opt for cordless mowers because they are risk-free.
Moreover, corded lawnmowers are also dangerous to users. They use high power, which makes the blades worse than any traction machine. The blades can cut bones and flesh within minutes. Thus, avoid corded lawnmowers if you are not a professional. Corded mowers have hurt many people. If you must use them, have an expert around.
-4. Difficult to start
Connecting the cord to the power source may take some time. It is not suitable for those who are in a hurry to finish cutting the grass.
Cordless Lawn Mower
A cordless lawn mower operates without a cord. It is convenient and easy to use. Below are the pros and cons of the cordless lawnmower.
Advantages of a Cordless Lawn Mowers
-1. Unlimited area of operation
Unlike a corded mower, which is limited by a cord, a cordless lawn mower moves around free. It is not tied down by a wire. It can cut grass in any part of the garden. The fact that it is not connected to a power source makes it easy for cordless mowers to cover large areas.
-2. Affordable
Cordless lawnmowers are affordable because they are not connected to a power source. Moreover, there is no need to create power sockets in the yard, which reduces expenses.
-3. Easy to use
Cordless lawn mowers are built in such a way that even children can operate them. Once you press the start button, you are good to go. This is not the case with corded mowers that require users to connect the cords to operate.
-4. Easy to store
Cordless lawn mowers are easy to store because they do not have extra attachments. You only need a box to keep it, and you are good to go. On the contrary, corded lawnmowers come with wires that easily tangle, which makes them hard to store. Moreover, you need to be careful where you keep the corded mower to preserve the wires. You can keep a cordless mower in the kitchen without any precautions.
-5. Silent
Another added advantage of using a cordless lawn mower is that it operates quietly. If you live in a strict neighborhood where any kind of noise is not tolerated, a cordless lawn mower has you covered. You can cut grass without people calling you to complain about the noise you are making. It is also ideal if you have a baby. The grass is cut during the day, and babies sleep at the same time. If you want a mower that will allow your baby to catch the afternoon nap in peace, the cordless mower is the one.
Disadvantages of Cordless Lawn Mower
-1. Needs batteries to operate
The fact that a cordless lawn mower is not connected to a power source does not mean that it lacks other attachments. You need batteries to operate it and an operations store if batteries die. That is why you need quality batteries to run a cordless lawnmower. Moreover, buying and replacing batteries is expensive and makes cordless lawn mowers inconvenient to most people.
-2. Limited cutting time
A full battery can only last for 90 minutes. Once the 90 minutes are over, you have to stop and recharge the battery before you continue. This is inconvenient and time-consuming. You keep checking on the battery to see if you still have time.
Take-Home
Based on the pros and cons of corded and cordless lawnmowers, the latter is better. A cordless lawn mower is efficient, easy to operate, does not need a cord to work, and easy to store. On the contrary, corded lawn mowers need skills to perform. Using a corded mower is cumbersome and can be frustrating. You cannot use it without power. However, you can use cordless lawnmowers provided that the battery is full. Despite its challenges, a cordless lawn mower is the best among the two. It has unlimited space of operation and cuts grass evenly.
Moreover, there is no cord to look after and the added expense of installing power sockets in your yard. Buy a simple lawnmower, gives you an easy time when cutting the grass. Some mowers are hectic and do a bad job. At the end of the day, you want a well-cut lawn. You want a machine that is safe for the environment and gives you good results.
Moreover, a cordless lawn mower is vital because it can cover a large area. It is more superior to a corded mower. A cordless lawn mower is more expensive but does a good job.
Is it worth investing in a cordless lawnmower?
Investing in a cordless lawnmower is worth it for its ease of use, silent operation, and unlimited area of operation. It’s efficient and convenient for a well-cut lawn.
What are the best practices for storing a lawnmower during the off-season?
To store your lawnmower during the off-season, clean it thoroughly, empty the fuel tank, and store it in a dry, covered area. Make sure to follow manufacturer recommendations for long-term storage.
Can you recommend the best brand for lawnmowers?
When it comes to lawnmowers, I recommend going for a cordless option. Easy to use, silent, and no cords to worry about. It’s the best choice for efficiency and convenience.
I never thought about the size of the deck affecting the cutting efficiency.
Thank you for sharing your insights! The size of the deck does play a significant role in the cutting efficiency of a lawnmower. It’s important to consider all factors before making a purchase decision.
How often should I expect to do maintenance on a lawnmower?
Maintenance on a lawnmower should be done at least once a year. This includes cleaning the machine, changing the oil, sharpening the blades, and checking the spark plugs. Regular maintenance ensures that your lawnmower runs smoothly and efficiently.
I completely agree! Keeping a well-cut lawn is essential for a beautiful home.
Thank you, Annette! A well-cut lawn does indeed enhance the beauty of a home. Choosing the right lawnmower is key to achieving that perfect look.
How do I know if my terrain is suitable for a particular type of lawnmower?
To determine if your terrain is suitable for a specific lawnmower, consider factors like terrain, size of the lawn, and deck size. These will help you find the right fit for your needs.
What are the main differences between gas and electric lawnmowers?
Gas lawnmowers are powerful and noisy, while electric lawnmowers are quieter and easier to maintain. Gas mowers are best for large lawns, while electric mowers are better for smaller spaces.
Do you have any recommendations for budget-friendly lawnmowers?
For a budget-friendly lawnmower, I recommend a cordless mower. It’s easy to use, store, and operates quietly. Consider the features that suit your lawn best.
Are there any safety tips for using a lawnmower?
Lawnmower safety tips include wearing protective gear, avoiding children and pets while mowing, checking the area for debris, and understanding how to operate the mower safely.
This article has completely changed my perspective on lawnmowers.
“I’m glad to hear that the article was able to change your perspective, George! Finding the right lawnmower can make a big difference in maintaining a beautiful lawn.”
I’m excited to start shopping for a new lawnmower after reading this article.
“Ivan, I’m glad to hear you’re excited about shopping for a new lawnmower! Make sure to consider the size of your lawn, terrain, and budget to find the perfect match. Happy mowing!”
I didn’t realize how important attachments are for a lawnmower until reading this.
I’m glad the blog post was helpful in understanding the importance of attachments for a lawnmower. It’s crucial to have the right tools to achieve a well-cut lawn. Thank you for reading!
I appreciate the detailed breakdown of different types of lawnmowers. Very informative.
Thank you so much, Veronica! I’m glad you found the breakdown helpful. Enjoy your beautifully cut lawn!
I love how thorough this article is in explaining everything about lawnmowers.
Thank you so much, Christine! I’m glad you found the article helpful in choosing the right lawnmower for your needs. Happy mowing!
Thank you for the valuable insights into choosing the right lawnmower.
Thank you for reading the blog post, Corey! I’m glad you found the insights valuable in choosing the right lawnmower for your needs. Happy mowing!
Are there any specific features I should look for in a lawnmower for hilly terrain?
When purchasing a lawnmower for hilly terrain, consider a four-wheel mower for power and versatility. Ensure it is durable and comfortable for best performance. Happy mowing, Ellen!
I didn’t know there were so many factors to consider when buying a lawnmower.
Thank you for reading the post, Wayne! There are indeed many factors to consider when buying a lawnmower for a well-cut lawn.
I had no idea that corded lawnmowers could be dangerous. Thanks for the warning.
Thank you for reading and taking the warning seriously, Joan. A well-cut lawn is a beautiful sight, but it’s important to prioritize safety when using lawnmowers. Stay safe!
I never realized how important it is to choose the right lawnmower. Thanks for the advice.
Thank you, Ramon! I’m glad you found the advice helpful. Choosing the right lawnmower is crucial for a well-maintained lawn. Enjoy your grass cutting!