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How To Properly Clean A Lawn Mower? Tips from professionals

Throughout the summer season, lawnmowers are used a lot. Effective lawn mowing is directly dependent on the efficiency of the Lawnmower used. Like other mechanical tools and machines, lawnmowers also require proper maintenance and check-up to function correctly. The most basic maintenance initiative for a lawnmower is cleaning it properly. This step is simple yet very effective in enhancing the Lawnmower’s overall performance and incrementing its life span.

How to Properly clean a lawnmower:

  • Step 1: Clean the Deck of your Lawn Mower
  • Step 2: Check and clean the Engine
  • Step 3: Inspect and clean the Spark Plugs
  • Step 4: Clean the Fuel System of your Lawnmower
  • Step 5: Check and clean the Carburetor of your Lawn Mower
  • Step 6: Clean or replace the air filter
  • Step 7: Cleaning the Blades of Lawn Mower

How to Clean a Lawnmower in 7 Steps

Cleaning of the Lawnmower is not as complicated as it may seem. People generally opt to take it to the repair shop, but this is something you can do yourself easily. If you want to save yourself some cash, have a look at this article. We have put together all the critical steps for the preventative maintenance of a lawnmower.

● Step 1. Cleaning the Deck of a Lawn Mower

A lawnmower is a fuel-driven machine, resulting from the integration of various mechanical components. In this article, a thorough guide is provided to help an individual clean the different parts and components of a lawnmower.

– Why clean the Deck of the Lawn Mower?

The deck of a lawnmower contains the blades responsible for cutting the grass.

– Need to clean?

In a scenario, if dry grass is stuck between the blades, it can cause the blades to deflect, thus reducing its efficiency. Cleaning the deck of the Lawnmower will inevitably enhance its performance efficiency.

– How to clean?

Deck cleaning should be done at the end of each mowing session. It can be cleaned, hollowing the gas tank, disconnecting the spark wire, and washing by using a garden hose. Other dirt and grass can be removed by using brushes.

● Step 2: Cleaning the Engine of a Lawnmower

An engine is a driving factor in a machine. A healthy engine ensures maximum performance.

– How to clean?

To clean the engine, take off the engine covering and clean the radiator fins, the blower’s inner side, and the flywheel fins using a high-pressure water stream and a brush. The battery fittings and mower choke are also to be cleaned. To prevent rusting, lubricate the battery terminals and deck surface.

– Safety measures:

While cleaning a mower’s engine, keep the following precautions in mind.

  1. Remove the spark plug
  2. Avoid using compressed air for cleaning to dodge small debris pieces into inaccessible areas of the engine.
  3. The engine must be entirely cold.

● Step 3: Cleaning the Spark Plugs of a Lawnmower

Clean spark plugs offer smooth ignition of the Lawnmower. Dirt in the spark plug might cause complications in starting the mower.

– How to clean?

Following steps are to be followed to clean the spark plug

  1. Spark plug: Remove the spark plug from the mower’s engine
  2. Brake cleaner: Apply thinner or brake cleaner on the plug.
  3. Clean metal strips: Use a brush to clean the metal spirals of the plug
  4. Clean the plug: Use a clean cloth to wipe the plug
  5. Repeat and Reassemble Repeat until little or no dirt is left and then reassemble.

This URL provides a detailed guide to the entire plug cleaning process.

● Step 4: Cleaning the Fuel System of a Lawnmower

The fuel system relays fuel to the carburetor, which burns the fuel and mower function. The presence of dirt and other small particles in the fuel system compels the engine to make different noises and also reduces the overall efficiency of the engine

– How to clean?

To clean the mower’s fuel system, firstly locate the fuel system, which is usually on the mower’s underside, and turn off the fuel valve. Secondly, use an air nozzle to clean the passages to the carburetor.

To keep the fuel system clean in the future, use a fuel filter. It blocks dirt and other particles from entering the carburetor.

– Safety Precautions:

  1. Before operation gas tank to be vacant: Empty the gas tank before starting
  2. Turn off the mower: The mower should be turned off
  3. Remove the plugs: Remove the spark plug

● Step 5: Cleaning the Carburetor of a Lawn Mower

A dirty or corrosive carburetor reduces the performance and the life expectancy of the mower to an immense extent.

– How to clean?

  1. Disassemble the carburetor: Takedown the carburetor and put its component in an array along-with carburetor cleaner or thinner for at least an hour.
  2. Filled with water: Rise the parts with water, and after completely drying them, they can be reassembled.
  3. Replace the carb: If a part of the carburetor is rusty, immediately replace it. If some parts are dirty, they can be cleaned, and replacing them is not mandatory.

This video provides a practical demonstration of carburetor cleaning.

● Step 6: Cleaning the air filter of a Lawn Mower

Clogged and dirty air filter limits the air supply to the engine for the combustion reactions, thus reducing the mower’s performance. Usually, there are two types of air filters used in the Lawnmower; therefore, both the filters’ cleaning process shall be considered.

– Paper Air filter:

A mower having a paper air filter can be cleaned by initially tapping the filter by hand to ward off the majority of dust and clogging particles off the filter; however, it is recommended to replace the entire paper filter if it is immensely clogged and cannot be cleaned.

– Foam Pre-Filter:

Incase if the mower has a pre-form air filter, then, in that case, the filter should be necessarily cleaned after 24 hours of each mowing session. The filter can be washed using water and some detergent and dried using a paper towel or air to clean the filter. The filter is then placed back in the mower and is good to go.

● Step 7: Cleaning the Blades of a Lawn Mower

The mower’s blades are the frontline soldiers and deliver the entire operations performed by the mower. The mower’s blades must be sharp and clean for the Lawnmower to perform its maximum efficiency activities.

– How to clean?

The cleaning process of the blades of the Lawnmower is simple. To clean the blades, a garden hose with a suitable nozzle can be used. Furthermore, debris from the blades of the Lawnmower can be removed by hand.

– Safety Defenses:

Following precautions should be kept in consideration while cleaning the blades of the mower.

  1. The necessity of gloves: Use gloves for extracting debris, grass, and old dirt from the blades
  2. Avoid Personal damage: Handle with care to avoid cuts and any delicate harm from the sharp blades.

Frequently Asked Questions:

● 1. Is it necessary to clean the mower deck? If so, why?

Yes, it is vital to clean the deck of the Lawnmower from time to time. Cleaning the mower’s deck is necessary because a clogged deck would reduce the mower’s efficiency. The presence of dirt and clustered dry grass bend the blades. Thus it is unable to cut the grass straight. Likewise, the dry grass might hinder or even cease the rotation of the mower’s blade.

● 2. How can I prevent grass from sticking on my mower?

To prevent the grass from sticking up on the Lawnmower deck, one can use an anti-sticking spray or some deck liners, making it difficult for the grass to adhere to the deck’s surface.

● 3. Is it necessary to perform end-of-season maintenance of my Lawnmower? If yes, then why? Moreover, how to do it?

Yes, it is essential to perform an end-of-season performance for a lawnmower. It is because the mower shall not be used during the winters. Therefore, the presence of fuel, oil, or dirt in the mower’s engine or deck will damage the engine largely. Hence, its maintenance is vital to keep it in good shape and condition for smooth use in the future. Below are the following steps to be followed to perform an end of the mower’s season maintenance.

Final Remarks

A lawnmower is a reason behind our gardens’ beauty and aesthetic looks; however, it requires proper maintenance and cleaning after various sessions for the mower to work effectively and efficiently. The maintenance and cleaning is not a complicated operation at all and can be performed by every individual by following the guidelines discussed in this article. These simple cleaning and maintaining a lawnmower offer individuals the ability to enhance their lawnmowers’ efficiency and performance without sacrificing a significant budget.

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  1. Linda Adams says:

    Great step-by-step guide, I will definitely try this on my lawnmower.

  2. Audrey Rhodes says:

    How often should I clean my lawnmower following these steps?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you for your question, Audrey! It’s recommended to clean your lawnmower after each use to maintain its efficiency and prolong its lifespan. Happy mowing!

  3. Frank Schmidt says:

    Can I use a regular brush to clean the blades of the lawnmower?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Yes, a regular brush can be used to clean the lawnmower blades. Make sure to remove any debris and grass clippings to keep the blades sharp and efficient. Happy mowing!

  4. Ben Gonzalez says:

    Very informative, I appreciate the detailed instructions provided.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you, Ben! I’m glad you found the instructions helpful. Happy mowing!

  5. Krin Burns says:

    Should I clean the blades of the lawnmower before or after sharpening them?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Clean the blades of the lawnmower before sharpening them. Removing any debris or dirt first ensures a more efficient sharpening process. Happy mowing!

  6. Ivan Garza says:

    Is it recommended to clean the spark plugs after every mowing session?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      “Cleaning spark plugs after each mowing session is not necessary, but it’s a good practice for optimal performance and longevity. Follow the steps in the blog post for proper maintenance. Happy mowing, Ivan!”

  7. Scarlett Cruz says:

    I will definitely be sharing this guide with my friends who also own lawnmowers, thank you for sharing.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you, Scarlett! I’m glad you found the guide helpful. Proper maintenance is key to a lawnmower’s performance and lifespan. Sharing with friends is a great idea!

  8. Frances Russell says:

    Thank you for sharing this, I feel more confident in maintaining my lawnmower now.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Frances, I’m glad you found the information helpful. Proper maintenance is key to a lawnmower’s performance. Keep up the good work!

  9. Lee Oliver says:

    Do I need to wear any protective gear while cleaning the blades of the mower?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Yes, it is essential to wear protective gloves while cleaning the blades of the lawnmower to avoid any cuts or injuries. Stay safe!

  10. Dianne Crawford says:

    Is it necessary to empty the gas tank completely before cleaning the engine?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you for your question, Dianne. Yes, it is necessary to empty the gas tank before cleaning the engine to prevent any accidents or damage. Safety first!

  11. Francis Ray says:

    Is it safe to use a garden hose to clean the deck of the lawnmower?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Yes, it is safe to use a garden hose to clean the deck of your lawnmower. Just make sure to follow proper cleaning procedures to maintain its efficiency and performance.

  12. Gene Day says:

    Thank you for explaining the importance of cleaning the fuel system of the lawnmower.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you, Gene! Proper maintenance of the fuel system is key to keeping your lawnmower running smoothly all season long. Happy mowing!

  13. Curtis Sanchez says:

    Can I clean the air filter with just water or do I need any special cleaner?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      You should use a special cleaner to clean the air filter of your lawnmower. Avoid using just water, as it may not effectively remove all the dirt and debris.

  14. Billie Andrews says:

    I never knew cleaning a lawnmower could be so simple, thank you for the instructions!

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you, Billie! I’m glad you found the instructions helpful. Keeping your lawnmower clean is essential for its performance and longevity. Happy mowing!

  15. Heather Lopez says:

    This is so helpful, I had no idea how to clean my lawnmower properly!

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you, Heather! I’m glad you found the information helpful. Properly cleaning your lawnmower is essential for its performance and longevity. Let me know if you have any other questions!

  16. Duane Long says:

    I had no idea about the different types of air filters used in lawnmowers, very informative.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you, Duane! I’m glad you found the information on air filters for lawnmowers informative. Proper maintenance is key to keeping your lawnmower running smoothly throughout the summer season.

  17. April Little says:

    How can I ensure that the carburetor is assembled correctly after cleaning?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Hi April! Ensure the carburetor is assembled correctly by following the steps in the blog post. Cleaning is key to a lawnmower’s performance and lifespan. Hope this helps!

  18. Marsha Morrison says:

    I appreciate the safety precautions mentioned while cleaning the engine of the lawnmower.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you, Marsha! Proper engine cleaning is crucial for a lawnmower’s performance and longevity. Taking preventive maintenance steps is key for a smooth lawn mowing season.

  19. Miguel Parker says:

    Where can I purchase the necessary tools and cleaning supplies for my lawnmower?

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      You can purchase necessary tools and cleaning supplies for your lawnmower at any hardware store or online. Maintaining your lawnmower properly will enhance its performance and lifespan.

  20. Diana Hawkins says:

    I wish I had known this earlier, I’ve been taking my lawnmower to the repair shop for cleaning.

    • Allard Vdhooft says:

      Thank you for your comment, Diana! Cleaning your lawnmower yourself can save you time and money. Check out the detailed steps in the article to keep your lawnmower running smoothly.

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