Tips to Maintain Your Lawn Mower: A Handy Guide

Maintaining a lawn mower is crucial to ensuring its longevity and performance. Regular upkeep enhances mowing efficiency and saves you costly repairs in the long run. Whether you're a new homeowner or a seasoned gardener, understanding the steps for maintaining your mower can transform your lawn care experience. Proper maintenance, including lawn mower blade sharpening, can make all the difference. Here, we offer a few essential tips to keep your mower running smoothly.

Keep Blades Sharp

Lawn mower blade sharpening is fundamental for achieving that immaculate cut every time you mow. Dull blades tear the grass instead of cutting it cleanly, promoting disease in your lawn. Sharpening blades twice a year can significantly improve cutting efficiency and prevent lawn damage.

Regular Cleaning is Key

One of the simplest and most important tasks is regular cleaning. After each use, clear the mower of grass clippings and debris. This step prevents buildup, which can negatively affect performance over time. Remember to disconnect the spark plug before cleaning under the deck for safety. A clean mower ensures smooth operation and minimizes rust formation.

Oil Change for Smooth Operation

Like any engine-powered equipment, your lawn care equipment requires periodic oil changes. Check and change the oil as per manufacturer guidelines—usually after every 25-50 hours of use or once a season. Fresh oil maintains engine lubrication and ensures effective function. Don't forget to dispose of old oil responsibly by following local regulations.

Air Filter Care

Replacing or cleaning air filters ensures optimal airflow to the engine, improving fuel efficiency and performance. Check your air filter regularly; foam filters often need cleaning while paper filters may require replacement once a season or as needed.

Inspect Spark Plugs

Inspecting spark plugs is another crucial step in maintaining your lawn mower's health. Replace dirty or worn-out spark plugs to ensure your machine starts and operates efficiently.

We hope you find these maintenance tips handy. If you need more maintenance advice, contact Southern Trailer Works. We are in Schriever, LA, and proudly serve those from New Orleans and Houma, LA!