Get the most out of your yard with expert lawn mower maintenance tips from Cam Synthetics in Concord, NC. A healthier lawn starts here! \ \ Summer is here, and with it comes the task of keeping your lawn healthy and green. Your lawn mower is key for achieving that pristine look, but it needs regular care to perform at its best. Luckily, proper lawn mower maintenance is simple and doesn’t take much time. In this guide, we’ll outline eight essential steps to keep your unit running efficiently all season. Let’s get started!
Over the winter, fuel left in your mower’s tank can degrade, leading to gummed-up carburetors and hard starts. If you didn’t drain the tank before storing your mower, don’t worry—there’s still a solution!
Start by adding a fuel stabilizer to the old gas to prevent further degradation. Then, drain the tank and refill it with fresh, high-quality gasoline. For extra protection, opt for ethanol-free fuel or use an ethanol treatment additive. This helps prevent corrosion and keeps your engine running like new.
Old oil is full of contaminants that can harm your engine, so changing it before the mowing season is a must. Here’s how:
Note: Synthetic oil is especially beneficial, providing superior heat and friction protection.
Cold weather can drain or even damage batteries, so it’s smart to check yours before the mowing season begins. Start by cleaning the battery terminals with a wire brush to remove any corrosion. Then, use a multimeter to test the charge level. If it’s low, recharge or replace the battery. To prevent problems down the road, try using a battery maintainer during the off-season. It’s an easy way to keep your battery in great shape year-round.
Grass clippings, dirt, and debris can build up under the mower deck, reducing cutting efficiency and airflow. To clean it:
A clean deck ensures a clean cut and prevents grass from clumping, giving your lawn a polished look.
The spark plug is crucial for starting your mower and keeping it running efficiently. A worn or fouled plug can cause poor performance or difficulty starting.
Remove the spark plug and inspect it for wear or carbon buildup. Clean it with a wire brush or replace it if necessary. Check your owner’s manual for the correct spark plug type and gap settings. A fresh spark plug ensures reliable ignition and better fuel efficiency.
Dull mower blades tear the grass instead of cutting it, leaving your lawn vulnerable to disease and giving it a ragged, brown appearance. To sharpen your blades:
If DIY sharpening isn’t your thing, many hardware stores offer professional sharpening services. Sharp blades mean a healthier, greener lawn.
Your lawn mower’s air and fuel filters play a critical role in protecting the engine from dirt and debris. Over time, these filters can become clogged, which can hurt performance and reduce fuel efficiency.
To keep your mower in top shape, regularly inspect the air filter and replace it if it’s dirty. If your mower has a fuel filter, check it as well and replace it when necessary. For specific replacement intervals, refer to your mower’s manual.
Underinflated or damaged tires can make mowing uneven and strain your mower. Check the tire pressure and inflate them to the recommended level.
Inspect the tires for cracks, leaks, or wear, and replace them if necessary. Properly inflated tires ensure better traction, stability, and an even cut for your lawn.