Lawn mowers can vary significantly in terms of prices and features. If you are in the market for a new mower, here are some things to consider.
In most cases, the difference between a 5.5 and 6.5 horsepower engine is negligible. You can benefit from extra horsepower if you are going to bag clippings, if your yard is sloped or hilly, or your grass is often tall.
A two-cycle engine mixes oil and gasoline. Two-cycle lawn mowers are less expensive, start better in cold weather, but give off more exhaust. Four-cycle engines keep the oil and gasoline separate, give off cleaner exhaust, and can be larger. If you need a powerful engine, four-cycle is better.
A mower can bag, mulch, or discharge clippings out the side. Bagging is best for a wet climate because too much moisture and mulch can damage a lawn. Avoid side-bagging mowers because they make the lawn mower wider and hard to maneuver. If you live in an arid region with poor soil conditions, mulch will help the lawn retain moisture and replenish nutrients.
A self-propelled lawn mower is easier to use than a push mower. You should only choose a push mower if your yard is very small and flat and you need the exercise.
A recoil starter is easy to use. An electric starter is a little more convenient, but you might eventually need to replace it.
The wheels are usually the first part of a lawn mower to break. Look for a lawn mower with a sturdy connection between the wheels and the deck.
If you are going to be doing a lot of mowing, look for a mower with a blade-brake clutch system. Lawn mower decks made from steel, aluminum, and plastic all work well. There are few differences among blades and carburetors.
Most lawn mowers come with a two-year warranty, although some are longer. With proper care, a lawn mower should last for many years.
