Maintaining your lawnmower - tips for spring

Why give my lawnmower a service?

If you've paid out for a lawnmower you want to extend it's life for as long as possible. Not only that, but a bit of annual maintenance will help it cut your lawn more effectively, and help keep you safe.

With a season's worth of mowing behind you last year, even if you gave your mower a clean before it went away for winter, it will still need some checks and maintenance before the new mowing season starts.

Whether a petrol, electric or cordless mower, different types of mowers will have slightly different requirements, so let's take a look at each in turn.

Petrol mowers

Generally, the most expensive machines, a petrol mower should last you for many years if looked after properly and is ideal for a larger garden.

What to do, and why:

• check and clean air filter - ensuring an efficient airflow will improve combustion and overall performance of the engine and lower fuel consumption
• check and clean spark plugs - spark plugs get a build-up of dirt and grime meaning they work less effectively, which makes it harder to start your mower
• check and clean mowing blade, sharpen/replace if necessary - and a little WD40 sprayed on the blade base will help keep it running freely
• replace the oil - using fresh oil in your engine will help it run better, rather than using sludgy, old fuel
• put in fresh petrol* - again for the above reason
• clean under mowing deck removing all old, stuck-on grass - by ensuring under the deck is clear of debris you help the blades turn faster and help prevent rust forming on metal decks
• general check of all bolts and fixings - to ensure nothing comes loose during operation which could result in injury or damage
• clean and apply WD40 to the wheels - for easier movement
• lubricate the height adjustment after cleaning away debris

Electric mowers

There are many electric lawnmowers on the market, generally for small to medium gardens due to the practicalities of having a cable.

What to do, and why:

• clean under mowing deck all old, stuck-on grass - ensuring under the deck is clear of debris will help the blades run more freely
• check and clean mowing blade, replace if necessary - to ensure maximum efficiency of the cutting blade, and a little spray of WD40 on the blade base will also help longevity
• check cable for wear or deterioration over winter - always keep an eye on the cable for wear and tear. Rubbing on hard, rough surfaces such as path or brick edges while you mow can wear away the outer casing. Of course, there is also the possibility of animal damage to the cord as well
• if a wheeled model clean and apply WD40 to the wheels - for easier movement
• lubricate the height adjustment after cleaning away debris

Cordless mowers

Cordless mowers are fast becoming a popular choice for many people. Offering an easier option than petrol or corded machines they can quickly and easily get the job done.

What to do, and why:

• clean under mowing deck all old, stuck-on grass - ensuring under the deck is clear of debris will help the blades run more freely
• check and clean mowing blade, replace if necessary - to ensure maximum efficiency of the cutting blade
• ensure batteries and charger are stored correctly** - not in the cold, and charge battery immediately after each use
• lubricate wheels and height adjustment after cleaning away debris

*More tips on Fuel

Who knew - fuel goes off!
Fuel has a stay-fresh window of around 6 months if stored at 20° in a clean air-tight container, or only 3 months when stored at 30°. If possible, store in a cool garage rather than a garden shed and always store in a recommended fuel  container.

**More tips on Batteries

Battery power will be depleted faster the harder your mower has to work. Leaving your grass to grow longer will put more strain on the battery and result in a shorter run time. A weekly, or twice-weekly mow is definitely better, to prolong your battery life if you have a cordless mower.