- Lawn mower maintenance by season<\/a>
- Spring tune-up<\/a><\/li>
- Summer maintenance<\/a><\/li>
- Fall winterization<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li>
- Preventative lawn mower maintenance<\/a>
- Weekly tasks<\/a><\/li>
- Monthly tasks<\/a><\/li>
- Annual service<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li>
- Lawn mower troubleshooting tips<\/a>
- Your lawn mower engine won\u2019t start<\/a><\/li>
- Your lawn mower starts, then stalls a few seconds later<\/a><\/li>
- White smoke is coming out of your mower\u2019s exhaust<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li>
- Cost-saving maintenance tips<\/a><\/li>
- When to call a professional\u00a0<\/a><\/li>
- FAQ about lawn mower maintenance<\/a><\/li><\/ul> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t<\/div><\/div>
Lawn mower maintenance by season<\/span><\/h2>
Yearly lawn mower maintenance is key to a pristine lawn. Forgoing service leads to failure because messy mowers massacre lawns. Avoid folly by following our lawn mower maintenance schedule for spring<\/a>, summer<\/a>, and fall<\/a>. <\/p>
Spring tune-up<\/span><\/h3>
![\"Male](\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/AdobeStock_292544319-1.jpeg\")
Scott Habermann<\/a> | Adobe Stock<\/figcaption><\/figure> When spring is in the air, prepare engines to blare with a complete lawn mower tune-up. It only takes 1 to 2 hours, and most parts are cheap. Yet, it’ll improve the mower’s performance, cut quality, and engine life.<\/p>
After winter, many lawn mowers won’t start without a spring tune-up. Hence, early spring is the lawn mower repairman’s busiest time. To save yourself from lengthy waitlists, seek lawn mower service before the spring green-up. Alternatively, start your DIY mower maintenance journey with the following spring services. <\/p>
\u2714 Change the oil<\/span><\/h4>
Timely oil changes extend engine life, making it critical for gas lawn mowers. Oil lubricates the engine, reducing friction against its moving parts. Over time, engine oil degrades and even evaporates. Without proper lubrication, the engine is easily damaged.<\/p>
One quart of oil is enough for walk-behind lawn mowers, but riding mowers may require 2 quarts. Additionally, riding lawn mowers need their oil filter replaced. <\/p>
\u2714 Replace the spark plugs<\/span><\/h4>
Spark plugs ignite fuel, causing combustion. Over time, they get dirty and stressed, making starting the lawn mower difficult (or impossible). So, it’s best to replace gas mower spark plugs each spring. <\/p>
Most gas lawn mowers have one spark plug, but some have two:<\/p>
- Walk-behinds<\/strong> (push and self-propelled<\/a> lawn mowers) have 1-cylinder engines, so they only need one spark plug.<\/li> <\/ul>
- Riding mowers<\/strong> (lawn tractors and zero-turn mowers<\/a>) with 1-cylinder engines need one spark plug, and high-performance models with 2-cylinder engines need two spark plugs.<\/li> <\/ul>
\u2714 Clean\/replace the air filter<\/span><\/h4>
By obstructing dirt and debris, the air filter protects the engine. However, even the best gas lawn mowers<\/a> malfunction from a clogged filter.<\/p>
An ideal fuel-to-air ratio<\/strong> is crucial for combustion, but clogs keep air from entering the engine. If the carburetor can’t mix enough air into the gas, engine performance suffers. At a point, there won\u2019t be enough air for the fuel to ignite, so the lawn mower won\u2019t start. <\/p>
Ensure that the air filter is clean and intact:<\/p>
- Cleaning:<\/strong> First, read the mower manual\u2019s instructions. Use an air compressor to clean paper filters, but use a mild soap to clean washable filters.<\/li> <\/ul>
- Replacing:<\/strong> If the filter\u2019s damaged or too difficult to clean, replace it. <\/li> <\/ul>
\u2714 Sharpen your mower blades<\/span><\/h4>
Sharp blades make crisp cuts \u2014 conversely, dull blades butcher grass. Hence, lawns look and feel more lively when mowed with sharp, balanced blades. <\/p>
Although some find success sharpening their mower blades<\/a> with a grindstone, a bench grinder is necessary in many situations. Since most people lack a bench grinder and grindstone, they replace their blades or visit a service shop. <\/p>
\u2714 Check\/replace the belts<\/span><\/h4>
Mowing with a bad belt is difficult at best, so inspect the mower’s belts for damage. If a belt is cracked or worn, replace it. <\/p>
\u2714 Refuel your mower<\/span><\/h4>
Start spring on the right foot by filling your mower with brand-new fuel. Ethanol-free gas is best for lawn equipment. We also recommend adding an additive. <\/p>
Fuel additives are mixed with the gas to improve engine performance, fuel efficiency, and engine life. Many also stabilize fuel and reduce emissions. Although some homeowners add it to every tank, we recommend doing so at least once a season.<\/p>
\u2714 Change the fuel filter<\/span><\/h4>
The fuel filter keeps the fuel system running right, thus prolonging the life of your mower.<\/p>
\u2714 Charge the battery<\/span><\/h4>
Refresh your riding mower by charging its battery. Even the best riding lawn mowers<\/a> can\u2019t reach peak performance with a weak battery. <\/p>
\u2714 Check the tire pressure<\/span><\/h4>
A riding mower with low tire pressure is bumpy for you and the grass. Well-inflated tires improve the smoothness of your ride and the grass\u2019s cut. But low-pressure tires stress out the engine and transmission, potentially leading to costly riding lawn mower repairs. <\/p>
To check a tire\u2019s air pressure, use a gauge. If you don\u2019t have a gauge, use your hand to make sure the tires aren\u2019t soft or squishy. <\/p>
\u2714 Clean the carburetor<\/span><\/h4>
As fuel sits, it turns into a varnish that blocks the carburetor\u2019s passages. Lacking fuel, the engine either doesn\u2019t start or starts then stalls. Use a carburetor cleaner to spray the carburetor and its passages.<\/p>
\u2714 Clean the mower deck<\/span><\/h4>
Always ensure the deck is clean. It should be free from debris, oil, gas, and other containments. Doing so improves the mower’s cut quality because excessive debris restricts airflow. With a lack of circulating air, grass can’t stand straight while it’s cut.<\/p>
Mowing with low airflow is like giving a wiggling child a haircut. Since the grass isn’t upright, it can’t get an even trim. Additionally, the grass is easily damaged. I recommend cleaning the deck after every cut.<\/p>
My tip:<\/strong> If you have a mulching mower<\/a>, don’t waste your investment with a dirty deck. Increased airflow is one of the benefits of mulching mowers<\/a>. When the air is obstructed, clumpy clippings create a big mess. <\/p>
Summer maintenance<\/span><\/h3>
![\"lawn](\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/3561287803_774769029d_o-2-1.jpg\")
Casey Fleser<\/a> | Flickr | CC BY 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure> If your grass is still growing, your lawn needs mowing. Hence, summer lawn mower maintenance is a must. Lawn mowers<\/a> work like a champ when given the right regimen.<\/p>
So, don’t forget to repeat these maintenance tasks during the summer:<\/p>
- Clean the air filter<\/strong>, then inspect it for damage. Replace it, if needed.<\/li>
- Refuel with an additive<\/strong> to keep gas fresh. <\/li>
- Inspect the mower belts<\/strong> and replace any that are broken or worn out.<\/li>
- Check the tire pressure<\/strong> and inflate as needed.<\/li>
- Clean the mower deck<\/strong> after each mow.<\/li>
- Clean and inspect the mower blades<\/strong> after each mow. Make sure your blades stay sharp. <\/li> <\/ul>
To gain a better understanding of the type of grass in your area, refer to our guides:<\/p>
- Guide to Warm-Season Grasses<\/a><\/li>
- Guide to Cool-Season Grasses<\/a><\/li>
- Guide to Growing Grass in the Transition Zone<\/a><\/li> <\/ul>
Fall winterization<\/span><\/h3>
![\"hand](\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/AdobeStock_272001069-1.jpeg\")
FotoHelin<\/a> | Adobe Stock Free | License<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure> Winterize your lawn mower in the fall, so you don’t miss a beat come spring. The process protects lawn care equipment from corrosion and moisture. In fact, many mowers won’t start in the spring without fall service. <\/p>
When winterizing lawn care equipment<\/a>, first refer to the mower manual. Then, complete the following steps:<\/p>
- Drain the fuel<\/strong>. Refuel with a fuel stabilizer or leave the tank empty all winter.<\/li>
- Clean the mower<\/strong> thoroughly, including the underdeck and blades.<\/li>
- Remove the battery<\/strong> before placing it in winter storage.<\/li>
- Store in a dry, cool area<\/strong>, like a tool shed, workshop, or garage.<\/li> <\/ol>
What’s a fuel stabilizer?<\/strong> It provides gas with protection. By reducing evaporation and blocking external moisture, the fuel stabilizer keeps gas fresh. If the mower might sit around for several weeks without any action, adding it is a must. <\/p>
Preventative lawn mower maintenance<\/span><\/h2>
Avoid lawn mower mishaps by staying on top of preventative maintenance. It’s the best way to keep your mower in tip-top shape. However, timing is key to prevention. Next, I\u2019ll cover how often lawn mowers require each service.<\/p>
Weekly tasks<\/span><\/h3>
- Clean the mower blades<\/li>
- Clean the mower deck<\/li>
- Monitor the oil level<\/li>
- Check the tire pressure<\/li> <\/ul>
Monthly tasks<\/span><\/h3>
- Clean the air filter, and inspect it for damage.<\/li>
- Check the battery on riding lawn mowers.<\/li>
- Lubricate the mower\u2019s moving parts with WD-40 or bearing grease. <\/li>
- Refuel with a fuel additive.<\/li>
- Check the mower belts for damage and proper tension.<\/li> <\/ul>
Annual service<\/span><\/h3>
Most mowers need the following services annually, but check your mower\u2019s manual for model-specific recommendations.<\/p>
- Change oil:<\/strong> Most mowers need new oil after one year, or 25 to 50 hours of operation (whichever comes first). <\/li> <\/ul>
- Replace spark plugs:<\/strong> Most mowers need their spark plugs replaced after one year, or 25 to 50 hours of operation. <\/li> <\/ul>
- Clean carburetor:<\/strong> Use carburetor cleaner once a year or after 25 to 50 hours of operation. <\/li> <\/ul>
- Replace mower blades:<\/strong> Most mower blades need sharpening or replacing after 20 to 25 hours of use. <\/li> <\/ul>
Lawn mower troubleshooting tips<\/span><\/h2>
![\"old](\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/AdobeStock_83448605-1.jpeg\")
kwanchaichaiudom<\/a> | Adobe Stock<\/figcaption><\/figure> I asked expert mechanic Jeff Yochum, of Ring Container Technologies in Valdosta, Ga., for advice on lawn mower troubleshooting. He shared his top tips to diagnose and treat the most common mower issues. Getting your mower running like a champ typically takes a few simple steps. <\/p>
Your lawn mower engine won\u2019t start<\/span><\/h3>
If your lawn mower won\u2019t start, complete the following troubleshooting steps:<\/p>
- Check the fuel level. <\/strong>Make sure the mower has gas.<\/li> <\/ol>
- Check the carburetor<\/strong>. \u201cMake sure you\u2019re getting gas to the carb. If not, you\u2019ve either got a collapsed fuel line, or the fuel line\u2019s just no good,\u201d Yochum explains.<\/li> <\/ol>
- Check the spark plug<\/strong>. Make sure it’s getting spark. If not, replace it. <\/li> <\/ol>
- Clean the carburetor<\/strong>, including its fuel passages, inlet, needle, and seat.<\/li> <\/ol>
- Take it to a pro<\/strong>. If the previous steps don\u2019t fix the problem, Yochum recommends taking your mower to a pro<\/a>.<\/li> <\/ol>
Your lawn mower starts, then stalls a few seconds later<\/span><\/h3>
Yochum says, \u201cIt\u2019s definitely a carburetor problem,\u201d when a lawn mower starts, then stalls a few seconds later. Thus, complete the following troubleshooting steps:<\/p>
- Take it to a pro<\/strong>. If the previous steps don\u2019t fix the problem, Yochum recommends taking your mower to a pro<\/a>.<\/li> <\/ol>
- Clean the carburetor<\/strong>, including its fuel passages, inlet, needle, and seat.<\/li> <\/ol>
- Check the spark plug<\/strong>. Make sure it’s getting spark. If not, replace it. <\/li> <\/ol>
- Check the carburetor<\/strong>. \u201cMake sure you\u2019re getting gas to the carb. If not, you\u2019ve either got a collapsed fuel line, or the fuel line\u2019s just no good,\u201d Yochum explains.<\/li> <\/ol>
- Check the fuel level. <\/strong>Make sure the mower has gas.<\/li> <\/ol>
- Replace mower blades:<\/strong> Most mower blades need sharpening or replacing after 20 to 25 hours of use. <\/li> <\/ul>
- Clean carburetor:<\/strong> Use carburetor cleaner once a year or after 25 to 50 hours of operation. <\/li> <\/ul>
- Replace spark plugs:<\/strong> Most mowers need their spark plugs replaced after one year, or 25 to 50 hours of operation. <\/li> <\/ul>
- Change oil:<\/strong> Most mowers need new oil after one year, or 25 to 50 hours of operation (whichever comes first). <\/li> <\/ul>
- Clean the mower<\/strong> thoroughly, including the underdeck and blades.<\/li>
- Guide to Cool-Season Grasses<\/a><\/li>
- Refuel with an additive<\/strong> to keep gas fresh. <\/li>
- Clean the air filter<\/strong>, then inspect it for damage. Replace it, if needed.<\/li>
- Replacing:<\/strong> If the filter\u2019s damaged or too difficult to clean, replace it. <\/li> <\/ul>
- Cleaning:<\/strong> First, read the mower manual\u2019s instructions. Use an air compressor to clean paper filters, but use a mild soap to clean washable filters.<\/li> <\/ul>
- Riding mowers<\/strong> (lawn tractors and zero-turn mowers<\/a>) with 1-cylinder engines need one spark plug, and high-performance models with 2-cylinder engines need two spark plugs.<\/li> <\/ul>
- Your lawn mower starts, then stalls a few seconds later<\/a><\/li>
- Monthly tasks<\/a><\/li>
- Summer maintenance<\/a><\/li>
- Spring tune-up<\/a><\/li>