There are few things as frustrating as having your lawn mower fail. You set aside time to do lawn maintenance but now have to spend the day trying to identify and repair a lawnmower problem.
Thankfully, lawn mowers are built to last. However, lack of maintenance, mower malfunction, and just regular wear and tear can cause a lawnmower to break down. There are certain repairs that you can do yourself. There are other situations when it is best to reach out to a professional.
Repairs You Can Do Yourself
1. Oil Change
Changing the oil on your lawnmower is a requirement. Old and dirty oil can mess up the engine, causing serious damage. Even if you run your engine on low oil, you put your machine at risk. If you are in the middle of mowing your lawn and you hear your engine knocking, it is likely that the oil is low. Low oil can prevent your engine from starting.
2. Change Spark Plugs
Dirty or faulty spark plugs can stop your mower from working. If you are using a lawn tractor and it has a rough ride or you are having difficulties getting it to start, you are likely experiencing problems with the spark plugs. Regularly inspect your spark plugs. Clean off the dirt and grime. It is recommended that you change your spark plugs once per season. It is a quick fix, taking less than 15 minutes. But it can drastically improve the life and functionality of your lawnmower.
3. Replace the Battery
Your riding mower’s engine is powered by a battery. When there is corrosion or loose connections, you might have electrical issues. If the battery is dead, the mower won’t start at all. Replacing the battery is easy and can be done in as little as 15 minutes.
4. Sharpening the Blades
You would not think that you need to sharpen your blades in order to cut grass. However, lawn mower blades get dull, especially if you are working on rough terrain. If you notice that your grass is cut unevenly, it could be a sign that your blades are dull, unbalanced, or loose. It is recommended that you sharpen your lawn mower blades once every year to keep them working their best.
When Is It Time to Call a Professional?
You may want to call a professional if you need small engine repairs. There are do-it-yourself videos online, but it is unlikely that you will find the video for the exact make and model of lawn mower you have. Any engine issue that you can’t fix by changing the belts, spark plugs, or oil should be inspected by a professional.
The nice thing about using professional services is they have experience with your model and can do the repair quickly. Trained professionals have the tools needed to get the job done right.
It is important that you stay on top of your lawnmower maintenance. The better you maintain your mower, the longer it will last and the fewer visits to lawnmower service experts you will need to make.