When buying a lawn mower, you’ll have an array of choices in terms of power source and style, making it difficult to make a decision. The best way to figure out what you need is to assess your property and compare your requirements with the benefits of each design. Below are a few tips to keep in mind.

How to Select a New Lawn Mower

1. Power Source

The most popular mowers are gas-powered push mowers, which can handle both large and small landscapes with ease; however, battery versions are gaining steam. Battery-operated mowers—which are more eco-friendly—are ideal for small areas since they’ll need to be recharged every half hour or so. Though, dual-battery systems can extend the life of each charge. Electric mowers don’t require gas and they are quieter than gas mowers.

2. Push or Ride

When deciding whether to buy a push mower or a ride-on, consider the size of your lawn. If your property is smaller, push lawn mowers are typically ideal. If your land is flat, you can opt for a reel mower, which is cheaper, but requires you to use more strength. These, however, can’t tackle tall plants and won’t leave an even finish, the way a push mower powered by gas or electricity can. For larger properties, a riding lawn mower can help homeowners quickly and efficiently cut their grass without getting tired.

3. Extra Features

Some models have extra features that can make your landscaping maintenance even easier. Functions such as mulching and clipping will turn debris into finely chopped particles to fertilize the grass. Some can also collect fall leaves in a bagging unit, which reduces the time needed to clean up in autumn. If you want a model that starts quickly, choose one that has a no-prime engine.

4. Maintenance

Consider how much maintenance you’re willing to do. Reel mowers must be frequently serviced and adjusted to keep blades sharp. Gas lawn mowers need an oil check before each use, and ventilation systems on all mowers must be cleaned to ensure efficiency. Cords on electric mowers must be inspected to curb dirt buildup and frayed wires.

When you need a new lawn mower, head over to All Seasons Honda & Peninsula Ski-Doo. Located in Homer, AK, and serving Kenai Peninsula for more than 30 years, the store offers everything from snowmobiles and lawnmowers to generators and winter apparel to keep you warm in the winter. Call (907) 235-8532 to speak with a member of their team, or visit their website to learn more about their products.