As spring comes around, you’ll want to prepare your lawn mower to handle the new grass growth. While your mower sits over winter, it may develop some problems that can make the first mow of the season more frustrating than satisfying. Below, learn about four signs you might need to seek lawn mower repair to keep your grass looking wonderful all year.

4 Signs That Your Mower Needs Repair

1. Slow Start

If your mower has trouble starting or won’t start at all, there may be a few culprits. A clogged air filter might be stifling the oxygen intake to your engine, preventing the necessary combustion. Dirty fuel lines can also sabotage combustion, and an outdated or loose spark plug will prevent ignition. If you notice a lot of grime around your engine, it may be time for lawn mower repair.

2. Uneven Cut

If you notice a ragged cut appearance on your lawn after mowing, or the grass is vulnerable to browning, your mower blades might need to be sharpened or replaced. Blades that are dull or damaged lead to jagged cuts, which makes your lawn more susceptible to drought, disease, and pests. Make sure your mower is safely off before inspecting the mower to determine the state of the blades.

3. Smoking While Running

If you notice white or blue smoke coming from the engine while you mow, you might be concerned that the mower will catch fire. If you’ve overfilled the oil crankcase, the problem is just excess oil burning off. However, if you notice consistent smoke as you mow, the problem could be a broken gasket or a worn, decaying seal.

4. Loud Engine

If you don’t clean your mower deck often, grass clippings could build up, especially if you mow while the lawn is damp. This buildup could amplify the sound of your mower, and hearing protection is always advisable. If you ever notice a sound that’s higher-pitched and metallic, shut off the mower immediately. You might be running the mower without oil, which could cause permanent damage.

Make sure you’re ready to handle all your lawn and garden maintenance needs with help from Paul’s Outdoor Equipment. Based in Dayton, OH, they make it easy to find high-quality Husqvarna® equipment, including mowers, leaf blowers, and pressure washers. They also have an on-site team of mechanics for prompt lawn mower repair. To learn more about this company, call (937) 835-0000 or visit their website.