The mowing season is coming. It is time to buy the right equipment. How to choose a lawn mower that will meet your needs?
Match the type of mower to the size of the lawn
Photo by Daniel Watson © UNSPLASH
PdD Guide
Types of lawn mowers
Petrol lawn mower
Petrol lawn mowers are powered by gasoline or diesel fuel. Their engines tend to be more powerful than those we can find in electric lawn mowers, making petrol lawn mowers ideal for mowing large areas or dense grass. They are also more efficient in rough terrain areas. Unlike electric lawn mowers, petrol models are not limited by battery life or access to a power source. They can be used for extended periods of time without taking breaks. The disadvantage of this type of lawn mower is that it requires regular maintenance. Yet modern models are often designed to make maintenance as simple as possible. Petrol lawn mowers are therefore a great choice for those with large gardens or areas that require more power and mobility. Before buying a petrol lawn mower, it is worth considering noise and exhaust emissions, as well as fuel storage.
Electric lawn mower
This type of lawn mower is available in cord-powered or battery-powered versions. Plug-in models tend to be more powerful and can run for longer periods of time. Battery-powered lawn mowers are more portable and do not require a permanent connection to a power source. Electric models tend to be quieter and require less maintenance than petrol lawn mowers. They are also lighter and easier to operate than petrol models, as they don't require refueling or the need to start the engine. They are great for smaller gardens and urban areas where noise and emissions can be a problem. Electric lawn mowers require less maintenance than petrol models, however, they need to be cleaned regularly and the blades must be cared for.
Cylinder lawn mower
It has a cylindrical drum with blades located along its circumference. These blades rotate around the drum, cutting the grass at a uniform height. Cylinder lawn mowers cut the grass very precisely, making it look better and healthier. Cylinder models are best suited for mowing short grass. Very tall or dense grass can be a problem for them. Cylindeer lawn mowers do not emit exhaust fumes or noise. They also tend to be smaller and lighter than other types of lawn mowers, making them easier to store and maneuver, especially in hard-to-reach areas. However, it is worth remembering that the cutting blades require regular maintenance.
Remember to regularly maintain your lawn mower
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Robotic lawn mower
Robotic lawn mowers are innovative devices that cut the grass on their own, eliminating the need to manually guide the mower. Once the mowing boundaries are configured and set, the robot regularly moves across the lawn to keep the grass at the proper height. The devices are equipped with advanced navigation systems such as proximity and collision sensors, GPS systems and intelligent algorithms that help them navigate the lawn without colliding with obstacles. They are also designed with the safety of users and other occupants of the mowed area in mind. They have various safety features, such as proximity sensors that help avoid collisions with people or animals. Robotic lawn mowers usually run on batteries, which means they are more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly than petrol lawn mowers. Thanks to their waterproof design, robotic lawn mowers can operate in a variety of weather conditions, even in the rain.
Mulching mower
It is equipped with special blades that cut the grass into very small pieces and spread them on the surface. Thanks to this the grass is fertilized with natural components.
Lawn tractor
This type of mower resembles a small tractor. It is controlled by a steering wheel and pedals. Lawn tractors are equipped with powerful petrol engines, which allows them to effectively mow vast areas. They may also have a grass catcher, a fuel tank and other extras. Some models of lawn tractors are equipped with a variety of garden care tools. Lawn tractors are usually more expensive than traditional models, both in terms of purchase and maintenance. This is because they require regular oil changes and air filter cleaning.
A tractor will be a good choice for mowing large areas
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What to pay attention to when buying a lawn mower?
The size of the lawn
It is important to match the type of lawn mower with the size of the lawn. For small and medium-sized lawns, an electric or cordless lawn mower will be better, while for larger areas it is better to choose a petrol lawn mower or lawn tractor.
The type of terrain
If your terrain is uneven, sloping or there are a lot of obstacles, it's worth considering a riding mower. For dense or tall grass, a mower with a powerful engine will work well.
Ease of use
Check if the lawn mower is easy to operate and has features to prevent grass clogging and improve mowing, such as an ergonomic handle.
Power and performance
Make sure the lawn mower you choose has enough power to effectively mow the grass on your property. More powerful lawn mowers are usually more suitable for areas with dense and tall grass.
Budget
Lawn mowers vary in price depending on the type, brand and features. It's a good idea to set a budget for yourself and find a lawn mower that meets your needs for the amount.
Extras
Some lawn mowers may have additional features, such as mulching, grass collection, cutting height adjustment, built-in grass baskets or the ability to mount other garden care tools. Consider which of these options are important to you.
Reviews
Before making a purchase, read reviews and testimonials on selected lawn mower models. It will help you choose the best product.
Which lawn mower will be best for tall grass?
The lawn mower used for cutting tall grass should be equipped with an engine of adequate power, sturdy blades and the ability to adjust the cutting height. It's worth choosing a lawn mower with a solid and durable design. Thanks to this it will be able to withsand demanding working conditions, for example, in a meadow. It may also be useful to have a drive, which will facilitate efficient movement.
How much power should the lawn mower have?
The power of a lawn mower, expressed in horsepower (hp) or watts (watt), is one of the key factors affecting its performance and ability to cut grass efficiently. For small lawns of up to about 100-200 square meters, a lawn mower with a power output of 1,000 to 1,500 watts (about 1.5-2 horsepower) will be sufficient. For medium-sized lawns of about 200 to 500 square meters, a lawn mower with a power output of 1,500 to 2,000 watts (about 2-3 hp) will be suitable. For larger lawns of more than 500 square meters, especially if the grass is dense or tall, lawn mowers with more power, more than 2000 watts (more than 3 hp), are recommended.
Make sure the lawn mower you choose has enough power to mow the grass in your area
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