How to Shop for a Push Mower

Where do you start when shopping for a push mower? Knowing what projects and what size lawn are common considerations for making an informed purchase. With a little knowledge and a bit of help, choosing just the right push mower for the job can be quite simple.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Find out the size of the lawn that will be mowed with a push mower. Average-sized residential lots rarely exceed half an acre, which is easily handled with a non-commercial push mower.

2. Determine whether the project requires a gasoline powered push mower or perhaps an environmentally friendly "reel-mower" or even an electric model might be best. For very small lawns, electric mowers and reel mowers are ideal and don't depend on gasoline, thus reducing environmental impact, noise pollution and combustion engine wear and maintenance.

3. Find a good self-propelled model if the lawn being mowed has hills or unusual contours. A hand-controlled propulsion mechanism is best.

4. Purchase a push mower with enough power for the project. Horsepower ratings are given in relation to the engine manufacturer's recommendations.

5. Determine what size cutting deck is needed. This is the enclosed area under the mower that actually houses the grass cutting blades. Typically, a larger cutting deck will cut a larger area of lawn, thus reducing the time needed to finish a project. However, some larger models may not fit in areas that require cutting. Take into consideration any gates or trees that won't allow for larger sized decks.

6. Pick a mower that has variable drive speeds to assist with hilly or rough terrains.

Tips & Warnings

• Always ask salesperson about the particulars about the item. Horsepower, speeds and cutting deck size are critical for an informed decision.
• Consider a rear or front wheel drive model for lawn terrain features.
• Find out what attachments and accessories are available for the model chosen.
• Purchase a push mower that has a 3-in-1 mulching blade system if not bagging lawn clippings.
• Push mowers are dangerous pieces of machinery and should be used with extreme care. Read owner's manual completely before starting.
• Use common sense when making a purchase. Remember, sales staff try to interest you in higher-end, more expensive models whenever possible. Keep a good budget in mind for the project size and never turn down a clearance model or a push mower from last year's inventory.

Resources

• Here is a great lawn care website
• Find a wealth of garden and home ideas and tutorials here