Things You'll Need:
- Ads from your local stores
- Online printouts of features or specific lawn mowers that interest you.
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Step 1
Decide if you want to shop online or in store. Sometimes it is a good idea to price compare the online prices with the store sales. If you have a small yard such as a patio home or townhome, you might think about going green. For example, an electric or cordless mower requires no gasoline or oil so is not harming the environment.
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Step 2
Make a list of features that you want on your mower. On gasoline powered mowers, there are 2 types of mowers - PUSH or SELF PROPELLED. With a push mower consider if you would like a BIG WHEEL on the rear. This bigger wheel helps you push the mower up an incline or navigate around bumps or rough areas in the yard.
The self propelled come in either front or rear propelled. The rear bail or handle controls the movement of the propelled wheels. When you hold the handle or bail back the propelled wheels turn, thus the lawn mower is pulling itself through the lawn. You are still pushing somewhat but the wheels have traction with the propelled motion. This is a great feature to have in humid climates or if your yard is thick or grass has grown high.
Some mowers have the option of a KEY START. This is a great option if you have shoulder problems or just don't like pulling the rope starter. However, you will have to charge the electronic ignition from time to time. The rope is there for back up use if your ignition is not charged. Some mowers have PRIMER BULBS. This is a red balloon type bulb that has to be pushed in about 3 times prior to starting the mower. Some newer mowers do not have the primer bulb. Some have a choke or just start when you pull the rope. These usually have a PREMIUM SPARK PLUG.
Also, consider if you need the REAR BAG. If your yard is small or not very thick, you can mulch and not use the bag. Ask if the mower has a MULCHING BLADE. Some mowers do not come with a bag. This can save about $40.
Lawn Mower's power is now measured by TORQUE. This is the force behind the blade turning. The higher the number, the more precise the cut.
There are many ENGINE BRANDS. Briggs and Stratton, Honda, and Kohler are some of the most well known. Read consumer reports for reviews of each brand.
DECK SIZE is also a feature to decide. Most gas mowers are 21 or 22 inches. Not much of a difference unless you have a big yard. You might save some mowing time by buying the 22 inch. Most electric or cordless mowers are 18 or 19 inches.
Also, a fairly new feature is a deck wash. This fitting allows a garden hose to be attached to wash under the deck when you have finished mowing. -
Step 3
Have an idea of how much you want to spend. Shop sales and special promotions. Look for coupons or interest free credit promotions. The key start feature usually costs about $50 - $100 more. The larger rear wheel can costs about $10 - $20 more. On average a good mower will costs from $199 - $300. Also, consider the warranty. Ask the salesperson what the manufacturer and the store protection agreement will cover. Also, ask the price for the store's protection agreement. Ask about the return policy too as this is different from the warranty issues.
With annual or seasonal preventive maintenance, you should get several years out of a good lawn mower. Familiarize yourself with the buzz words before going to the store and you will be able to make a wise decision. Happy and safe mowing!
