How to Compare Electric Start Gas Mowers

Keep your lawn trimmed and healthy with a lawn mower. Gone are the days of using a manual reel mower. Instead, most lawn mowers today use a powerful gas-fueled engine to cut your grass. A newer innovation is an electric start, which starts your gas mower without the need to pull a cord. Despite these innovations, not all lawn mowers are created equal. Compare the different lawn mowers on the market to make an educated decision on which machine is best for your lifestyle and lawn.

Instructions

1. Compare the starting mechanism. Electric starts typically require pushing a button or turning a key in an ignition. Models with a key may prevent your accidentally turning on the machine, but they also require you to keep track of the key or you can't run the lawn mower.

2. Review the mowers' engine strength, expressed as horsepower (HP). The stronger the engine, the more capable it is of handling difficult mowing conditions like dense wet grass without clogging or dying. A weaker mower may be sufficient if you only plan to maintain a relatively simple swatch of lawn.

3. Check for mowing modes. Some lawn mowers do more than just trim your grass, but they also can be used for shredding or mulching debris. A multipurpose mower is needed only if you plan to do such garden activities with your appliance.

4. Compare the method of propulsion for each mower. Some mowers are self-propelled, meaning the engine helps move the lawn mower forward while you simply steer it. Others are push models that require you to push the mower forward yourself. Push mowers may be cheaper, but they are less than ideal if you're mowing a hill or are not in the best health.

5. Review the warranties offered by the lawn mower manufacturers, which will come in handy if your lawn mower breaks down and needs servicing. Aim for a mower that has at least a 1-year warranty, though 2-year warranties are common.

References

• "The Lawn Bible: How to Keep It Green, Groomed and Growing Every Season of the Year"; David Mellor; 2003
• "Lawns: Your Guide to a Beautiful Yard"; Nick Christians, et al.; 2007