How to Select the Right Mower for your Yard

When you shop for a lawn mower, consider the quality of the engine, the mowerÕs features and the size and terrain of your yard. Here are some tips to make mower shopping easier: There are two main types of mowers: walk-behind mowers and riding mowers. LetÕs take a look at them both.

Walk-behind mowers are the most popular mowers, perfect for yards up to about one-half to three-fourths of an acre. If you have a small, flat yard, a walk-behind mower that you push may be the right choice for your yard.

If you have a larger yard, or a sloped yard, you will probably want a self-propelled mower Š one that will move forward on its own without you pushing it. You simply walk behind the mower to guide it.

Walk-behind mowers come in a variety of sizes. ItÕs important to match the size of the mower to your yard. Generally, the larger your yard, the more power you will need (look for a higher torque rating on the engine) and the larger the mower deck the mower should have to get the job done quickly and easily.

Riding mowers are ideal for yards three-fourths of an acre and larger. There are many variations in engine power, mower deck size and maneuverability.

For example, a zero-turn radius mower is quick and turns tightly around trees, shrubs and other landscape features.

Some riding mowers Š generally smaller ones Š have rear-mounted engines which allow them to turn tightly.

The traditional riding mower, with the engine in front, offers engine sizes to suit lawns up to several acres in size.

The mower decks come in different sizes to suit your needs. The wider the deck, the more lawn you will cut in one pass.

When choosing a walk-behind mower consider the size of your yard and the type of terrain you have. If your yard is sloped, a self-propelled mower that moves forward on its own will make lawn care easier. The more powerful the engine and the larger the mower deck, the more easily you will get your mowing done.

Also, check out the wheels. Standard size wheels are fine for most yards, but large back wheels will help you travel through rough or bumpy terrain, and are helpful when mowing ditches. (See our selection guide at ____).

The engine is the most important part of your lawn mower. It provides the all-important cutting power, and in a self-propelled or riding mower, it also moves the mower forward. A durable, high-quality engine will make lawn care easier by starting quickly and providing the needed power to cut through even tall, thick grass.

Look for the torque rating on the engine Š the higher the number, the more power the engine will provide. (Show at least two different Briggs & Stratton engines on mowers).

Mulch or bag clippings? A mulching mower has a special blade that cuts grass blades into very small pieces and returns them to the lawn where they decompose and become a natural fertilizer. With a mulching mower, you never have to catch and dispose of clippings.

With a non-mulching mower, you can choose options that allow you to attach a bag to the back or side of the mower to catch the grass clippings as they are expelled from beneath the mower.

Keep in mind that a rear-bagging mower can be easier to maneuver around trees, bushes and along fences because the bag wonÕt get in the way.

A side bag works well where trees and other items arenÕt an issue.

Other parts of the mower. ItÕs good to know the key parts of a mower so you know what you will be looking at in the store or at your lawn mower dealer. LetÕs take a quick look at this typical lawn mower (walk-behind mower, point out engine/torque rating, oil well/dip stick, primer bulb, gas tank/FreshStart cap, safety bar on handle, mower deck/how to adjust, bag for collecting clippings, etc.)

When you shop for a mower, ask questions. Discuss your yard with your mower dealer and compare different lawn mower brands. And look for a quality Briggs & Stratton engine inside.