Start your engines! Spring is on the horizon, and that means it’s time to get your lawn mower geared up for the season. If you didn’t do any end-of-season maintenance last fall, it’s even more important to do it now. Proper mower maintenance will not only improve the life and performance of your mower; it will also improve the health and appearance of your turf. Your mowing routine (in combination with your Weed Man lawn care program) is crucial to sustaining your lush, green, healthy lawn all season long, so make sure your equipment is in good working order. 

Inspect and Sharpen Your Mower Blades

First, turn your lawn mower onto its side and carefully remove the blades. Inspect them for rust or damage, and then clean them thoroughly. It’s a good idea to sharpen your blades at least twice every season, not just for the efficiency of your mower, but for the health of your lawn! Sharp blades make a cleaner cut, helping your mowed lawn heal faster so it can stay lush and green. Using a dull mower blade can create tears that don’t heal and leave our lawn susceptible to disease, insect damage, and drought and heat stress. If you notice large chips or cracks in the blade, it’s time to replace it.

Clean the Undercarriage

While your mower is still on its side, use hot, soapy water and a wire brush to clean the grass clippings and dirt from the underpart of your mower. Keeping it clean will prevent rust and prolong the life of your mower. Regularly clean your mower deck throughout the season to help prevent the spread of lawn disease.

Check the Spark Plug and Air Filter

Much like a car, the spark plug and air filter should be serviced regularly. If you’ve been having frequent issues starting your mower, there are two things to check before calling in an expert. A dirty or loose spark plug can make your mower difficult to start, waste fuel, and result in a choppy cut. A dirty air filter or fouled spark plug can choke your engine and cause problems when you try to start it. You should clean the filter and check the spark plug (and possibly change it) at least once a year to preserve the lifespan of your mower.

Change the Oil

Change the oil in your mower at least once per season. Check your owner’s manual to make sure you are using the correct type of oil. Remove the spark plug wire and drain dirty oil before refilling.

Grease Moving Parts

To keep the mower running smoothly, lubricate any moving parts, such as the mower spindle and the wheel bearings. 

Kick Off Your Mowing Season

With these simple maintenance steps, you’ll extend the life of your machine, prevent malfunctions, and ensure a successful start-up for the spring season. Check out our guide on best mowing practices for more details on the best mowing height, frequency, and other tips for mowing your lawn. 

Find a Weed Man near you and get a free quote today!