Lawnmowers

A lawn without problems: how to choose a lawn mower

Spring is in full swing, which means more work in the garden and on the plots. And right now, at the start of the season, it's time to choose a reliable helper to fight the grass thickets - a modern lawn mower. 

By the way, did you know that the first model was invented back in 1830 in England, and since then it has undergone a long period of modernization - from manual mechanisms to modern robotic devices. 

Lawn mowers can be mechanical - they are more suitable for small areas and those who appreciate silence; electric, gasoline, robotic (programmable for independent operation), trimmers and brushcutters - for hard-to-reach places where a regular mower cannot reach. 

The most popular are electric and gasoline models. Let's take a quick look at each type. 

Electric lawn mowers are lightweight, compact, and easy to maintain; they do not pollute the air, are quieter than gasoline mowers, and are cheaper. The disadvantages include dependence on the power grid or limited battery life. They are not always suitable for very large areas. They are also less powerful, making it harder for them to cope with tall and tough grass. 

The same cannot be said for gasoline-powered mowers - they are “knee-deep in the sea.” They do not depend on electricity, can handle fairly large areas, and work for a long time without interruption. They are noisy and emit exhaust gases that are heavier than electric mowers, require regular maintenance (oil changes, filter cleaning, etc.), and are more expensive. 

Buying a mower is only half the battle. You need to know how to use it properly so that it will serve for a long time and without problems. WADA specialists highlight certain nuances in working with this equipment, which will definitely come in handy. 

First, do not mow the grass when it is wet - this is one of the most common mistakes. After all, it sticks to the blade and body, clogs the outlet and slides under the wheels. This is dangerous for the engine, especially in electric models. 

Second, after each mowing, grass juice and small debris remain on the blades, which eventually turns into a sticky layer. Therefore, they should be cleaned regularly, as well as the bottom of the housing.

The third nuance is to avoid large branches and stones, as the lawnmower blades can become dull or even break. And gasoline ones will also give a strong blow to the handle. 

For electric models, check the tension and condition of the cables from time to time, and avoid running over them with the mower. Only refuel a gasoline mower when the engine is cold to avoid igniting fuel vapors. In addition, check the oil every time before use, as a lack of oil leads to overheating and rapid engine failure. Rechargeable models require proper charging: do not leave the battery discharged for a long time or overcharge it, as this reduces the battery life. 

It is equally important to store the mower properly: it should be in a dry place protected from rain. In gasoline models, it is imperative to drain the fuel for the winter to prevent sediment from forming in the fuel system. 

In addition, VADA experts emphasize that when choosing a mower, you should pay attention to the shape of the blade and the aerodynamics of the body - the better it is, the more efficiently the mower sucks in the grass before cutting. This guarantees an even cut without “creases” and better filling of the grass catcher.

Choose models with a metal body - they will last longer. Plastic ones are lighter and cheaper, but wear out faster. 

Pay attention to wheels with bearings, as they turn more easily and evenly even on uneven ground. It's better to get a model with a quick-clean function, which is a special fitting for connecting a garden hose. After work, you just turn on the water, start the engine at idle speed, and the bottom is clean. 

Choose models with several modes of operation, such as basket collection, side discharge, and mulching. This helps you adjust to the weather, grass height, and season. 

And most importantly, ask whether there is a service center for this brand in your city and whether spare parts are available. Often, cheaper Chinese models look impressive, but there is nowhere to repair them later. 

WADA offers time-tested lawn mowers and other garden equipment, spare parts for them if necessary, competent advice and loyal prices.