What To Know Before You Mow

As lawn care pros, we get asked all the time about the top tips for the perfect cut: When is the best time to mow? How high or low should my mower be? How often should I mow? And here’s the truth — none of that matters if you skip the most important step: performing yearly maintenance.

That’s the one piece of enduring advice I try to impart. If the blades aren’t sharp or the engine isn’t running smoothly, it doesn’t matter when you mow or how high the mower is set. You won’t get the best results.

A quality machine can last for decades if it’s well maintained. Neglect it, and it will struggle to get through a single season. Spring is here, and I know everyone is eager to get to work. Before you do, work through this preseason checklist.

Change the Oil 

The Toro CompanyThat mower has probably been sitting for a few cold months. In that time, the oil left in the engine has likely lost viscosity, which leads to friction and heat — a bad combination for small-engine components. Check your oil level and condition before the first cut, and change it if it’s dark or low. Your manual will specify the correct oil type and weight for your engine. 

Get a New Air Filter  

While you’re at it, inspect or replace the air filter. A clogged filter restricts airflow, forces the engine to work harder and burns more fuel. Some may consider simply blowing dust and sediment out of the filter, but doing so risks damaging the filter’s delicate structure, which will greatly impact its ability to function properly. For the low cost, replacing is usually the smarter move. 

Replace Old Fuel  

The Toro CompanyAny gas left in the tank over winter has degraded and will be hard on the engine. Drain the old fuel and replace it with fresh gas before firing up for the first time. Later, as fall approaches, add a fuel stabilizer to the tank before storing the mower — it will save you headaches come spring.

Swap Out Spark Plugs 

A worn spark plug causes hard starting and reduced fuel efficiency. Pull it out and take a look. If the electrode is worn down or it’s simply been a few seasons, replace it. A new spark plug costs a few dollars and takes about five minutes.

Stay Sharp 

The Toro CompanyDull blades don’t cut — they tear. That shredding weakens the grass and leaves it scorched and brown rather than green. Perform a visual inspection to check blade sharpness and look for any damage from seasons past. If you’ve never sharpened or replaced blades and feel uncomfortable doing so, it’s best to take your mower to your local service shop.

Clear The Deck 

Packed grass clippings under the deck restrict airflow, reduce cutting efficiency and accelerate the spread of rust. Tip the mower so the air filter side is up — tipping the opposite way may cause oil to flood the air filter and carburetor — and remove any buildup.

Level The Deck 

The Toro CompanyLeveling your lawn mower deck is important because it directly affects how your lawn looks, how healthy the grass stays and how hard your mower has to work. When the deck is level, all blades cut at the same height; when it isn’t, problems show up fast. Refer to your owner’s manual for proper leveling procedures. 

Check Tire Pressure 

Uneven pressure throws off steering and maneuverability, and on soft ground, underinflated tires press into the turf causing damage to the surface. Improper tire pressure also greatly affects cut quality due to creating an uneven cut. The recommended PSI should be printed on the sidewall of each tire or listed in your owner’s manual.

These simple tasks don’t require special tools or skillsets. Knock them off your checklist today so your mower runs all summer long.