by A self-propelled lawn mower is a type of lawnmower that allows the operator to walk behind it while it is in motion, as opposed to a traditional push mower which requires the operator to walk in front of the mower. Self propelled lawn mowers are usually available in two different types – riding and walking models.
The next time you go to the store searching for a new lawn mower, you may want to consider a self-propelled one. They are not only easier to use, but they are also more convenient. If you are wondering why you should buy this type of mower, continue reading.
What is a Self-Propelled Lawn Mower?
A self propelled lawn mower works in the same way as a traditional push lawn mower. The difference is that there is a motorized engine attached to the rear of the lawnmower that makes it easier for you to use. This is because it moves the mower forward as you walk behind it, making it easier for you to mow your lawn.
Benefits of a self-propelled lawn mower
1. They are easy to operate
First benefit of self-propelled models is that they are easy to use. All you have to do is select the right speed and allow the mower to do the rest of the work for you. The fact that you do not have to use a lot of energy to push it means that you will not get tired as quickly as you would when using a manual machine. The handle is also designed in such a way that it will allow you to maintain your balance. The majority of self-propelled models are super easy to use and will give you a great cut with minimal effort on your part.
2. They are easy to maneuver
If a self-propelled lawn mower is properly assembled, it will be easy to maneuver. The reason for this is because the mower is equipped with an adjustable handle that allows the operator to change the height of the cutting deck. They allow you to control the speed – Most self-propelled lawn mowers have a variable speed control setting, so you can choose how fast you want to go, depending on your yard and how long it will take you to complete your task.
3. They are easy to maintain
The good thing about self-propelled lawn mowers is that they are easy to maintain. This is because most of them have a two in one handlebar design that allows you to adjust the height of the cutting deck and also adjust the speed of the lawn mower. They come with features that make it easy to maintain your lawn mower. The features include:
- A quick release lever – This lever allows the operator to change the height of the cutting deck quickly.
- A fuel shut off valve – This feature allows the operator to stop using the lawn mower without having to remove the gas tank. It prevents gas from leaking out of the tank, which can cause damage to your yard and also harm you.
- A rotating rear wheel – A rotating rear wheel allows you to steer your machine easily and maneuver around corners.
4. They provide a clean cut
The last thing you want to do is spend your time mowing your lawn, only to come back and find that your mower has missed grass. This will make it look like you have not mowed your lawn. With self-propelled lawn mowers, you no longer have to worry about this. They provide a clean cut with every pass. The wheels at the rear of the lawn mower will help you to complete the job faster than you would with a manual mower.
5. They are environmentally friendly
A manual lawn mower requires the operator to use a lot of energy to push it around the lawn. The work that is involved requires the operator to add carbon dioxide to the air. This will contribute to global warming and also affect our environment. A self propelled lawn mower can help you to do your part in saving the environment. It is more environmentally friendly as it will not require you to use a lot of energy to move it around your yard, therefore reducing the carbon dioxide that you emit into the atmosphere.
6. They are lightweight
For many people, the weight of a lawn mower can be a major consideration. When you consider the fact that you will want to use it regularly, it is important that it is not too heavy. Self-propelled models are lighter than manual ones. This is because they have wheels at the rear that help you to push them around the yard. They also tend to be lighter in weight than their counterparts. The lighter weight means that you will not get tired as quickly as you would with a heavier model.
7. They are safe and reliable
Most self-propelled models are very safe and reliable. In fact, most of them come with safety features such as a safety key to stop the blades from rotating when the mower is not in use. This is a great feature because it means that you can easily store the mower in your garage without worrying that it will start on its own. It also means that you will not have to worry about accidentally hurting your feet when you step on the blades. The safety key ensures that you will be safe at all times.
8. They are cost efficient
Self-propelled models are cost efficient because you do not have to spend a lot of money on fuel in order to operate them. In fact, most of them use less fuel than the more common push mowers. The fact that they do not use a lot of energy means that you will also save a lot of money on electrical bills throughout the year as well.
How to choose the right self-propelled lawn mower
When looking to buy a self-propelled lawn mower, you will need to consider a number of different factors in order to ensure that you will be happy with your mower. Here are some of the most important factors you will want to keep in mind.
Quality and durability
The quality and durability of the lawn mower are two of the most important factors that you will want to consider. The better the quality, the longer your lawn mower will last, which means that you will not have to replace it for several years. Durable materials are also important because they ensure that you do not have to worry about repairing them for quite some time.
Quality and durability are especially important if you plan on using your mower on a weekly basis during the summer. If you are going to use it frequently, then you will want a model that is made out of high-quality materials, such as steel and aluminum.
Power
Another important factor to consider is the power of the lawn mower. The power of a self-propelled lawn mower refers to the amount of power that the engine produces. Most engines produce between about 1-5 horsepower. However, there are some models that can reach as much as 8 horsepower.
Generally speaking, the more powerful the engine is, the better it will be at cutting through thick grass and weeds. Plus, you will not have to worry as much about pushing it through areas that have a lot of thick grass, as the self-propelled feature will do most of the work for you.
Speed
The speed of a self-propelled lawn mower refers to how fast the wheels are able to turn. Most lawnmowers have about a 1-4 inch per second speed. However, there are some that can reach speeds of up to 6 inches per second.
A faster speed is great for people with large yards, as it will make it much easier for you to get the job done in a shorter period of time. Plus, if you plan on using your mower on areas that have a lot of grass and weeds, then you will want one that moves faster.
Heavy Duty Models
There are some self-propelled lawn mowers that are better suited for the really tough jobs. These models are known as heavy duty models and they are designed for people who have large yards and/or areas that need to be mowed frequently.
As the name suggests, these models are designed to tackle tougher jobs and can move through thick grass and weeds with ease. They also tend to have larger engines and therefore produce more power.
Cost
Of course, the last thing to consider when buying a self-propelled lawn mower is the cost. This is especially important if you are on a budget. In this case, you will want to make sure that you select a model that is within your price range.
You will also want to make sure that you take into account how often and how far you plan on using the mower. If you will be using it often, and on longer distances, then you will definitely want to pay more for a higher quality product. However, if you only plan on using it occasionally, then a low cost model will probably suit your needs just fine.
Conclusion
The best self-propelled lawn mower is the one that meets your needs and fits your budget. If you are looking for a mower that can tackle thick grass, then you will want to go with a heavy duty model. On the other hand, if you only need to mow every couple of weeks and have a small yard, then a smaller, lighter model will probably suit your needs just fine.
