Choosing the Best Lawn Mower For Your Yard

Mowing the lawn is one of summer’s inevitable chores.  But how do you know what type of mower is the best for your yard?  There are a myriad of options available, so how do you choose?

Start by asking yourself these questions:  how big is your yard?  What is your level of physical fitness?  How much free time do you have?  Are there any obstacles to mow around?  Once you know the answers to these questions, you’ll be better able to purchase a mower that is right for your needs.  Outlined below are the types of mowers currently on the market.

Manual Reel Mower

If you’re looking for a workout, and have a small, level yard then a manual reel mower may be just the thing for you.  And if you’re concerned about the environment, you’ll be happy to know it’s also environmentally friendly because it produces no emissions or noise.  With a manual reel mower, you provide all the power, so this mower is only a good option for people who are in good shape.  And if you’re on a budget, even better – the manual reel mower is one of the least expensive options available.

Battery Powered Reel Mower

If you like the idea of a reel mower but you’re not sure you have what it takes to power it, then consider a battery powered option.  It’s a great choice for homeowners with small yards who want a more environmentally friendly mower, and it reduces the amount of exertion required to get the job done.

Solar Battery Hybrid Mower

Hate mowing?  Then a solar battery hybrid mower might be just the thing for you.  This mower uses solar power and a rechargeable battery to keep a small yard tidy automatically – it runs itself!  You’ll need to install a perimeter wire to keep the mower confined to your yard, and it’s not a great choice if you have many obstacles or steep slopes.

Battery Powered Walk Behind Mower

This mower comes with a rechargeable battery and is a great option for those with small, flat lawns.  A single charge lasts from 30 to 45 minutes.

Traditional Walk Behind Mower

The traditional walk behind mower is the workhorse of mowers.  The most commonly-used mower on the market, it comes with a range of options including bags to collect and mulch grass clippings or to blow them onto the lawn.  Some start with just the turn of a key.

Electric Walk Behind Mower

If you want an environmentally friendly version of the traditional walk behind mower, than this option is for you.  It uses an extension cord to plug into an outlet while you mow.

Self Propelled Mower

This mower does all the work for you, all you have to do is steer.  This is a great choice if you have a large or hilly yard.  It comes in variable speeds, with some models automatically adjusting to match your walking speed.

Traditional Riding Mower

If you have more than half an acre to mow, then a riding mower is your best bet.  They are also great for people with physical limitations or those with a hilly yard.  Most riding mowers have a steering wheel like a car, and come with variable speeds and adjustable seats.

Zero Turn Riding Mowers

These types of mowers are designed to maneuver easily in tight spaces.  Most have a two handle steering mechanism that allows you to mow large areas more quickly than a traditional model.

Now that you know the options available, you simply must decide what model is best for your mowing needs.