Qualities of a Lawn Mower

Fuel Type

• One of the first qualities to consider when shopping for a mower is its fuel type. Gas-powered mowers are typically the most common, and must be filled with gasoline prior to use. While they are convenient because they are cordless, they usually require more maintenance than other types of mowers and produce emissions that are harmful to the environment. You may also opt for a mower that runs on electricity. Electric mowers are available in both corded and cordless models, though you may run into problems with a corded mower if you have a large lawn or there are many trees and other obstacles on your property. However, electric mowers do not produce exhaust emissions, so they are an environmentally friendly option. Your final mower choice is one that doesn't require gas, electricity or any type of fuel to run -- a manual-reel mower. You power the mower yourself simply by pushing it across your lawn so its curved blades turn and cut the grass. While this is the most environmentally friendly type of mower, it is a poor option if you have a large lawn or are unable to perform strenuous manual labor.

Operation Method

• Another factor to consider when choosing a mower is its method of operation. A manual-reel mower requires you to push it so the circular blades turn and cut the lawn. It requires the most effort on your part to cut your lawn. A push mower is similar in that you must walk behind the mower to push it, but the mower relies on either gas or electricity to turn its blades and requires less effort on your part. A self-propelled mower is even easier to use because the mower's engine helps turn the wheels so you only have to guide it. The least physically demanding mower to use is usually a riding one because you sit on it like a tractor and drive it across your lawn.

Engine Features

• Bigger doesn't necessarily mean better when it comes to a mower's engine, but the size and power of its engine is a factor that you should consider. Self-propelled and riding mowers require a larger engine than traditional push mowers. However, even newer push models feature 6 horsepower engines. You can also opt for a mower with an advanced engine that has overhead valves or camshafts, which increase the engine's power and help cut down on toxic emissions.

Weight

• If you are purchasing a push mower, its weight is another quality to consider before making a purchase. A cordless electric mower usually weighs significantly more than a corded model, which makes pushing it more difficult. A mower that has a mulching feature is heavier than one without this capacity, but a side bag model typically weighs less than a rear bag mower. When shopping for your mower, test out the feel of it so you can get a sense of its weight. Opt for the model with the lightest weight that still has all of the other qualities that you require.