Mowing your lawn is necessary to keep a neat environment. You have a lot of grass and you don’t enjoy mowing. The key, therefore, is to find the right mower for your needs.
When it comes to lawn mowers, there can be a lot of options to choose from, hence the popular question, what size mower do I need?
Keep reading to learn more about different types of mowers and find out what size is best for you.
What Size Mower Do I Need
Look for a mower with a deck size that corresponds to the acreage of your lawn. For a half-acre lot, you’ll need at least a 41-inch mower. If your lawn is larger than two acres, you’ll need a mower with a deck size of 55 inches or more.
Factors to Determine the Size of a Lawn Mower
Before determining the size of riding mower to buy, first, measure the size of your lawn!
Once you have determined the area of your lawn, you can think about mower size. For instance, if you have a small garden or residential lawn, the smallest type and non-powered push mowers will work just well.
Conversely, large engine-powered lawn mowers are suitable for larger fields and residential lawns. So the size of the mower you choose depends on your garden’s size and how complex the terrain is.
To put it in numbers, a 0.5 acres of lawn would need a mower with a deck size of 40” to 45”. If your lawn is 3 acres and above, you will need a 55” to 72” size lawn mower.
It is important that you know how large your yard is to get the very best out of your lawn mower, don’t buy a large or very small mower that might not serve you right.
Advantages of Lawn Mowers
Lawn mowers help you tidy up your yard, but not all sizes will match your needs. Landing the very best mower for your lawn adds to its advantages.
Here are some of the advantages you get from using a lawn mover to cut grass in your yard.
Lawn Mowers offer Precision Cuts
It’s not easy to achieve precision when cutting the grass manually with slashers on your lawn. But with a lawn mower, you will achieve that well-manicured look.
That is one major advantage of using a riding mower for grass trimming.
Effort Reduction
If you have prior experience in cutting grass manually, you know the effort it takes. But with a lawn mower, all you need is to move around effortlessly, achieving precise cuts in the process.
Lawn Mowers Saves Time
Cutting your grass manually takes time, you might not have time to cut down grass in your yard before the other section grows.
You might end up wasting a lot of time going back and forth from one point to another trying to have the lawn level. That’s not the case with riding mowers!
Lawn mowers are gas or electrically powered and will take a short time to have the whole yard done.
Note:
Ideally, if your lawn size is anything less than 1-acre, opt for a push mower or a robotic lawn mower.
However, if you have a large lawn exceeding 1-acre, go for powerful lawn mowers like riding or ZTR lawn tarctors.
The obstructions present in your garden also determine the size of the lawn mower you want. Such obstructions include:
- Edges and hedges.
- Floral beds or trees.
- Pet houses, lawn ornaments, furniture, and playsets for your kids.
- Steep incline and hills.
Also, the type and height of grass you’re cutting determine the size of the riding mower.
For instance, thicker grass requires a more powerful lawn mower than thin grass, which grows only a few inches per year.
What Are the Different Types of Lawn Mowers
Lawn mowers exist in various sizes and types. So it is important to understand the numerous options available to make an informed decision.
Check out the options I have highlighted below;
i. Push Reel Lawn Mower
This option is among the oldest types of lawnmowers.
It integrates eight blades that trim the grass with precision. Ideally, push mower commonly used on small lawns because of its size and strength.
ii. Walk-Behind Lawn Mower
It’s a grass-cutting machine, either pushed or self-propelled. It has a minimum cutting width of 12 in (305 mm) that uses an engine or a motor as a power source and is controlled by an operator walking behind the mower.
This lawn mower has very sharp blades that work with the help of the motor. And for that, they are more effective than the typical push mower.
iii. Electric Lawn Mower
Electric lawn mowers, run on electricity and are available as either corded or cordless. They also tend to be lighter.
It’s wise to opt for the cordless option to avoid moving around with tangled cables.
However, you need to factor in the battery capacity before choosing a cordless lawn mower. I say this because the battery is the heart of the motor.
If the battery has a large charge capacity, that translates to reduced work time as batteries with low capacity need to be recharged frequently, thus prolonging the work time.
iv. Hover Mower
As the name implies, this option hovers above the ground, allowing easy movement while trimming uneven surfaces.
These lawn mowers are also cheaper than other options and excel well on unusually shaped lawns. However, you can only use them on small lawns.
v. Ride-On Lawn Mowers
Ride-on lawn mowers are arguably the most convenient option. They integrate a seat for you to drive the mower like a normal car.
They also boast large cutting widths, making them ideal for large lawns.
What Size Mower Do I Need for 1 Acre?
One acre requires a lawn mower ranging between 40″ to 60″. That’s because a larger mower reduces the mowing time.
Usually, a lawn mower is characterized by a cutting deck. So if you plan to save time on your 1-acre lawn, opt for 40″ to 60″( grass cutting diameter).
How Big of a Garden Do I Need for a Ride-on Mower?
Ride-on lawn mowers are designed for large yards considering they integrate powerful engines to tackle bigger patches of grass.
These riding mowers allow you to sit and steer, unlike other options that require pushing. Therefore, you won’t suffer any back fatigue.
But how big of a garden do I need for a ride-on mower? A lawn exceeding 1½ acres requires a ride-on lawn mower.
That’s because a ride-on lawn mower will take less time to mow and is powerful enough to withstand obstacles.
How Long Does a Lawn Mower Last?
The life span of a quality lawn mower depends on the type and brand reputation. With a good brand, expect your lawn mower to endure 10 to 15 years of maximum ill use.
But for your machine to survive this duration, you need to factor in crucial aspects like maintenance. A well-maintained mower translates to an extended lifespan.
So as a user, it’s good practice to handle your mower as an investment. By doing so, you will enjoy reliable operation for years to come.
Here are factors that can help extend your lawn mower’s life.
Clean
You should never underrate the essence of cleaning your tools, whether simple things like a knife or complex like a lawn mower.
Cleaning is very important, considering your lawn mower often gets dirty after use.
The trimmed grass can attach to the underside and top of your gadget and eventually paves through the engine.
If you fail to attend to this issue, your machine might end up malfunctioning. So simply use a damp cloth to clean the blade and the underside of your machine.
Then use a plastic scraper to scrub any stubborn pieces. But be sure to disengage the spark plug before you commence cleaning.
Change Oil and Fuel
Changing the oil in your lawn mower is not an option. Ideally, you do this to ensure your motor does not degrade prematurely because of using dirty oil as a lubricant.
Sharpening the Blade
Cutting grass with a dull blade can make your work harder than usual. That’s because you will use more energy to maneuver around, plus the engine will employ more fuel per grass cutting session.
So considering lawn mower blades wear and become less effective with time, you need to sharpen them at least twice a year.
You can do it yourself, but seeking professional assistance aids a lot. Learn more about how often you should change lawn mower blades.
Replacing the Air Filter
An effective combustion engine requires good air circulation. That means you require a clean filter to capture dust and other particles out of the engine for it to work as expected.
Often, air filters get clogged and block air entry into the engine. If this happens, the engine endures undue strain lessening its lifespan.
Luckily, a quick fix to this is purchasing new air filters to replace the old ones. Alternatively, if your lawn mower uses foam filters, you don’t have to replace them. Instead, wipe them clean and reuse them.
Checking the Spark Plug
Spark plugs, too, can wear down with time. So for them to last longer, practice cleaning them often to remove the stuck-on dust and rust buildup.
Or replace them regularly.
You can easily know that it’s time to replace them when it needs more pulls on the cord to run your lawn mower, considering it’s the spark plug that ignites the fuel.
What Is the Standard Lawn Mower Size?
Lawn mowers come in different sizes, shapes, widths, and lengths. It’s important to know the size of a lawn mower you need considering the obstacles in your yard.
Also, getting a lawn mower with your desired dimensions means it will fit in your storage space without issues. But is there a standard size of a lawn mower?
The standard size of a lawnmower depends on the type and brand. For instance, the standard size of a riding lawn mower is between 30 to 85 inches in width based on the features and style/design.
By contrast, self-propelled mowers have standard sizes of 22 to 40 inches wide and a cutting deck of about 21 to 36 inches.
Do Smaller Mower Decks Cut Better?
Ideally, larger mower decks cut better than smaller mower decks. But the difference comes in the final cut appearance.
The small mower decks brag a better final appearance because of the following aspects.
Tire Tracks
A small lawn tractor doesn’t leave noticeable track imprints, but you will notice track traces on heavier riding mowers.
The Number of Blades
Small lawn mowers exhibit more even cuts, considering they encompass a single blade. The engine HP delivers around 3600 RPMs.
So given that a single-blade mower is attached directly to the engine, it has more blade speed to it meaning you will enjoy a fine cut appearance.
Conversely, bigger riding mowers have multiple blades that cut even when the deck is not programmed correctly.
If any of the blades bend mistakenly, the final appearance will appear unsightly to the eyes.
Follows Contours and Undulations
Small mower decks follow the ground’s contours and undulations even where there are small dips. That’s not the same with larger riding mowers.
Carpet Look
Smaller decks cut the grass shorter with a carpet appearance. This is because smaller blades produce a better vacuum of the blade, unlike the larger options.
Also, you will enjoy cutting your grass shorter without risking scalping the grass.
Does ¼ Acre Need a Riding Mower?
No, ¼ acre is not worth extra cost and maintenance. While you won’t need a riding mower for ¼ acre, having one will save you a lot of time.
I recommend riding mowers for a lawn size of ½ acre or more. A riding lawn tractor or zero-turn lawn mower is better suited for vast plots of land.
What Is the Best Small Size Riding Lawn Mower?
Unlike other lawn tractors that consume your time and effort, a riding lawn mower saves you from time constraints and muscle exhaustion.
However, that’s only practical if you know the characteristics and what to look for. This way, you won’t end up with a below-average product.
So what’s the best small-size riding lawn mower? The best small-size riding lawn mower is the Husqvarna Z242F Hydrostatic Riding Mower.
It is a robust and most durable small-size lawn tractor that fits your lawn needs without sacrificing comfort.
Thanks to its cleverly built steel frames and a sturdy caster to tolerate stubborn lawns.
It also encompasses a powerful engine that delivers an unmatched cutting speed of 6.5 mph to make quick cuts in one pass.
Not to mention, this machine incorporates dual suspension springs to soak up bumps and impacts, enhancing maneuverability and convenience.
How Often Should Lawn be Mowed?
Mowing grass leaves your lawn looking aesthetically appealing. But how often to mow your grass depends on the type of grass in your yard.
Some grass only grows a few inches per year, whereas others have rapid growth. Generally, keeping your grass at the optimal height and not trimming too much at once helps maintain a neat and healthy lawn.
The good thing is mowing is also a workout; therefore, the frequently you do it, the better.
When to mow
Usually, grass needs to be cut during the growing season. The rate of your grass growth and the preferred height of your lawn determines how often to mow.
Preferably, mowing once a week amid the growing season is ideal for a healthy lawn. During the low season, you can lessen the mowing frequency to once every two to three weeks.
What Size Trailer Do I Need for a 60-inch Lawn Mower?
A 60-inch lawn mower needs a 6×12 size trailer as the best work companion. This size of the trailer has enough capacity to ferry yard waste, soil, supplies, etc.
What’s even better? A 6×12 trailer has a removable tailgate that facilitates easy loading and unloading.
It also integrates pneumatic tires that enhance a smooth ride on any terrain.
How to Load Up Your Riding Lawn Mower
You can use ramps to load your riding lawn mower into a trailer or a pickup truck bed to haul it to mow a different yard.
However, you will likely encounter a huge margin of error, especially if you are strange to ramps.
But don’t worry, as this guide is here to meet your needs. Here is what to do.
Step 1
First, make ramps measuring about 3.9 times the height of your truck from the bottom to the tailgate after it’s lowered.
You then confer with the user manual to ascertain the lawn mower’s weight. This is important as it will help you choose ramps that can tolerate a weight heavier than the mower’s weight.
Ensure your ramp kits integrate a lip that attaches onto the top end and an adapter piece for the underside.
With these supplies in place, the bottom end meets with the ground at a preferred angle instead of driving the wheels over the 2″ board’s thickness.
Step 2
Next, lower the tailgate, then place the ramps well so the lip at the end of the ramp bolt on the tailgate’s end.
After that, space the ramps equal distance apart as your lawn mower’s wheels. Some ramps have a wide surface, so you only utilize a single piece instead of employing a separate ramp for each tire.
Step 3
This step involves clipping the safety harnesses to your truck’s tow hitch. Doing this secures the ramps in place, assuming the lips slide off the tailgate mistakenly.
After that, set the lawn mower to neutral gear, so the wheels rotate freely. You then lift the mower deck to the furthest height and turn off the engine.
Step 4
Next, drag the lawn mower up the ramp into the truck’s bed while the drive wheels remain uphill.
It’s best to use a helper to tow the lawn mower to avoid rolling backward while pushing.
Step 5
Engage the parking brake on your machine and disengage the ramp and raise the tailgate.
Follow with securing two ratchet straps from either side of the truck bed, throughout the lawn mower frame, and on the opposing side of the truck bed.
This deters the lawn mower from rolling while driving, and it also helps secure the mower in the trailer in case of an accident.
What Size Trailer Do You Need to Haul a Riding Lawn Mower?
The size trailer for hauling a riding lawn mower is 16×18 feet. This type of trailer is large enough to accommodate your riding lawn mower, and it also has sturdy wheels to enhance stability during transportation.
Ideally, I recommend you choose the enclosed trailer instead of the open ones. Enclosed trailers guarantee the safety and security of your riding lawn mower.
How Do You Transport a Zero Turn Lawn Mower?
Loading a zero-turn lawn mower into a trailer or truck for transportation is not as easy as you imagine.
You might try several attempts and fail because of not pairing the right ramp for your zero-turn mower or trailer height.
Transporting a zero-turn lawn mower means you have two extra obstacles: uneven weight distribution and contention in wheel offsets.
So be sure to transport a zero-turn mower with a higher weight capacity to counteract the weight of the equipment. Check out these steps:
Step 1
First, park your trailer on a horizontal surface or facing a subtle incline. This minimizes the steepness of the loading angle by elevating the ramp’s feet.
Then set the parking brake to guarantee stability, considering you might encounter unexpected shifting while loading.
Step 2
Unwrap the ramps and position the plate ends on the tailgate’s edge. If your ramps don’t integrate safety straps, procure some.
Secure the ramps to your trailer hitch safety chain coils. You will want to do this precisely, considering any minor mistake will result in personal injury and damage to the equipment.
Step 3
After securing the ramps, it’s the ripe time to load. Reverse the mower to reduce the center of gravity. Then, ride your zero-turn lawn mower up.
Ensure it is in low gear and don’t stop midway. But if you stop, it’s better to return to the ground before riding up again. This ensures you have the acceleration to clear the ramp.
Step 4
After entering the truck or trailer, put your mower to the parking brake, then secure it using ratchet straps.
Doing this prevents unexpected shifting during transportation. You can also use chains as a ratchet replacement.
When you reach your destination, unfold the ratchets or chains, then carefully unload your zero-turn mower to avoid injury.
Can You Transport a Lawn Mower With Gas In It?
No, you can’t transport a lawn mower with gas in it. Doing so is relatively dangerous, and you might risk explosions while transporting because gases are extremely combustible.
Here are a few precautionary measures to take before transporting your lawnmower:
Drain All Liquids from Your Lawn Mower
Begin by emptying your lawn mower’s oil and gas by oozing them into safe containers. Both gas and oil are dangerous materials that cause hazards.
For instance, oil can leak out during transportation and foster a huge mess. So disposing of the two can secure your transportation.
Clean
Always clean your lawn mower to remove the grass cuttings and remaining dirt. The logic behind this is to maintain the decent condition of your truck or trailer.
Tip
Use a damp sponge to clean the mower and mainly focus on the wheels and undercarriage.
Disengage All Attachments and Blades
Before transporting your lawn mower, remove all attachments and blades for safety reasons. If you’re not familiar with disconnecting your lawn mower, confirm with the user manual.
Kindly remember to handle the blades with caution and place protective covers over them to avoid injuries.
After disengaging all attachments, park all of them in a separate box and seal it. If necessary, label it to avoid confusion.
How to Change Lawn Mower Oil
Adequate care and maintenance is arguably the best way to extend your lawn mower’s lifespan. Part of the maintenance process is changing the engine oil.
Experts recommend changing the oil after 25 hours of heavy use. Doing this ensures your engine runs efficiently, free from debris and other impurities formed by the engine’s break-in process.
The following is a proven guideline that will help you change your engine oil even if you lack prior experience.
Step 1
Begin by warming up the engine. This will fasten the oil change, given that the unclean oil will flow more freely.
It will also be easier to suspend any internal debris in the used oil, allowing the contaminants to ooze out with the oil.
After that, use a damp cloth to clean throughout the oil fill spout. Or use an air compressor for best results.
Before proceeding, prepare an oil pan to drain the oil from the mower.
Step 2
Uncover the oil fill cap and tip your lawn mower on the side to drain the used oil. It’s even better to let the mower sit on its side for nearly a minute to drain out all the oil.
Step 3
Unscrew the oil filter to replace it. You will need another pan or tin to drain the oil in the filter as you unscrew it.
You then coat your new filter seal with oil before installing it. This ensures it fits in place tightly while installing.
Next, install your new oil filter by giving it a firm ½ turn to tighten it. Once you’re through, refill the mower oil and pull back frequently to check the oil level with a dipstick.
You then finish by replacing the oil cap, and your oil change is complete.
Here’s How to Change Lawn Mower Oil:
Conclusion
Thanks to rapid technological advancements as it is now dawning on people, a lawn mower is a valuable resource in our homes.
This machine has made trimming grass a straightforward task, unlike handling the task manually, resulting in unexpected muscle fatigue.
But a common question with this machine is…
What Size Mower Do I Need?
The size mower you need varies depending on your lawn’s size, obstacles in the yard, and storage space.
If you have a small lawn, smaller riding mowers are ideal for you. But if you own a large yard, the larger-sized mower suits your objectives.
If you own a lawn mower or intending to buy one, I hope that you found this information useful to you.
In case you have a question, opinion or suggestion that you’d like to put forty kindly do so in the comment section below.