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There are five main types of lawn mowers. Each have their pros and cons depending of the type of yard you need to mow. Which one you choose can be determined by a number of factors, including the size of your yard, the terrain it needs to cover, and how much power you need.
Ideal for small, flat lawns, hand lawn mowers are inexpensive, easy to use, and better for the environment. Designs have come a long way, making them a convenient choice that won't take up much storage space.
Better suited to smaller areas, electric lawn mowers are light, portable, easy to store away, and simple to maintain. They do have a cord, which can be a minor hassle to drag around, and you'll need easy access to a power source.
Because they're battery powered, cordless lawn mowers are a convenient way to mow small and medium sized lawns. There's no petrol to mix and no cords to drag around, plus they're a lot lighter for portability and smaller for ease of storage. Batteries generally last up to 90 minutes, giving you plenty of time to get your mowing job done.
If you have a big lawn to cover, then a petrol mower should be top of your list. They're more powerful than electric or cordless, and have a wider cutting diameter. Some are also self-propelled, making them easier to push around large lawns.
There are two types of petrol mower, 2-stroke and 4-stroke. The 2-stroke works best in small to medium areas. It's lighter to push and needs less maintenance. The 4-stroke needs a little more care. However, it's more reliable, easier to start and can handle much bigger lawns.
For really big areas, like a paddock or oval, a ride-on mower will get the job done. They run on petrol and are a fast, comfortable way to mow. When choosing a ride-on, think about the turning circle, especially if you need to mow tighter areas. If you're mowing uphill then choose an engine with a bit more horsepower.
Not every mower within each category is the same. Features can vary between different models. Choosing the right technology for the job will make your mowing more enjoyable.
Consider whether you want a push or self-propelled mower. Push models are easier to maintain while self-propelled are easier to handle and have variable speed control to suit your walking pace.
Major controls should be close to hand and easy to see. For example, the engine control lever should be on the handle bar and easy to operate. Also, make sure the cutting height is easily adjustable with several height options.
Also, think about the size of the mower's catcher. A bigger box means you won't have to empty grass clippings as often, especially if you have a larger lawn.
