You're hearing more and more lawnmowers in our neighborhoods now that the grass is growing fast again. Before you fire up your machine the next time, remember that proper lawn care equipment maintenance is essential to ensure its longevity and optimal performance. Regular maintenance can prevent breakdowns, improve efficiency, and save you money in the long run. 

Here are some tips for maintaining your lawn care equipment:

Read the manual: Start by reading the equipment's manual thoroughly. It will provide you with specific instructions on maintenance requirements, intervals, and safety guidelines.

Clean after each use: After using the equipment, remove any debris, grass clippings, or dirt from the surfaces. Use a brush or compressed air to clean hard-to-reach areas. Keeping the equipment clean prevents clogging, corrosion, and the spread of diseases.

Check and change oil: Refer to the manual to determine the recommended oil type and intervals for oil changes. Regularly check the oil level and change it as instructed. Dirty or low oil can cause engine damage and affect performance.

Inspect and clean the air filter: The air filter prevents dirt and debris from entering the engine. Inspect it regularly and clean or replace it if it's dirty or damaged. A clogged air filter restricts airflow, reducing efficiency and potentially causing engine problems.

Sharpen and balance blades: Dull blades can tear the grass instead of cutting it cleanly, leading to a less attractive lawn and potential disease issues. Sharpen the blades regularly with a file or grinder and ensure they are correctly balanced. Replace damaged or excessively worn blades.

Check and tighten fasteners: During operation, vibration can cause nuts, bolts, and screws to loosen. Regularly inspect all pins on the equipment and tighten them as necessary. Pay attention to wheels, handles, blades, and other components.

Check and adjust tire pressure: Maintaining the correct tire pressure improves maneuverability and prevents excessive wear. Refer to the manual or sidewall markings for the recommended tire pressure, and use a gauge to check and adjust it accordingly.

Inspect belts and cables: Over time, belts and cables can wear out, fray, or become loose. Inspect them regularly for signs of damage and replace them if necessary. Adjust the tension on belts as specified in the manual.

Store equipment properly: When not in use, store your lawn care equipment in a clean, dry, and well-ventilated area. Protect it from extreme temperatures, moisture, and direct sunlight. Follow any specific storage instructions provided in the manual.

Schedule professional servicing: While the user can do essential maintenance, it's also a good idea to have your equipment professionally serviced annually or as the manufacturer recommends. Professionals can perform more in-depth inspections, tune-ups, and repairs.
Remember to prioritize safety when performing maintenance. Always disconnect spark plugs, power sources, or batteries before working on any equipment, and wear appropriate protective gear.

By following these maintenance tips, you can keep your lawn care equipment in excellent condition, extend its lifespan, and ensure efficient and effective performance for all your lawn care needs.

If all this seems like too much, remember that ELT Landscape has a team of lawn care crews who will take care of your yard, and you'll never have to worry if your mower again.