How can I start my lawn mower?

Starting a lawn mower is a fairly straightforward process, but there are some key things you need to check and steps you should follow to ensure it starts up smoothly each time. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about getting your gas or electric lawn mower running.

Quick Tips for Starting a Lawn Mower

Here are some quick tips to keep in mind when starting your lawn mower:

• Check the oil and gas levels
• Make sure the spark plug is in good condition
• Ensure the blade disengage button or bail is in the correct starting position
• Push the primer bulb 2-3 times if the mower has one
• For push mowers, tilt the mower back to prevent the blades engaging
• Pull the starter cord briskly and firmly
• Let the engine warm up for a minute before using

Steps to Start a Gas Lawn Mower

Follow these steps when starting a gas lawn mower:

1. Check the oil level – Remove the dipstick and wipe it clean. Reinsert fully and pull out to check the oil level. It should be between the full and add marks. Top up if needed.
2. Check the gas level – Remove the gas cap and peer inside the tank. Fill up if the level is low. Don’t overfill. Replace the gas cap.
3. Inspect the spark plug – Remove the spark plug and examine it. Replace it if there is heavy carbon buildup or wear. Check the gap is set correctly.
4. Ensure the blade control is disengaged – Push the button or move the bail to the stop position so the blades won’t turn when starting.
5. Prime the engine – Press the primer bulb 2-3 times if your mower has one. This sends gas to the carburetor to help it start.
6. Tilt the mower back – For a push mower, tilt it back on its rear wheels to prevent blade engagement.
7. Pull the starter cord – Grasp the handle firmly and pull the starter cord out briskly to start the engine. Repeat if needed.
8. Let the engine warm up – Give it about a minute to warm up before using the mower.

It’s important not to pull the starter cord when the engine is running as this can damage the mechanism. Refer to your mower’s manual for full starting instructions.

Steps to Start an Electric Lawn Mower

Here are the steps for starting an electric lawn mower:

1. Check the power cord – Examine the cord for any cuts, frays or damage. Replace if needed.
2. Ensure the safety key is inserted – Electric mowers have a removable safety key that must be in place to start.
3. Plug in the cord – Insert the plug into a working outdoor outlet. Use an extension cord if needed.
4. Disengage the blade – Release the bail or press the button to prevent the blades turning.
5. Press the start button – Locate the start button or switch and press it to power on the mower.
6. Unlock the bail – Slowly lift and lower the bail to engage power to the blades.

Always make sure to unplug the mower after use. The key safety steps are ensuring the bail is disengaged before starting, and plugging into a working GFCI outlet with the correct amperage rating.

Troubleshooting Problems Starting a Lawn Mower

If your lawn mower won’t start, here are some common issues to check:

Gas Mower Won’t Start

• Empty gas tank – Check the gas level and refill if empty.
• Faulty spark plug – Replace the spark plug if worn out or damaged.
• Dirty air filter – Remove and clean the air filter if it’s clogged with debris.
• Stale gas – Drain old gas and replace with fresh if gas has been sitting for months.
• Loose spark plug wire – Ensure the spark plug boot is connected securely.
• Flooded engine – Wait 5-10 minutes before restarting to let excess gas evaporate.

Electric Mower Won’t Start

• Power cord unplugged – Plug cord into working outlet with correct voltage.
• Safety key missing – Ensure removable safety key is inserted.
• Faulty outlet – Try another outlet or extension cord if outlet is dead.
• Tripped circuit breaker – Check circuit breakers and reset tripped breaker.
• Blown fuse – Replace fuse in mower if blown.
• Lockout switch engaged – Release bail or button to disengage lockout.

Consult your mower manual or call customer service for further troubleshooting tips. Taking the time to properly diagnose and fix issues will have your mower running smoothly again.

Maintenance Tips for Lawn Mowers

Regular maintenance is crucial to keep your lawn mower starting and running properly each season. Here are some key maintenance tasks to perform:

Before Each Use

• Check oil level
• Inspect blades for sharpness
• Ensure bolts and screws are tight
• Clear any debris buildup under deck
• Check tires for proper inflation

Every 25 Hours of Use

• Clean/replace air filter
• Sharpen/replace mower blades
• Lubricate wheels and linkages
• Check fuel lines and fittings
• Check/adjust choke, throttle, belts

Every 100 Hours of Use

• Change engine oil and filter
• Replace spark plug
• Service recoil starter and flywheel
• Check valve clearances
• Clean combustion chamber

Also refer to your owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommended service intervals. Proper maintenance will extend the life of your mower for many seasons.

Safety Tips for Operating a Lawn Mower

Lawn mowers can become dangerous tools if not used properly. Keep these safety tips in mind:

• Wear close-toed shoes and long pants to protect against flying debris.
• Wear earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones to prevent hearing damage from noise.
• Pick up sticks, stones, toys and other objects from the lawn before mowing.
• Never reach under or touch hot parts of a running mower.
• Refuel mower when cool and with engine turned off.
• Ensure blade control is disengaged when crossing gravel or paved areas.
• Never tilt a running mower toward you when transporting.
• Avoid mowing on overly steep slopes or hills.
• Push mower at a safe speed – don’t run!

Exercise caution, follow safety precautions, and pay close attention when using your lawn mower, and it will provide many years of reliable service.

Conclusion

Starting and operating a lawn mower properly is essential to maintaining a beautiful yard. Follow the tips outlined here to troubleshoot issues, perform regular maintenance, and use your mower safely. With some basic knowledge and safe practices, you’ll keep your lawn neatly trimmed all season long.