“Be it for residential or commercial purposes, self-propelled lawn mowers make the mowing process simple and easy”
Self-propelled lawn mower is the best alternative to push lawn mower as they are not physically exhausting.
They are capable of working effortlessly even on uneven terrain. It is very easy to trim or tidy up the lawn, even for the beginners.
If you want to invest in a self-propelled lawn mower, then consider the below factors to make an informed choice.
1. Engine Power – Self-propelled lawn mowers are available in electric and gas-powered.
- Electric Powered – It is represented in volts. Electric ones are available with 80volt or 82volt battery system.
- Gas Powered – It is represented in cc rating. Gas powered ones are available from 140cc to 190cc.
Note: Basic rule to remember while analysing this feature is – higher the engine power, better the performance of the machine.
2. Cutting Width – It represents how much grass can be cut in one single pass. The cutting width of self-propelled lawn mowers range from 21 inches to 30 inches wide. If it is a large yard, buying a model with large cutting width will reduce the time by 30%. However, if there are many obstacles like flower beds, garden furniture, or trees, then narrower deck will be the right choice as it is easy to move around.
Apart from these two, there are several factors like wheels, deck material, assembly, construction and several others. Read our “Buying Guide” for detail information.
We have also provided a list of Best Self-Propelled Lawn Mower after careful research, analysis and testing.
Top Self Propelled Lawn Mowers List
| Self Propelled Lawn Mower | Cutting Width | Motor Type | Warranty | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Greenworks Self Propelled Lawn Mower | 21 inch | 80 volt electric motor | 4 years | Check On Amazon |
| Craftsman Self Propelled Lawn Mower | 21 inch | 140 CC gas engine | 2 years | Check On Amazon |
| PowerSmart Self Propelled Lawn Mower | 21 inch | 209 CC gas engine | 3 years | Check On Amazon |
| Snapper Self Propelled Lawn Mower | 19 inch | 82 volt electric | 5 years | Check On Amazon |
| Powerworks Self Propelled Lawn Mower | 21 inch | 60V brushless | 4 years | Check On Amazon |
| Troy-Bilt Self Propelled Lawn Mower | 21 inch | 159 CC gas engine | 3 years | Check On Amazon |
| Yard Machines Self Propelled Lawn Mower | 21 inch | 1400 CC gas engine | 2 years | Check On Amazon |
Self Propelled Lawn Mowers Reviews
1. Greenworks Self Propelled Lawn Mower
As per the name, Greenworks is a brand of power tools that makes various electric tools. This even includes the Greenworks Pro self-propelled lawn mower.
The Greenworks Pro self-propelled lawn mower is present in the 1st position in this article as it is a highly reliable and powerful electric option. But even then, this lawn mower has a very justified price tag that makes it a great value for money option for a lot of users out there. This lawn mower is battery powered highly durable as it offers an excellent build quality along with a 4-year long battery that is much higher than other options out there.
You get a 21-inch cutting width blade in this lawn mower that is quite great since it can be used to cut a lot of grass at once. This cutting blade is powered by an 80-volt battery system that offers power equivalent to a 160 cc gas engine. It even offers a Smart Cut Load sensing technology that changes the power output as per the amount of grass you are cutting. The brushless motors used by this lawn mower are quite reliable and silent as well.
Best Features:
- 21-inch cutting width
- 80 volt battery system
- 4-year warranty
- Smart Cut Load sensing technology
- Power equivalent to 160 cc gas engine
- Uses brushless motors
- Includes a rear bag and side discharge option
Components:
- Self-propelled lawn mower
- User manual
- Warranty card
2. Craftsman Self Propelled Lawn Mower
Craftsman is a popular brand of garden tools and equipment that also makes lawn mowers. Here this M105 self-propelled lawn mower takes the 2nd position in our list due to its great-looking gas-powered options at an affordable price range.
It comes with a quite powerful 140 CC engine along with a recoil start and auto choke, which mostly powers the front wheels of this lawn mower that allows you to easily maneuver this lawn mower. It has durable wheels (zag treaded tires) measuring the front wheels as 7 inches, while the rear/back ones have a wheel size of 8 inches.
This gas-powered engine runs a 21-inch sharp wide cutting blade that let you trim/cut a lot of grass at once in a quick pass with high precision and control. It let you adjust the cutting height using its dual lever mechanism that offers a total of 6 different cutting height settings. It even allows you to change the cutting speed of this lawn mower quite easily.
This push mower offers 3-in-1 capabilities with its rear discharge, side discharge, and mulching capabilities. Furthermore, it includes an attached bagger to catch the grass clipping and thereby maintain a neat and clean lawn.
Thus, it is considered the perfect option to mow on small to medium-sized lawns. The Craftsman offers a 2-year warranty on this M105 140CC gas-powered self-propelled lawn mower from the date of purchase.
Best Features:
- Cutting width of 21-inch to mow wide areas in few passes.
- 140 CC gas-powered engine for efficient mowing
- Backed by 2 years warranty
- Front-wheel power
- Dual-lever height adjustment
- 8-inch wheels at the rear and 7-inch wheels at the front
- Variable blade speed
Components:
- Self-propelled lawn mower
- User manual
- Warranty card
3. PowerSmart Self Propelled Lawn Mower
PowerSmart is one of the popular brands manufacturing various outdoor equipment that is suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional workers. Their wide range of products will include lawnmowers, drill drivers, blowers, saws, and other power tools.
This lawn mower runs on a powerful 209CC 4-stroke gas engine that drives a 21-inch steel mowing deck to get rid of all tough and tall grass. It uses a forced air-cooling system to produce high power to get the job done quickly and easily. With its 5-position height adjustment levels, you can adjust the blade height to maintain a grass height of 1.18 – 3 inches which is suitable for all kinds of grass.
Besides mowing, it allows you to mulch and side discharge your lawn with its 3-in-1 feature with its bagger. There is a large bag to collect the grass clippings and increase work efficiency. It features a foldable handle that allows you for compact storage. When it comes to maneuvering the equipment, the small 8-inch rear wheel and 7-inch front wheels will help you to make tight turns. It includes motor oil for its proper working.
It is easy to assemble and easy to use that comes with a quick folded design. Also, it is backed by a 3-year manufacturer warranty and free lifetime tech support
Best Features:
- 21-inch cutting width
- 209 CC powerful 4-cycle gas engine
- Backed by a 3-year manufacturer warranty
- 3-in-1 function with bagger
- 5-cutting position height adjustment level
- Forced air cooling system
- Quick folded design and easy-to-use model
- 8-inch rear wheels & 7-inch front wheels
Components
- Push lawn mowers
- User manual
- Warranty card
4. Snapper Self Propelled Lawn Mower
Snapper XD is yet another highly popular brand when it comes garden tools and equipment. Their wide product range includes several electric lawn mower models. Among them, XD has made to out list of best electric lawn mower kits.
If you are looking for reliable self-propelled lawn mower option, then this can be a great pick. This product comes with a great build quality to the user due to all of the construction materials it uses.
These batteries power a 19-inch cutting blade that is quite common as other options present in this article. It offers a great cutting performance with precise control since you get a total of 7 cutting heights in this lawn mower.
This lawn mower comes with an 82-volt battery system that is much better than most other options out there. You even get 2 of these batteries for easily using this lawn mower for a long time at once. You also get a 5-year long warranty with this lawn mower that is much higher than most other options out there.
Best Features:
- 21-inch cutting width
- 82-volt battery system
- 5-year warranty
- 7 cutting heights
- 19-inch wheels
- Includes bag as well as side discharge option
- 45-minute battery life
- Smart and efficient load sensing technology
Components:
- Self-propelled lawn mower
- 2 batteries
- Rapid charging kit
- User manual
- Warranty card
5. Powerworks Self Propelled Lawn Mower
Powerworks is a manufacturer of versatile battery-powered tools to tackle all problems in and around your lawn. The brand’s design ensures the products are adaptable and meet consumer needs.
Powerworks’ 21-inch SP lawn mower is a great pick for yards up to ¾ acre. With 45 minutes of run time and 21 inches cutting blade, you can cut the grass effortlessly. The 3-in-1 design allows you to rear bag, mulch, and side discharge grass clippings. Besides, you get 7 height adjustment positions that let you maintain the perfect length of the grass with precision.
The lawnmower is powered by a 60V lithium-ion battery that runs an efficient brushless motor. It has a push start button using which you can effortlessly start the mower. After using, you can fold the handle which consumes 70% less space for compact storage. The lawnmower is covered by a 4 years warranty on the tool and a 2 years warranty on the battery.
Best Features
- 21-inch cutting blade
- Suitable for yards up to ¾ acre
- Powered by 60V lithium-ion battery
- Uses an efficient brushless motor
- Up to 45 minutes of run time
- 3 -in-1 design
- & height adjustment positions
- Foldable handle
- 4 years warranty on the tool and a 2 years warranty on the battery
Components
- Self-propelled lawnmower
- 5.0Ah battery and charger
- User manual
6. Troy-Bilt Self Propelled Lawn Mower
Troy-Bilt is a popular brand that offers various options including this gas-powered self-propelled lawn mower.
This lightweight self-propelled lawn mower from Troy Bilt comes with a 159CC OHV engine that is quite powerful. This engine powers a large 21-inch cutting blade & Ideal to lawn mowers for small yards, you can easily cut a lot of grass at once precisely and cleanly with its TriAction cutting system. While the grass you cut with this mower gets collected in its rear grass bag or side discharge, as per your requirement.
You can adjust the cutting height of this mower blade from 1.25 – 3.75 inches along with adjusting the blade speed. Like other gas-powered lawn mower options, you will get a 2-year long warranty and a great build quality with this Troy Bilt lawn mower.
Best Features:
- 21-inch cutting width
- 159 CC OHV engine
- Ideal to lawn mowers for small yards
- Cutting height of 1.25 inches to 3.75 inches
- Dual-lever height adjustment and EZ start choke system
- 3-in-1 cutting modes (mulching, bagging, or side discharge)
- Durable 7-inch front and 11-inch rear wheels to mow on rough terrain
- Front-wheel drive, 3 different handle height adjustments, and decent built quality
- Backed by a 2-year limited warranty.
Components:
- Self-propelled lawn mower
- User manual
- Warranty card
7. Yard Machines Self Propelled Lawn Mower
Yard Machines is a part of MTD that focuses on developing efficient power tools to maintain your yard.
Using the powerful 140cc gasoline engine, you can cut hard grasses with relative ease. The dual lever has 6 height adjustment positions that allow you to set the perfect height for cutting grass. The engine comes with a recoil starter and primer that allows you to start within a few pulls of the cord.
The 21 inches cutting blade clears wider areas of grass on a single stride and allows you to mow your lawn quickly. The cutting blade allows you to mulch and side discharge the grass. Besides, the 8 inches wheels can handle uneven surfaces and allow you to stroll the lawn mower easily even in rough and uneven terrains. The self-propelled lawn mower is covered under a 2 years warranty.
Best Features
- 21 inches cutting width
- 2 in 1 lawnmower
- Powered by 140cc gasoline engine
- Dual-lever
- 6 height adjustment options
- Recoil starter and primer
- 8 inches durable wheels
- 2 years warranty
Components
- Self-propelled lawnmower
- User manual
- Warranty card
What Factors to Consider while Buying a Self-Propelled Lawn Mower:
Other than lawn size and terrain type, there are several other factors to consider while shopping for a self-propelled lawnmower. We have clearly mentioned the below buying guide for your reference.
1. Types
There are two main types of self-propelled lawn mowers – gas-powered and battery-operated lawnmowers. Let’s know about them in detail.
Battery-Powered Mower: It is ideal for mowing small to medium size yards (1/4 acre). If you want to use this mower for a large lawn (above 1/4 acre), consider purchasing additional batteries to mow the lawn at once. These are affordable, quieter, and lighter than gas mowers.
Gas-Powered Mowers: It is suitable for larger lawns (1/2 acre or more). Simply, fill the fuel tank and start your mowing process. This type of mowers is louder, heavier, and expensive yet efficient than battery-powered mowers.
2. Engine Power
Either it is a battery-powered or gasoline mower, you have to consider its engine power to enhance the cutting performance of a mower. Also, it helps you to pick the mower as per your yard requirements.
Gas-Powered Mower – Its engine capacity is measured in terms of cubic centimeters (CC). The greater the engine power, the better will be its performance.
- Searching for a mower with decent cut quality, then a small 140 CC engine will work fine.
- Looking for better mulching, bagging or cleaner cuts (or) having a lawn with thicker/taller grass, then opt for 160 CC – 180 CC engine.
- The greater power will improve proper lift and thereby less likely to cause thick patches. So, while you are looking for a mower with a deck size of above 22 inches, then look for engines within the range of 180 CC – 220 CC. This will keep the higher RPM (speed), even while cutting a large swath.
Battery-Powered Mowers – Its engine power is measured in terms of volts (V). The range of these mowers will be from 18V (small engines) – 120V (large engines). Most people prefer to purchase mowers with engine power between 40V – 80V, which can easily handle the tasks as 140CC – 180CC gasoline engine does.
3. Runtime
Runtime is defined as the time period (duration) a lawn mower works. So, it is quite essential to consider while buying a self-propelled lawnmower. The runtime of a gas-powered mower depends on its fuel capacity. If it runs out, you have to quickly refill the tank to continue the mowing process. Whereas the runtime of a battery-powered model is represented in the Ah rating. Most models come within the range of 1.5 Ah – 2.0 Ah, while the latter one is best.
4. Deck Size
It let you know how wide your lawnmower is. So, the wider the mower, the more area you can cut the lawn at once. Usually, the self-propelled mowers come within the range of 19 – 21 inches, which are perfect for small-medium lawns. If you want to mow a lawn of more than 1/4 acre, then go for a larger one around 28 inches to mow it efficiently.
A higher cutting width of a mower not only make it work efficient but also bulky in size. So, it requires a large space for its storage. In case, if you don’t have more storage space (or) your lawn having obstacles (like flower beds, trees, or garden furniture), then prefer a narrower deck to move around easily.
5. Blade Speed
The blade speed of a given lawnmower will provide a clear idea of its cutting performance, and it is mentioned in terms of Rounds Per Minute (RPM). With this RPM, you came to know how many times the blade of a mower spins every minute.
If you get mowers with an RPM rating of 1500 RPM or 2000 RPM, in which a higher RPM rating will aid in better performance. Thus, it results in smooth & sharp cuts while cutting grass. Also, it allows you to cut thick grass easily in your yard without any issues.
6. Drive System
Similar to other vehicles, the self-propelled mowers run on drive systems. There are 3 main drives available in the market – Front Wheel Drive (FWD), Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) & All Wheel Drive. Each drive system has its set of pros and cons. Let’s know about them in detail.
- Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) – This type of mower is ideal to mow on a flat lawn. Why because the mower will stop its movement suddenly if the front wheels are lifted off the ground. This quite happens while navigating hills. Or else, they are easier to tip and turn when you need to turn around & reverse course.
- Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) – This type is more powerful and efficient to work on lawns with hills (or) uneven terrain. With its incredible amount of traction and needs less intervention, they are relatively expensive than FWD.
- All-Wheel Drive – This is the best option to mow on slopes, hills, and uneven terrain. The most expensive type of mower, yet have efficient performance, especially on bumpy areas. It won’t let any of its wheels lose traction and let you mow easily.
7. Cutting Options
In general, lawnmowers offer several cutting options such as bagging, mulching and side-discharge, along with this mowing. The same applies to self-propelled mowers. Have a look at its cutting options.
2-in-1 Cutting Function: This type of mower offers two functionalities – bagging and mulching the grass clipping. Here the mulching function will shred the clippings and throw them over the lawn. Also, it is not good to mulch during early fall or late spring, then you can use a bag to collect the grass clippings for easy disposal.
3-in-1 Cutting Function: This type of mower offers bag, mulching, and side-discharge options. Here along with bagging and mulching, the side-discharge is a utility option that is suitable for large lawns to empty the bag too often.
8. Deck Height Adjustment
The deck height of a given mower will let you know how high a lawn mower can cut above the ground. Having a mower with a height adjustment option of the deck will be more convenient to mow your grass at any height. So, it’s worth investing in a mower with this deck height adjustment option.
You can adjust the ideal height by pulling the height adjustment lever and set it to mow your lawn. It can be easily controlled with levers (1, 2 or 4). Though, single-lever adjustment is easy to use, yet requires more linkage that adds complexity & weight to the mower. This option is suitable for lawns, which require frequent changing of deck height for mowing. Or else, 2 or 4 levers work perfectly.
All models of self-propelled lawn mowers won’t offer the same height adjustment options. A few models have 2 options or 4 options and some range from 1.25 to 4 inches. All you need to figure out the height of your grass you want to cut and then purchase the mower within that height range.
9. Steel Vs Plastic Deck
Usually, the type of deck to use will depend on the type of mower. Most gas mowers use steel decks, whereas battery-powered mowers have plastic (poly) decks. The poly plastic decks look tougher but won’t hold up as steel ones in the longer run. This makes it easy to wear out before replacing the mower.
Most manufacturers use poly decks to design their mowers for flexibility with airflow, as it affects the cutting quality, bagging, and mulching efficiency of a mower. Most gas type mowers have a steel deck (prone to corrosion), and a few have a corrosion-resistant aluminum deck. Even though aluminum won’t corrode, still it’s essential to keep it clean.
10. Blade Break or Blade Override
These days, almost all lawnmowers offer safety features that shut off the engine automatically, whenever you get down to clear rock, ball or stick on its way. Here the blade break or blade override are mostly used safety features in these self-propelled mowers.
Blade Break – The mower with this feature will stop automatically when you remove hands from its handle. So, the engine will stop and start many times, which makes it get stressed a bit.
Blade Override – The mower with this feature will only stop the blade from spinning, instead of an engine. This means the engine is still running and won’t be stressed.
11. Rear Wheel Diameter
The rear wheel diameter depends on the size of a mower along with your terrain type. Usually, all four wheels of a mower have the same diameter (7 – 8 inches). Some models offer rear wheels with 9.5 – 12 inches in diameter. A mower with larger rear wheels will provide a better ride on bumpy areas.
Other than wheel size, you must check how strong/solid those wheels. Consider a mower with solid wheels to mow your lawn easily on any terrain. So, a large mower with a large diameter will aid in proper mowing without damaging the yard.
12. Electric Start
Did you use a gas mower, where you have to pull the cord to start its engine? Most times, it would be frustrating to start the mower. So, a mower with an electric start will be the best option, as it starts the engine quickly with either a key or a button.
13. Speed Control
You can control the ground speed of a mower in various ways like a drive bar (press forward), squeeze handle, or even a dial. Everything works fine and you can check out the design and select the one as per your requirement.
In case, if the mower is used by more than one person – either left or right-handed, then a drive control maybe your best option. All you need is to push down on a bar to make it work faster.
14. Variable Speed Control System
A lawnmower with a variable speed control will let you have complete control over its speed. This will allow you to change the speed settings – up & down to mow the lawn properly, depending on terrain type (uneven) or grass thickness. The fastest mowers can easily mow at a speed of 3 – 5 mph, which is enough for most mowing needs.
Though it depends on one’s personal preference, the variable speed will be your best option for lawns having uneven terrain or thicker grass. You have to adjust the speed at certain areas of cutting and easily achieve a more even cut.
15. Bag Quality
We will notice a durable bag with more dust-blocking capacity inexpensive mowers. This high-quality dust-blocking bag will let you bag a lot of leaves or other lawn debris in the fall. Thus, it helps in keeping the lawn clean and neat. In case, if you are the one who rarely bags, then go with the mower with a standard bag.
16. Weight
Though there is no manual pushing of this self-propelled lawnmower, yet still you have to maneuver it here and there (all around the lawn). So, the weight of the mower is essential to consider before its purchase.
These self-propelled mowers will weigh from 60 lbs – 100 lbs, in which the battery-powered mowers weigh lighter than gas mowers, and thus considered as a better option for those handling a heavy machine. Here your physical strength and effort you put on your lawn mowing will matter most.
17. Deck Wash
It is a hose fitting mounted on top of a mower’s deck. After you have done lawn mowing, simply hook up a hose and run a power wash to clean the underside of the deck. It helps in maintaining the blades clean and sharp for a longer time. So, it is the best way to maintain the mower clean, rather than just letting a mass accumulation of dried grass clippings.
18. Maintenance
For a gas-powered mower, one need to check the fuel tank and refill it whenever needed, whereas for battery-powered mowers, check for its charging. Other than this slight difference in the maintenance, all self-propelled does require some ongoing maintenance for their effective working.
Have a look at some of its common maintenance requirements.
- Changing oil regularly
- Wash the deck and clean the mower to remove dirt and debris.
- Refill the gas tanks (for gas mowers)
- Inspect the mower blades to keep them sharp for a longer time.
- Check for the nicks and cracks.
- Recharge regularly and store the batteries properly (for cordless mowers).
19. Storage Options
Storing the lawnmower properly is as important as using and maintaining it. So, most mower manufacturers concentrated on this storage issue and designed mowers that can easily be placed in crowded garages and sheds. A few mowers offer handles to fold forward and thereby allows for compact storage. While some models have forward-fold features that let you store standing without requiring any additional storage space.
20. Noise
Usually, self-propelled lawn mowers do emit some noise while operating, especially a gas-powered mower. In case, if you are more concerned about the noise level, then choose a battery-powered (lithium-ion) mower for quiet and effective working.
21. Other Features and Accessories
Some self-propelled lawn mowers offer additional features. Have a look at them for ease of using mowers and effective mowing.
- Fuel Shut-Off: In case of any incidents like fire accidents, this feature will be enabled and shut down the mower to prevent any further damage.
- No Oil Change: This feature will reduce the hassle of changing the oil regularly on a gas mower. It let you just top it up periodically.
- Adjustable Handlebar Positions: Quite helpful for people having back problems (or) those who are tall or short. This feature will let them adjust the handle positions as per their height requirement to get a comfortable grip.
- Assembly: With its several tiny parts, which would be misplaced easily while assembling the self-propelled lawnmower. So, it is essential to pick a model that is easy to assemble.
22. Ease of Use
Check out the customer verified ratings and reviews to know how a particular lawnmower model works and is it easy to operate or not? There are several options and control systems surrounded by the self-propelled mower, which make them easy to use/operate.
So, search for mowers that have easy to use control system and a nice transmission system to power up their wheels. Most experts recommend picking a self-propelled lawnmower with variable speed control systems is best and easy to use/control.
23. Price
The price range of self-propelled lawnmowers will start from $250 – $1000 (or above). Expensive models offer a powerful engine that let you mow large yards within less time. If you want to mow a small or medium lawn, then go for high-quality self-propelled mowers within the price range of $300 – $500.
24. Warranty
Never buy a mower without checking its warranty period. Generally, self-propelled lawn mowers come with more moving parts rather than traditional push mowers. So, look for mowers that come with a minimum warranty period of 2 – 5 years.
How to maintain a self-propelled lawnmower?
Just like any other machinery, it is very important to take proper care of the lawnmower. If not, then over time, the performance of the self-propelled lawn mower will decrease. To maintain the lawn mower properly, you must follow some guidelines. We have mentioned them below for your reference.
- To ensure the longevity of the machine, we recommend changing the oil regularly. The best time to do is when the engine is warm. First, turn off the engine and fuel valve, drain the oil, remove any visible dirt, and then refill with fresh oil.
- For best performance, the sharpness of the blade is very necessary. So, check the blades regularly for corrosion, crack, or blunt areas. If so, then replace them with new ones.
- Clean the cutting deck as soon as the mowing is completed. It maintains the blades sharper for a long time.
- If you own a gas mower, check the oil level and spark plugs to prevent any clogs or leaks.
- Oil all the moving parts regularly, including the blades as well.
- It is better to store the mower in a garage or shed, especially during winter or rains.
- During the winter season, remove the batteries from the mower. Recharge the batteries regularly to prolong the life of the lawn mower.
Safety Tips to Consider While Using a Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
To prevent any potential accidents or injuries, we recommend you follow some safety tips and guidelines. We have mentioned them below for your reference.
- Remove Obstructions – Inspect the grass for any small or medium rocks before starting the mowing process. While mowing, if the stones get stuck, then they can fly and cause injury to the user or the blades.
- Protective Gear – While using the lawnmower, it is recommended to wear protective gear that includes comfortable clothes, goggles, gloves, and slip-resistant footwear. Avoid wearing any jewelry and tie your hair up.
- Noisy Mowers – Most of the gas-powered mowers produce up to 100 decibels which can be quite damaging to ears, especially if heard for a prolonged period of time. That is why it is recommended to wear any hearing protection. Decibel defence earmuffs and earplugs are the best options to cover your ears.
- Avoid Mowing While Raining – It is difficult to cut the wet grass. Moreover, mower electronics don’t respond well in unsafe conditions.
- Blades – Self-propelled lawn mower’s cutting blades are very sharp. So, you have to maintain a safe distance from them and ask the bystanders as well to maintain a safe distance from it, especially while mowing. Switch off the engine if someone is approaching or you have to pick up something while mowing.
- Remove Blocked Grass with a Stick – If grass clippings are blocked in the engine or cutting blades, use a stick to remove them. never use bare hand or bring it closer to the engine while working.
- Adjustments – Switch off the lawnmower whenever you are making any adjustment like cutting blade length, handles or any other. Never leave the self-propelled lawn mower unattended.
- Secure the Parts – Before starting the lawn mowing process, check if all the parts are secured or not. Look if bolts or nuts are missing. The shield should also be secured properly. Never operate the lawnmower without a protective shield.
Advantages of Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
There are several benefits of investing in a self-propelled lawnmower. Some of them are mentioned below…
1. Ease of Use
Unlike push mowers, you don’t have to manually move these machines. They are operated with an engine or motor. These machines are very easy to operate. Most of them have handles with foam grip which reduce fatigue. Even youngsters can use a lawnmower with some basic guidance.
2. Safety
As they are operated with a battery or motor, it is very easy to move them backwards or forward. Apart from that, you can also safely take zero turns. They also come with auto-choke, cub cadet, override features, etc. which improve its efficiency.
3. Time-Saving
Using a self-propelled lawn mower, you can complete the mowing task within a short time. They are equipped with sharp blades which let you cut long grasses easily.
4. Sustainability
If your lawn is large and square or rectangle-shaped, then self-propelled mowers are the best choice. They can be used for mowing small and medium lawns as well. But you may have to be extra cautious while using them on a small lawn.
5. Suitable for Long Time Mowing
As it generates power mainly through mechanical motor and wheel system, they take less energy to complete the task. So, you can work for really hours without any issues.
Self Propelled Lawn Mowers FAQs
Ans: It all depends on how your lawn is structured. In case, if you have a large lawn (or) a lawn full of divets & hills, then this self-propelled lawn mower will be your best option. As they reduce the mowing time and physical effort it takes to mow your lawn. While for small and flat yards, it is a bit expensive and instead you can choose a push-type lawnmower.
Ans: Squeeze the bar near your mower’s handle and hold on, as the mower begins to drive itself. But remember to guide the mower to keep it in a straight line and thereby cut it evenly.
Ans: You can push this self-propelled mower, but it doesn’t do any good to you or your lawn. Due to its battery and other electrical features, it usually weighs more than a regular push mower, and thereby add a ton of more effort while mowing the lawn. So, there won’t be a real risk of damage, but it is not easy to push a self-propelled mower.
Ans: It depends on your proper usage and regular maintenance. If done properly, then you can expect its lifespan of about 10+ years.
Ans: Before knowing how to adjust its speed, you should know whether your mower has variable speeds or not. As a few models have only a single speed. Then check out the manufacturer’s instructions to know how to adjust speed settings in your model, which we can control/adjust through a lever on the handle.
Ans: Want to replace or fix the self-propelled lawn mower cable. For this, look for a drive cable connecting the handle drive control lever by using the transmission. So, to remove the cable, you must wait till the engine cools down, and then wear hand gloves and try to remove the plug wire from its spark plug.
Swivel the cable clip to release it from your mower’s handle. Then you have to release these things like drive cable from the drive control lever, zone control cable from the ball control bar, and then release tabs. Remove the zone control cable out of the drive cable clip. Finally, secure the cables to your mower handle by cutting off the cable ties.
Then take out the cap of the fuel/gas tank and simply follow the manual’s instructions before you try to remove the drive cable end from the anchor post. Now re-install the driver cover by connecting a drive cable (new) to its transmission. Then end up the process by installing a drive cable on the mower handle and set the mower by reconnecting again the spark plug wire. So, in this way, you can refix the cable on the mower.
Conclusion
Self-propelled lawn mowers are quite easy to use since they are powered and not tethered by any power cord. And unlike a manual lawn mower, you do not get tired after pushing it around your backyard. So, we have mentioned some of the best self-propelled lawn mower options in this article. You can also find their major features and options, along with a detailed buying guide. Although, if you still have any doubts regarding these, you can simply choose one of our recommendations:
- The Snapper Self Propelled Lawn Mower can be a great option if you are looking for a reliable self-propelled lawn mower. It is the only option present in this article that comes with a 5-year long warranty. And since it has a decent build quality, you can expect it to last for a long time without any issues. As per its name, it has an 82-volt battery that powers its 21-inch wide cutting blade. In other words, it offers excellent performance for an electric lawn mower.
- Although, if you want a highly powerful lawn mower, you can go with the Powerworks Self Propelled Lawn Mower. While it is a bit loud and only comes with a 4-year warranty, it offers high performance since it is a gas-powered lawn mower. It comes with a 60v Brushless motor. And a great thing about this lawn mower is that it can offer this for a justified price tag.
- The Greenworks Self Propelled Lawn Mower can be a great pick if you want an electric option that is also highly reliable. It offers a 4-year long warranty along with a great build quality. And unlike other reliable electric lawn mowers, this one is comparatively affordable. Its 80-volt battery provides decent performance for cutting grass in your backyard quite easily and quickly using its 21-inch wide cutting blade.
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