Lawn mower quick start. 2023. Lawnmower Only Starts With Starting Fluid: Reasons…

23. Lawnmower Only Starts With Starting Fluid: Reasons and Solutions Explained

A well-maintained and green lawn increases the aesthetics and value of your home. Thus, maintaining the lawn is of great importance. Thankfully, a lawnmower comes in handy to cut, slash and trim the grasses on the lawn to make it look good.

Nonetheless, it can be problematic when the lawnmower doesn’t perform well or shows signs of malfunctioning. One such problem happens when the lawnmower only starts with starting fluid. Although the starting fluid is useful to run the machine, when you need it always, it isn’t a good idea.

It happens due to old fuel, a dirty carburetor, and a bad spark plug. Also, if you see the lawnmower clicks but won’t start, it might be because you have kept the machine idle during the entire wintertime.

Although it can be worrisome, you can solve it with a few easy steps. So, we will show you why the engine only starts with starting fluid of your lawnmower and its solutions.

We have a few lawnmower recommendations that you might find helpful.

Why The Lawnmower Only Starts With Starting Fluid:

The lawnmower has a small engine inside it. And like all smaller engines, when it starts only to die after a few moments without the starter fluid, it is linked to the improper fuel supply. Unfortunately, many people get worried when their machine fails to continue running. Thus they will ask, “Why my lawnmower only starts with starter fluid?”

So, here are the top reasons for an engine not working without the starting fluid. Once you know these reasons, you may fix them with ease.

Trouble in the carburetor:

Although you may not like it, the most common reason for a malfunctioning engine is the carburetor. When the component fails to supply a proper mix of fuel and air to the engine, the machine will face hiccups and shut off abruptly.

Mostly when the carburetor gets dirty, this problem starts happening frequently. The dirt inside the carburetor will disallow the component to mix fuel and air in the right ratio. When you keep the mower in an idle state for months, the carburetor gets dirty and causes the machine not to run properly.

When the machine sits idle for months, and there is fuel inside the carburetor bowl, the fuel will slowly develop a layer there. The layer looks like varnish build-up and stops the carburetor from supplying the proper ratio of fuel and air due to the gums around it.

Old fuel:

Using old fuel is never a good idea for the health of engines. The same goes for lawnmowers. Just imagine the condition of how much havoc a little amount of fuel can do to the carburetor when kept inside the bowl without use.

So, how much damage can unused and old fuel do directly to the engine? Also, you can never tell when the fuel or gas of the lawnmower engine goes bad. Nonetheless, experts say that when you keep the machine idle for months with gas inside it, it doesn’t take long for the fuel to go bad.

Usually, premium gas and non-oxygenated gas fuel last longer. Also, you may add a fuel stabilizer with the gas to increase its lifespan before it goes bad.

Air filter gets clogged:

An air filter works to filter the air so that the engine receives pure air without residues and dust in it. When the air filter gets clogged, its performance drops. So, it won’t let as much air to let go inside the setup as the engine requires.

When the air filter stops the required amount of air from going inside the setup that the engine needs to run, the lawnmower will fail frequently. Usually, when you tilt the lawnmower to clean it, oil might leak and clog the air filter. So, the engine won’t get the required air to run properly.

Consequently, you will see that the lawnmower clicks but won’t start.

Issues with the spark plug:

When you see that the engine only starts with starting fluid, it also could be due to the bad spark plug. When you check that the issue is not with the air filter or carburetor, it could be a damaged or bad spark plug.

Also, if the lawnmower won’t restart when hot, it mainly happens due to the spark plug. Thankfully, you can easily detect the problems with the spark plug and replace it.

Inappropriate oil level:

When everything is in good condition, and still the lawnmower won’t start without starting fluid, you must check the oil level. In reality, putting too much oil in the engine can drop its performance. Also, putting too much oil in the engine will bog down it. Consequently, the engine will die.

Thus, you must keep the oil level of the lawnmower at the recommended level.

Solutions for Lawnmower Starts With Starting Fluid Only

We have already mentioned why your lawnmower engine is not running without starter fluid. As you have diagnosed the problem, it’s time to fix it.

Clean the engine carburetor:

It would help if you cleaned off the carburetor using a commercial cleaner. Also, get one with a thin straw as it helps you spray the cleaner right where you want it to be. Once you have opened the can, apply the cleaner to the air intake of the carburetor.

If applying the carburetor cleaner through the air intake doesn’t help, you will need to disassemble the entire carburetor and clean it manually.

Change the air filter:

When the lawnmower running issue is due to the air filter, you must swap it. Firstly, check the air filter and find how much dirt or oil is inside it. In many cases, you might remove the residues and fuel from the air filter to help it work properly.

However, if it has become too dirty, you might need to replace it. You can follow the user manual of the lawnmower to replace the old air filter with ease. Or you will get videos on YouTube to know how to replace a lawn mower air filter.

Remove old oil and use a new oil:

When you plan to start the lawnmower after a long time, you should drain its old fuel entirely. Also, clean off the fuel and carburetor before starting the lawnmower.

You may also check the color and smell of the fuel to know if it has gone bad. Usually, the gas that has gone bad will have a pungent smell. Also, the gas will turn a dark or deep amber color which signals that it has gone bad. Thus, you must drain the fuel and fill the engine with new gas. You should use premium gas to boost the performance of the lawnmower.

Changing the spark plug:

You will need to remove the wiring of the spark plug first. Then, unscrew it using the deep socket. You may alternatively use a spark plug wrench. Check the spark plug electrode and see if it has become too dirty or damaged.

If the electrode isn’t damaged and isn’t too dirty either, you can clean it off and then attach it to the engine. Nonetheless, experts suggest that you should replace the spark plug once every season since it’s not so expensive at all.

Adjusting the oil level:

Finally, you have to adjust the oil level of the lawnmower engine. For this, check the engine’s oil level and adjust it accordingly. We suggest you maintain the oil level as the user manual recommends. It will also increase the performance of the lawnmower.

How to Use Starter Fluid on Riding Lawn Mower

You will need to apply the starter fluid to the lawnmower’s carburetor. Using the sprayer straw, you will need to spray the starting fluid directly on the carburetor. However, keep the machine idle while you spray the fluid. After that, run it for a few moments to help the fluid get mixed properly.

You shouldn’t get panicked if you see the lawnmower only starts with starting fluid. It doesn’t mean that the machine has gone bad. The problem could be with the dirty carburetor, air filter, inappropriate oil level, and bad fuel. So, diagnose the problem thoroughly and fix the component of the lawnmower. The DIY lawnmower fixing project will be great fun.

Check out our additional article:

How To Start A Lawn Mower? (Step-By-Step Guide)

Starting a lawnmower is not a hard nut to crack. Basically it’s a straightforward process. You don’t need a plan but all you need is a proper guideline.

I guess you are looking for an actual guideline to start your lawnmower. Right? No worries. I have a perfect guideline for you.

No matter which version or which lawnmower you use. Actually most of the lawnmower has almost a similar way to start.

That’s why in this article, I will try to give you a proper guideline on how to start a lawn mower. Trust me, you won’t need anyone to start the mower after reading this article.

So, without wasting time, let’s start the mower.

In this content you’ll learn:

A complete guide to starting a lawnmower

Basically, there are different types of models and different types of lawnmower available in the market. However, push and riding mower is the most frequently used lawnmower.

Different types of mower have little bit different starting processes. But no need to be worried. In turn, we will give you the right guideline about the starting process of each mower. Just keep reading.

How to start a push lawnmower

Starting a push lawn mower is not a troublesome task. However, before starting the mower, make sure that all the parts of the mower are good in condition.

Now, follow the steps outlined below to get a flawless start.

Steps to follow:

Step #1: Prepare Lawn Mower For Start

Take the lawnmower into an open, even, and grassy surface. Check the spark plug is properly attached to the mower.

Step #2: Check The Oil Level

Check the engine oil. Bring out the lid of the oil tank and wipe the dipstick with a paper towel. Insert the dipstick again in the oil tank to check the level of the engine oil. If you see scarcity of oil, then fill the tank with manufacturers recommended oil.

Step #3: Press The Primer Button

Find out the mower’s primer button and press the button 3 or 4 times. It will help to supply the gas into the lines for starting the mower.

Step #4: Press The Throttle Lever

Now press the throttle lever into choke position. Don’t forget to do this.

Step #5: Pull The Mower Starter Rope

It’s time to pull the mower starter rope. Briskly pull the rope twice or thrice to start the mower engine.

When the mower will start, you will hear the motor will run roughly. It happens because the throttle lever is in the choke position. Press the throttle lever into run position.

Step #6: Adjust Cutting Height and Engage Mower Blade

Adjust the cutting height of the mower and engage the blade as well.

Now, your push mower is completely ready for mowing.

How to start a riding lawnmower

Riding lawn mowers are more comfortable than the push lawnmower. But you must be careful when you start riding lawn mower because it’s a heavy machine.

If you lose control over the mower, then it may be a cause of serious damage to yourself as well as your lawnmower.

So, follow the steps by step process to start your riding lawnmower without facing any difficulties.

Steps to follow:

Step #1: Prepare The Lawn Mower For Starting

Take your lawnmower into an even surface. Take your position on the seat of the mower and make sure that all the levers and pedals are close to your quick access.

Step #2: Engage The Foot Brake

Place your left foot on the brake and press it downwards to engage it. Hold the mower brake in that position.

Step #3: Engage The Parking Brake

Engage the mower parking brake. You will find the brake beside your seat.

Step #4: Press The Gear

Press the gear to the neutral position. You will find the gearbox close to the steering wheel.

Step #5: Push The Throttle Lever

Push the throttle lever into choke position.

Step #6: Insert The Mower Key

Now, insert the starting key in the hole of the ignition switch. Turn the key and hold the key in that position for at least 10.15 seconds. If you fail in one attempt, try it again.

Step #7: Move The Throttle Lever Into Fast Position

When the engine will start, press the throttle lever into the fast position. The mower will gradually start to run.

Now your riding mower is fully equipped to reign over your lawn.

Final thoughts

I think it’s no more a difficult task for you to start your lawnmower. No matter which lawnmower you use. Just follow the guidelines and start your mower flawlessly.

Hopefully, from this article, you got the right guideline on how to start a lawn mower. If you have any further issues, check the battery, as you may need to jump start the lawn mower.

If you yet face any kind of difficulties, then call any technician to find out the actual issue. It may cost some of your bucks.

Now, start your mower and have fun!

How to Start a Lawn Mower in One Pull

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Many people struggle with the pull cord on a lawn mower. Are you used to having that awful feeling when you pull the cord only to find that the mower doesn’t start?

After many attempts, you still might get no success and you may end up giving up because your arms are too tired to continue. This is certainly a common problem that many people face.

To start your lawn mower in one pull, stand behind the mower and pull the chord straight towards you as hard as you can. Ensure your mower has gas in it. Your mower also needs to have clean oil and a clean air filter too.

Being able to start your lawn mower in one pull requires you to maintain your lawn mower properly. It’s also particularly important to winterize your mower if you intend to leave unused until the next spring. Taking the time to properly maintain and service your lawn mower will help you to avoid problems with starting your mower.

How to Prepare Your Lawn Mower for Starting

Before you start your mower, you should move it out to an open area and make sure it’s on a flat surface away from any debris.

Gas

One reason that lawn mowers fail to start is that they need gas. Make sure that your lawn mower has gas and oil before you try and start it.

You can open the tank and look at it. There is a line that shows you where it should be. If you don’t see gas, fill it up to the line, but don’t overfill it because it could spill.

I recommend this TruFuel 4-cycle fuel. It’s ethanol free and can be used in all sorts of outdoor power equipment. You can also mix in some starting fluid too. This one (link to Amazon) helps to start an engine with either too little fuel or too much.

It’s also important that the gas is no more than six months old since gas quality deteriorates over time. Not only will you have trouble starting your mower with old gas, it could also harm your engine.

If you need to remove oil gas, you will need a fluid extractor pump and a drain pan (links to Amazon). You can use both of these for oil too.

Keeping your fuel fresh for quick and easy starts!Using a fuel stabilizer will keep your fuel fresh for longer.

STA-BIL (link to Amazon) can be used in all gasoline including all ethanol blended fuels.

Oil

Make sure that it has clean oil in it. In a four-stroke engine, the oil should have a dipstick and you can quickly unscrew the cap to pull it out.

If you need to add oil, you should do so before you get started. If you have a two stroke engine, you’ll be mixing the gasoline and oil together.

You need to make sure that you have the proper ratio of gas to oil too but you can often find gas that is premixed at an auto parts store.

Spark Plug

Once you know that you have good oil and gas, you should then check your spark plug. You should be able to see it on the back or the side of the engine.

There should be a lead with a rubber cap attached to it.

The spark plug needs to be firmly attached or your engine won’t start.

You can check your user manual or make sure that a lawn mower service shop changes your spark plugs every year.

Prime the Carburetor

Next, you need to prime the carburetor.

You should be able to find a soft button on the mower and you’ll want to push it three or four times. This pushes gas into the lines to prime the lawn mower so that it’s ready to start. Be cautious because if you overdo this; you could flood your engine.

You can look at your user manual if you have trouble finding this button.

Make sure the carb/throttle is cleanThis WD-40 specialist carb/throttle body parts cleaner works well.

Open the Throttle

Now you should open the throttle.

Again, refer to the user manual if you aren’t sure where the throttle is.

This is important because your engine won’t continue running if the throttle is closed.

Also look to see if you have a choke.

You can use it to help make sure that the ideal fuel to air mixture goes to the engine to help it continue running while the engine is warming up. You then need to turn the choke off after you start your mower and let it run for a minute.

Now You Can Pull the Cord

Finally, you are ready to pull the cord.

People often dread this step but once you take the steps mentioned above, you will be able to have much more confidence doing this.

Maintain Your Lawn Mower to Make it Easy to Start

Proper service of your lawn mower will be the best thing you can do to improve it’s efficiency.

If you’re going to leave your mower unused all winter, you’ll want to learn how to winterize your lawn mower to avoid troubleshooting in the spring time when it’s ready to be used again.

Always remember to consult the user’s manual for detailed information and instructions for your specific mower.

Safety Tip!Never start fiddling around with you lawn mower before you disconnect the spark plug. This is to ensure the engine doesn’t fire while you’re working on it.

• Change the spark plug – To disconnect this you will either either need a socket wrench or a spark plug wrench tool. When screwing in the new plug, be careful not to over tighten it. In doing so, you may cause damage to the seal.
• Put in a new air filter – Changing the air filter is something that needs to be done at least once year. The air filter can usually be found on the opposite side to where the exhaust is and it’s very easy to remove. Once this is done, clip a new filter into place.
• Change the oil – Before you do this, start the mower and let the engine warm up to improve the viscosity of the oil. This will allow for better oil drainage. Next, undo the dip stick and let the old oil run into a drain pan. Once all the oil has been removed, pour in the new oil until it’s full indicated by the dip stick. Don’t forget to take your old oil to a recycling center!

In Summary – How to Start a Lawn Mower in One Pull

If you want to know how to start a lawn mower in one pull, you need to start by making sure that your mower is ready to start. Ensuring proper maintenance of your mower should be enough to allow you start it up without a problem.

How to Start a Lawn Mower That Has Been Sitting

So your lawn mower has been stored in the shed or garage all winter long. Now you’re having trouble getting it started and you’re wondering how to start a lawn mower that has been sitting.

Or maybe you found or inherited a lawn mower second hand that hasn’t been used in years.

Well, you’ve come to the right place. Here’s your introductory guide to lawn mowers and how to start a lawn mower that has been sitting!

First and foremost, proper safety measures are important when working with a lawn mower. Remember to use some safety gloves, safety glasses, and to be aware of the sharp blade and engine parts.

Use this article as your guide. You can also find how-to videos on YouTube specifically for your brand or model of mower

This article will provide you with the information you need to get your mower started.

It should help regardless of what type of lawn mower you own.

Check Change the Oil

For a mower that has been sitting for quite a while, it’s definitely a good idea to check the oil. The best time to change the oil in your mower is about an hour after you finish mowing. But if it has been sitting all winter, check the oil before you even try to start it.

First, check that the oil is good quality, doesn’t have residue in it, and that there is enough of it.

If the oil is very dark or black, it’s time to change the oil so your mower runs smoothly and lasts a long time.

I change the oil in my mower twice a year – once at the beginning of the season, and once just before I put it away for the winter.

If you haven’t done it recently, just give the lawn mower an oil change. Even if this isn’t the primary issue that’s preventing your mower from starting, it’s probably a contributing factor.

Mowers are small engines that don’t require a lot of oil at all. This makes it a pretty inexpensive tune-up to do yourself at home. With a walk-behind mower you’re looking at 10 minutes or less.

Disposing of Your Lawn Mower Oil

Be sure to collect the oil in an appropriate container (I use an empty Gatorade bottle). You want something that caps tight and that won’t spill. I bring it to my local auto shop for disposal.

Your local mechanic or oil change shop will usually take your used motor oil. But if not, there may be disposal programs at your city dump.

If smoke is coming from the mower, that’s another sign that the oil needs to be checked and changed.

A mower that won’t start obviously is not going to smoke. Still, it’s worth mentioning as something worth watching for so you can stay on top of mower maintenance.

A smoking mower could indicate that there is an oil leak somewhere. The leak causes the oil to burn as it comes into contact with hot metal.

It could also indicate that there is not enough oil, which can permanently damage your engine.

Check the Gas Tank, Genius

Have you ever called tech support and the first thing they ask you is if your computer/TV is plugged in?

Same goes for your lawn mower.

Make sure you have gas in the tank!

Gasoline isn’t very stable. If the gas in your mower is more than 30 days old, you’ll need to empty the tank. You may be able to dump the tank by tipping the mower. If not, you will need to siphon it.

After you’re done, put fresh gas into the mower.

The exception to this fix would be if you personally put fuel stabilizer into the gas tank before storing it.

My Recommendation for No-Hassle Gas

Personally I use a product called TruFuel (you can get it at your local box store and most hardware stores carry it). This product is pure, “old school” gasoline without any ethanol added.

You don’t have to add fuel stabilizer, it runs clean, and it can sit in your mower all winter and your mower will start up first pull. I use it in my mower and snowblower and it’s awesome.

It’s expensive compared to regular gas, but it’s cheaper than replacing your mower or buying a new carburetor every few years.

And I’m the Lawn Chick! My mower deserves the best.

If you do have to siphon out old gas and replace it, remember that mowers take the same gasoline that goes into your car. Rather than trying to dispose of it, you can usually just top off your car’s gas tank. Just make sure that it’s not contaminated gas – if that’s the case then make sure to dispose of it properly according to your municipal guidelines.

Change the Air Filter (it’s easy)

After checking the gas tank and changing the oil, check the air filter on your mower. These can get clogged.

Oxygen is a vital component for combustion in an engine. If your mower’s air filter is dirty your mower won’t run well (or at all).

It is best to replace a clogged filter as opposed to trying to clean it. Even a small perforation in the filter can let in dust or residue that will ruin your engine.

A particularly telling sign of a clogged air filter is if your mower starts but then stops while you are mowing the lawn.

Also, you can look at it. If it’s dirty, you’ll be able to tell because, well, it will look dirty.

Where to Get an Air Filter for Your Mower

Most box stores near you will probably carry the right size air filter for your mower. You can expect to pay around 10 for a new one.

I recommend replacing your air filter annually as part of your regular maintenance.

If you can find the air filter on your mower, then you can replace it. Don’t be intimidated. Replacing the air filter is as simple as removing the old one and placing the new one in its place).

A clogged air filter may not be your only issue. But it’s a good idea to replace your filter when you’re fixing up a lawn mower that won’t start.

Replace Your Mower’s Spark Plug

You will find your mower’s spark plug at the front end of the mower (especially with a walk-behind mower). It is easy to locate because it has a wire that attaches to it. This is usually black rubber and covers the spark plug to keep dirt and debris out.

Make sure that the wire is in good shape and that there is a good connection there.

The next thing to check is the spark plug itself.

You can remove your mower’s spark plug using a socket wrench. You may need to experiment to find the right size. Or you can look it up online. The old spark plug should come out with a few simple twists.

When you remove the spark plug it will be obvious if you need a new one. Look for corrosion or discoloration at the business end of the spark plug. That’s the end that was in the mower (the one with the threads and the small metal piece sticking out). There should not be any corrosion on it.

You can try to clean it up and reconnect it to see if it will work. But, when in doubt just replace the spark plug.

How to Replace a Lawn Mower Spark Plug

Like the air filter, this is not a complicated job. You just need to find the correct socket wrench for your plug and be careful not to over-tighten it when installing the new one.

My advice is to replace your spark plug, even if your spark plug looks relatively new. I replace mine every other year.

In my experience if your mower isn’t starting up after sitting over the winter and you’ve checked the oil and replaced the gas, it’s usually a problem with your spark plug. Parts can often be found at your local hardware store or on Amazon, and a new spark plug is only a few dollars.

Speaking of spark plugs. This is a good time to remind you that it’s always best to disconnect the spark plug if you decide to troubleshoot anything with the lawn mower’s engine.

This is a safety measure to ensure that the engine doesn’t start while you’re working on it. Just unplug the black wire/cable that runs to and covers the end of the spark plug.

Tighten the Mower’s Brake Cable

If the brake cable is loose on your lawn mower, then the mower may not start. To check the tension on the brake, pull the brake handle and then use your hand to pull on the brake cable to see if it is properly tense or if there is any give.

One trick to check to see if this might be your problem is to try starting the mower while you old the brake cable tight. If the mower starts then you’ll know your brake cable needs tightening.

This is usually an easy job. You can complete it quickly with a crescent wrench and a set of vice grips.

What a Dirty, Dirty Carburetor

Issues with the carburetor (or the carb, as it is affectionately known in the biz) are an incredibly common reason for a faulty mower.

After you check the gas, oil, filter, and spark plug, a dirty carburetor is probably the culprit if your mower still won’t start after sitting a long time.

Often, you’ll find that the carb is corroded or that it has clogged if fuel was left in the engine and left to evaporate leaving behind a sticky residue inside the mower’s carburetor.

It’s possible to try cleaning the carb by giving it a good, long soak in a carb cleaner or in vinegar.

If this doesn’t work, carburetors for lawn mowers are not incredibly expensive and they are also relatively easy to find online.

Can I Do This Myself?

Of all the repairs you can tackle, this is the one that people get most intimidated about, but if you’re handy, you can probably find and follow a YouTube video for your model mower that will show you the steps involved.

Are there Other Options?

One work-around if you don’t have the time right away to take your lawn mower engine apart to clean out the carb is to use some starting fluid spray.

A can will just cost a few bucks, and you spray it into the engine right behind where the air filter is (don’t spray it on the air filter). This will typically get your mower running until you have time to get it properly serviced.

Replace Your Fuel Pump?

The fuel pump does exactly what it sounds like … it pumps fuel from the gas tank into the engine via a series of three ports.

If there is too much oil in the engine, then the oil can leak into the fuel pump (specifically into the pulse port line) and make your mower’s fuel pump defective.

To see if the fuel pump isn’t working anymore, check the pulse port line, valves, and the diaphragm inside the pump.

If you’ve tried most of the other potential problems in this article and your mower still won’t start, replace your fuel pump.

Unfortunately it is not possible to repair the fuel pump, it must be replaced. It’s a lot cheaper than buying a new mower, though.

Check For a Broken Flywheel Key

The flywheel is the big horizontal spinning wheel in the mower.

This is the part that begins spinning when you pull the starter cord on your walk-behind mower.

Sometimes hitting a hard object with the mower can break the flywheel key, which prevents the mower from starting when you pull the cord.

While this probably isn’t the issue if you’re wondering how to start a lawn mower that has been sitting over the winter … if you hit a root, rock, or a large felled tree branch on your last mow of the season then this could be the culprit. So I thought it was worth mentioning.

To check the flywheel key, you will need to remove the flywheel on your mower.

Removing the flywheel is a tedious process because the nut keeping it on is very tight and the flywheel needs to remain stationary in order to loosen the nut.

What Not To Do When Replacing This Part

Most guys and gals trying to DIY this will stick a broomhandle or some tool between the blades of the wheel, but this is a bad idea. This can easily break the blades, which are expensive to replace.

I recommend that you use a clamp – which is secure and safe.

To find a method that will work with your mower, find a YouTube video. If your mower’s flywheel key is indeed broken, then you can replace it in less than an hour once you have the new flywheel key.

The fins of the flywheel itself can also get clogged with grass or clippings – this is easy to determine just by uncovering the flywheel itself. If there is any debris, use a clean paint brush to brush it away.

Don’t Give Up On Your Lawn Mower, it’s Probably Worth Saving

I cannot tell you how many people give up on a 3-year old mower that won’t start after the winter, sending it along to the land fill and shelling out big bucks for a brand new model.

There are exceptions, but most of the time a lawn mower that won’t start after sitting is not defective, it has just lacked proper maintenance.

Don’t give up on that old mower just yet!

Troubleshooting most lawn mowers can effectively get them working again, and usually once you do resolve the issue with your mower successfully, you’ll be so much more knowledgeable about maintaining them that you won’t have any problems again.

Cost effective repairs are easy to do at home in your own garage, even if it’s your first time doing them. You can find the parts you need at the hardware store or online.

Not only does repairing your mower save it from the landfill, but it saves you money and can bring you great satisfaction.

However, if all else fails and you do end up needing a new mower, see if your old mower could be useful for spare parts before taking it to the dump. There are probably plenty of small engine repair shops nearby that would be happy to pay a few bucks for it, or take it off your hands for free.

How to Use an Electric Lawn Mower

Now that your dream mower is in front of you (or in your shopping cart), it’s time to rev your electric engine. You’ll want to review your manual for all the details on your specific mower model, but let’s start with a step-by-step guide on using your electric lawn mower. And don’t forget to check out our safety tips below – because safety is always a priority here at Greenworks.

Why Choose an Electric Lawn Mower?

If you want a smoother and more consistent mowing experience, an electric lawn mower takes the top prize. Cordless electric lawn mowers are hassle-free – charge the battery, click into place and you’re ready to mow. With an easy push-button start, no required maintenance and easy-to-store maneuverability, you can say goodbye forever to the hassle of gas mower pull cords and mid-mow refueling. Bonus: you can use your electric mower batteries on an arsenal of additional yard tools – your garage is a one-stop shop for anything you need!

How Do I Mow with a Battery-Powered Lawn Mower?

Great news: while electric mower models can vary, the basic mower anatomy is similar. Although mowers from other manufacturers may vary, c heck out our best practice guide to start mowing with a battery-powered mower. 1. Celebrate your sustainable and efficient electric lawn mower purchase.

Getting started with your new battery-powered lawn mower couldn’t be easier. No pull cords that hurt your shoulder and no dumping gas all over your driveway or yourself. Mowing your lawn has never been this easy – or enjoyable! 2. Charge your batteries.

Whether this is your first or fiftieth time using your electric lawn mower, you’ll need to make sure your batteries are charged and ready for mow time. Securely place your batteries into the designated charger and you’ll be powered up in no time. While your batteries are charging, you can get organized on the other fun parts of having an electric mower. 3. Decide if you want to mulch, bag or side discharge.

• If you’re in the mood to bag your lawn, ensure your side discharge flap is flush with the mower. Take out the bagging plug before you clip in your bagger. Easy peasy!
• If you’d like to mulch your lawn, check that the side discharge flap is flush and the mulching plug is in place. You’re good to go!
• If you’re side discharging, unhook your lawn bag and stick in the plug. Next, attach the side discharge vent – ensure your grass clippings will discharge to the side, not in your face.

Set your cutting height.

You can easily adjust the grass-cutting height for all four wheels with the lever located near the back wheels. And with up to seven height options, you’ll love the versatility and customization of simply moving the wheels up and down.

Insert charged batteries.

Open the lid to the battery compartment and gently slide the fully-charged battery – or batteries, depending on your model – into place. You should hear the batteries click securely into place.

Great news – you can’t do this wrong because the batteries only can slide in one way. Insert the safety key into the correct spot next to the batteries (if applicable) and you’re ready to rev.

Start up your electric mower.

Batteries? Check. Mulch/side discharge/bag in place? Check. You’re ready to turn on your mower. Simply push and hold the start button, pull the start handle– and voila! Your battery-powered lawn mower will purr into action.

Explore your mower’s features.

It’s time. You’ve finally made it to the lawn! While you are basking in the joy of mowing with your new battery-powered lawn mower, take a moment to test drive some of the fun features that your model may have, like the self-propel and turbo options.

While you mow, you can glance at your battery indicator to check how much power you have left. Most models have a battery indicator next to the start button, so keeping tabs on your mower’s available power is easy.

Close it down.

Once your lawn is looking crisp and pristine, you are ready to power down your mower. Spoiler alert: you just need to push the on/off button. It’s that easy! Find a cozy spot in your garage or shed for storage and you’re good to go. If it strikes your fancy, you can even fold it in half and hang it.

Safety Tips for Your Cordless Electric Mower

Safety first, friends. We know you – and your new electric mower – are powered up and ready to start mowing. But before you do, we need to touch on a few critical lawn mower safety tips:

• Protective eye gear: In a perfect world, we’d all have safety goggles at the ready – but if you don’t have a pair handy, make sure to put on protective eye gear like sunglasses or goggles. Add a baseball cap to help deflect any wayward pebbles or sticks that can launch your way – plus a hat will protect your face from the telltale “I just mowed my lawn” sunburn.
• Take a look at your shoes: Yes, your shoes. Most of us don’t think twice about wearing flip-flops during warm weather – but that’s a big hazard for mowing your lawn. Closed-toed shoes are a must, whether they’re gardening clogs, Nikes or anything in between.
• Check your batteries: We’re talking about the battery compartments in the front of your electric lawn mower. Before you lock and load your batteries, look closely at the battery bays to ensure there isn’t any moisture, standing water or leftover lawn debris hanging out in there.
• Pay attention to the weather: We have all been there – rushing to get in a quick lawn mowing before rains. But don’t head out with your lawn mower into potentially dangerous weather – it’s not worth the risk! Thunder and lightning can begin much earlier than rain – so keep an eye on the sky and if it’s too close of a call, hold off on mowing until better weather has arrived.
• Be a responsible mower: We know you will be – but it’s worth the reminder. Avoid mowing through standing water or close to where the kids or family pets are playing. And as tempting as it might be to elevate your mow time into a workout, keep a steady walking pace instead of running behind your mower. You’ve already nailed it on being environmentally responsible with your electric lawn mower – now just keep an eye on your surroundings.

Looking for more details on how to choose an electric lawn mower ? Check out the Greenworks mower buying guide and learn more about zero turn vs riding mowers and push mower vs. self-propelled.