There are few things as frustrating as having your lawn mower fail. You set aside time to do lawn maintenance but now have to spend the day trying to identify and repair a lawnmower problem.

Thankfully, lawn mowers are built to last. However, lack of maintenance, mower malfunction, and just regular wear and tear can cause a lawnmower to break down. There are certain repairs that you can do yourself. There are other situations when it is best to reach out to a professional.

Repairs You Can Do Yourself 

1. Oil Change 

Changing the oil on your lawnmower is a requirement. Old and dirty oil can mess up the engine, causing serious damage. Even if you run your engine on low oil, you put your machine at risk. If you are in the middle of mowing your lawn and you hear your engine knocking, it is likely that the oil is low. Low oil can prevent your engine from starting.

2. Change Spark Plugs

Dirty or faulty spark plugs can stop your mower from working. If you are using a lawn tractor and it has a rough ride or you are having difficulties getting it to start, you are likely experiencing problems with the spark plugs. Regularly inspect your spark plugs. Clean off the dirt and grime. It is recommended that you change your spark plugs once per season. It is a quick fix, taking less than 15 minutes. But it can drastically improve the life and functionality of your lawnmower.

3. Replace the Battery

Your riding mower’s engine is powered by a battery. When there is corrosion or loose connections, you might have electrical issues. If the battery is dead, the mower won’t start at all. Replacing the battery is easy and can be done in as little as 15 minutes. 

4. Sharpening the Blades

You would not think that you need to sharpen your blades in order to cut grass. However, lawn mower blades get dull, especially if you are working on rough terrain. If you notice that your grass is cut unevenly, it could be a sign that your blades are dull, unbalanced, or loose. It is recommended that you sharpen your lawn mower blades once every year to keep them working their best.

When Is It Time to Call a Professional?

You may want to call a professional if you need small engine repairs. There are do-it-yourself videos online, but it is unlikely that you will find the video for the exact make and model of lawn mower you have. Any engine issue that you can’t fix by changing the belts, spark plugs, or oil should be inspected by a professional.

The nice thing about using professional services is they have experience with your model and can do the repair quickly. Trained professionals have the tools needed to get the job done right.

It is important that you stay on top of your lawnmower maintenance. The better you maintain your mower, the longer it will last and the fewer visits to lawnmower service experts you will need to make.

Keeping your lawn in optimal shape can be as easy as mowing it. However, during the process, grass clippings and debris are bound to fly about, thus dirtying your yard even further. A grass catcher can prove to be an optimal solution. Aside from bagging all the lawn clippings and grass, a lawnmower with a well-equipped grass catcher can make a massive difference between a well-groomed lawn and a scantily cut yard. Therefore, to ensure that you secure a superior finish, here's what you need to know about how to choose the best grass catcher for the task ahead.

What Is a Grass Catcher?

Grass catchers are additional components attached to the back, front, or sides of a mower. They are a collection system that helps store grass clippings and debris instead of manually collecting shattered grass after mowing. 

The collection system capacity and type vary with each different lawn mower model. Conventional walk-behind mowers utilize replaceable grass bags made of fabric, mesh, or plastic catchers mounted onto the mower's back. Modern zero turn and riding mowers utilize sophisticated grass collector attachments that comprise air induction systems, impellers, and bags, ensuring optimal grass flow without clogging. Depending on your current requirements, here are some of the features you need to consider when purchasing a grass collector.

Type of Grass Catcher

Before selecting an optimal grass catcher, you need first to ensure that the model suits your mower. As mentioned, zero-turn and rider mowers require specialized grass catchers, while traditional varieties can work just as fine with a standard grass bag. While most hardware stores have a wide selection of grass catchers, finding the exact model for your specific mower can be a hassle. 

If you don't mind spending a few extra bucks, a universal fit grass catcher can be an excellent investment. They are designed to work with any model, ranging from regular walk-behind to ride-on to tractor mowers because they can fit any type with ease. Unlike grass bags, a universal fit grass catcher comprises slots that facilitate increased airflow, and its aerodynamic cylinder shape prevents clippings from clogging up the device. They are also fitted with easily attachable mounting brackets compatible with any lawnmower structure, making them a unique accessory to have.

Bagging Capacity

Another thing to look out for is the grass catcher's capacity. A spacious collector system will spare you from regularly decluttering your catcher each time it fills up. A 54 cubic feet bag that can handle over 40 bushels of leaves would provide sufficient grass clipping storage for spacious commercial or residential yards. That said, the larger the yard, the more capacity you'll require. Therefore, bear in mind your lawn's size, and purchase a grass catcher that can collect and store all your yard clippings in one or two sessions for optimal efficiency.

Finding the right grass catcher for your mower doesn't have to be a stressful process. Always consider your lawn's size, your desired bagging capacity, and your mower type before settling for a particular grass collector. If you can't find the ideal collector for your mower, consider a universal fit grass collector to help alleviate unkempt grass clippings and to spruce up your curb’s appeal.