Lawn Mower Maintenance

A person mowing their lawn with a red and black mower after receiving lawn mower maintenance and repairs

Lawn Mower Maintenance With Ryan Equipment Center

Hartselle, AL

A lawnmower is a big investment, so you want it to last. Like with any piece of machinery, maintenance matters! Whether your machine is gas, electric, or rechargeable battery-powered, it will benefit from regular maintenance. Rather leave it to the pros? We offer lawn mower services here at Ryan Equipment Center, in Hartselle, Alabama near Decatur. Want to give your machine some love at home? Follow these tips. Any questions? Please contact our sales or service team!


Read Your Owner's Manual

Always review your owner’s manual for a mower service schedule and instructions. Record repairs and maintenance as you go.


Gas Mower Engine Maintenance

A tiger orange and black mower parked in a grassy area next to a pond surrounded by trees after receiving mower repairs

Note that gas mowers require more maintenance and attention than electric mowers. Oil keeps the pistons and crankshaft lubricated. Check the oil level regularly, and add oil if necessary. Schedule service if you notice any foreign substance such as water or metal shavings in the oil, because something’s not right. Change the oil and replace the oil filter according to the manufacturer’s recommendation. If the oil is discolored or sludgy, an oil change is overdue.

Replace your spark plug(s) about once yearly. Spark plugs must be set to a specific gap, so buy pre-gapped plugs or use a plug gap tool to adjust your plugs correctly.

When the mowing season ends, either drain the gas or fill it with stabilized gasoline. Follow your owner’s manual for specific advice.


Gas, Battery, and Electric Lawn Mower Maintenance

Before working on any mower, make sure it is powered off. For an electric mower, disconnect the power cord or remove batteries. For a gas mower, pull the wire from the spark plug to prevent accidental starting.

A sharp blade ensures a clean, attractive, and efficient cut. Sharpen it at home with a file, burr, or grinder, or bring it in for professional sharpening. Do this once or twice a season. While the blade is out, it’s a good time to clean the undercarriage thoroughly.

Clear out the undercarriage of your lawnmower regularly. Built-up debris can cause clogs, overheating, and reduced efficiency. For an electric or battery walk-behind/push lawn mower, just tip it over and clean it out. For a gas-powered mower, consult the manual. It may specify which side to lay the mower on. You can drive a riding mower up a ramp or lift it onto blocks for access to the underside of the cutting deck. Spray debris off with a hose, or use a non-metal tool to clear away debris. You can use your hands if you wear heavy gloves, and remain extremely careful of the sharp blade. Always clean it before winter storage.

Please take care of your mower for a long and productive lifespan. Please talk to us at Ryan Equipment Center if you have any questions, in Hartselle, Alabama near Decatur, or to schedule lawn mower service.