If you are inexperienced with Lawn mowers, then please make sure to view these videos below which will help you get the lawn mower started and also to provide you with various helpful tips to get you going throughout the mowing season.
When operating a lawnmower, safety should always be a top priority and these are some important guidelines to follow for safe lawnmower use in the coming mowing season.
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Mowing Video Tips
Video - How to start the lawnmower
Basic Mowing Tips
1, Read the manual - Familiarize yourself with the lawnmower's operation and safety features by carefully reading the manufacturer's manual. Understanding how to start, stop, and maintain the machine is essential.
2, Wear appropriate clothing - Dress in clothing that covers your body, including long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, and sturdy closed-toe shoes. Avoid loose-fitting clothing that can get caught in the mower's moving parts.
3, Clear the area - Before mowing, remove any rocks, sticks, or debris from the lawn to prevent them from becoming dangerous projectiles. Check for hidden hazards like sprinkler heads or exposed tree roots.
4, Keep children and pets away - Create a safe zone around the area you're mowing and ensure that children and pets are kept at a safe distance. Never allow them to ride on or near the lawnmower.
5, Inspect the mower - Before starting, check for any damage or loose parts. Ensure that the cutting blades are sharp, properly secured, and balanced. Dull or damaged blades can cause accidents or lead to an uneven cut.
6, Fuel safety - Refuel the lawnmower in a well-ventilated outdoor area, and only when the engine is cool. Avoid spilling gasoline and never smoke or use open flames around the mower.
7, Start safely - Start the lawnmower on a level surface, ensuring that no one is standing in front or behind it. Be aware of your surroundings and make sure there are no bystanders nearby.
8, Mow during daylight - Preferably mow during daylight hours or in well-lit conditions to improve visibility. Avoid mowing wet or slippery grass to reduce the risk of slips or falls.
9, Watch your footing - Maintain a firm grip on the lawnmower's handles with both hands and walk, never run, while pushing the machine. Be cautious on slopes or uneven terrain.
10, Never reach underneath - Avoid reaching under the lawnmower or attempting to clear clogs while the engine is running. Turn off the machine, wait for the blades to stop completely, and disconnect the spark plug before inspecting or performing maintenance.
11, Store safely - Store the lawnmower in a secure location, out of the reach of children and away from flammable materials. Disconnect the spark plug when not in use to prevent accidental starts. Prioritise your own safety and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable mowing experience.
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Video – Various Lawn Mowing Tips
Types of Lawnmower Starting
Lawnmowers can be started in different ways depending on their type, such as electric or petrol-powered models and these are the common methods for starting lawnmowers in each category
Electric Lawnmowers
Push-button Start
Many electric lawnmowers feature a convenient push-button start. Simply plug in the mower, ensure the safety key is inserted, and press the start button. This method eliminates the need for manual pulling or priming.
Key Start
Some electric lawnmowers come with a key start feature similar to a car. Insert the key into the designated slot, turn it to the "On" position, and press the start button to initiate the mower's operation.
Petrol-Powered Lawnmowers
Recoil Start
The most common starting method for petrol-powered lawnmowers is the recoil start, often referred to as the pull start. This involves pulling a starter cord to crank the engine. Before pulling the cord, make sure the throttle is set to the appropriate position (usually a "Start" or "Fast" position) and the engine switch or ignition is in the "On" position. Firmly grip the handle, pull the starter cord swiftly and steadily until you feel resistance, then give it a strong, quick pull to start the engine.
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Electric Start
Some larger petrol-powered lawnmowers are equipped with an electric start feature, similar to a car. These models have a built-in electric starter motor powered by a battery. To start, turn the engine switch or ignition to the "On" position, ensure the throttle is set correctly, and press the electric start button. This method eliminates the need for pulling the starter cord.
Technical
When starting a petrol-powered lawnmower, two common features you may encounter are priming and the choke. Let's understand their purposes and how to use them effectively for your own lawnmower type
Priming
The primer bulb or priming system is designed to supply a small amount of fuel directly into the carburettor to facilitate cold starts. The process of priming helps ensure the engine receives an adequate fuel supply for combustion so here's how to prime a lawnmower…
1, Locate the primer bulb - Look for a small rubber bulb typically located on the engine or near the carburettor. It is usually marked with the word "Prime" or an arrow.
2, Press the primer bulb - Depress the primer bulb several times, usually between 3 to 5 times, while counting the presses. Each press pushes a small amount of fuel into the carburettor.
3, Avoid over-priming - Be cautious not to overdo the priming, as excess fuel can flood the engine and make starting difficult. Follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding the recommended number of primer bulb presses.
Choke
The choke controls the air-to-fuel ratio during starting, especially in colder weather when the engine requires a richer fuel mixture. It restricts the airflow, creating a fuel-rich environment for easier ignition so here's how to use the choke properly
1, Locate the choke lever - Look for a lever or control typically located near the engine or carburettor. It is usually labelled as "Choke."
2, Engage the choke - Move the choke lever or control to the "Choke" or "Closed" position. This restricts the airflow and enriches the fuel mixture for starting.
3, Start the engine - Once the choke is engaged, follow the appropriate starting procedure for your lawnmower, which may involve pulling the starter cord or using an electric start button. After a few initial sputters or the engine firing up, gradually move the choke lever or control to the "Open" or "Run" position to allow more air into the engine.
Variable Settings
It's important to note that priming and choke settings may vary based on the lawnmower model and manufacturer. Always consult the owner's manual for specific instructions on the number of primer bulb presses and choke positions recommended for starting your lawnmower. By understanding how to effectively use priming and the choke, you can improve the chances of a smooth and successful start for your petrol-powered lawnmower, particularly in colder conditions.
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