How Often Should You Service Your Lawn Mower? A Seasonal Guide

Regular maintenance is essential to keep your lawn mower running smoothly, efficiently, and safely. Just like your car, a lawn mower requires periodic tune-ups to prevent breakdowns, improve performance, and extend its lifespan. But how often should you service your mower?

At Equip Rentals in Niagara Falls, we recommend following a seasonal maintenance schedule to ensure your lawn mower stays in peak condition. This guide will walk you through the best times for servicing and what you should do throughout the year to keep your mower running like new.

Spring: Pre-Season Tune-Up (March – May)

Why It’s Important:Spring marks the start of mowing season, and after sitting unused for months, your mower needs a thorough check-up before the first cut of the year.

Spring Maintenance Checklist:

✅ Oil Change: Old oil can thicken over winter, reducing engine performance. Replace it with fresh oil.

✅ Spark Plug Replacement: A new spark plug ensures easy starting and smooth operation.

✅ Blade Sharpening or Replacement: Dull blades tear rather than cut grass, leaving an uneven, unhealthy lawn.

✅ Air Filter Cleaning or Replacement: A dirty air filter restricts airflow, making your mower work harder than necessary.

✅ Fuel System Check: Replace stale gas, clean the fuel lines, and inspect the carburetor for buildup.

✅ Battery Test (For Electric Start Models): Charge or replace the battery if needed.

Pro Tip: Spring is the best time for a professional lawn mower tune-up at Equip Rentals to ensure your mower is ready for the season!

Summer: Mid-Season Maintenance (June – August)

Why It’s Important:Your lawn mower is working hard during the peak growing season, and mid-season maintenance helps prevent breakdowns and keep performance at its best.

Summer Maintenance Checklist:

✅ Check and Clean the Deck: Grass buildup underneath the deck can cause uneven cutting and strain on the motor.✅ Sharpen the Blades (Again): If your mower is used frequently, blades may need sharpening mid-season for a cleaner cut.✅ Inspect and Tighten Cables, Belts, and Bolts: Vibration from regular mowing can loosen parts over time.✅ Check Tire Pressure (For Riding Mowers): Proper tire pressure ensures even cutting and prevents mower drift.

Pro Tip: Avoid mowing in extreme heat, as it can overheat your engine. If you notice hard starts or sluggish performance, bring your mower in for servicing!

Fall: End-of-Season Maintenance (September – November)

Why It’s Important:Once mowing season slows down, it’s time to prepare your mower for storage to prevent rust, fuel issues, and battery drainage over the winter.

Fall Maintenance Checklist:

✅ Final Oil Change: Changing the oil before winter prevents contaminants from sitting in the engine.

✅ Fuel System Treatment: Add a fuel stabilizer or drain the gas to prevent clogging.

✅ Deep Clean the Deck and Undercarriage: Remove any remaining grass clippings, dirt, and debris.

✅ Store Your Mower Properly: Keep it in a dry, covered area or use a protective cover.

✅ Battery Maintenance (For Electric Start Mowers): Remove and store the battery in a cool, dry place to prolong its life.

Pro Tip: Book an end-of-season service appointment at Equip Rentals to ensure your mower is stored properly and ready for next spring!

Winter: Off-Season Storage & Occasional Checks (December – February)

Why It’s Important:While you won’t be using your lawn mower in winter, taking a few extra precautions will prevent damage and make spring start-up much easier.

Winter Storage Tips:

✅ Keep It Dry: Store your mower in a shed or garage to protect it from moisture and rust.

✅ Occasionally Start It Up (For Gas Mowers): Running the engine every few weeks keeps components lubricated.

✅ Charge the Battery (For Electric Models): If you removed the battery in the fall, check and charge it once a month.

Pro Tip: Winter is the best time for major repairs and servicing—you’ll beat the spring rush and have your mower ready before the first cut!

Get Professional Lawn Mower Service at Equip Rentals in Niagara Falls!

Regular maintenance is the key to a long-lasting, high-performing lawn mower. Whether it’s a quick tune-up or a full repair, Equip Rentals in Niagara Falls has you covered!

🔧 Our Expert Services Include:

✔ Oil changes and full inspections

✔ Blade sharpening and replacement

✔ Spark plug and air filter changes

✔ Carburetor and fuel system cleaning

✔ Belt, cable, and battery checks

Located in Niagara Falls? Need fast, reliable lawn mower servicing? Contact us today and keep your mower running like new all year round!