Do you know which way to go when you are thinking to mow? There are a bunch of different types of lawnmowers available – each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
The most basic is the push reel mower. When you push it, blades spin past a stationary blade to slice grass. The push reel mower was invented in 1830 and is still used today. It’s safe and easy to use, but obviously not a real great option for large lawns.
Then there is a power push mower, which can come in gas or electric and rotary or reel. The rotary version tends to be more popular because it is less expensive and requires less maintenance. It also mows tall grass well.
Hover mowers are rotary lawn mowers with an impeller above spinning blades to push air down, creating a cushion of air that actually lifts the mower off the ground! This style mower is easy to use because it floats over grass instead of having to be pushed. It’s great for steep slopes, so although it can offer a compromised cut, it is popular among commercial landscapers.
Riding mowers come in a wide array of sizes and models, and can be manual or hydrostatic. Hydrostatic transmission are more expensive, but easier to use and can provide greater torque. There are also electric lawn mowers, but these are more expensive and less common.
Zero-turn riding lawn mowers take some getting used to, but offer precision steering and maneuverability. You use lap bars for navigation on this bad boy. These mowers are also easy to service and have a high bagging capacity.
Stand-on lawn mowers are lighter than zero-turn lawn mowers, meaning less ruts and easy loading. They are great for maneuvering through tight spaces, around obstacles and on hills. They also provide a fast mow in open spaces. Stand-on lawn mowers with floating decks can offer a wider cut and more horsepower, and stand-on lawn mowers with fixed decks offer lower cost. You decide.
There are even robotic mowers! Just turn it on and let it go unsupervised…like the Roomba Vacuum Cleaner. All it requires is a wire that defines the border of your lawn and a charge now and then.