How to choose the right grass mower. How to choose a lawn mower - types of lawn mowers and tips for choosing
In order for the grass mowing unit to work for a long time and without problems, you need to know how to choose a lawn mower and which models it is advisable to give preference to.
It should be noted that varieties of agricultural tools for mowing grass can be represented by trimmers, electric scythes and motos.
Manual models
Units of a manual or mechanical type, designed for mowing grass, are distinguished by the absence of a motor, therefore they move solely due to the efforts exerted by the operator controlling the device.
The herbage is cut with special knives, which allows the use of manual models when caring for an English lawn.
The advantages of a mechanical type unit include ease of operation and environmental friendliness, independence from fuel or electrical power.
Full autonomy of the device allows mowing in hard-to-reach and difficult places. The manual unit is characterized by almost silent operation and the absence of vibrations. Many modern mechanical models are equipped with grass collectors and a special roller, which increases the comfort of operation, and also allows you to adjust the grass mowing height. The guarantee of trouble-free operation of mechanical models is the regular sharpening of knives.
A manual lawn mower is a two-wheeled trolley, in the lower part of which there is a blade with spiral-shaped knives. The quality of grass mowing depends on the typical features of the knives.
Wheel models of lawn mowers
The wheeled mower is a practical and easy-to-use garden machine that requires almost no physical effort during operation. The basis of wheeled models is represented by a base with four wheels, which can be connected by a drive system to the engine or move freely. Self-propelled lawn mower with drive system, suitable for processing large green areas.
In terms of design features, any wheeled lawn mower is represented by:
- decks (frame part with wheels);
- an electric or gasoline type engine (two- or four-stroke);
- bladed knives rotating in a horizontal position;
- handle or handle;
- control system;
- a box or fabric bag for collecting mowed vegetation.
Wheeled lawn mower Black&Decker EMAX32 4
Many hours of work on the lawn surface is carried out, as a rule, by models that have driving wheels.
It is advisable to mow large areas and areas with a complex configuration with clippers that do not have a drive to the wheelbase. These units are flexible and easy to use.
Electric or petrol?
When choosing the type of lawn mower, you should pay attention to the features of the technical and operational characteristics of the purchased model.
| Technical and operational characteristics | Unit type | |
| Petrol models | Electrical Models | |
| Power ratings | Mostly powerful and productive units | There is no possibility of installing a high-power motor |
| Additional features | – | The presence of a battery that allows you to work a couple of hours in the absence of the mains |
| Noise level of the unit during operation | Headphones included with most models | Low noise and vibration performance |
| Performance | High performance | The need to work intermittently |
| Ease of care and maintenance | The need for regular monitoring of oil and fuel levels | At a high level |
| Operating safety level | Generation of harmful exhaust gases during operation | Inability to mow in rainy weather |
| Unit weight | The presence of a heavy engine in the design | Weight is negligible, depends on model features |
| Ease of Management | Difficult | Just |
Electric lawn mower AL-KO Comfort 40 E
Petrol lawn mower for lawn care of garden and country houses
To serve medium-sized green lawns, it is enough to purchase a gasoline model for six “horses” or an electric trimmer with similar indicators, since in the process of using high-power models, any obstacle may well result in a breakdown of the unit.
The total cost of maintaining the units is usually the same for traditional electric models of trimmers and average petrol lawn mowers in terms of the main technical and operational characteristics.
Self propelled lawn mowers
Modern self-propelled lawn mowers are widely used in the care of garden or suburban areas and are characterized by impressive dimensions, as well as high performance. Such devices are optimal for mowing grass over a large area, and the presence of a self-propelled drive greatly facilitates the control process.
Self propelled mower
Some models are characterized by the presence of a multi-stage transmission, which makes it easy to select the optimal speed. According to the type of motor, self-propelled lawn mowers can be electric and gasoline, but the first option has good maneuverability and low noise, so it will be ideal for working on a small and even lawn.
Long mowing jobs, away from the mains, require the use of high-performance self-propelled gasoline-type models.
Lawn Mower Raider
A feature of the lawn mower-rider is the control method. An operator sitting at a specially designated workplace is responsible for the operation of the undercarriage. A peculiar and very miniature tractor designed for grass mowing is widely used to service large areas, and the main advantage of such a high-powered machine is the ability to add attachments:
- sweeping device;
- all kinds of carts;
- collectors for harvesting fallen leaves;
- lawn mower;
- snow blower;
- gritter;
- scrap knife.
Garden rider-lawn mower MTD MiniRider 60 RDE with electric starter
The multifunctional unit is easy to use, but its price and the cost of further maintenance are far from budget indicators.
The lawn mower-rider combines a huge number of useful devices, and among other things, such versatile equipment is very convenient to store.
Criterias of choice
The right choice of lawn mower depends not only on personal preferences, but also on the principle of operation of individual models, their advantages and disadvantages when working on different types of terrain:
- The type of lawn grass must be taken into account when choosing a model in terms of performance. Cutting soft lawn grass involves the use of a traditional low-power trimmer, and tall grass with abundant weeds is best cut with powerful gasoline units.
- Lawn area also plays an important role when choosing a mower. Not too large areas are easily processed with hand trimmers or light wheeled models. To perform significant amounts of work, it is advisable to use wheeled mowers with a powerful engine or a lawn mower raider.
- The relief of the place is very important for the correct choice of model. The processing of lawns on a slope, or areas with a large number of irregularities, is usually carried out by manual units. In the presence of a flat and open area, it is preferable to operate wheeled models or raiders.
Self-propelled lawn mowers can be front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, or all-wheel drive. The first option is maneuverable and is optimal only on flat lawns. The second type of units most often has large wheels, therefore it is able to work on uneven terrain and slopes.
Which lawn mower to choose for a summer residence?
When choosing a mower for servicing a country lawn, it is enough to take into account the main indicators of the functionality and power of such landscape gardening equipment:
- mechanical models are not suitable for cutting weeds and cutting thick tufts of grass;
- working with electrical units requires compliance with safety regulations, and when operating such a device in rainy weather or on damp grass, the unit may cause the mower to fail or cause electrical injury;
- gasoline mowers and raiders are recommended for use in large areas, with a total area of at least 500-700 m 2.
It should be remembered that the maintenance of a gasoline tool will require constant monitoring of the oil level and the amount of fuel, which directly affects the stability of the mower.
Today we will find out how to choose a lawn mower in order to simplify and make the process of mowing grass as efficient as possible, consider the main types and most popular models of this miracle technique, and also point out where you can buy it.
Without a good tool, it is impossible to carry out proper lawn care. And given that mowing the grass along with watering is a regular measure for caring for the vegetation cover, then the choice of lawn mower must be treated with due attention.
First of all, you should know that various devices can be used to mow the lawn:
- Trimmer- a device designed for cutting grass in small areas and in hard-to-reach places: near buildings, fences, growing shrubs and trees. It consists of a rod, a carrying strap, a handle for guiding movement, a protective housing, cutting elements and a motor. It has low power and noise, low weight.
- Motokosa- is a modification of the trimmer with a similar, but heavier design due to a more powerful engine and impressive attachments. This allows you to use the tool in neglected areas with dense vegetation, to deal with small shrubs and tree shoots. Differs in the big weight, noisiness and load on hands. There are two types: electric and gasoline.
- lawn mower- a mechanism in the form of a compact machine with a handle, designed specifically for mowing lawns. It has many configurations depending on the tasks. Can perform additional functions such as grass collection and mulching. Provides uniform mowing, but is not designed for bumpy areas.
A lawn mower or trimmer is indispensable for uneven areas with a large number of plantings. But they also have significant drawbacks. Firstly, they are difficult to handle large spaces, and secondly, the haircut is uneven. Therefore, for a summer residence or a private house with a simple relief and a flat surface, it is the lawn mower that is optimally suited.
There is a huge variety of models of these machines on the market. So that you can choose the right option correctly, we have clearly presented their classification in the table.
| Options | Types of lawn mowers | Advantages | Flaws |
| Motor type and power supply | Electrical | small dimensions, low noise level ease of use, environmental friendliness, no fuel required. | little power, risk of electric shock. |
| Without battery | Little weight | The need to connect to the mains poor maneuverability due to the presence of a wire, the possibility of damage to the cable by the cutting element. |
|
| Rechargeable | Mobility | big weight, limited time of work (no more than two hours), need for recharging. |
|
| robotic | No operator required | Impressive price | |
| Petrol | big power, high performance, reliability long service life, maximum cutting width. | large dimensions, significant weight, noise, the need for maintenance and fuel, release of harmful substances. |
|
| Mechanical | Environmental Safety, noiselessness, no need for electricity and fuel, low price, possibility of operation in any weather. | The duration of the treatment area, requires skill and physical effort. |
|
| type of drive | self-propelled | ||
| Front wheel drive | ease of management, maneuverability. | Only suitable for flat lawns | |
| RWD | Ability to work on slopes and uneven areas (subject to a large diameter of the rear wheels). | Poor handling | |
| All-wheel drive | High power and performance possibility of use on any terrain. | significant weight, high price. |
|
| Non-self-propelled (without drive) | light weight small cost | Weak power the need to make an effort |
|
| Wheelless (hovercraft) | Mobility, high permeability, Can be used on uneven surfaces. | A modest selection of models, bad handling. |
|
| Cutting system mechanism | Drum (cylindrical) | Excellent cutting quality | little power, poor permeability. |
| Rotary (spindle) | Blade height adjustment the ability to operate on any terrain. | No | |
| Additional options | With grass catcher | Clean lawn after mowing | The need to interrupt to clean the container |
| With mulching | Additional plant care: fertilizer and protection from adverse factors. | Not suitable for tall grass | |
What is important to consider when choosing a lawn mower?
Which lawn mower is best for you depends on the terrain, , financial opportunities and personal preferences.
Such a tool is not bought for one day, and you will use it regularly. Therefore, when making a choice, pay attention to the following important characteristics:
- Power supply
If you prefer electric motor technology without a battery, think about where you will connect it and whether the cable is long enough to bypass the entire area. You may need to use an extension cord.
- Power
For small, even, neat clearings, you should not buy a bulky and clumsy gasoline unit. In addition, it will need to be stored somewhere, and it takes up decent space. A small electric lawn mower with a power of 1,000 watts is quite possible. But for large problematic areas with dense vegetation and uneven terrain, you need to select something more reliable and powerful.
- Weight and dimensions
Here it is of great importance who will take care of the lawn. It is more convenient for women and older people to work with compact, light and maneuverable models. These include electric mowers without a battery with front-wheel drive.
- Capture width
This parameter affects the processing speed of the site. The higher its value, the less time and number of visits you will need. Here, gasoline lawn mowers have the maximum indicator - up to 45 cm.
- Cutting height
Not bad when it is possible to set the grass cut level. For example, if you are cutting young growth and you only need to remove a few centimeters.
The range of settings can vary from 2 to 50 steps, but 10 levels are enough for a summer house or a private house. In this case, the central adjustment is the most accurate.
- Working time
Electric lawnmowers need a “breather” every 20 to 30 minutes. The rechargeable battery lasts approximately 2 hours. But gasoline - are the most efficient. Keep this in mind when choosing equipment for mowing large areas.
- Noise level
In this indicator, devices on an internal combustion engine (internal combustion engine) are noticeably inferior to other models, since during operation they emit loud, uncomfortable sounds.
- Material of cutting elements and body
It is most reliable when the deck and blades of the lawn mower are made of steel. In this case, they are guaranteed a long service life, and your lawn a high quality haircut.
- Wheel diameter and width
Mowers with large wheels move faster and overcome uneven ground more easily. And the degree of crushing of the grass directly depends on the thickness of the axis.
- Grass catcher type
The container into which the vegetation falls after mowing is of two types: a mesh / fabric bag or a plastic container. The first is convenient in that it has less weight and makes it easy to determine its fullness, but the second is much easier to clean. There are models of lawn mowers without a grass catcher at all - with rear or side discharge. They cost less, but in my opinion, such savings do not justify the further time spent on cleaning the cut grass.
- Mulching function
Despite all the benefits of the procedure itself, the presence of this option on a lawn mower can cause more problems than joy.
Firstly, it is often impossible to resort to this technique, and secondly, it must be done correctly. Only dry, soft grass can be mulched so that the mechanism can completely chop it and evenly scatter it over the lawn. Otherwise, humus will begin to accumulate on the surface, clog the root system of the grass, and the result will be the opposite of the expected effect - the supply of oxygen and nutrients to lawn plants will deteriorate, which will undoubtedly affect their growth and appearance.
- Service
Gasoline-powered machines require refueling, regular oil and filter changes. At the end of the season, before long-term storage, the remaining fuel from the tank must be drained, and the metal parts must be wiped dry to prevent corrosion. With electrical engineering in this regard, it is much easier.
When using any lawn mower, follow safety precautions! Do not operate electric lawnmowers in wet weather and on wet grass without rubber boots!
The most popular lawn mower models
Among the huge variety of manufacturers, brands such as:
- Alko,
- Makita,
- Husqvarna,
- Bosch,
- champion,
- gardena,
- Huter.
Mechanical
Rotary lawn mower weighing 7.9 kg with rear ejection. Designed to service areas up to 250 sq. m. It has a working width of 38 cm and 4 levels of mowing height adjustment - from 14 to 35 mm. The cutting system consists of 5 knives, which ensures a perfectly even cut of grass. Wheel diameter - 220 mm. Optionally, you can install a grass catcher. Lightweight, agile and compact.
The average price is 5,000 rubles.
Drum two-wheeled lawn mower weighing 8.9 kg with an increased working width of 40 cm. The direction of grass ejection is to the rear. Suitable for processing lawns with any terrain up to 200 square meters. m. Allows you to adjust the cutting height from 12 to 42 mm. Equipped with a foldable handle for compact storage. Provision is made for the installation of a grass catcher. Silent, easy to control and reliable.
On average, the cost of this model is 6,000 rubles.
Two-wheel lawn mower with a rotary mechanism of the Novocut cutting system, which ensures flawless mowing even of tall grass. Lightweight - 8.7 kg. Performs cutting height at 4 levels - 12 - 55 mm and mowing width - 40 cm. The package does not include a grass catcher, but you can install it yourself.
The approximate price is 8,000 rubles.
Petrol
Self-propelled rear-wheel drive model with a 2.6 liter four-stroke engine. with., the working volume of which is 140 cubic meters. cm. It is allowed to process areas up to 1,400 square meters. m., mulching is provided. Weight - 31 kg, grip width - 46 cm, cutting height is set from 25 to 75 mm using a central adjustment. There is a soft grass catcher for 60 liters. The machine has an average noise level of 87 dB. Solid, good quality fittings, high performance.
The cost is about 30,000 rubles.
A rear-wheel drive car, weighing 45 kg, with a capacity of 6.5 liters. With. and a working volume of 196 cu. see Equipped with a soft grass collector - 70 l and a mulching function. It has a central cutting height adjustment, consisting of 8 steps - from 20 to 80 mm, and a working width of 53 cm. The noise level is 98 dB. Powerful, easy to operate, suitable for large neglected areas.
The average price is 25,000 rubles.
Rear-wheel drive machine designed for lawn care up to 1,000 sq. m. Weighs 39 kg. The power of the four-stroke engine is 5 liters. sec., the rotation speed of the cutting elements is up to 2,800 rpm. Central cutting height adjustment - 7 levels, 20 - 85 mm, working width - 46 cm. The model is equipped with a 60 l rigid grass collector. Wide wheels - 15 and 20 cm - practically do not crush the grass. There is no mulching function. Ideal for spacious uneven areas. Convenient to manage.
It costs an average of 15,000 rubles.
Electrical
Four-wheel lawn mower without battery, weighing 12 kg. An excellent option for manicured areas. Engine power - 1 400 watts. Recommended for use in areas up to 500 sq. m. Cutting width - 37 cm, height - 20 - 70 mm with a central 5-step adjustment. There is a 40L hard grass collector. Noise level 91 dB. Lightweight, mobile, characterized by good haircut quality.
The approximate cost of this model is 9,000 rubles.
Batteryless wheeled lawn mower with 1800 W power and 22 kg weight. Blade rotation speed - 3200 rpm, grip width - 42 cm, cutting height - 28 - 55 mm, 5 adjustment levels. The grass is ejected into a soft grass collector, designed for 45 liters. Powerful and at the same time agile.
You can buy such a machine for an average of 7,000 rubles.
Compact and lightweight lawn mower - 13 kg, powered by a mains cable. The motor - 1400 W, 3200 rpm - is protected from dust and moisture, and is also equipped with a cooling system that prevents it from overheating.
Recommended for flat, well-groomed areas up to 500 sq. m. Cutting width - 38 cm, cutting height has an axial adjustment, consisting of 3 steps - from 20 to 60 mm. Equipped with a 37 liter hard grass collector. Low noise - 84 dB. Due to the special location of the wheels - under the body, this mower is very convenient to cut the edges of the lawn.
You will have to spend about 6,000 rubles on it.
Where to buy gardening equipment?
To simplify the task of purchasing a lawn mower, we offer a list of specialized stores with branches and delivery throughout Russia, where you can buy a lawn mower for every taste and budget:
- eGazon
- garden machines
- GardenMoto
- garden stock
- VR tool
Conclusion
Modern mechanisms significantly simplify our life, so do not neglect their capabilities. Devices such as a lawn mower or sprinkler system will help you keep your lawn in perfect condition throughout the season and significantly extend its life. With them, taking care of the lawn will no longer seem like such a heavy burden, and soft, juicy grass will delight the whole family and decorate your site.
Write in the comments which lawn mowers you used, what advantages and disadvantages they had. Stay with us so as not to miss new useful articles!
You have no desire to work in the summer on the beds, so the entire summer cottage was simply sown with grass. You come here to relax after difficult city everyday life. To make your garden lawn look beautiful, it also needs care. It is difficult and time consuming to mow the grass all over the area by hand. In specialized stores, various models of electric and gasoline lawn mowers are sold, which can become your faithful assistants in the country. You need to choose the right mower for your area.
History of the invention of the lawn mower
In the small town of Stroud in England in 1830, Edwin Beard Buding invented the lawn mower. As a foreman at a local textile factory and watching the operation of the equipment for trimming fringe on fabric, he took the principle of the mechanism as a basis and for the first time a cylindrical lawn mower was born. It was a very heavy cast iron machine, but it was much easier to maintain English lawns than to mow large lawns with a regular scythe. The Ransom Company became the owner of the patent for the invention and began to manufacture small machines for gentlemen and large lawn mowers for working on large areas. The history of the lawn mower began its development.
The Scotsman Alexander Shanks became the successor of inventions and was the first to create a self-propelled model, which was pulled by a horse instead of a man. The machine became wider and lighter thanks to Thomas Green in 1853 after replacing the heavy cast iron gears with a chain drive. Amari Hill made the lawnmower even lighter and more practical. The next step in history was the creation of a mechanical lawn mower by Elwood McGuire from America.
Steam and petrol mowers appeared in the 1890s. At the beginning of the 20th century, Ransomes, Sims and Jefferies became the main manufacturer of gas-powered lawn mowers. Europe began to use it massively only after the Second World War. The main manufacturer is a German company. In Australia, the rotary lawn mower was born. In the early 60s, Flymo introduced the hovercraft to the world. Let's take a closer look at all types of lawn mowers.
Types of lawn mowers
There are three types of lawn mowers in production today.
Manual models can be with a gasoline or electric motor. The cutting mechanism is attached to the bottom of the holding rod, and the motor itself is attached to the upper end. There are also special handles on the bar, with the help of which the operator controls the unit. The main advantage of manual models is the ability to mow in the most difficult places with maximum proximity to trees, bushes, fences. The operator puts a belt on his shoulders and guides the mower to the right place with his hands. To protect useful plants from accidental cuts, the mowers are equipped with a casing.
Wheeled models are designed for processing lawns on flat and large areas. The operator does not need to carry the mower in his hands. Now he just pushes her in front of him. But such a model is not suitable for neatly mowing grass near fences, trees and walls. There are models equipped with the function of mulching the cut grass or a special basket for collecting it.
Raiders are distinguished by their power and ability to cover huge areas without much effort. This is a mini tractor with a comfortable seat for the operator. In addition to mowing, the raider mulches the grass or collects it in a box installed behind the chair.
Depending on the power source used, lawn mowers can be either petrol or electric. To operate the electric lawnmower on the site, you need a long power cord. Gasoline lawn mowers are in high demand due to their excellent ability to use in any place. The gasoline engine is much more powerful and effortlessly mows tall and thick grass.
Criteria for choosing lawn mowers for summer cottages
Three main criteria influence the right choice in a lawn mower type store for your site:
- Type of grass growing on the plot. The power of the purchased device depends on this. To cut soft grass, you do not need a trimmer with a powerful motor. For mowing high forbs with strong weeds, it is better to purchase a gasoline model with a powerful engine.
- Terrain relief. A site located on steep slopes, with a large number of depressions and bumps, is best treated with a manual lawn mower. The same can be said about mowing in an orchard. Smooth areas of lawns will quickly and efficiently be processed by raiders and wheeled units.
- Lawn sizes. Small summer cottages do not require the purchase of powerful mowers. Give preference to low-power trimmers or hand-held scythes. If the cultivated area is more than 3 acres, a wheeled model will do. To quickly and efficiently cut grass over a large area, you need a powerful trimmer.
Considering the main criteria for choosing the right model of a lawn mower for a summer residence, we must not forget about the technical features of the mowers. If you intend to use the cut grass to feed your livestock, you need an implement with a special collection box. The use of cut grass as fertilizer for the site involves the purchase of a model with a special drum for chopping plants.
Buy mower models only in specialized stores to get a service guarantee and replacement of low-quality equipment.
Overview of famous lawn mower models
Today, many different companies are engaged in the production of lawn mowers, but we will review lawn mowers for giving only a small number of the most popular models.
Lawn mower Bosch Rotak 32
An excellent modern model with innovative guides that allow you to cut the grass as close to the edge as possible. It is a pleasure to work with such a lawn mower. It is lightweight with a powerful motor, a comfortable handle, a 31 liter grass collector, and an adjustable cutting height. A strip of grass 32 cm wide is mowed in one pass. The engine of the Bosch Rotak 32 lawn mower is protected from overloading.
Makita lawn mower
Keeping the area around your home neat and tidy is easy and simple with the non-self-propelled Makita ELM3311 electric lawn mower. The mowing width is 33 cm, the minimum lawn mowing height is 20 mm, and the maximum height is 55 mm. Polypropylene is used to make the mower body.
Leaving numerous reviews about Makita electric lawn mowers on the forums, consumers note the good cross-country ability of the unit, the capacity of the grass collector with a filling indicator. To ensure the possibility of mowing grass near walls or curbs, the manufacturer moved the wheels inside the body.
Husqvarna lawn mowers
The company produces from hand models to universal raiders. Model 128R is equipped with a paddle knife and line spool. The mower is powered by a 2-stroke petrol engine.
The Husqvarna WC48SE lawnmower model attracts attention with its appearance, mowing width of 48 cm, three-level grass mow adjustment, front-wheel drive and full technical equipment. The cut grass can be mulched and spread over the lawn or collected in a grass catcher.
The Husqvarna LT154 rider runs on gasoline. Mows a strip 97 cm wide in one pass. The cut grass is dumped on its side. Great mini tractor for working large areas. Its only drawback is the lack of a grass catcher.
Husqvarna's self-propelled electric lawnmower is popularly known as a robot. For its operation, a limiter wire is dug in along the perimeter of the site. When the robot is first launched into the area, it carefully examines the entire area and enters the contour into the memory card. The navigation system is activated. Now your assistant every day independently checks the site and mows the grown grass. You just have to enjoy the beauty of well-groomed lawns.
- Before choosing a model, consider how you will use the cut grass. To fertilize the area, you need a mower with a mulching function.
- When choosing a grass catcher trimmer, pay attention to its capacity. It is desirable that he collect the slope from the entire site. The grass catcher will protect your lawn from weed seeds.
- All parts of the mower you choose should be made only from durable quality materials. The best in this case are plastic or metal elements.
- If you have problems with the spine, refuse to purchase a manual lawn mower.
- Most models of raiders and wheeled mowers have the ability to adjust the cutting height, which is important for terrain with bumps.
- A machine with large wheels makes it easier to move across the lawn.
- Refuse to buy mowers with a mowing element made of lines or cables. After them, mowing does not look very attractive. The best option is sharp knives.
- The greater the mowing width, the fewer passes you will need to process the area.
Now you know in which country the lawn mower was invented, the main criteria for choosing the right model for your summer cottage. You can visit a specialty store and purchase what you need, and in the spring test new equipment on your site. If you already have a mower, tell us how you bought it and whether it met your expectations.
In many progressive countries of the Old World, there is a saying that only those that have been constantly mowed for 200 years can be classified as ideal lawns. In our time, it is quite difficult to believe that any owner of a personal plot will waste such precious time. This is not surprising, because with proper care, a thick and juicy lawn coating appears a year after landing.
Many experts say that the lawn is like hair - the more often a haircut is made, the thicker it grows. However, for this, of course, it is necessary to choose the right specialized tools.
Of course, old tools like the traditional scythe should be abandoned, since with its help it is impossible to get a flat lawn that causes good envy of neighbors. But do not despair, because the modern abundance of special equipment does not give any lawn owner a chance to stay away from progress.
The entire range of lawn mowers is conditionally divided into two main groups: gasoline and electric. Each of the groups, in turn, may include several varieties that differ in design features, parameters, operating principle and other characteristics. 
Did you know? The first lawn mower was invented back in 1830 in the small town of Stroud (England). Its inventor was Edwin Beard Bading, who at that time was a simple foreman at a local textile profile factory. The first version of this instrument was very heavy and bulky, as it was made of cast iron.
In order to understand which lawn mower is better - gasoline or electric, and how to choose the right lawn mower, it is necessary to take into account their features presented in this article, as well as the expected operating conditions (volume of work and size of the treated area).
The need for a lawn mower in the country
The need to have a lawn mower in your own use is determined quite simply, based on the basic parameters. Of course, almost every summer resident and owner of a personal plot wants to have such a tool, but the cost of such equipment makes one be pragmatic and reasonably approach the issue of necessity. First of all, you should understand that buying a lawn mower for one use or processing a small area of \u200b\u200bthe lawn is extremely impractical, since it is much more economical to order such processing from specialists.
Important! It is undesirable to rush things and cut very tall grass at the root at a time. As a general guideline, it is safe to mow no more than one-third of the total grass height in one pass. This makes it possible to protect the lawn from damage and not disrupt the process of its growth. Failure to comply with this rule often leads to an early yellowing of the lawn.
Given this, it is desirable to have a lawn mower of one kind or another in your toolkit only for those people who regularly and carefully care for the condition of the lawn, and the total area of the lawn cover does not allow for high-quality processing in any other available way.
Did you know?Lawn grass has one main stem and several leaves, through which the plant breathes. In view of this, it is advisable to mow the most neglected lawn in several stages, with an interval of 2-3 weeks.
However, everyone should understand that the lawn mower, like any other mechanized equipment, requires proper maintenance and compliance with safety regulations.Types of lawn mowers for summer cottages
The development of technological progress has affected all areas of influence and spheres of human life, therefore it is not surprising that it also touched upon the issue of caring for a personal and summer cottage. Already, people have a wide range of lawn mowers of various types to choose from, differing in configuration, type of drive engine, power, design and other parameters. In view of this, it is not surprising that the ideal universal option does not exist.
The best lawn mower for a summer residence is one that meets the needs of the consumer and fully takes into account the proposed operating conditions (type of grass, lawn area, terrain, etc.).
Did you know? The generally accepted term "lawn mower" includes all the equipment used to remove and cut excess vegetation. In fact, there are three varieties of such tools, which include the lawn mower itself, the trimmer and the lawn mower. Each of them has its own design and operational features, as well as specific areas of application.
Manual models
Despite the wide popularity of this type of equipment, not many summer residents know the name of a manual lawn mower. Manual, that is, a portable, operator-controlled modification of a lawn mower is called a trimmer.
Manual models of lawn mowers are distinguished by their small size, compact placement of control mechanisms and the convenience of individual use when processing small areas.
Like other models, trimmers can be powered by petrol or electric. Their cutting mechanism is fixed at the bottom of the holder and is connected by wires to a drive motor mounted at the top of the holder. The unit is additionally equipped with control levers, compactly located also on the holder. The main and unconditional advantage of such trimmers is the ability to process lawns in the most inaccessible places, where the lawn is bordered by bushes, trees and all kinds of fences. This is ensured by the presence of a special protection (casing) of the blades, which prevents accidental cuts.
Important! During the operation of a gasoline lawn mower, harmful and dangerous substances are released into the atmosphere to one degree or another, which is why it is strongly recommended to use protective headphones and a special respirator during operation.
Wheeled models are designed for productive processing of lawn coverings of a large area, but exclusively with a flat surface. In this case, the mower operator only needs to push the machine in front of him and direct its movements. 
Some representatives of wheeled lawn mowers are equipped with the functionality of mulching the cut lawn or a storage container for collecting it. However, you should pay attention to the fact that wheeled models are not suitable for mowing the lawn near fences, flower beds, trees and other plantings.
Important! Safety regulations oblige users to wear rubber boots that protect against electric shock when working with an electric type lawn mower. This recommendation should not be neglected, because it can save a life.
Raiders are a mini-tractor designed for mowing lawn grass. They are distinguished by the high power of the driving gasoline engine and the ability to effectively, quickly and accurately cover large areas of coverage.
Raider lawn mowers are equipped with a comfortable seat for the driver-operator and protective devices that guarantee the safety of a person during mowing. A characteristic feature of the raiders is their increased functionality - in addition to mowing, they also mulch the grass or collect it in a special container installed at the back. 
How to choose a lawn mower for a summer residence, selection criteria
Many people who really need such a machine do not know how to choose the right gas lawn mower or its electric equivalent. In fact, in addition to personal preferences of a person, only the main criteria should be taken into account: the type of grass, the area of \u200b\u200bthe lawn and the relief of the cultivated area. But how does a lawnmower take these factors into account? Which one to choose from the many models and options?
Type of lawn grass
It is on the type and type of growing lawn grass that the performance of the lawn mower should primarily depend. So, for cutting a soft lawn, a trimmer with a low power engine will be quite enough. And for mowing tall grass with common weeds, in turn, it is better to opt for a powerful gasoline model.
Lawn area
When choosing a lawn mower for your own area, you should consider the area of \u200b\u200bthe lawn. Small areas can be easily trimmed with a hand trimmer or a small wheeled lawn mower. The latter is also suitable for processing areas with a total area of over 3-4 acres. It is recommended to entrust a more significant amount of work to a wheeled model with a powerful engine or even to a raider lawn mower. 
The relief of the place
The choice of the type of unit also depends on the terrain, that is, on the actual operating conditions. So, the processing of areas located on slopes or having a large number of various depressions and irregularities, it is most rational to process manual models of lawn mowers. It is also advisable to use them when processing a lawn near trees, flowers and other plantings. On a flat open area, the lawn is easily, efficiently and quickly serviced by wheeled models or raiders.
Did you know? Modern lawn mowers can be used for various, even agricultural purposes. So, some models provide for the possibility of proper harvesting of mowed grass for further feeding of livestock. Such lawn mowers have a special storage box for collecting mowed lawn and a shredding device.
What else to look for when choosing a lawn mower
Paying attention to the main characteristics of such a unit, one should not forget about other criteria that are largely able to determine what kind of grass mower is needed: electric or gasoline, as well as what parameters, adjustments and accessories it should have.
Every lawnmower should have at least two blades as standard: one for lawn mowing (one-sided wide blade) and one for mulching. It is strictly forbidden to save on these components, since the high rotation speed and the resistance created when colliding with the stems subject the surface of the knives to significant overloads. In view of this, the blades of the selected lawn mower must meet the highest quality and durability requirements.
It is imperative that the blades and their mounting location on the machine are carefully balanced to avoid any chance of misalignment and malfunction up to and including failure.
- Drive motor power
The drive power must necessarily be not only sufficient, but also redundant. The fact is that in the case of processing too high grass, the blades may jam, and the engine will stall, that is, the lawn mower may burn out.
The lawn mower must be selected according to the design power with its 15-20% margin.
- The width of the processed strip and the possibility of adjusting the height of the lawn
- Applied body material
Plastic- one of the most popular body materials that meet the requirements of economy and lightness. Able to withstand minor impact loads and scratches. However, it is not intended for use in difficult conditions.
Steel provides reliable protection of the main body mechanisms. Easily withstands bumps, bumps and scratches. Along with this, it does not tolerate improper storage and operation conditions, becoming rusty. Such material in cases is used extremely rarely.
Aluminum– an excellent symbiosis of lightness and reliability. Differs in the high durability and reliable protection against influence of corrosion. Very often used in professional equipment. 
Wheels should be made of quality material, not necessarily plastic. Preference should be given to wheels with a larger diameter, as this makes it easier to move the mower across the lawn. Also, this factor adapts the unit to difficult terrain.
In the case of choosing wheels mounted on bearings or axle bushings, it is better to give preference to bearing assemblies, since they are more durable, wear-resistant and practical.
- Grass catchers and bags
So, it is best to choose a grass catcher with a rigid design, which makes it easier to remove the mowed lawn grass and simplifies the process of cleaning it. A slight excess of weight in comparison with other versions of grass catchers is insignificant and does not entail inconvenience. 
- Transmission
The installed gearbox simplifies the movement of the lawn mower over the terrain and speeds up the processing. Multi-stage boxes are more expensive and it is advisable to opt for such models only in the case of huge lawn areas.
Popular models of lawn mowers for summer cottages
Despite the fact that there are no universal models of lawn mowers due to many factors, it is rather difficult and impractical to recommend certain models. However, it is still possible to single out individual manufacturers who have been producing the best lawn mowers for many years. , occupying a leading position in the rating of consumer demand.
German Al-ko is a world-famous manufacturing company offering gasoline lawn mowers of various models and designs. The company's units are manufactured using modern technology, which eliminates the appearance of excessive noise, backlash, inconvenience and problems with knives. The grass collector of such lawn mowers is equipped with an air channel that protects the device from clogging and filling. German lawn mowers from Al-ko are perfect for mulching. 
German company MTD is the world's largest manufacturer of professional gardening equipment. All body parts are made exclusively from high-quality aluminum alloys and undergo several degrees of production diagnostics. The service life of components is over ten years. All equipment of the company is distinguished by a deck designed for collecting grass. It prevents the grass from scattering to the sides.
Swedish companies Stiga and Husqvarna– recognized manufacturers of gasoline garden equipment. American engines are used as a drive. It attracts attention with a reliable body made of steel and wide wheels mounted on ball bearings. Thanks to competent design solutions, lawn mowers of companies are durable, simple and easy to operate.
Italian company Oleo-Mac is a global manufacturer of powerful electric and gasoline units. According to existing data, the best electric lawn mower is made by this company. Combines high European quality and reliability. Differs in refined appearance and affordability. The company's equipment is easily adjusted to any operating conditions and required parameters (lawn height, cutting angle, and others). They have a grass collector and mulching functionality.
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Today's article will focus on such a popular among summer residents and owners of private houses as. Their range is currently quite large, so we systematized and streamlined all the information. We present to your attention a kind of instruction for choosing this unit.
The need for a tool in the country
A site with green neat and well-groomed looks much nicer than a chaotic thicket of grass.
But maintaining it in this state is quite difficult, because the grass tends to grow quickly, especially during rainy periods.
Did you know? The lawn mower was invented in 1830 by the Englishman E. B. Bading.
It is not easy to do without a special tool: the process will take the lion's share of the time that can be spent on growing useful crops or outdoor recreation. 
That is why in the arsenal of any owner of a personal plot, a lawn mower becomes not a luxury, but a necessity.
Electricity or gasoline: the pros and cons
According to the type of energy consumed, lawn mowers are electric and petrol.
Each has its own merits and demerits. To understand which lawn mower is best –
gasoline or electric, consider the main pros and cons of each of them. 
- Maneuverability. The only significant disadvantage of electric models is the limited freedom of movement during operation: this is due to the presence of a wire. Firstly, the length of the wire does not always allow you to get to all corners of the site, but this can be solved with an extension cord. Secondly, there is always the possibility of a wire getting under the knives, you constantly need to monitor this, correcting it during operation.
Important! Wear rubber-soled shoes to prevent possible electric shock.
Important! Gasoline lawn mowers should never be turned over or tilted: oil will flood the engine and disable it.
How to choose a lawn mower for a summer residence, selection criteria
According to the criteria described above, a clear advantage of models powered by electricity is visible. Now let's focus on how to choose an electric lawn mower.
Self-propelled, non-self-propelled
Non-self-propelled mowers, which have to be rolled by hand, weigh relatively little, so they are easy to carry and store. But at the same time, they require a lot of physical effort if there are any bumps, potholes or bumps on the site. 
the cart moves itself, the person only sets the direction of movement for it. Engine power is directed not only to the operation of the knife, but also to the movement of the wheels. Such mowers have a rather impressive weight and are convenient for working on large areas. 
Engine power
The power of the engine that lawn mowers are equipped with is usually from 0.8 to 3 kW. The more power, the more performance.
However, one should not blindly give preference to the most powerful models. If your lawn is well maintained, you cut it on time, too powerful lawn mowers will be redundant. They will unnecessarily consume a large amount of electricity. 
But low-power motors overheat faster, so when choosing, look for continuous operation time in the product passport.
Typically, electric mowers for a standard cottage are designed to work up to 30 minutes - this time is enough to cut the grass on the site.
Type of lawn grass (width and height of mowing)
The grass cutting width depends on the size of the blade installed in the lawn mower. Inexpensive standard models have a knife width of about 30 cm, for more advanced models it can reach 46 cm. This indicator affects performance. 
So, you can process the entire area in 15 passes, or you can in 9. Here, the choice of an electric lawn mower is determined in terms of labor costs and time spent on putting in order.
With the help of lawn mowers, as a result, you can achieve different heights of lawn grass. Adjustment is carried out in three ways:
- permutation of each wheel;
- rearrangement of the wheel axle;
- using a lever or button.
But if you are going to equip an artistic lawn on your site, then give preference to models with push-button or lever adjustment.
The presence of a grass collector
Almost all wheeled models are equipped with a grass collector - a container for collecting mowed grass. They are soft and hard.
Soft grassbags are usually larger, but have the disadvantage that they quickly get dirty with grass, have to be washed from time to time, and are also less durable. 
Plastic containers are durable, but it is difficult to determine the degree of fullness in them. The grass catcher can always be removed and the mower can be used without it.
Deck Requirements
In the deck are the working parts of the lawn mower - knives. It can be made from (in ascending order of cost):
- plastic;
- become;
- aluminum.
Cheap lawnmowers are equipped with a plastic deck, but sometimes it is advisable to give preference to them because the electric motor often fails before the plastic part is damaged. Additional features and functions
In addition to the main characteristics, when choosing an electric lawn mower, you should pay attention to a number of additional functions and features.
For example, some models are equipped with a function, i.e. chopping mowed grass. The resulting mulch is used for the lawn.
Important!For quality mulch, mow only soft, dry grass. Wet grass is prone to clumping, and such a mulch will prevent the lawn from growing freely.
There is also such a function as side ejection of grass. It will be useful when cutting grass on the side of the road. Lawn mowers vary in width and wheel diameter. If you are the owner of a relief area with bumps, give preference to models with large wheels. 
Popular models of electric lawn mowers for summer cottages
According to the reviews of the owners, a kind of rating of the most popular models was compiled.
