Introduction

Spring is the season that marks the beginning of the lawn mowing season. For some, it can be a pleasant way to start the day, while for others, it can be a source of mild anxiety. This article aims to explore whether it is more beneficial to maintain your push lawn mower or to replace it after a few years. We will analyze the pros and cons of both options and provide insights based on personal experiences and expert advice.

Personal Experiences with Mower Maintenance and Replacement

For the past 20 years, the speaker has never had to tune up their mower. This is a stark contrast to their previous mower, which lasted for approximately 25 years without any maintenance. This experience has left them with a significant preference for long-lasting, maintenance-free mowers.

Recently, they received a self-propelled electric start Honda mower from their son, who is mechanically capable. However, the speaker encountered challenges with the mower’s battery, which caused it to return to a pull-start model. The experience with the pull-start mower was frustrating, as sourcing a replacement battery was difficult and expensive, and the task of pulling the mower was physically challenging.

Currently, they own a cordless electric mower by Worx. This mower is quiet, making it suitable for early morning mowing without disturbing neighbors. Additionally, it is lightweight and does not require gas or oil. The only maintenance required is recharging the batteries, which were successfully recharged after being stored over the winter.

The Cost of Maintaining vs. Replacing a Mower

The speaker mentions that tuning up a mower can cost between $20 to $30 per year. While this may not seem like a significant amount, it adds up over the years. A new mower could cost several hundred dollars, which is a substantial upfront investment. However, many people are willing to invest in a mower that can last for a long time with minimal maintenance.

The speaker also notes that it is far better to tune up a mower and keep it for 10 years or more than to continually replace it. These mowers are not disposable items, but rather tools that can serve for many years with proper care. The investment in tools, such as a five-gallon bucket and basic hand tools, can provide the necessary means to perform easy maintenance tasks.

Simple Maintenance and Longevity

For those who are mechanically inclined, maintaining a push mower can be straightforward. The speaker mentions that it only takes 30 to 120 minutes to give the mower a "spring tune up." Moreover, using fuel stabilizers year-round can help ensure that the gas left in the mower is usable for the next season.

The speaker also emphasizes that most running push mowers do not require advanced technical skills to be maintained. A few YouTube videos, some basic tools, and perhaps some guidance from a local mechanic can enable individuals to save money and extend the life of their mower.

Conclusion

Based on personal experiences and expert advice, the decision of whether to maintain or replace a push lawn mower should be based on the cost, convenience, and longevity of the mower. For those who value long-term savings and low maintenance, maintaining a push mower is a worthwhile investment. However, for those who prioritize convenience and do not mind a significant upfront cost, a new mower could be the better option. Ultimately, the choice depends on individual preferences and circumstances.