Getting your lawn mower ready for spring: a simple checklist

The clocks have gone forward, the daffodils are out, and before you know it the grass will be growing faster than you can keep up with. Now is the perfect time to get your lawn mower ready for the season ahead.

We see a lot of mowers come through the workshop in March and April that have been sitting in the shed all winter. Some fire up first time. Others need a bit of work. Here is a simple checklist to help you avoid any nasty surprises when you need your mower most.

Check the fuel

This is the most common problem we see. Petrol goes stale after about three months, especially if your mower has been sitting unused since October. Stale fuel can gum up the carburettor and cause all sorts of starting problems.

If your mower has been in storage with fuel still in the tank, drain it out and add fresh petrol. Nine times out of ten, that is all it takes to get it running again.

Check the oil

Pull out the dipstick and have a look. If the oil is dark and dirty, or if you cannot remember the last time you changed it, now is the time to do it. Clean oil keeps the engine running smoothly and prevents unnecessary wear.

If you are not confident doing this yourself, it only takes us a few minutes as part of a service.

Check the air filter

A dirty air filter restricts airflow to the engine and makes it harder to start. Pull it out and give it a tap to remove any loose dirt. If it is clogged or damaged, replace it. Air filters are cheap and make a real difference to how well your mower runs.

Check the spark plug

A worn or dirty spark plug is another common reason for starting problems. Pull it out and have a look. If it is covered in carbon deposits or the electrode looks worn, replace it. Spark plugs cost a couple of pounds and take two minutes to swap.

Sharpen the blades

Blunt blades tear the grass rather than cutting it cleanly, which leaves your lawn looking ragged and makes it more vulnerable to disease. If your blades are dull, get them sharpened now before the season starts. We can do this for you, or if you are handy with tools you can do it yourself with a file or bench grinder.

Check the battery (for electric start mowers)

If your mower has an electric start, make sure the battery is charged. If it has been sitting all winter, it might need a top-up or even replacing if it is a few years old.

Give it a test run

Once you have done all of the above, start it up and let it run for a few minutes. Listen for any odd noises, check for leaks, and make sure everything sounds and feels right.

If it starts first time and runs smoothly, you are good to go. If it struggles to start, cuts out, or does not sound quite right, that is your signal to bring it in for a proper service before the grass gets away from you.

Book your service now

March and April are our busiest months. If your mower needs a service or you would rather have us do the checks for you, book it in now before the rush. We collect and deliver within 5 miles of Liphook at no extra charge, and we will have it back to you ready for the first cut of the season.

Servicing starts from £60 and includes all of the checks above, plus a full safety inspection and any small adjustments needed.

Call us on 07776 210601 or book online at surreypowermachinery.co.uk