Designed to deliver a professional-grade cut in minimal time, zero-turn lawn mowers allow homeowners to achieve the perfect landscape with little effort. However, if you’ve never ridden one before, they can be challenging to operate at first. Thus, it’s important to take the time to learn how to maneuver the equipment efficiently and safely. Here are a few tips that will help you begin driving with confidence in no time. 

How to Master a Zero-Turn Lawn Mower

1. Go for a Test Drive

Zero-turn mowers operate differently from any other type of mower and feature more horsepower and maneuvering capabilities. As such, before attempting to mow your lawn, it’s best to get to know your new equipment. Start out on a paved area of your property and practice driving it around in all directions.

Make sure you know how to start, stop, and disengage the mower quickly. Become familiar with all the controls, how they function, and how sensitive they are. 

2. Don’t Go at Full Speed

These lawn mowers can move at a fairly fast clip, but it’s recommended that you never drive at full speed. This will put you at greater risk of rolling over and can negatively impact the equipment’s performance. Driving slowly and methodically will ensure every section of your lawn is cut to the right length. If you’re going too fast, it’s easy to miss areas and end up with an uneven cut. 

3. Navigate Hills Carefully 

How you navigate hills will largely depend on the type of zero-turn mower you have. Some are specifically made to handle high-degree slopes. Despite this, it’s better to not go over slopes higher than 10 degrees, especially when you’re first learning how to drive. On steeper slopes, there’s increased potential for the equipment to turn over or flip backward. 

4. Remain Aware of Your Surroundings 

Always check the area you’re planning to mow before heading out. You want to make sure big stones, toys, and any other objects are moved out of the way so you don’t run them over. Also, take extra precaution when riding your lawn mower near water, curbs, trees, light fixtures, and retaining walls to avoid damaging your equipment and injuring yourself. 

If you’re interested in purchasing a zero-turn lawn mower, visit Southside Equipment Company in Milledgeville, GA. They carry a large selection of high-quality lawn equipment at reasonable prices to ensure you have everything you need to keep your landscape in top condition. For nearly 40 years, they’ve proudly provided the community with a one-stop shop for brand-name products, parts, repairs, and financing options. Call (478) 452-5523 to ask about current inventory or view their website for more information about their offerings.