Like other outdoor equipment, a lawn mower can continue to work even when it's not running efficiently. It's important to watch for signs that your mower requires repairs to extend its life span and keep your yard in top condition. Here are a few indicators that it's time for repairs.

How to Know When Your Lawn Mower Needs Repairs

1. It’s Making Strange Sounds

Knocking, sputtering, or rattling sounds indicate that something is wrong with your lawn mower. A knocking sound may be a sign of a broken or bent blade, which will require a repair or a replacement. Sputtering sounds can mean the rings are worn out. To avoid this issue, regularly clean the carburetor and replace the air filter. Rattling sounds mean there is a loose or bent part out of place. If you don’t stop using the lawn mower immediately and schedule repairs, it could result in further damage. 

2. Using Too Much Gasoline or Oil

If you have to refill the mower with gasoline or oil between each mowing session, it’s using too much. While many people may assume it’s due to an older lawn mower, it could actually be the spark plugs not firing correctly. When this happens, the lawn mower is unable to use gasoline and oil efficiently. Get an outdoor equipment professional to inspect the spark plugs and determine if they can be replaced. 

3. Cutting Grass Unevenly or Inefficiently

If the mower isn't cutting the grass as evenly or efficiently as it used to, the blades are probably worn out. If you have the blades sharpened but the problem persists, the belt may be loose and slipping, causing the blades to stall. A professional can sharpen the blades and then check the engine and the belt for any other issues. 

If your lawn mower or other outdoor equipment requires repairs, trust the experts at Ernst Irrigation in St. Paul, OR. As a full-service agricultural dealership, they offer an extensive range of hardware, farm equipment, and agricultural services for the local farming community. Whether you need irrigation installations or tractor repair, their team is dedicated to timely and affordable solutions. Visit them online to learn more about their services, and call (503) 633-1111 with questions.