Summer Seasonal Maintenance for Lawn Equipment

I like the summer heat certainly more than the winter cold, and I enjoy working out in the yard, and if you are like me, you have learned that maintaining the equipment during growing season is imperative to having a nice lawn and garden.  Summer is the perfect time to enjoy your beautiful lawn, but it also requires some extra care and maintenance. Proper maintenance of lawn equipment during the summer ensures that everything is in top shape and ready to tackle the tasks ahead. I am offering up some essential lawn equipment maintenance tips to help you keep your yard looking its best throughout the summer season.

1. Mower Maintenance  : Your lawnmower is the most important piece of equipment when it comes to maintaining your lawn. Here are some key maintenance tasks to keep it running smoothly:

• Clean the mower deck: Grass clippings can accumulate on the underside of the mower deck, leading to clogs and reduced cutting efficiency. Regularly clean the deck using a scraper or a hose to remove debris.  I also wipe away any oil or grease residue that may have found it’s way to the deck of the mower.
  
• Sharpen the blades: Dull blades tear the grass instead of cutting it cleanly, resulting in a ragged appearance. Sharpen the blades at least once during the summer to ensure a clean cut. If you're not confident in doing this yourself, take your mower to a professional.  Take a few pictures if you have multiple blades on a zero turn mower to insure you replace them exactly as you removed them. Do this before mowing time to avoid delays during the cutting season.
• Check the air filter: A dirty air filter restricts airflow and reduces engine performance which can cause more serious issues and will result in using more gasoline. Clean or replace the air filter as recommended by the manufacturer to maintain optimal performance.
• Change the oil: Regularly changing the oil in your mower keeps the engine running smoothly. Refer to the owner's manual for instructions on how to change the oil and the recommended frequency.  This is a combustion engine just like in your automobile and should be changed every number of hours of use according to the manufacturer.  If in doubt, change it!
• Also, if your mower has wheels that need grease, or any moving parts that need oiling, clean the part then lubricate for a longer life. 
  

1. Trimmer Maintenance: String trimmers are great for reaching areas that your lawnmower can't reach. To keep your trimmer in top condition, follow these maintenance tips:

• Clean the trimmer head: Grass clippings and debris can accumulate in the trimmer head, affecting its performance. Regularly remove the trimmer head and clean it thoroughly.
• Replace the trimmer line: Over time, the trimmer line wears down and becomes less effective. Replace the trimmer line as needed to ensure clean and efficient trimming.

 Lubricate moving parts: Apply lubricant to the trimmer's moving parts, such as the shaft and gears, to prevent rust and keep everything running smoothly.

1. Blower Maintenance: A leaf blower is a handy tool for cleaning up grass clippings, leaves, and other debris. Here's how to maintain your blower:

• Clean or replace the air filter: Just like with a lawnmower, a dirty air filter can hinder performance. Clean or replace the air filter as recommended by the manufacturer to keep your blower running smoothly.
• Check the spark plug: A fouled or worn-out spark plug can cause starting issues and poor performance. Inspect the spark plug and replace it if necessary.
• Check the fuel system: If your blower has a two-stroke engine, make sure you're using the correct fuel-oil mixture. Check the fuel lines for cracks or leaks and replace them if needed.

1. Sprinkler System Maintenance: To keep your lawn well-watered during the hot summer months, it's crucial to maintain your sprinkler system:

• Check for leaks: Inspect the sprinkler heads and pipes for any leaks or damage. Replace any faulty components promptly to avoid wasting water and damaging your lawn.
• Adjust the sprinkler heads: Make sure the sprinkler heads are properly aligned and adjusted to ensure even coverage. This will prevent dry spots and overwatering in certain areas.
• Clean the sprinkler heads: Dirt and debris can clog the sprinkler heads, affecting their performance. Regularly clean the heads to remove any obstructions.

By following these maintenance tips, you can ensure that your lawn equipment remains in excellent condition throughout the summer season. Remember to always refer to the manufacturer's instructions for specific maintenance requirements. With well-maintained equipment, you can enjoy a beautiful and healthy lawn all summer long.

PS.  As fall comes around and the growing season comes to a close I will discuss equipment storage in the attic or garage and preparation of the lawn equipment for the coming winter.