Spring has arrived and the need for seasonal outdoor maintenance is approaching. While lawns do not sprout up overnight, your mower is a piece of equipment that you will definitely need as the weather improves. Whether your business has a large groundskeeping area or a small lawn that offers curb appeal, keeping your mower in great working order is in your best interest.

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On average, commercial mowers last between 1,500 to 2,000 hours, but lack of maintenance, frequent use, and rough terrain can negatively affect this lifespan. Here are some steps maintenance managers can take to maintain their mowers, and avoid work disruption, repair, or replacement this season:

• Create – and follow – a regular preventative maintenance plan to help prolong the life span of most equipment. Start with a spring tune-up and stick to the manufacturer’s recommendations for mower maintenance, paying attention to which fuel and lubricants are recommended, rather than substituting for less expensive alternatives.
• Regular maintenance on a commercial lawn involves a few common steps: change the oil as needed, replace the fuel filter when clogged, clean or replace spark plugs, check tire pressure, lubricate moving parts, check for loose bolts or cracked components, and inspect the mower for debris when in regular use. These simple steps can alert you to any upcoming issues before they happen and encourage a longer life span for your mower.
• Pay special attention to small engine repair needs, like replacing worn-out parts like belts or blades, to help reduce excessive wear and prevent breakdowns.
• For battery-powered mowers, other than the engine component, the maintenance is very similar. Battery storage is vital though, so ensure that you are storing the batteries somewhere where they will not be affected by temperature change to keep them at the optimal working order.

Like most maintenance equipment, staying on top of regular, preventative maintenance will keep you apprised of any upcoming expenses and lengthen the lifespan of your mower, reducing the risk for expensive surprises and work delays. Keep your mower working and your grounds looking great with an early spring maintenance plan.