HOME > CONSUMER PRODUCT INFO >

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: I have heard a lot about mulching mowers, what exactly is a mulching mower?

A: Mulching mowers are designed to cut and re-cut grass clippings into fine particles that fall back into the turf, sight unseen. These reduced particles provide moisture and nutrients that help keep your lawn looking great, without creating thatch. Mulching mowers come basically in two forms: dedicated and convertible. Dedicated mulching mowers will only mulch, while the convertible mowers allow mulching as well as conversion to rear bagging or side discharge type mowers.

Grass clippings returned to the soil contribute to a healthy lawn. Grass clippings are 85% water, and as they break down they provide valuable nutrients to the soil. In fact, a season's worth of mulching can actually provide about 25% of your yard's fertilizer requirements.

Q: Is it possible to cut my grass too short? If this happens, what should I do?

A: Cutting grass very short, especially in hot and dry weather can burn your lawn. It is recommended that you cut no more than the top third of the grass blade at each mowing, usually before the grass reaches three inches tall.

Q: What is aeration, and what does it do for the turf?

A: Aeration is a process of punching holes into the turf to a depth of 1 1/2" to 2 1/2". These holes allow water and air nutrients to more easily reach the grass root zone. This stimulates root development and healthier turf.

Q: Can I use an electric mower for my lawn?

A: That depends on the size of your lawn and the convenience you want. Two types of electric mowers are available: corded and cordless. Corded electric mowers plug into a 110-V A.C. outlet and are limited by the amount of extension cord you attach to the mower. Cordless electric mowers use a rechargeable battery.

Q: To be environmentally responsible, how do I dispose of yard waste such as leaves and grass clippings?

A: You can't eliminate yard waste, but you can dispose of it in different ways. Your walk-behind lawn mower or riding type mower, used frequently without bagging, can "broadcast" clippings throughout the lawn. If you use a bagging attachment, start a compost pile instead of taking clippings curbside. Mulching mowers and mulching blade attachments are available to reduce clippings into fine particles that help to fertilize your lawn.

Chipper/shredders help reduce twigs, branches, leaves, and other yard waste into small pieces that create recyclable mulch and compost for shrubs, gardens, and landscaped areas.

Walk-behind tillers help return yard waste and compost to the soil by blending it with existing soil for increased fertility.

Q: What's the law about bagging grass clippings?

A: There are no laws prohibiting the collection of grass clippings. Many communities, however, have laws restricting the disposal of lawn and garden waste in landfills because they are rapidly filling up. In fact, half of the 6,000 sites in this country will be packed to capacity in only a few years. That is why state and local governments have hurried to pass legislation sharply restricting or prohibiting the use of this dwindling space for the disposal of yard waste. Check with your local authorities for the laws in your locale.

Q: What about emissions from outdoor power equipment? Don't they add to our air quality problems? What is the industry doing?

A: Every common power source (gasoline, coal, electric, or nuclear) has an environmental implication -- some more than others -- including the small, gasoline-powered engines used in much outdoor power equipment.

Gasoline engines produce three types of emissions: hydrocarbons (HC), nitric oxides (NOX), and carbon monoxide (CO). Small, four-stroke, spark-ignition engines under 50 H.P. - the type generally found in outdoor power equipment - contribute a minimal amount of the total man-made HC, NOX, and CO emissions. These emissions come from the engine exhaust, spilled gasoline, evaporation, and other sources.

The outdoor power equipment industry has been working with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to reduce the current levels of emissions. During the summer of 1997, EPA Phase I regulations will be effective which require substantial emissions reductions from unregulated products. In 2001-2005 EPA Phase II will be effective. These regulations will reduce emissions from small gasoline engines by roughly 75 percent from unregulated products. Additionally, the industry has worked with the state of California to reduce emissions. California Air Resource Board (CARB) Tier I standards became effective in 1995 and Tier II standards are being finalized for the year 2000 and beyond.

Q: Is it true that a lawnmower operated for one hour spews as much pollution into the air as a car would driving 100 miles?

A: Numerous statements have been made comparing outdoor power equipment to cars. The auto industry has been regulated for more than 20 years and thus has extensive emissions controls as standard equipment. Until 1995 in California, no specific regulations were in place for outdoor power equipment. However, if one must compare, the leading manufacturer of four-stroke gasoline engines has stated that a four-stroke engine lawnmower, complying with California's 1995 standards, will cut the average lawn more than 38 years before it produces the VOC emissions equal to driving a 1990 or newer car one year or 10,000 miles.

Q: I have heard that some pieces of outdoor power equipment use 2-cycle engines. What is the difference between a 2-cycle and a 4-cycle engine?

A: The 2-cycle engines require that special oil be mixed with gasoline in exact quantities. This mixture is added to the engine to provide lubrication. The 4-cycle engines use separate compartments for gasoline and oil and thus the oil and gasoline are not mixed.

Q: Which types of equipment use 2-cycle engines? Which use 4-cycle? Why? What are the advantages and disadvantages of each?

A: 2-cycle engines are small and lightweight and are used on hand-held type equipment such as blowers, trimmers, and chainsaws. 4-cycle engines are used on other types of outdoor power equipment such as walk-behind mowers, riding mowers, tillers, etc. Small 2-cycle engines as used on hand-held equipment couldn't be used on larger equipment because they do not provide enough power or torque to turn a lawnmower blade or other device.

Q: What does the term "horsepower" mean?

A: "Horsepower" is a measurement of an engine's rate of doing work. Originally, the term horsepower was used by an engineer named Watt, who determined that a strong horse could lift 366 pounds of coal up a mine shaft at the rate of one foot per second. Over time, "horsepower" has acquired a technical meaning: a unit of power equal to 745.7 watts.

Q: How Is horsepower measured?

A: Engine manufacturers typically measure horsepower by operating a "bare" engine (e.g., one that is not yet equipped with accessories or installed in power equipment) at its "rated speed." The "rated speed" for most engines normally is 3600 RPM. The rated speed for engines used in handheld equipment is somewhat higher -- between 4000 and 12,000 RPM. Measuring a "bare" engine at its "rated speed" produces a number referred to as "gross horsepower."

Q: Can I expect my power equipment to achieve the same horsepower as the "gross horsepower ratings of the engine?

A: The actual operating horsepower is typically somewhat lower than the gross horsepower rating. For example, exhaust systems and air filters on the engine will generally reduce its power. Similarly, throttle govenors, which are used to maintain engine speeds under varying loads, also may keep small engines from operating at their "rated speeds" once they are installed in equipment.

Q: Will outdoor conditions impact the machine's actual horsepower?

A: They may. The horsepower of an engine installed in outdoor power equipment can vary depending on numerous factors such as heat, altitude, and humidity. Throttle settings and the resulting horsepower may also fluctuate depending on conditions such as thickness or wetness of the grass, for lawnmowers (and comparable variables for other types of power equipment).

Q: What are mower manufacturers doing to reduce noise?

A: Mower manufacturers have given quiet operation a high priority for several decades, and claim that decibel levels have dropped significantly on riding lawnmowers and tractors over the last several years. Companies are using such vibration dampening systems as rubber engine mounts, synchro-balanced engines, and even liquid-cooled engines. Sheet metal for side panels is being replaced with thermoplastic resin compounds that dampen noise. New plastic hoods and side panels deaden vibration noise, as well. They're actually stronger and quieter, too.

Q: What is the average size lawn?

A: The typical lot size is roughly 10,000 to 20,000 square feet; however, due to landscaping, driveways, walkways, houses, and other structures, only about 5,000 square feet of this is actually mowable lawn.

Q: Approximately how much lawn area is mowed in the U.S. annually?

A: Estimates range from 25 to 50 million acres.

Q: What's the reasoning behind the different ride-on mower categories?

A: Rear engine riding mowers offer mowing convenience for larger residential lots. Larger than a walk-behind mower and smaller than a lawn and garden tractor, riders offer a cost-efficient vehicle for handling in-between size yards.

Lawn tractors are also designed for mowing; however, they can also be teamed with attachments to help maintain larger lots or property. These lawn machines range in engine size between 11 and 18 horsepower, usually featuring heavy-duty industrial/commercial engines and automatic shift-on-the-go transmissions. Exact type and horsepower will depend on your specific requirements.

Garden tractors are ideal for teaming with a front blade for light dozing work and with a snow thrower for snow removal. The larger garden tractors (also called lawn and garden tractors) have more horsepower and a sturdier frame for such ground-engaging attachments as tillers, plows, dozer blades, small backhoes, and other useful accessories.

Another way to mow large lots -- especially those with many trees, bushes, and other obstacles -- is to utilize highly maneuverable, zero-turn-radius groundskeeping tractors. These machines can pivot 360 degrees within their own length, making them ideal for trimming around trees and other obstacles.

Q: What do the various types of riding mowers cost?

A: Three types of riding mowers and their various price ranges are shown below. Various factors such as horsepower, cutting width, and ability to handle attachments contribute to the variations in cost.

Rear Engine Riders:
$600 -$2,500

Lawn Tractors:
$700-$4,000

Garden Tractors:
$900-6,000

Q: What do walk-behind mowers cost?

A: Walk-behind mowers can cost anywhere from $100 up to $800 depending on the manufacturer of the product and a wide range of factors such as horsepower, cutting width, push vs. self-propelled, electric start vs. non-electric start, bagging/mulching capabilities, and other factors.

Q: In using outdoor power equipment, what are some basic common sense safety steps?

A: 1. Keep Children And Pets Away From The Area Until You're Finished. Never allow children to operate a mower. And never carry children as passengers on a riding mower.

2. Know How To Operate The Equipment. Read the operator's manual before using the equipment. Know where the controls are and what they do. Do not remove or disable guards or other safety devices. Check for any additional safety instructions.

3. Dress Properly for the job. Wear substantial shoes, long pants, and close fitting clothes -- no loose jewelry, unrestrained hair, or anything that could get caught in a moving part.

4. Handle Gas Carefully. Store gas in an approved container, in a clean, dry, ventilated area, and never near a pilot light, stove, or heat source. Fill up before you start, while the engine is cold. Don't spill when you fill and no smoking while gasoline is being used.

5. Clear the Area Before You Start. Pick up anything that could be thrown by the equipment such as trash, golf balls, toys, rocks, etc. Then, clear the area of people and pets. Be sure children are out of the way and stay away until the job is completed.

6. Operate Equipment Carefully and Follow Recommended Safety Procedures. Always turn off the engine and disconnect the spark plug wire, if accessible, before attempting to unclog or do any work on outdoor power equipment. When leaving equipment unattended, turn off the engine and remove the key.

7. Keep Hands and Feet Away from Moving Parts. Never work on equipment while it is running. Never remove or tamper with safety devices and labels ... they are provided to protect you and your family.

Q: Where can I obtain a no spill gas can?

A: No-spill or non-spill nozzles which fit existing gas cans are growing in popularity. Check with major retailers carrying outdoor power equipment or at a local lawn and garden equipment dealer. Also, some manufacturers have just started producing a gas can fitted with a non-spill nozzle. Again, check with a local retailer for availability.

Q: What is the best way to store my lawnmower of snowthrower?
(depending on time of year)

A: The best way to store your equipment is as follows: add a fuel stabilizer/ conditioner to the last full tank of fuel in the piece of equipment at the end of the year, making sure that the unit has been run with the stabilized fuel in it for at least 10-15 minutes. Then, drain the unit completely of any fuel. In some cases, a teaspoon of oil can be added to the crankcase for lubrication. Of course, cleaning of the unit along with greasing any lubrication points is essential. The unit is now ready for storage.

Q: Are there any special safety tips that apply to specific types of equipment that users should be aware of?

A: Yes, the following are some specific safety precautions that users should consider before operating particular pieces of equipment.

Walk-behind Mowers -- Walk, don't run. Push the mower; pulling it increases the risk that you might slip and pull it over your feet. Mow across slopes with a walk-behind mower and avoid mowing on wet grass.

Riding Mowers & Tractors -- Operate the equipment alone. Never carry passengers. When grass is thick, mow slowly to avoid clogging. Mow up and down slopes when using a riding mower. When backing up, look behind you and double check for any children or pets before you move. When the grass catcher needs unloading, disengage the blade, put the mower in neutral, turn off the engine, set the brake and only then, begin to unload.

Electrical Equipment -- Be sure the outlet is grounded. Use a cord that is in good shape and is the size recommended by the manufacturer. Never use electrical equipment in the rain or when the ground is wet.

Shredder-Grinders, Edger-Trimmers & Log Splitters -- Safety goggles or eyewear protection should be worn when operating these power products. For log splitters, always split wood in the direction of the grain, never across. Keep hands away from the ram, the wedge and partially split logs.

Snow Throwers and Tillers -- Should the snow thrower become clogged or blocked, turn off the engine, disconnect the spark plug wire, then use a long stick to clear it out. Never put your hand near the collection auger or discharge chute. Be sensitive to any change in terrain when using a tiller. Be sure you know how to turn off the controls to stop the rotating tines.

Q: Are there videos and other materials available on lawn and garden safety, the environment, and various types of outdoor power equipment?

A: Yes, please contact OPEI's Director of Public Relations for further information on available materials.

Q: How should I maintain my equipment for most efficient performance?

A: The operator's manual that comes with your equipment will have a section on proper maintenance to assure you trouble-free use and longer life for the equipment. Some general tips for all outdoor power equipment products include making sure the equipment blades are sharp, tightening parts periodically, and checking gas and oil before each use, or checking electric cords and plugs.

Q: How should I care for my mower year around?

A: Fall/Winter -- Drain gas tank completely. Then run the engine until all of the fuel in the carburetor is exhausted. While engine is still warm, drain the crankcase oil. Fill it with fresh oil. Lubricate all lubrication points. Check all moving parts for damage. Cover any bare metal parts with oil or rust preventative. Store in a clean, dry place. Take your mower to a service dealer for tune-up.

Spring/Summer -- If you haven't had your mower serviced in a while, take it to an authorized service dealer for inspection to be sure it's ready when mowing season starts. Clean the spark plug or, if necessary, replace it. Make sure the carburetor air filter is clean. Fill fuel tank with gas and change crankcase oil.

Q: If I have a problem with my machine, who can help me?

A: Numerous retailers have authorized servicing departments. In fact, this is one point to consider when purchasing equipment. If you're not mechanically inclined, take the equipment to a service department that handles your equipment brand. The people who service your equipment often will have received instruction from the manufacturer and thus, are better able to correct any problems.

Q: How long can I expect my outdoor power equipment to last?

A: Conservatively, the estimated average useful life of some consumer outdoor power equipment products is as follows:

Walk-Behind Mowers: 6 years

Rear Engine Riding Mowers: 6 years

Lawn Tractors: 6 years

Garden Tractors: 9 years

Snow Throwers: 9 years

Tillers: 9 years

Of course, hours of use, manner of use, and quality of maintenance are directly proportional to useful life.

Q: When shopping for outdoor power equipment I have noticed the following seal. What does it mean?

A: When you see this triangle on lawn mowers, snow throwers, tillers and shredder-grinders, it signifies that the product has been certified by an independent testing company to meet nationally recognized voluntary safety standards, published by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). On the bottom of the triangle you can see the ANSI standard number which relates to a particular product and the last year the standard was updated. In this example, products meeting the 1996 ANSI standard requirements for lawn mowers through OPEI's certification program would exhibit this seal.

Note, that although you won't see this seal on all outdoor power equipment products, many manufacturers' products meet the requirements in the voluntary standards but chose not to certify their equipment through OPEI.