Sizes Rotary
I need advice on what type of lawn mower to buy?
Need to buy a lawn mower for my garden - medium size, but don't know which one. What is the difference between a rotary and a hover, and which one is better? What is the minimum power I should go for? Which are the best brands.? Many thanks.
I would recommend sticking with wheels, hover mowers are usually used on golf courses to keep the same height grass over mounds and hills, or when they don't want lines in the grass. Most people don't need them and they are heavy to carry around.
When I buy lawn mowers, I look for a few things. First, try adjusting the height. It shouldn't take much effort to change the mowing height. Next, try putting the grass catcher on and off; do this a few times. Make sure that it is simple and something you will be able to do easily with a full bag. I always check to make sure that the blade is not to much higher than the bottom of the deck. If it is, you will be dragging that deck through the lawn when you mow. You will also want at least 5 horse power. Finally, make sure it has ball bearing wheels, they roll better.
As far as brands go, it doesn't really matter as long as it is quality and meets the requirements above. I've had luck with Toro, tru-cut, Snapper (black hawk), Troy-Bilt, Murray, Lawn boy, and sensation.
Engine brands are more important to me than the brand of the mower. Toro, Briggs & Stratton, and Kohler are my favorites. I've had lots of problems in the past with Tecumseh and Honda engines.
You can also spring for a self-propelled mower. They are nice if you are mowing a large area or skip a week of mowing while you are on vacation.