When you make purchases through these links, we may earn a small commission. Can zero turn mowers handle rough terrain? A seat switch is a device that automatically shuts off the engine when the operator gets off the seat. Also, wear earmuffs or earplugs to protect your hearing. He has since built an enviable workshop for himself and an equally impressive online accomplishment: an extensive resource site serving old timers and novices alike. Ill talk about them here. If youve not installed a safety shield on your mower, wear safety glasses to prevent flying debris from getting to the eyes. Copyright 2023. Ariens 915213 Zero Turn Mower, with 19 HP, 42 Inches Cutting Wedge 9. While zero-turn mowers offer some incredible benefits, there definitely are some drawbacks that you should be aware of prior to making a purchase. When mowing at high speeds, the mower blades can pick up rocks, sticks, and other debris and launch them into the air. If you must operate a lawn mower on a slope, use caution and travel up and down the slope rather than across it. There are two main dangers of zero turn mowers on hills, either losing control of the mower, or it tipping over if the slope is too steep. 06:20 - Breather Port Position. Most of the weight is located on the back two wheels, leaving the front wheels with very little traction. Always inspect a mower before you purchase it to ensure minimal interactions between the areas that collect the grass and the wiring. Obviously, anyone is unlucky enough to be hit by the blades could have very serious injuries as a result. Living in a suburban area, I have seen this more times than I should have. Wait until youre on a flat surface to change direction. The grass in the lawn will then regrow well before the next period, whereby you will have to carry out mowing. Zero-turn mowers are a popular choice for lawn care because they are generally safe to use, even for beginners. So, when driving up or down a slope, even a slight movement to the left or right causes the machine to slide out of the operators control. Ensure there are no people or pets around when mowing. Push Mower vs Self-Propelled: What's Best for You? LED headlights allow you to mow before dawn or late into the night, and an adjustable padded seat keeps the ride comfortable. Join other savvy homeowners who have already started to transform their lawn and. It will prevent injuries if someone accidentally comes into contact with theblades that are still in a cutting rotation. Never drive too fast. Symptoms of a Bad Lawn Mower Battery: Dont Ignore These Signs. In addition, it is recommended to wear safety goggles or glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris [1]. Fungal diseases can also develop on a lawn that has been cut after a rainstorm through the grass clippings, which form bigger clumps under such conditions. If you lose control of your mower, it can run into people and pets, cutting them with powerful blades. Had to look up Ventrac, that's some serious stuff. . Low engine oil can cause some real damage to a lawn mower as it runs. Here are the alternatives: All of these are available with different wheel or engine-specifieddrives, as well as with gas and electricity. It's safer to mow at a gentle angle when your hill goes down a foot at least 4 feet. How Long Does it Take for Zoysia Plugs to Fill in? Additionally, only turn your machine while it is flat because it may cause injuries for both the operator and anyone in the vicinity. This can cause you to crash the mower and possibly injure yourself. Occupational Safety and Health Administration, How To Kill Gophers with Bleach and Ammonia: An Expert Guide, Exmark Kohler Engine Oil Leaking Blown Head Gasket: Diagnosis and Fixes. Purchases made through these links may provide a commission for us, at no extra cost to you. It may be annoying to wait until a rainy period is over or for dew to dry, but it is an essential safety factor no matter what lawn mower youre using. This kind of mower does best on flat ground when there arent traction issues and the blades can achieve a nice, even cut. Getting in Tight One of the biggest advantages of the zero-turn mower is the ability to cut close to objects. Best Bang for the Buck. Safely operating the machine is just as important as purchasing the right one. I cant imagine the horror as his child screamed in pain. The zero turn radius riding mower has gained popularity due largely to its ability to mow close to buildings and landscaping. Read more about mower blade inspections. Tipping is possibly the most dangerous part of using a zero-turn mower because it could lead you to become pinned underneath the mower. Some landscapers might be tempted to allow kids or pets to sit on their laps when mowing. When deciding on a new zero-turn mower the most important factor is the size of the area that you will cut. With its powerful 27 HP Briggs & Stratton engine, this mower offers excellent performance and is suitable for professionals and homeowners alike. However, if the operator isnt keenon checkingbehind them, especially if there are children, they may run over them, causing serious injury or even death to anyone underneath the machine at the time. Despite their disadvantages of ZT mowers, they are still a popular choice for many homeowners with properties of 3/4 acre or more. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. Lawn Mower Pull Cord Stuck? Some of the most common dangers of zero-turn mowers include: According to the US Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), one of the primary reasons that make zero-turn mowers dangerous is the risk of rollovers or tip-overs, particularly when operating on uneven or sloped terrain. Ariens Edge 34 inch 19 HP Zero Turn Mower 5. This can lead to shorts and other electrical problems. These risks are not unique to most zero-turn mowers, but they can be amplified by the design and operation of these machines. And that's just the beginning. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. The speed and efficiency with which zero turn mowers work has guaranteed them a spot forever in the lawnmower market. Zero-turn mowers are dangerous because they are engine powered, move fast, turn quickly and have the potential to roll over when operating on hills, uneven terrain, near water sources, and retaining walls. Zero-turn mowers that have a turning radius of zero are a life-saving tool in any garden. Most zero-turn mowers have massive rear wheels, so it's crucial to check if these are in good condition. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. It is a great safety measure to prevent injuries orzero-turn lawnmower accidentsif someone accidentally comes in contact with the blades. There are several steps that operators can take to reduce the risk of accidents that make zero-turn mowers dangerous, including: Before you operate a zero-turn lawnmower, read the owners manual carefully to familiarize yourself with the machines features and operation. Many of these employees worked for professional landscape companies or as grounds care staff for commercial or governmental facilities. He was operating a zero-radius-turn riding mower that was equipped with a roll-over protective structure. Most zero-turn mowers come with a seat belt, and everyriding mower manualrecommends you use it every time you operate the machine. The list of zero turn mower manufacturers is extensive including Toro, Hustler, Husqvarna, Walker, John Deere among others. To reduce the risk of a mower tipping, its important to always follow the manufacturers recommendations for operating turn mowers and to avoid using it on terrain that is too steep or uneven. Zero turn mowers cost more than most other riding lawn mowers, ranging between $2,000 and $5,000 plus accessories. Additionally, when mowing a slope it's important to use extra caution and be aware of the terrain. They can cut large lawns quickly and easily, making them perfect for people who have a lot of ground to cover. This does not mean it can not be used as an everyday backyard mower. This clogging leads directly toward an overworked motor which is dangerous for yourself and those around you! There are certain kinds of lawns that are perfect for a zero turn mower. One of the dangers associated with zero-turn mowers is the potential for flying debris. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. PRO-TURN 600. Its also advisable to ensure no one is around because you can lose control of the mower and run into them. Zero-Turn Mowers Ratings Gas Mowers (42) Before choosing a lawn mower, decide on a type that matches your mowing needs and budget. To reduce the risk of ejection from the mower, its important to always wear appropriate safety gear, including a helmet, eye protection, and sturdy closed toe shoes. Navigating the Dangers of Zero-Turn Mowers: A Comprehensive Guide. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) an estimated 35,000 consumers were treated in the hospital emergency room between 2012-2014 for injuries related to riding mowers. Due to the price of zero turn mowers, there isnt a huge demand for the parts. To ensure your safety while riding one of these mowers, it's a good idea to be aware of their dangers. The speeds that these machines can reach mean that you could easily lose control if you hit a patch of loose dirt or grass, which can be very dangerous on a slope. EGO Z6 - 42 Zero Turn Mower - besthomegear.com. Instant Access. Continue with Recommended Cookies. However, 15 degrees is the steepest slope we recommend for any ride-on or zero-turn mowers. Now, do not be afraid. This can lead to a loss of control of the . The ROPS comes in handy in the event of an overturn. The height adjustment is a bit shorter for some taller grass. You can read the manual to learn how to use the machine and various safety concerns. If yours doesnt have this system, consider installing it. Time Limited: Join our woodworking contest on Facebook and Get 3 Free Woodworking Plans Instantly, blades that are still in a cutting rotation. Most lawn enthusiasts prefer them for their speed, maneuverability, and efficiency. Heres 2022 Full Guide, The Best 2022 Guide of Mower Blade Balancing, 2 Easy Methods to Make Mow Strip- 2022 Guide, Easy Methods of How to Clean & Replace Lawn Mower Spark Plugs in 2022, How to Replace the Pull Cord on a Lawn Mower? A, New DIYers often question cedars durability, mainly because its one of the softer woods in todays market. As we have discussed, there are some dangers to using a zero-turn mower, but that can be said for most pieces of heavy machinery. recommends you use it every time you operate the machine. This makes them superior to other ride-on mowers, which have a significant turning circle and require you to do three-point turns regularly. This will allow you to maintain control throughout the process and methodically cover the area. Its easy to see and avoid ditches, puddles, rocks, tree stems, and slopes that can cause accidents. Watch this video below and see how it work and the danger it can cause. This article will cover some of the dangers of using zero-turn mowers on hills and give some valuable tips for using your new lawn mower safely. My name is Chris, and I am the founder of Yard Floor. Another potential danger associated with zero-turn riding lawn mowers (even those with a rollover protection system) is the risk of ejection from the mower. Its important to be aware of the dangers associated with zero-turn mowers and take steps to mitigate the risks when using them. For some taller grass adjustment is a bit shorter for some taller grass before dawn or late into night! It to ensure minimal interactions between the areas that collect the grass in the lawnmower market I. Or governmental facilities seat keeps the ride comfortable located on the back two wheels, leaving the front with! Ariens 915213 zero turn mower, with 19 HP zero turn mower, wear earmuffs or to... 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