Summer is an exciting time for your lawn. The sunshine and extra rain help your grass grow quickly. This gives you a lush, soft feel underfoot.
But with the heat comes some extra challenges. You will probably need to mow more often than usual. It’s important to take some precautions to keep yourself and your equipment safe. No matter what type of mower you have, these tips will help you mow confidently this summer.
You can use an Ariens zero-turn mower, a regular ride-on mower, or a push mower.
For many of us, the middle of the day is the usual time to mow the lawn. Maybe you enjoyed a Sunday sleep-in, or you’re keen to get it over and done with before the sunset dew sets in. But in the summer, it’s especially important to pay attention to the forecast before you fire up your mower.
Lawn mowing in summer during extreme heat can have serious consequences for both you and your equipment. You face a real risk of heat exhaustion, dehydration, and sunburn if you’re exposed to the sun for extended periods. Heat exhaustion is very dangerous when you are using machines like a ride-on mower. It is important to take precautions!
Extreme heat can also affect your Ariens mower's operation. If you use the mower too hard in hot weather, the engines can overheat, parts may wear out faster, and efficiency can drop.
Ignoring these risks can result in costly repairs or even injury. That's why it's important to follow lawn mower safety tips. Planning your mowing sessions carefully is also key during summer.
The best time to mow your lawn will depend on where you live and the forecast temperatures. As a general rule, avoid mowing between 11 am and 3 pm in the summer. Also, don't mow when the temperature is above 30 degrees. Not only can it be exhausting for you, but it can also put extra strain on your Ariens ride-on or zero-turn mower.
Mowing too early in the morning or too late at night has its own drawbacks, too. If the grass is still wet with dew, it can clog up your mower and leave you with a patchy cut. The sweet spot is usually mid-morning, once the dew has dried, or late afternoon when it’s starting to cool down. That way, you get a clean cut without overheating yourself or your mower.
When mowing in summer, especially if you have no choice but to mow close to midday heat, make sure to take extra precautions. It can make a huge difference, trust me!
Start with protective clothing. Lightweight, breathable clothes that cover your arms and legs are ideal - think a long-sleeve linen shirt and some flowy pants. Don’t forget a hat and sunglasses to shield your face and eyes from the sun.
Next, sunscreen is a must. Apply SPF 30 or higher to any exposed skin. Even a mild sunburn can increase your risk of heat exhaustion or heat stroke, so it’s worth the extra effort.
Lastly, make sure to hydrate and rest. Drink plenty of water and take breaks in the shade every 15-20 minutes to give your body a chance to cool down.
If you’re using an Ariens zero-turn mower, summer mowing becomes much easier. You don’t have to exert yourself nearly as much as with a push mower. Plus, the best zero-turn or ride-on mowers have cup holders so you can easily keep yourself hydrated! If you’re in the market and wondering which zero-turn mower to buy, check out that blog post.
High temperatures also mean you need to give your mower a bit of extra care. On top of your usual zero-turn mower maintenance, pay special attention to a few key areas during summer.
Engines naturally run hotter in the heat, so before you start mowing, make sure all your fluids - engine oil, coolant, and fuel - are at the proper levels.
Take a close look at your belts, blades, and tires. Worn blades or underinflated tires can put extra strain on the engine, increasing the risk of overheating. Also, check the deck for accumulated grass clippings, which can block airflow and make your mower work harder.
Finally, don’t try to tackle a large property all in one go during the summer. Take regular breaks not only for yourself but also to give the mower engine a chance to cool down. Pushing your mower too hard in the heat adds extra wear on multiple parts, so it’s always safer and smarter to pace yourself.
During summer, it’s a good idea to adjust your cutting height slightly higher than usual. Taller grass blades help shade the soil, retain moisture, and reduce stress on your lawn, keeping it healthier in the heat.
At the same time, keep an eye on your mower while you work. Unusual sounds, vibrations, or signs of overheating should be addressed immediately to prevent potential breakdowns and keep your equipment running smoothly.
These safety tips aren’t unique to summer, in fact you should follow them even during winter lawn care. But, in summer it’s important to stick to basic safety tips because mowing in the heat can make you more prone to exhaustion and mistakes.
Always wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes and gloves, and avoid loose clothing or jewelry that could get caught in moving parts.
Keep children and pets well away from the mowing area. A safe perimeter helps prevent accidents, and children should never ride on the mower with you unless it’s specifically designed for passengers.
Pay attention to your speed and terrain. Ride at a controlled pace, especially on slopes, uneven ground, or near obstacles. Avoid sharp turns at high speed, particularly when using a zero-turn mower, as this increases the risk of tipping.
When mowing slopes, go up and down rather than across to reduce the chance of an accident, and avoid steep inclines or wet grass where traction is poor.
Following these basic precautions will help keep you safe even in the toughest summer conditions.
Mowing in summer is harder than in other seasons. However, if you take precautions, you can stay safe. You can also protect your equipment and enjoy a healthy, green lawn all season long. Be sun safe, check your equipment regularly and adjust your cut height that little bit higher.
