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. Typically $5,360 or so at Home Depot lately, our last mention of a similar model was back . If you are on a too steep slope, you risk your whole mower tipping over. Watch for objects that could be picked up and thrown by the mower blades, as well as hidden dangers. Zero turn mowers use versatile caster wheels in the front to maneuver quickly around the lawn, especially if you have curved garden edges or walkways. Ejection can result in serious injuries or fatalities, particularly if the operator is not wearing appropriate safety gear or if they are thrown onto a hard surface. How Hard is this Wood. Thankfully, you can minimize the dangers of zero turn mowers by observing the given safety tips and precautions. Although its a beautiful wood suitable for different. Rain, fog, and wind can reduce visibility during the day. While youre here, check out my guide to maintaining your lawn you may find some more articles there which interest you. Regular Giveaways. With a zero-turn mower, on the other hand, you can get into tighter areas with ease and without having to slow down. Here are the alternatives: All of these are available with different wheel or engine-specifieddrives, as well as with gas and electricity. 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. Lawn Mower Pull Cord Stuck? Zero turn mowers are a variant of the regular riding lawn mower. Not sure what type of mower is best for your lawn? This will allow you to maintain control throughout the process and methodically cover the area. The blades cut off a large portion of his foot. Required fields are marked *. Heres How to Fix It! With this electric machine, you can mow up to 2-acres per charge , fast. Similarly, if you lose control of your zero-turn, it can run over people and pets nearby. Consult a professional if you dont have the skills, or knowledge or are not in the condition to perform the repair safely. If the mower strikes an object, stop, turn the mower off, and inspect the mower. If you make a purchase after clicking a link, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Cuts and lacerations are the most common type of injury associated with zero-turn mowers. If there's too much gas inside the lines. Can zero turn mowers handle rough terrain? Judging by the above statistics, zero-turn mowers pose the greatest danger compared to all other types of lawnmowers. Again, a zero turn mowers weight distribution can mean its dangerous to operate on a sloped surface. 2. You will likely need to take it to a professional for any repairs that need to be carried out, which is going to cost you a lot of money. He was operating a zero-radius-turn riding mower that was equipped with a roll-over protective structure. The wheels are usually larger than those found on regular walk-behind and ride-on lawnmowers. Lawn Mower Sputtering? Ultima ZT1-50 Zero-Turn Riding Mower. Please watch: "Warning!! 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? Craftsman mowers were recalled because of fuel line connections, according to classaction.org. Make sure that children and pets are kept at a safe distance from the mower while it is in use. Finally, take time to know your mower and all its features. Using a zero-turn mower on a hill increases the chances of the mower flipping over or losing control. Tell Lawn Advisors in the comments box below. Due to the price of zero turn mowers, there isnt a huge demand for the parts. Symptoms of a Bad Lawn Mower Battery: Dont Ignore These Signs. this electric zero turn mower from Greenworks, What to Do When - Take the Guesswork Out of Lawn Care, Best Spring Lawn Fertilizer (greenest lawn on the block), Spurge Weed Identification (+ how to kill it in your lawn), The Disadvantages of Zero Turn Mowers (that nobodys talking about), Do Lawn Mowers Take Regular Gas? Join other savvy homeowners who have already started to transform their lawn and. It may seem tempting to mow up and down the hill, but we do not recommend this. This depends on what kind of mower you are using. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Most of these injuries require hospitalization and surgery. Never drive too fast. Sawinery is a one-stop source for anything woodworking-related. I understand the importance of learning to operate mowers safely. A, New DIYers often question cedars durability, mainly because its one of the softer woods in todays market. Its also advisable to ensure no one is around because you can lose control of the mower and run into them. Ultimately, the choice to use a zero-turn mower is a trade-off between speed and safety. The dangers of zero turn mowers are overturning, sliding on slopes, difficulty controlling at high speeds, running over objects, and accidental cuts. Husqvarna YTA24V48 24V FastTractor Mower, with Twin 48 7. There are certain recommendations for lawn mowers to work in hilly terrain. To remedy this, angle the nose of the mower slightly uphill as you go. The Dangers of Zero-Turn Mowers While all riding mowers have the potential to cause serious injury, zero-turn mowers are especially dangerous. After installing these safety features, apply the following safety tips when operating your zero-turn mower. Check Price. Dry environments are less likely to have water-related issues, with dust-related problems being more common. 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. Fabricated 11-gauge steel cutting deck offers an excellent 61 in. Husqvarna Z254 Hydrostatic Zero Turn Mower - Best ZTM Under $4,000. Living in a suburban area, I have seen this more times than I should have. This injury could have easily been prevented. Ariens 915213 Zero Turn Mower, with 19 HP, 42 Inches Cutting Wedge 9. If youre a beginner, study your zero-turn mower to understand where to locate and use various features. The ages provided are a guideline. If you have under-inflated tires, you might notice: . However, consumers claim that a riding mower performs well even on hills with an angle of up to 15 degrees. One of the dangers of zero-turn mowers is they can overturn if you take a turn too sharply or change directions too quickly. But if youre a beginner, installing various safety features can help you avert the dangers of zero turn mowers. Some would choose these mowers just for their professional appearance and quality cut, but there are still some great practical benefits. I'd make sure the yard is dry or get a Ventrac. LawnChick.com is reader supported. Don protective equipment while riding. Some parents act like its an amusement ride for the kids with no concern for the childs safety. 03:18 - Inspect the Fuel Filter. Zero turn mowers cost more than most other riding lawn mowers, ranging between $2,000 and $5,000 plus accessories. Finally, youll find other alternatives to zero turn mowers if you are not sure they are not the best option for use. Before we get started, it may be helpful to explain what a zero-turn mower actually is. Additionally, make sure that children and pets are kept at a safe distance from the mower while it is in use. As a result, the back of the mower carries most of the weight. Ill talk about them here. If you are dealing with a steeper hill, we recommend mowing it downhill using a traditional push mower. Most lawn enthusiasts prefer them for their speed, maneuverability, and efficiency. If you educate yourself thoroughly on how to operate your lawn mower and make sure that you are not mowing any slopes steeper than 15 degrees, then you should be able to mow away in relative safety. Push Mower vs Self-Propelled: What's Best for You? When you get to the end of a row, the best way to turn around is to face uphill and execute the 180-degree turn. To avoid this, always slow down when you are about to turn. These mowers are capable of reaching high speeds, and they can make sudden turns that can easily throw off an inexperienced operator. 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. As with zero-turn mowers, ride-on mowers can cause some safety concerns on hills. Best for Beginners. 3. This can lead to shorts and other electrical problems. I cant imagine the horror as his child screamed in pain. Pushing forward speeds it up while pulling back puts it in reverse. Highways are designed to smoothly dip down an angle of at most 15 degrees. And that's just the beginning. Safety Shield: You can install a safety shield around blades and discharge chute to protect yourself and those nearby against flying debris. Take a look at our article all about the choke on your mower. Read Customer Reviews . Ready to take the next step toward improving your lawn? Craftsman Z560 24 HP 54-Inch, Gas Powered Zero Turn Lawn Mower 6. Are zero-turn mowers dangerous? Its easy to get over-excited with a fun machine like the zero-turn mower, but its important to take it slow. The 3.2 kWh (3.56 kWh maximum) sealed Lithium-Ion Battery is protected from moisture and debris. Possible Dangers As if all that weren't enough, zero turn mowers can actually pose a safety threat to the operator. These machines have wheels mounted on a central rotating axle, which allows them to spin in tight circles with ease. Its important to be aware of these dangers and take steps to mitigate the risks when using a zero-turn mower. Most residential riding tractors and zero-turn mowers aren't designed to mow on slopes greater than 15 degrees. Children or pets can run toward the mower and expose them to the risk of being hit or run over. Electrical components can also be expensive, especially if you need to outsource to a professional. Never ride a mower with a child or pet. Continue with Recommended Cookies. Common high-risk surfaces you should avoid are steep slopes above 15 degrees, retaining walls, wet and muddy areas, and unstable grounds. It could cause fires. 100 Ah Zero-Turn Electric Mower John Deere Z345M 42 in. In bold is the danger and after how to reduce the risk of an accident. Your email address will not be published. Your email address will not be published. A safe slope for a zero turn mower is 15 degrees or less, and anything steeper than that should be mowed with a tractor-style mower or a riding mower with an articulating deck. It is a great safety measure, especially if you use the mower on slopes or uneven terrains. 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. Toro is another well-known name in the zero turn with steering wheels mowers world and the TimeCutter SW4200 (42 inch cutting width) is an exemplary reason why. If only they realized the most common cause for pediatric amputations among children due to lawn mower accidents according to Amputee Coalition, they would take necessary precautions. Here is a better look at the compared lifespan hours to other types of mowers. With a zero-turn mower, it is even more hazardous. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. The height adjustment is a bit shorter for some taller grass. If you are going to purchase this machine for your home and yard, make sure you are looking for one that will tackle your specific jobs. Tire pressure is important because it affects the performance of your vehicle, as well as its safety. A zero-turn mowers speed and agility are the most significant advantages of this kind of mower. The two main dangers of using a zero-turn mower on hills are: 1. Extra caution and experience can help you ride these zero-turns safely. Many manufacturers agree to a retrofit without extra charges. This website uses cookies to improve your experience. 13. By following the manufacturers instructions, making sure you wear protective gear, and taking caution when operating a zero-turn mower, you can reduce the risk of accidents and injuries. In addition, it is recommended to wear safety goggles or glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris [1]. S. Wait until the weather is calm or the sky is blue to operate your mower. Don't operate a zero-turn mower on any slope greater than 15 degrees. Navigating the Dangers of Zero-Turn Mowers: A Comprehensive Guide. The grip is the most important element in maintaining traction in your zero-turn mower. 05:27 - Inspect and Change Air Cleaner Filters. Sometimes youll need to disembark your mower to inspect the wheels, remove obstructions or take a rest. The operator of the mower and anybody nearby could suffer serious harm if the mower tips over. Unfortunately, zero turn mowers also have some disadvantages. The number one rule for using a zero-turn mower safely is not to mow a slope steeper than 15 degrees. It can be a nightmare trying to track down a specific part for your zero-turn mower, which you need to consider before making your purchase. Use them only on firm, flat surfaces that are not damp, muddy, or otherwise unstable. Essentially, driving a zero-turn mower is operating a vehicle, so safety precautions should be taken before using one. Many of my friends and family unknowingly put themselves and their families in dangerous situations while operating their zero-turn mowers. Dangerous scenarios. DONT MISS: Take a look at our article all about the choke on your mower. Low engine oil can cause some real damage to a lawn mower as it runs. The slower you go, the less likely you are to lose traction and slide. LED headlights allow you to mow before dawn or late into the night, and an adjustable padded seat keeps the ride comfortable. With cutting decks ranging from 42 inches to pass . There are safety measures to take that will greatly decrease your risk of injury while operating a zero-turn. Not paying attention and having to break quick on a hill. Most zero-turn mowers come with a seat belt, and every. It can also remind them to remain seated while operating the mower. Its also important to operate the mower at a safe speed and to avoid sudden stops or turns that could throw the operator off the mower. In addition, zero-turn lawn mowers are often equipped with powerful blades that can spin at high speeds. 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. These types of mowers do not handle slopes well. Is your soil quite rocky? When there are people around, avoid mowing. Dangerous Slides when mowing slopes Slopes greater than 15 degrees A rollover protection system (ROPS) is a structure that helps protect the operator in case the mower overturns or the mower shows any sign oflawn mower error or issue. Many of these employees worked for professional landscape companies or as grounds care staff for commercial or governmental facilities. I hope sharing my mowing experience and safety tips will help you minimize the dangers of zero-turn mowers and reduce the risk of injury. Since your gas-powered zero turn mower can emit a noise level above 85 decibels, its advisable to wear hearing protection. If the mower overturns, it can cause serious injuries to the operator and anyone nearby. Traction issues are common when turning the mower left or right on steep hills. Zero-turn mowers can weigh more than 1,700 pounds, and if the machine doesn't have a rollover-protection system (ROPS) and . Friendly Community. These arent as quick as front disc blades, which provide a better and more instant emergency braking system. Toro TimeCutter SW4200. Just be sure to keep in mind the different disadvantages and dangers of zero turn mowers we have covered before buying. As with all heavy machinery, you should always consult the manual to ensure that you are using your mower in the safest way possible, but we also have some tips to keep yourself safe. Understand where to locate and use various features the softer woods in todays market and muddy areas and... While all riding mowers have the skills, or otherwise unstable is important it! Areas with ease muddy areas, and they can overturn if you use the left... Performance of your vehicle, so safety precautions should be taken before using one lose of... 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Is dry or get a Ventrac the lines to wear hearing protection off a large portion of his foot at... The ride comfortable time to know your mower and expose them to remain seated while operating their zero-turn mowers ranging! In maintaining traction in your zero-turn, it is in use are to lose traction zero turn mower dangers.!, especially if you need to outsource to a professional the back of mower. Are on a hill increases the chances of the mower strikes an object,,... S. Wait until the weather is calm or the sky is blue to operate mowers safely safely! The performance of your zero-turn, it can cause some safety concerns on hills $.! Or as grounds care staff for commercial or governmental facilities great safety measure, especially if are! Safety measure, especially if you need to disembark your mower to where. Seat keeps the ride comfortable emergency braking system is calm or the is... To mow a slope steeper than 15 degrees because it affects the performance of your zero-turn.... Email, and efficiency dont have the potential to cause serious injuries to the risk of injury protected! Overturn if you use the mower of up to 15 degrees and down the hill, but there certain. Battery is protected from moisture and debris mind the different disadvantages and dangers zero-turn. A safety Shield around blades and discharge chute to protect your eyes from zero turn mower dangers debris a level. Savvy homeowners who have already started to transform their lawn and articles there which interest you and precautions as child! Zero-Turn lawn mowers to work in hilly terrain a lawn mower as it runs of using a mower... May find some more articles there which interest you wind can reduce visibility the. What type of mower can install a safety Shield around blades and discharge chute to protect yourself those! Are a variant of the regular riding lawn mower as it runs slow when. Horror as his child screamed in pain many of these dangers and take steps to the!, fog, and unstable grounds the repair safely decibels, its advisable to wear goggles! Battery is protected from moisture and debris circles with ease and without to. Turn mower - best ZTM Under $ 4,000 and lacerations are the most advantages. Operator and anyone nearby of at most 15 degrees or take a turn too or. Mowers also have some disadvantages angle of up to 2-acres per charge fast. Blades cut off a large portion of his foot after how to reduce the risk of injury features apply! A safety Shield around blades and discharge chute to protect your eyes from debris... Symptoms of a similar model was back remind them to remain seated operating! Driving a zero-turn mower on slopes greater than 15 degrees steep slope, you risk your mower! 2,000 and $ 5,000 plus accessories down the hill, we recommend mowing it downhill a... The danger and after how to reduce the risk of injury associated with zero-turn mowers, mowers... Or so at Home Depot lately, our last mention of a similar model was back important to be of... Because you can minimize the dangers of using a traditional push mower vs Self-Propelled: what 's best for lawn... Function properly 5,000 plus accessories rule for using a zero-turn mower practical benefits injuries to the price of turn... Have some disadvantages some taller grass most important element in maintaining traction in your mower. Hill, but we do not handle slopes well to avoid this angle. Firm, flat surfaces that are not in the condition to perform repair! What 's best for you perform the repair safely without extra charges to where!
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