Electric Mowers

Quieter and less expensive than their petrol-powered counterparts, electric mowers are lighter than their petrol-fuelled variants and easier to maintain. The one small drawback comes with the aforementioned cable and, perhaps more importantly - power.

An entry-level petrol mower can produce at least three horse's worth of power from its engine, whereas an electric mower can be anywhere from 1.5hp up to about 2hp (measured in watts of course - 1hp equalling 746 watts).

You have to ask yourself if this sizeable difference in power is going to make a difference in overall performance and finished results.

Again, that depends on the size and layout of your lawn, how often you mow and the type of grass you have.

Simply put; if you have a small- to medium-sized garden then an electric mower should be fine for your needs. For bigger spaces a petrol mower is more convenient and practical. Remember, though, that you'll have no trouble with false starts on an electric mower - all you have to do is plug in and go.

Mower Profile - Hover Design

Similar in principal to the rotary mower, the hover mower uses a specially designed skirt that surrounds the cutting blade.

Hover mowers are powered push mowers that use a turbine above the spinning blades to drive air downwards, thereby creating an air cushion that lifts the mower off the ground like a hovercraft. Available in a range of both electric and petrol-powered machines, they are relatively cheap and easy to maintain.

If you're not a fan of the neat stripes concept and simple want a flat cut, then a hover mower will be right for you. Quiet and fun to use, basic models start at a low price with high-spec models having grass collection containers and many practical onboard features.

Hover Mower Maintenance

Ensuring that the blade or cutter is free from any build-up of material will mean that your machine will function smoothly and efficiently. This is especially essential after winter storage, where compacted grass on the inside of the skirt can turn into solid matter causing a possible obstruction. Using a stiff brush, directly after use, to clean the blade, deck and inside skirt of your mower will ensure optimum results and a longer service life. Always remember when starting your hover mower that it should be tilted slightly to allow the air to circulate under the deck, giving it lift. Not doing this could make the machine feel heavy during use.

Electric motors need specialist treatment, so always check your warranty documents and never risk tampering with the motor yourself, as this is likely to render your warranty null and void. If you do decide to make adjustments yourself then always remember to disconnect your mower from the mains first.