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The Consumer Smart blog is where you will find in-depth smart product reviews, buying guides, and ownership advice. Each article examines durability, long-term value, and software support so you can make a confident purchase decision whether you are buying for the first time or replacing a device that has reached the end of its life.
Switch to a dormant lawn schedule when grass growth has clearly stopped—typically when soil temperatures stay below about 50°F (10°C) for winter dormancy, or when the lawn turns brown and stops growing during summer drought dormancy. Use condition-based triggers rather than a fixed calendar date.
Learn the seasonal cutoff for mowing, the signs that grass has stopped growing, and how to prepare your lawn for winter after the final cut.
Learn exactly where to spray starter fluid on a lawn mower. This guide covers locating the air intake, safety steps, application technique, and engine type considerations.
Learn when to mow a newly seeded lawn for the first time. Discover the right grass height, root establishment checks, and mowing techniques to protect young seedlings.
You can donate a working lawn mower to local charities such as Goodwill, The Salvation Army, or Habitat for Humanity ReStores. For non-working mowers, check municipal recycling or transfer stations, scrap-metal facilities, or local repair programs.
The choke on a lawn mower is typically a lever, knob, or button located on the engine near the carburetor or air filter, or on the handlebar control panel. Learn how to find it on push, riding, and zero-turn mowers, and how to use it correctly.
The model number on a Toro lawn mower is typically found on a decal or plate affixed to the mower's frame. Common locations include the rear discharge chute, under the operator's seat, on the side of the cutting deck, or on the frame near the handle assembly.
The fuel filter on a lawn mower is typically located along the fuel line between the fuel tank and the carburetor. Learn how to locate it on your specific model, what to do if your mower has no filter, and how to handle the fuel system safely.
The carburetor on a riding lawn mower is typically mounted near the engine's intake manifold, usually on the side or top of the engine block. Exact location varies by manufacturer and model.
Learn the best ways to get rid of an old lawn mower, including municipal pickup, recycling centers, donation programs, and trade-in options, plus essential safety steps for gas and electric models.
