5 Basic Lawn Mower Maintenance Tips

Keeping your lawn mower in good condition doesn’t take much, but it makes a big difference. A few simple maintenance habits will help your mower start easier, cut cleaner, and last longer—saving you time and money in the long run. Here are five easy tips to keep your mower running smoothly all season.

1. Clean Under the Deck the Right Way

After each mow, grass clippings and dirt can build up underneath the deck. This blocks airflow, causes rust, and makes the mower work harder than it needs to.

Important: Never tip your mower sideways! This can cause oil to spill into the air filter or muffler, leading to serious damage and unnecessary repairs.

Instead, safely tilt the mower back by pulling the handlebars gently toward the ground. Use a grass catcher, brick, or something sturdy to hold the handlebars down and keep the front end up. Once it’s stable, remove debris using a scraper or hose (only if your mower allows water cleaning).

If your mower has a steel deck, always store it clean and dry—moisture and grass build-up will eventually cause the deck to rust out, leading to costly repairs or even full replacement.

2. Check and Change the Oil Regularly

Just like a car, your mower needs clean oil to keep the engine running smoothly. Dirty or low oil can cause overheating and long-term engine damage.

• Check the oil level before each use.

• Change the oil every 25–50 hours of run time or at least once a season.

• Always use the correct oil type and amount for your mower—refer to your owner’s manual for the exact specifications.

If you're not sure which oil to use or how much, drop in and ask us—we’re happy to help.

3. Clean or Replace the Air Filter

A blocked or degraded air filter restricts airflow, making your engine work harder and use more fuel. Worse still, degraded filters can break apart and clog the carburettor, leading to costly repairs.

• Foam filters can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and reused once dry.

• Paper filters should be replaced if dirty, torn, or crumbling.

Check your air filter regularly, especially in dusty conditions or during heavy use.

4. Keep the Blade Sharp—or Replace It

A sharp blade gives a clean cut. A dull one tears at the grass, leaving it stressed, uneven, and more prone to disease.

• Sharpen the blade at least once per season—or more often if you hit rocks, sticks, or debris.

• If the blade is too worn or chipped, replacing it might be a more efficient and cost-effective option.

• You can DIY this job if you're confident or have a professional do it for you for a small service fee.

A well-maintained blade keeps your lawn healthy and your mower working at its best.

5. Fresh Fuel is Critical

Stale or contaminated fuel is the #1 cause of starting issues and carburettor problems.

• Always use fresh petrol and avoid storing fuel for more than 30 days.

• Add a fuel stabiliser if you’re keeping fuel or the mower stored for any period.

• A dirty carburettor caused by old fuel can lead to expensive repairs.

👉 For more information, check out our blog on Understanding Fuel Degradation in Tropical Cairns.

Bonus tip inside a tip: Small engines are designed to be used regularly. Long periods of storage can dry out seals, allow fuel to degrade, and cause internal components to stick or seize. To avoid these issues, start up your mower (or any small engine) at least once a month using fresh fuel, even if you're not mowing.

Bonus Tip: Book a Professional Service Yearly

Even with regular maintenance, a yearly professional service is the best way to keep your mower in peak condition. At Freshwater Small Engines, we go the extra mile—checking spark plugs, belts, filters, fuel systems, and overall wear and tear.

Need help with your mower?

Come see us at Shop 1–3, 446–452 Sheridan Street, Cairns North, or give us a call on (07) 4243 5719.We’re your trusted local specialists for sales, repairs, and servicing of outdoor power equipment.