Thats okay. In this lawn care vlog I show you a property that requires to be mowed. How Long Does it Take for Zoysia Plugs to Fill in? 2.5K views 2 years ago Mowing slopes with a zero turn mower can be dangerous even if you are a experienced operator. Most of the weight is located on the back two wheels, leaving the front wheels with very little traction. This article looks into the hazards of zero-turn mowers and how you should avoid them. Always go by the routine maintenance schedule in your manual and make sure you change and regularly check the level of your oil. This is dangerous as children and pets can move the control levers or touch various moving parts. After installing these safety features, apply the following safety tips when operating your zero-turn mower. This can be a real issue when you are trying to cut wet grass, as the wheels are likely to slip and skid. Additionally, operators should make sure that the mower is in good working order before use and that all safety features, such as seat belts and roll bars, are properly installed and in working condition. Zero turn mowers can be dangerous if used improperly. The small child ended up slipping and had his foot land under the mower deck. When it comes to zero-turn mowers on hills that you'd find in most yards, they work very well. Once the zero-turn mower chops up the grass, the grass piles up in a manner whereby there will be better mulching. Your email address will not be published. Some of the most common dangers of zero-turn mowers include: According to the US Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), one of the primary reasons that make zero-turn mowers dangerous is the risk of rollovers or tip-overs, particularly when operating on uneven or sloped terrain. This clogging leads directly toward an overworked motor which is dangerous for yourself and those around you! Dangers of Low Tire Pressure. Avoid drugs and alcohol when operating your mower. Traction issues are common when turning the mower left or right on steep hills. Not paying attention and having to break quick on a hill. Your mower may also run into objects or people and cause injuries. The comfort of mowing efficiently without manually pushing around a heavy machine is also an advantage that you shouldnt underestimate. Its easy to see and avoid ditches, puddles, rocks, tree stems, and slopes that can cause accidents. Safety Shield: You can install a safety shield around blades and discharge chute to protect yourself and those nearby against flying debris. This debris can cause serious injury to the operator or anyone in the surrounding area. Generally, the hills arent too steep, and the grassy areas are level, which makes the terrain perfect for taking advantage of zero turn mowers capabilities. Ariens 915213 Zero Turn Mower, with 19 HP, 42 Inches Cutting Wedge 9. If you find that your property sounds like it would be a good candidate for a zero-turn mower, then dont let the disadvantages stop you from getting one. These machines have wheels mounted on a central rotating axle, which allows them to spin in tight circles with ease. Ultima ZT1-50 Zero-Turn Riding Mower. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. A zero turn mower is often good for mowing grass up to 4-5 inches/13 cm tall. One of the main causes of zero turn mowers dangers is swiftly changing direction on steep slopes. Since your gas-powered zero turn mower can emit a noise level above 85 decibels, its advisable to wear hearing protection. Zero Turn Mower Costs and Financing. While youre here, check out my guide to maintaining your lawn you may find some more articles there which interest you. These risks are not unique to most zero-turn mowers, but they can be amplified by the design and operation of these machines. 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? A seat switch is a device that automatically shuts off the engine when the operator gets off the seat. I understand the importance of learning to operate mowers safely. Grow Your Yard is reader-supported. Can zero turn mowers handle rough terrain? Most zero-turn mowers come with a seat belt, and every. You can ride your zero turn at a speed of 15mph, making it a perfect option for tackling larger lawns. 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. But in general I think a zero turn will slide around a little more than a rider . Its easy to get over-excited with a fun machine like the zero-turn mower, but its important to take it slow. Dont ride the mower with a child or pet on board. But, like all riding lawn mowers, there is a risk of tipping over when tackling particularly steep slopes. Typically $5,360 or so at Home Depot lately, our last mention of a similar model was back . Required fields are marked *. You can get an average lawn tractor for $1,200, but there are plenty more expensive models out there to consider, too. When zero-turn mowers overturn, they can cause severe injuries to the users and those nearby. recommends you use it every time you operate the machine. Cub Cadet. Whenever you mow, go up and down, never across. Sometimes youll need to disembark your mower to inspect the wheels, remove obstructions or take a rest. When this happens, the mowers zero turning radius can change its direction and come running over you. If youve not installed a safety shield on your mower, wear safety glasses to prevent flying debris from getting to the eyes. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Powered Outdoors participates in several affiliate programs by sharing links to products and sites we think you'll benefit from. Check the mowers tires, blades, brakes, and other components before each use to ensure they are in good working order. This will prevent the mower from tipping over and help you regain control. Check Price. To learn more visit the following pages:Advertising Policy |Privacy Policy, Get My FREE Cheat-Sheet and Take the Guesswork Out of Lawn Care. When I was a toddler, my family had a lush green lawn. Golf course owners commonly use zero turn mowers. Pros Has an eco-friendly electric motor We have a review of all the. As a result, it's important to always follow the manufacturer's instructions when using a zero-turn mower. Low engine oil can cause some real damage to a lawn mower as it runs. Remove any obstacles from the lawn such as rocks, sticks, etc There shouldn't be any pets or people in the area Make sure that the ROPS bar is upright Check the seatbelt Check the blades for any damage Before you purchase your next mower, make sure it has these important safety options installed on your zero-turn mower. It's safer to mow at a gentle angle when your hill goes down a foot at least 4 feet. Remember to inspect your mower before each use, choose the right terrain, and stay aware of your surroundings. When mowing at high speeds, the mower blades can pick up rocks, sticks, and other debris and launch them into the air. Ready to take the next step toward improving your lawn? Essentially, driving a zero-turn mower is operating a vehicle, so safety precautions should be taken before using one. Many of the parts are located in places where they are going to get wet frequently. Your email address will not be published. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. A zero turns compact size may make the machine appear less intimidating, however, you must educate yourself on how to operate machinery safely whether its a large machine or a small machine. So, are zero turn mowers dangerous? The locations of a lot of the key components on a zero-turn mower mean that there are more electrical issues. The slower you go, the less likely you are to lose traction and slide. Here are a few tips that might help: 1. Zero turn mowers cost more than most other riding lawn mowers, ranging between $2,000 and $5,000 plus accessories. Zero-turn mowers can be a reliable machine for mowing any yard. This does not mean it can not be used as an everyday backyard mower. In bold is the danger and after how to reduce the risk of an accident. They are made of solid rubber, which makes them . Use them only on firm, flat surfaces that are not damp, muddy, or otherwise unstable. Easy to learn and operate, zero-turn mowers help you achieve shorter mowing times, use less fuel and cover more ground over the course of the machine's lifetime. Wear a seat belt. Plus, the mower has zero operating emissions. Typically, these mowers can be dangerous when tackling slopes above 15 degrees. Zero turn mowers usually have larger motors too so they tend to produce more pollutants. Obviously, anyone is unlucky enough to be hit by the blades could have very serious injuries as a result. Now, do not be afraid. This can cause you to crash the mower and possibly injure yourself. However, this does not mean thatzero turn mowersare completely risk-free. Zero turn mowers account for many serious injuries resulting from lawn mowing. Fab Deck Zero-Turn Mower with MyRide Ariens IKON XD 52 inch 23 HP (Kawasaki) Mower These are employee deaths while operating lawn mowers on the job. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. This type of steering is incredibly useful if you need to make tight turns or negotiate obstacles in your path. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. Possible Dangers As if all that weren't enough, zero turn mowers can actually pose a safety threat to the operator. Ariens Edge 34 inch 19 HP Zero Turn Mower 5. While the best and only way to operate mowers is to be attentive, calm, and patient, there are a few preventative measures to reduce the many dangers of zero turn mowers to a maximum. 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. but now after researching the dangers of ZTR's I have had a change of heart. The speeds that these machines can reach mean that you could easily lose control if you hit a patch of loose dirt or grass, which can be very dangerous on a slope. Nearly all these preventable fatalities and injuries share themes of predictable risks that result in loss of stability or contact with blades. High speed is one of the reasons most lawn care enthusiasts prefer using zero-turn mowers. The seat belt should prevent you from falling off after running into objects or taking a sharp turn. Top 10 Zero-Turn Mower Reviews Cub Cadet ZT1 50 Zero Turn Mower RYOBI 42 in. Regardless of the size of your lawn, there are certain factors that make zero-turn mowers appropriate. If you turn one wheel when riding at 15mph, the machine can lose traction, slide, and tip over. Also, wear earmuffs or earplugs to protect your hearing. This can lead to a loss of control of the . . To ensure your safety while riding one of these mowers, it's a good idea to be aware of their dangers. Here are the alternatives: All of these are available with different wheel or engine-specifieddrives, as well as with gas and electricity. 8 Easy Steps to Change Oil in a Push Mower, Inspect, Sharpen and Replace Lawn Mower Blades. So, what safety features should you install in your zero turn mower? Occupational Safety and Health Administration, How to Fix Riding Mower Making Noise When Blades Are Engaged, How to Deal with a Lawn Mower Air Filter Soaked in Oil. There are two main dangers of zero turn mowers on hills, either losing control of the mower, or it tipping over if the slope is too steep. If the mower strikes an object, stop, turn the mower off, and inspect the mower. Purchases made through these links may provide a commission for us, at no extra cost to you. Cutting sloped, wet grass on a zero-turn mower increases your chances of losing traction and slipping. The speed and efficiency with which zero turn mowers work has guaranteed them a spot forever in the lawnmower market. It is usually caused by coming into contact with thesharpened mower bladesor being hit by flying debris. Craftsman Z560 V-Twin Dual Hydrostatic Zero Turn Mower - Best for the Money. The safety shield can also prevent accidental cuts if you get closer to the rotating blades. Deadly projectile coming from this debris poses a risk for pets, people, and even the property. If youre not sure that zero turn mowers are the best option for you, there are many to consider. Part of this is due to their design and functionality. Sarahs blog, Lawn Chick, is read by over 2 million homeowners each year and she is regularly cited as an expert source of lawn care knowledge by major publications. Even lawns well-suited to a standard mower can generally leave behind corners and angles that the zero-turn mower cant reach. A walk behind commercial mower is going to be best on hills. Lawn Mower Sputtering? 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. Continue with Recommended Cookies. With this electric machine, you can mow up to 2-acres per charge , fast. Wed like to hear! It can also remind them to remain seated while operating the mower. One of the dangers of zero-turn mowers is they can overturn if you take a turn too sharply or change directions too quickly. Better Mulching. Our top pick is the latest RYOBI 80V HP Brushless 30-inch Zero Turn Riding Lawn Mower for $4,799 shipped. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, riding lawn mowers are responsible for about 70 peoples deaths each year, while a whopping 80, 000 are injured from riding lawn mowers. Zero-turn mowers are not the safest option to use on hills. Its very easy to remember. Mowing side to side, starting at the bottom, is the ideal way to tackle a hill. They can struggle over rocky and molehill terrain, and they might even suffer damage. Driving too fast is dangerous as its difficult to control the mower. To avoid this, always slow down when you are about to turn. By being cautious and alert while operating the machine, you can avoid any accidents. Always slow down when you approach uneven terrain to prevent this from happening. Zero-turn mowers dont get stuck easily because they have a lower center of gravity, which helps them navigate thick grass and other obstacles. Once you try this electric zero turn mower from Greenworks youll never look at battery powered tools the same way again. Consider buying a mower with a rollover protection system (ROPS) installed. 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. If you buy something through our posts, we may get a small commission. Never ride a mower with a child or pet. 24 HP Kawasaki engine provides reliable startups and high ground speeds. 22 Posts. On May 7, 2012, a groundskeeper for the National Park Service (NPS) was mowing alongside the Blue Ridge Parkway at an overlook near Asheville, North Carolina. Operate your mower during the day. These types of mowers do not handle slopes well. If you are dealing with a steeper hill, we recommend mowing it downhill using a traditional push mower. Wear protective equipment, such as close-toed shoes, long pants, eye protection, and hearing protection when operating ride-on mowers. However, they are still safe to use. It is therefore easier to maneuver than other types of lawn mowers because it can revolve around its own axis without changing its forward direction. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. There are certain kinds of lawns that are perfect for a zero turn mower. The height adjustment is a bit shorter for some taller grass. If yours doesnt have this system, consider installing it. Take a look at our article all about the choke on your mower. Fuel hazards are one of the leading causes of fire in gas-powered lawn mowers. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. In the event of an overturn, the seat belt and ROPS can protect you from getting crushed. If you have a large, decorated lawn, then zero-turn mowers are a fast and efficient way to keep your lawn neat and tidy. If you make a purchase after clicking a link, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. It is usually caused by coming into contact with the, Wet grass can cause the wheels to slip and make it difficult to control the machine or worse make your. There are definitely some advantages to using a zero turn mower, but they need to be considered alongside the disadvantages to ensure you make the best decision for yourself and your lawn. This makes them superior to other ride-on mowers, which have a significant turning circle and require you to do three-point turns regularly. This is the general rule that we follow to decide: After majoring in Agriculture at Ohio State University, Simons built up extensive experience over his 10+ years in the industry. 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Go, the mowers tires, blades, brakes, and slopes that can cause severe injuries to the.... Toward an overworked motor which is dangerous as children and pets can the... 2.5K views 2 years ago mowing slopes with a rollover protection system ( ROPS ) installed some... To operate mowers safely this will prevent the mower a lawn mower.! Tips when operating ride-on mowers, which have a lower center of gravity, which helps them thick! Around blades and discharge chute to protect your hearing operator or anyone in surrounding., flat surfaces that are not damp, muddy, or otherwise unstable usually caused by coming into contact thesharpened! When it comes to zero-turn mowers appropriate of all the control the mower off, even. Leads directly toward an overworked motor which is dangerous as its difficult to control the mower and injure! An eco-friendly electric motor we have a review of all the links provide! Even suffer damage as the wheels are likely to slip and skid the leading of. An average lawn tractor for $ 1,200, but there are certain factors that make zero-turn on. Safety glasses to prevent flying debris $ 4,799 shipped and even the.... Go up and down, never across understand the importance of learning to operate mowers.. Next step toward improving your lawn, there are many to consider incredibly useful if you are about turn! To inspect your mower to inspect your mower before each use, choose the terrain. Additional cost to you slide around a little more than most other riding lawn mowers, ranging between $ and. Turn mowersare completely risk-free are a few tips that might help: 1 manual and make sure change! Up the grass piles up in a Push mower, wear earmuffs or earplugs to protect yourself and those you! Importance of learning to operate mowers safely next time I comment be best on hills that you shouldnt.. Cause serious injury to the rotating blades allows them to spin in tight circles with ease toward an overworked which! Cost to you this system, consider installing it typically zero turn mower dangers 5,360 or so at Home Depot lately our! Or otherwise unstable reduce the risk of an overturn, the less likely you are a few tips might. Paying attention and having to break quick on a zero-turn mower increases your of... Prevent the mower from tipping over and help you regain control, we may get a small.... Back two wheels, leaving the front wheels with very little traction Hydrostatic zero turn usually!, and website in this lawn care vlog I show you a property that requires to be mowed:.!

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