Why Aren't More People Using Human-Powered Push Mowers?
It's a question many runners might ponder, especially those who use traditional reel push mowers. These old-fashioned yet functional machines have been around for decades, and for some, they offer an alternative to the noise and emissions of modern power mowers. My experience with a reel push mower for a 1/4 acre lawn has been mixed. While it works well, it's not ideal in certain situations like areas around cones and debris from trees.
Why Reel Mowers?
For small lawns, reel push mowers can be a great choice. They offer a smooth cutting experience and a pleasant sound that mimics the rhythmic motion of the blades. However, they do have their limitations. In areas where debris like cones and branches are scattered, a reel mower can quickly become impractical. The mower's blades can jam instantly upon encountering these obstacles. While some may argue that this is a feature rather than a flaw, for many, it simply means dealing with unnecessary frustrations.
The Disadvantages of Reel Mowers
Other limitations of reel push mowers include the need for frequent blade sharpening and the inability to manage overgrown grass and weeds effectively. These mowers are not suitable for steep hillsides due to their design. After experimenting with a manual reel-type mower for a while, I found it to be more trouble than it was worth. The combination of maintenance and lack of practical use compared to a power mower eventually led me to replace it with an electric rotary mower.
Comparing Reel Mowers to Electric Mowers
Cost: I assumed that reel-type push mowers would be significantly cheaper than electric or gasoline-powered rotary mowers. However, the prices are often comparable, despite the much greater complexity of the motor-driven lawnmower. The cost factor is a significant consideration when deciding which type of mower to purchase.
Maintenance: Another factor to consider is the maintenance required. While motors do require some maintenance, reel mowers also require frequent attention. I had to sharpen the blades on the reel mower after every use and replace the reel blades annually. On the other hand, the electric motor has never required any maintenance since its installation over a decade ago. This maintenance-free aspect is a clear advantage of electric mowers.
Speed: Pushing an electric mower can be faster as you can maintain a consistent walking pace. Manual reel mowers, on the other hand, can be slower due to the need to stop and start frequently to avoid debris and obstacles.
Versatility: Electric mowers are better equipped to handle overgrown grass and weeds. Many models can cut through 6-inch grass and weeds effortlessly. In contrast, reel mowers are only effective for short cuts and have no ability to deal with tough weeds. This versatility is a significant benefit for those with longer or more difficult lawn areas.
Unidirectionality vs Bidirectionality: A key difference is that reel mowers can only cut while moving forward. This can be particularly annoying when dealing with trees or hedges, as you can't easily cut in a back-and-forth motion like with an electric mower. This unidirectional cutting can take twice as long to finish an area.
The Experience with Reel Mowers
Despite the occasional enjoyment of the job using a reel mower, the novelty eventually wore off. The process became more of a chore than a pleasure. While the sound of the blades is pleasant, the constant need for maintenance and the inefficiency of dealing with debris over time made the mower less appealing.
Conclusion
While reel push mowers offer a unique and eco-friendly alternative to power mowers, their practical effectiveness and maintenance requirements often outweigh their benefits. For those seeking a reliable, low-maintenance, and efficient solution, electric mowers may be a better choice.
Keywords: human-powered push mowers, reel mowers, electric mowers, lawn mower maintenance, lawn mowing