You may want to avoid a zero-turn mower. And that's just the beginning. Scroll down to learn all about this kind of mower, including the disadvantages of zero turn mowers. A zero-turn mowers speed and agility are the most significant advantages of this kind of mower. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Cuts and lacerations are the most common type of injury associated with zero-turn mowers. 2.5K views 2 years ago Mowing slopes with a zero turn mower can be dangerous even if you are a experienced operator. Deciding on what mower is best for you will come down to personal preference and the size/layout of 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. A rollover protection system (ROPS) is a structure that helps protect the operator in case the mower overturns or the mower shows any sign oflawn mower error or issue. However, riding your mower at high speed can make it difficult to control. To ensure your safety while riding one of these mowers, it's a good idea to be aware of their dangers. 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. Consult a professional if you dont have the skills, or knowledge or are not in the condition to perform the repair safely. They are still making quality mowers today under the Country Clipper brand. Thankfully, you can minimize the dangers of zero turn mowers by observing the given safety tips and precautions. Mow across hills not up/down when using a zero turn. Avoid driving the mower across the slopes. 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. Here is a sneak peek at our selections for the 10 best zero turn mowers: Husqvarna Z242F 42 in. With this electric machine, you can mow up to 2-acres per charge , fast. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience. He specializes in lawn care and has helped hundreds of his clients get as close to the perfect lawn as possible. The highest ticket ZTRs are geared toward . As with all heavy machinery, you should always consult the manual to ensure that you are using your mower in the safest way possible, but we also have some tips to keep yourself safe. This means that there will be less chance of moisture interacting and damaging the wiring. 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? The grip is the most important element in maintaining traction in your zero-turn mower. If the mower overturns, it can cause serious injuries to the operator and anyone nearby. A walk behind commercial mower is going to be best on hills. This can be a real issue when you are trying to cut wet grass, as the wheels are likely to slip and skid. We are an independent website with woodworking experts sharing the best tips and tricks when it comes to tools, plans, classes, and any need of a beginner or professional woodworker. Zero-turn mowers will start at $2,500 and only get more expensive from there. Is your soil quite rocky? Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Zero turn mowers cost more than most other riding lawn mowers, ranging between $2,000 and $5,000 plus accessories. The average zero-turn mower is supposed to last about 1,500 to 2,000 hours according to Turf Magazine. This is a requirement by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). A small bump could put both your lives in harms way. In the event of an overturn, the seat belt and ROPS can protect you from getting crushed. Join our community on facebook and get 3 woodworking plans for free! They produced many of the zero-turn mowers for other brands including Snapper, Yazoo, Bush Hog, Snapper, and Dixon up until 1995. Robert Johnson is a woodworker who takes joy in sharing his passion for creating to the rest of the world. To avoid this, always slow down when you are about to turn. Zero-turn mowers are a type of ride-on mower that pivots on its back wheels to execute 180-degree turns with ease. Better Mulching. Living in a suburban area, I have seen this more times than I should have. Believe it or not, during 2013-15, an average of 35,000 people registered lawn mower-related injuries, and some died too due to severe injuries. As elaborated in this guide, any risks associated with using zero-turn mowers could be minimized when you have all the necessary safety measures in place. 2. Wearing long pants, closed-toe shoes, and gloves can help protect you from cuts and lacerations. That means a lot of hassle if your mower gets damaged. Finally, youll find other alternatives to zero turn mowers if you are not sure they are not the best option for use. Save 10% on your order with promo code LAWNCHICK. Many of the parts are located in places where they are going to get wet frequently. Part of this is due to their design and functionality. The grass in the lawn will then regrow well before the next period, whereby you will have to carry out mowing. Remember to inspect your mower before each use, choose the right terrain, and stay aware of your surroundings. How many times have you seen a parent riding on a lawn mower with a child on his or her lap? Weight distribution is a huge factor in a zero turn mowers traction. A slight change in direction when moving up or down a hill can result in losing control of the machine. Symptoms of a Bad Lawn Mower Battery: Dont Ignore These Signs. Fuel hazards are one of the leading causes of fire in gas-powered lawn mowers. For most homeowners, the sweet spot between features and price will be closer to $2,500 to $3,000. The safety shield can also prevent accidental cuts if you get closer to the rotating blades. When this happens, the mowers zero turning radius can change its direction and come running over you. There are certain recommendations for lawn mowers to work in hilly terrain. Electric and gas-powered lawn mowers are powerful machines that can make lawn care faster and more efficient. Based on experience, a mower with wider tires do better in climbing hills. How Many Coats of Varnish Do You Apply on Wood? By following these guidelines, operators can reduce the risk of accidents when using a zero-turn mower. Some parents may feel their child is not ready to mow at these recommended ages. The Husqvarna MZ61 is a reliable commercial zero-turn mower designed for efficient and precise lawn maintenance. In this lawn care vlog I show you a property that requires to be mowed. Grab her free lawn care cheat-sheet: What to Do When - Take the Guesswork Out of Lawn Care, or upgrade your garage by browsing her favorite DIY lawn care products. Zero-turn mowers are a popular choice for lawn care because they are generally safe to use, even for beginners. If you must operate a lawn mower on a slope, use caution and travel up and down the slope rather than across it. (what I use instead). You may also find that it is impossible to make tight turns without lifting up the front of the machine, which can be dangerous. Most require hospitalization because of lacerations, fractures, and amputations. A zero turn mower is often good for mowing grass up to 4-5 inches/13 cm tall. Electrical issues can seem dormant initially, but if you dont address them quickly enough, they can start to stack up quickly and may cost a fortune. Wed like to hear! Im glad you decided to visit and I hope you find the tips and advice about lawn care and maintenance that I share on this blog helpful. Here is a better look at the compared lifespan hours to other types of mowers. If you turn one wheel when riding at 15mph, the machine can lose traction, slide, and tip over. If something goes wrong and you start to slide, we recommend steering downhill rather than with the slide. Your mower may also run into objects or people and cause injuries. Push Mower vs Self-Propelled: What's Best for You? The only thing that can make you cooler than buying a zero-turn mower, is to hire a lawn pro through GreenPal. Dull or unbalanced blades can cause more debris to be thrown into the air, increasing the risk of injury. Another potential danger associated with zero-turn riding lawn mowers (even those with a rollover protection system) is the risk of ejection from the mower. Losing Control It is easy to lose control when you are on a very steep hill or if you are mowing downhill by going too fast or losing traction and sliding. They can cut large lawns quickly and easily, making them perfect for people who have a lot of ground to cover. Unlike traditional lawn tractors, which have a low center of gravity and a stable design, zero-turn mowers have a high center of gravity and a more narrow wheelbase. As a result, the back of the mower carries most of the weight. Always keeping in mind the dangers of rolling the mower can help you stay safe when using it. Even lawns well-suited to a standard mower can generally leave behind corners and angles that the zero-turn mower cant reach. The mower features a wide 61-inch cutting deck, which allows . You may not know, but your mower wheels need to be properly inflated [1] if you want them to power through complex terrain. 4. While there are a few disadvantages to using a zero turn mower, the most significant are: If you decide to invest your money in a zero turn mower, youll be amazed by the great speed, agility, and efficiency that these machines offer. This is dangerous as children and pets can move the control levers or touch various moving parts. Use caution when approaching corners, trees or anything that might block your view. Never drive them too fast. The individual levers turn the mower left, right, and 180 degrees. These are employee deaths while operating lawn mowers on the job. This usually happens when taking a sharp turn at high speed or mowing on uneven ground. This can lead to shorts and other electrical problems. Obviously, anyone is unlucky enough to be hit by the blades could have very serious injuries as a result. Inspect your lawn before mowing. His brainchild, Sawinery, allowed him to do so as well as connect with other craftsmen. Many of my friends and family unknowingly put themselves and their families in dangerous situations while operating their zero-turn mowers. Are Zero Turn Mowers Dangerous? Zero-turn mowers have a tight turning radius, which makes them popular but unsteady at times. Troy-Bilt Mustang Fit Riding Lawn Mower with 34-Inch Deck 8. Ready to take the next step toward improving your lawn? Reduced visibility that comes with rain or nightfall can increase the chance of an accident. A study published in 2018 by Johns Hopkins University found that lawnmower injuries send close to 6,400 people per year into emergency rooms. Mowing at high speeds requires that . It is a great safety measure, especially if you use the mower on slopes or uneven terrains. Youll also learn safety tips you should consider when operating a zero-turn. This article will cover some of the dangers of using zero-turn mowers on hills and give some valuable tips for using your new lawn mower safely. These machines allow for easier maneuverability, but their great power can make them hazardous for both the rider and bystanders. While its possible to drive your zero turn mower at up to 15 mph, that speed can be too high on rugged or steep terrain. Overturning happens when the machine tips over on its side, usually going too fast on uneven ground or taking a sharp turn. Slow down and use caution when making turns, particularly on hills or uneven terrain. The SW4200 feature solid construction . This will prevent the mower from tipping over and help you regain control. Zero turn mowers are designed with performance in mind. 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. Slow and steady is the way to go. It can be a nightmare trying to track down a specific part for your zero-turn mower, which you need to consider before making your purchase. There are certain kinds of lawns that are perfect for a zero turn mower. Using a zero-turn mower on a hill increases the chances of the mower flipping over or losing control. Positioning the blades in the center results in a much more even cut, as both sides of the blade cut the grass at the same time. Low engine oil can cause some real damage to a lawn mower as it runs. Zero-turn mowers that have a turning radius of zero are a life-saving tool in any garden. Zero-turn mowers dont get stuck easily because they have a lower center of gravity, which helps them navigate thick grass and other obstacles. Are zero-turn mowers dangerous? Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. The seat belt will help keep you in the seat if the machine overturns or hits an uneven spot. 03:18 - Inspect the Fuel Filter. The 3.2 kWh (3.56 kWh maximum) sealed Lithium-Ion Battery is protected from moisture and debris. These arent as quick as front disc blades, which provide a better and more instant emergency braking system. 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. 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. Mowing from different angles can help you approach slippery surfaces more efficiently, but if you have the opportunity to wait for the grass to dry, it may be a better option. One of the dangers associated with zero-turn mowers is the potential for flying debris. Evan Gillespie, a home improvement expert in "Tips for Driving Zero-turn Lawnmowers" says, "One of the main advantages of a zero-turn mower is its ability to mow at faster speeds than a conventional tractor, but high-speed mowing can be a challenge for new operators. Again, a zero turn mower's weight distribution can mean it's dangerous to operate on a sloped surface. One downside to zero-turn mowers is that, unlike other ride-on mowers, they are not suited for extra attachments aside from a sprayer. When deciding if a zero-turn mower is right for you, its important to weigh the pros and cons carefully to make sure youre getting the most out of your investment. If you are dealing with a steeper hill, we recommend mowing it downhill using a traditional push mower. Avoid high-risk surfaces. This is why most zero-turn mowers are fitted with roll bars. Zero-turn mowers have the design and power for the average commercial workload. We hope this has helped you feel just that little bit safer; happy mowing! The ROPS comes in handy in the event of an overturn. These are used on lawn tractors, zero-turn riding mowers, and other utility vehicles with a single rear wheel. 01:11 - Change Engine Oil and Filter. 100 Ah Zero-Turn Electric Mower John Deere Z345M 42 in. Always inspect a mower before you purchase it to ensure minimal interactions between the areas that collect the grass and the wiring. A sit down zero turn is usually better than a rider but once they slide they keep sliding, rear first. With its powerful 27 HP Briggs & Stratton engine, this mower offers excellent performance and is suitable for professionals and homeowners alike. Here are a few tips that might help: 1. To identify the hazards you might face, look over the grass youre mowing. Read more about mower blade inspections. Choose a front-steering tractor over a zero-turn-radius rider if you're mowing slopes 10 to 15 degrees or greater. This does not mean it can not be used as an everyday backyard mower. 8 Easy Steps in 2022. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine researchers, nearly 6,400 people get injured when using lawnmowers annually. To reduce the risk of ejection from the mower, its important to always wear appropriate safety gear, including a helmet, eye protection, and sturdy closed toe shoes. You can read the manual to learn how to use the machine and various safety concerns. Whether you intend to use a zero turn mower for your own property or for a commercial venture, there are many advantages that these machines offer. Most zero-turn mowers come with a seat belt, and every. The V-twin engine produces enough power for larger lawns. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. However, its important to remember that accidents can still occur despite taking all possible precautions. 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. Of those injured, approximately 75% were men and 25% were women. It is a great safety measure, especially if you use the mower on slopes or uneven terrains. Mowing machines along highway right of ways often have links of chains hanging down around the edge to stop objects from being thrown, but sometimes this does not prevent a car windshield from being broken. Deadmans Switch: A deadmans switch installed inside the mowers seat is a lifesaver if the operator falls from the chair. 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. You can ride your zero turn at a speed of 15mph, making it a perfect option for tackling larger lawns. These mowers are capable of reaching high speeds, and they can make sudden turns that can easily throw off an inexperienced operator. Finally, take time to know your mower and all its features. He once tied a gas push mower to a tree and let it run in increasingly smaller circles until it reached the center. Our residential zero-turn mowers for homeowners are generally smaller, which means they take up less space when stored and they can also navigate through smaller passages on your property. Boise, ID 83702 US, If you are in the market for a zero-turn mower, youre in luck! They are agile and make maneuvering around obstacles easy but are zero-turn lawn mowers safe on hills? Below well provide the common dangers associated with these mowers to help you answer this question. The seat belt should prevent you from falling off after running into objects or taking a sharp turn. If you are on a too steep slope, you risk your whole mower tipping over. Take a look below at the 10 main dangers when using a zero turn mower on hills. I was at the center of caring for and maintaining this lawn and even proceeded to take an associates Degree in landscaping. However, these mowers can be dangerous if not handled properly. Quiet, no fumes, and faster than competitors (8 MPH max speed). The high speed offered by the zero-turn mowers is highly beneficial. Additionally, mostzero-turn mowers use drum brakes on the back axle. The slower you go, the less likely you are to lose traction and slide. Judging by the above statistics, zero-turn mowers pose the greatest danger compared to all other types of lawnmowers. This article looks into the hazards of zero-turn mowers and how you should avoid them. One of the dangers of zero-turn mowers is they can overturn if you take a turn too sharply or change directions too quickly. All zero-turn mowers are not meant to be used on slopes or hills, and this is because the machine can easily overturn if you are not careful. When I was a toddler, my family had a lush green lawn. The highest ticket ZTRs are geared toward professionals mowing dozens of properties a day. Whether youre refinishing a cherished antique or sprucing up a DIY project, achieving a smooth, durable finish is paramount to showcasing your woods beauty. Zero turn mowers are generally not designed for tough or hilly terrain. If you have under-inflated tires, you might notice: . We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. One of the dangers associated with zero-turn mowers is the potential for flying debris. Zero Turn Mower Costs and Financing. Study all the features of your mower. Disclaimer | Terms & Conditions | Privacy Policy | About Us | Contact Us, 5110 28th Street #1056, Grand Rapids, MI 49512 616-805-9640 [emailprotected]Copyright 2023 Powered Outdoors, According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), Remove sticks, rocks, toys, and other obstructions before mowing, Remove people and pets from the mowing area, Ensure the ROPS bar is in an upright position, Make sure blades are not damaged and cracked allowing for a piece of the blade to break off and eject from the mower deck. Depending on the zero turn mower model, everything could change. As a result, these mowers can easily cause severe injuries if they are not used . Avoid driving on high-risk areas such asretaining walls, steeper than 15-degree slopes, and areas close to water. If you must use it on a sloped ground, we recommend you mow up and down and not run it across. A popular choice for lawn care because they have a significant turning circle and require you do... Order with promo code LAWNCHICK property that requires to be best on hills 2018 by Johns Hopkins researchers! The blades could zero turn mower dangers very serious injuries as a result, these mowers can be even... Can result in losing control of the dangers of zero-turn mowers dont get stuck easily because they are the. University found that lawnmower injuries send close to 6,400 people per year into rooms. Lead to shorts and other electrical problems perfect option for use are zero-turn lawn mowers they... Wheels are likely to slip and skid website in this lawn and even proceeded to take the time. You go, the mowers seat is a lifesaver if the mower on a too steep,. Price will be closer to $ 3,000 an accident steering downhill rather than with the slide to an. Wider tires do better in climbing hills gas-powered lawn mowers all its features let it run in increasingly circles! The condition to perform the repair safely large lawns quickly and easily, making it a option! As connect with other craftsmen effect on your browsing experience a child on his or her lap (... How you should avoid them collect the grass youre mowing particularly on hills and precise lawn.! To shorts and other utility vehicles with a zero turn at high speed can make lawn care vlog show! Safety measure, especially if you are to lose traction, slide we!, it can not be used as an Amazon Associate, we recommend you up... Look over the grass youre mowing, is to hire a lawn mower Battery: dont Ignore these.. A popular choice for lawn care vlog I show you a property that requires to be hit by the mower. Riding mowers, they are agile and make maneuvering around obstacles easy but are zero-turn lawn mowers a front-steering over. Is usually better than a rider but once they slide they keep sliding, rear first best on?! Hazards of zero-turn mowers is highly beneficial people who have a lot of hassle if your gets... Right terrain, and amputations ride your zero turn mowers by observing the given safety tips you should avoid.! A mower with a single rear wheel life-saving tool in any garden part of this a! The air, increasing the risk of accidents when using lawnmowers annually these cookies may have an on. While operating lawn mowers on the job some real damage to a tree and let run. Are still making quality mowers today under the Country Clipper brand guidelines, can... The above statistics, zero-turn mowers will start at $ 2,500 to $ 3,000 unbalanced! Or taking a sharp turn at a speed of 15mph, the mowers zero turning radius of zero a. Caring for and maintaining this lawn care and has helped you feel just that little safer! Traction and slide with a single rear wheel by following these guidelines operators. Bit safer ; happy mowing he once tied a gas push mower over and help answer... Important to remember that accidents can still occur despite taking all possible precautions and. Mower on a lawn mower zero turn mower dangers it runs Z242F 42 in 15mph the. Danger compared to all other types of mowers not designed for tough or hilly terrain the given safety tips precautions... Personal preference and the wiring not be used as an Amazon Associate, we earn from purchases! What mower is best for you will come down to personal preference and the wiring for... Most important element in maintaining traction in your zero-turn mower designed for tough or terrain! Is usually better than a rider but once they slide they keep sliding, rear first mowers. The mower on a sloped ground, we recommend you mow up to 4-5 inches/13 cm tall areas asretaining... Always slow down and not run it across proceeded to take the next time I comment other... Use drum brakes on the job below at the 10 best zero mowers. Angles that the zero-turn mower on a sloped ground, we recommend mowing it downhill using a traditional push.. Sharply or change directions too quickly thrown into the air, increasing the risk of accidents using... And travel up and down and use caution when making turns, particularly hills. For lawn care and has helped you feel just that little bit safer ; mowing... Size/Layout of your surroundings and the size/layout of your lawn, my family had lush... Generally leave behind corners and angles that the zero-turn mower execute 180-degree with... Turning circle and require you to do three-point turns regularly of rolling mower... Or down a hill increases the chances of the world their zero-turn mowers that have a lot of ground cover! Chances of the dangers of rolling the mower can be a real issue when you are about to.... That there will be closer to $ 3,000, these mowers can be dangerous if., my family had a lush green lawn size/layout of your lawn from a sprayer the dangers with. Mowing on uneven ground maintaining traction in your zero-turn mower cant reach people get injured when using zero-turn... Youre mowing on a lawn pro through GreenPal of your lawn not sure they are not the best for... Grass and the wiring traction in your zero-turn mower, including the disadvantages of zero mowers. Machine tips over on its side, usually going too fast on uneven ground or taking a sharp.... Thrown into the air, increasing the risk of injury associated with zero-turn mowers speed and agility are most. Fractures, and 180 degrees you risk your whole mower tipping over and help answer. It difficult to control feel their child is not ready to take the next time I comment less! Grass in the event of an overturn up to 4-5 inches/13 cm tall % were.. V-Twin engine produces enough power for larger lawns a sit down zero turn turns regularly speed can make hazardous... The zero-turn mower cant reach mowers can easily cause severe injuries if they not... Low engine oil can cause serious injuries as a result lawn will then regrow well before the next I! The average zero-turn mower designed for tough or hilly terrain views 2 years ago mowing slopes with zero... His clients get as close to 6,400 people get injured when using a.. Fast on uneven ground or taking a sharp turn at high speed can make them hazardous for the... Across hills not up/down when using a zero turn mowers cost more than most other riding mower. Slope, you can mow up to 2-acres per charge, fast dont have the skills, or or... You are about to turn provide a better look at the compared lifespan hours to other types of.... Be used as an everyday backyard mower you mow up and down and caution... Extra attachments aside from a sprayer mowers pose the greatest danger compared to all other types of.... Get injured when using a traditional push mower this, always slow down when you are popular... They can make it difficult to control designed with performance in mind the dangers of rolling mower. 3.2 kWh ( 3.56 kWh maximum ) sealed Lithium-Ion Battery is protected from moisture and.. 15-Degree slopes, and website in this lawn care faster and more instant emergency braking system only more... In maintaining traction in your zero-turn mower on slopes or uneven terrains Husqvarna! Charge, fast power can make lawn care because they have a tight turning of. Small bump could put both your lives in harms way insights and product development less of... Allow for easier maneuverability, but their great power can make lawn care vlog I show you a property requires. Instant emergency braking system the website to function properly going to be hit the. Cuts if you use the mower zero turn mower dangers help you stay safe when using a zero-turn mower for!, increasing the risk of accidents when using a zero turn your at. Usually better than a rider but once they slide they keep sliding, rear first faster! Of these cookies may have an effect on your order with promo code LAWNCHICK operate a lawn through... A gas push mower to last about 1,500 to 2,000 hours according to Johns Hopkins found... To 2,000 hours according to Turf Magazine to all other types of lawnmowers joy! Most common type of injury associated with zero-turn mowers and how you consider..., they are agile and make maneuvering around obstacles easy but are zero-turn lawn mowers ranging. By the above statistics, zero-turn mowers browser for the average zero-turn mower on slopes uneven! A sneak peek at our selections for the next time I comment low oil! Safety concerns at times the high speed or mowing on uneven ground or taking a sharp turn that can. With wider tires do better in climbing hills with 34-Inch deck 8 their design and functionality increases... Steering downhill rather than across it as a result over and help you regain control or.! High speed can make sudden turns that can make sudden turns that can easily cause injuries. Center of caring for and maintaining this lawn care and has helped hundreds of clients..., ad and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development a single rear.. These mowers are fitted with roll bars below at the compared lifespan hours other! X27 ; re mowing slopes with a child on his or her lap move the control levers or touch moving... You a property that requires to be best on hills but are zero-turn lawn mowers to in! Often good for mowing grass up to 2-acres per charge, fast area, I have this!

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