Your lawn mower is a vital tool in keeping your yard looking pristine, but like any machine, it requires regular maintenance to function efficiently. One of the most overlooked yet essential maintenance tasks is changing the air filter. A clean air filter ensures your mower's engine runs smoothly, extends its lifespan and helps maintain fuel efficiency. So, how often should you change your lawn mower’s air filter? Let’s break it down.

❑ Why Changing Your Lawn Mower Air Filter Matters

The air filter prevents dirt, dust and debris from entering the engine. Over time, the filter gets clogged, which can cause a variety of problems, including:

• Reduced engine performance
• Increased fuel consumption
• Difficulty starting the mower
• Black smoke from the exhaust
• Premature engine wear

By keeping the air filter clean, you ensure optimal airflow, which leads to better combustion and a healthier engine.

❑ How Often Should You Change It?

The frequency of changing your lawn mower's air filter depends on several factors, including usage and environmental conditions. However, here are some general guidelines:

• Foam Air Filters: Clean after every 25 operating hours and replace once a year or sooner if damaged.
• Paper Air Filters: Replace every 25-50 operating hours or at least once per season.
• Heavy-Duty or Commercial Use: If you use your mower in dusty conditions or frequently mow large areas, you may need to clean or replace the filter more often—possibly every 10-20 hours of use.

❑ Signs It’s Time to Change Your Air Filter

If you're unsure whether your air filter needs changing, look out for these warning signs:

• The engine struggles to start or runs rough.
• There's visible dirt and debris on the filter.
• You notice decreased power while mowing.
• The engine is emitting excessive smoke.

❑ How to Change Your Lawn Mower Air Filter

Changing your lawn mower’s air filter is a simple process:

1. Turn off the mower and disconnect the spark plug for safety.
2. Locate the air filter housing and remove the cover.
3. Take out the old filter and inspect it.
   • If it’s a foam filter, wash it with warm, soapy water, let it dry, and apply a little engine oil before reinstalling.
   • If it’s a paper filter, replace it with a new one.
4. Reassemble the filter housing and secure the cover.
5. Reconnect the spark plug and start the mower to test it.

❑ Final Thoughts

Regularly maintaining your lawn mower's air filter is an easy yet crucial step to keeping your machine in peak condition. By following a maintenance schedule and recognizing the signs of a dirty filter, you can avoid costly repairs and ensure your mower runs efficiently for years to come. So, check your air filter today—it might be time for a change!