Spring in the Midwest is unpredictable. One day, it’s snowing, and the next, your grass is growing faster than you can keep up with. Whether you’re in Omaha, Gretna, or Lincoln, the last thing you need is a mower that won’t start when the sun finally comes out.
We sat down with Grant Lisiecki to get the inside scoop on proper spring preparation. Here’s how to ensure your equipment is ready to roll when you are.
The Most Common Spring Mistake
You might think that if your mower turns on, you’re good to go. Unfortunately, that’s the biggest misconception we see at the shop. According to Grant, the most common mistake is neglecting winterization and assuming the machine is fine because the engine catches.
“Spring startup isn’t just about seeing if the mower turns on,” Grant says. “It’s more about making sure it can run very reliably for you throughout the entire season.” The goal is to make sure you aren’t out of a mower for two weeks right when you need it most.
3 Things You Must Check Before Mowing
If you’re doing a DIY inspection in your garage, Grant recommends focusing on three critical areas before that first cut.
1. Engine Service
The engine is one of the most expensive parts of your machine. Check your oil, spark plugs, and fuel filters. If these were ignored at the end of last season, they need attention now.
2. Sharpen Your Blades
Dull blades tear your grass instead of cutting it, which can damage your lawn. “You want to have sharp blades to get that better cut,” Grant advises. This is a simple fix that makes a massive difference.
3. Address Weird Noises
Did you notice a squeak in the transmission last fall? Or a belt that looked a little worn? Address any problems you noticed last season now, before the heavy work begins.
The Most Overlooked Part: Your Battery
If there is one thing that catches homeowners off guard more than anything else, it’s the battery. “People forget about them,” Grant says. “You park your mower for the year… and it causes them to become weak or start failing. This leads to intermittent issues that are hard to diagnose. If your mower is struggling to start, check the voltage on your battery first.
Signs You Need Professional Service
Sometimes, a DIY check isn’t enough. Grant suggests watching for the warning signs below. “Any of these signs indicate it’s time to stop mowing and have the machine checked before any damage gets any worse,” Grant warns.
- Blades that won’t engage properly
- Uneven cutting performance
- Unusual vibrations or rattling noises
- Leaking tires
Why You Should Beat the Rush
We know it’s tempting to wait until the grass is tall to think about your mower, but procrastination is the enemy of a healthy lawn. If you come in for service at the height of spring, everyone in the Omaha metro area will be there.
“Addressing the potential issues now allows problems to be fixed on your schedule, not when the grass is growing fast,” Grant explains. By bringing your machine in early, you avoid the long wait times that happen during peak season.
Supporting Our Commercial Crews
For our commercial clients in Bellevue, La Vista, and beyond, downtime can also mean lost revenue. Commercial crews put their machines straight into heavy-duty, daily use. There is no “trial run” on the weekend. “Their equipment has to be 100% ready on day one,” says Grant.
At Ty’s Outdoor Power, we stockpile a high volume of parts specifically to keep commercial crews running. We don’t want you waiting three to five business days for a part we should have on the shelf.
Experience the Service-First Difference
At Ty’s Outdoor Power, we focus on what your equipment actually needs. “We don’t try to just upsell work to get the work,” Grant says. “We can help homeowners understand their options… and feel confident they’re getting the right service.” Whether you have a small residential yard or a massive acreage, we’re here to help you get ready.
Stop by our shop in Gretna or give us a call today. Let’s get your equipment ready for the season so you can enjoy the spring weather, worry-free.
