Are you tired of constantly emptying your lawn mower’s grass catcher? Does the idea of mulching your grass clippings feel like a chore? Maybe you just want a faster, more efficient way to mow your lawn. If any of these ring true, then you need to consider installing a side discharge on your lawn mower. This simple modification can completely change your mowing experience, offering a faster, more efficient way to cut your grass and leave your lawn looking pristine. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into the ins and outs of side discharge, explaining how to install it on your mower, its benefits, and potential drawbacks. Get ready to reclaim your weekends and conquer your lawn with ease!
What is Side Discharge?
Side discharge is a common feature on many lawn mowers that allows grass clippings to be ejected from the mower’s side, creating a “side-blown” effect. This contrasts with other mowing methods like mulching, where the clippings are shredded and returned to the lawn as fertilizer, or bagging, where the clippings are collected in a bag attached to the mower. Side discharge is a popular choice for its efficiency and ability to quickly clear large areas of grass, making it ideal for homeowners with spacious lawns.
The Advantages of Installing a Side Discharge
Faster Mowing
Side discharge allows for faster mowing because you don’t need to stop and empty a grass catcher frequently. This is especially beneficial for large lawns, where emptying the bag can become a time-consuming task.
Reduced Clogging
Side discharge reduces the risk of clogging, as the clippings are ejected from the mower and don’t build up inside. This is particularly helpful when mowing thick or wet grass.
Enhanced Efficiency
The simplicity of side discharge makes it a highly efficient mowing method. The lack of a grass catcher or mulching system means less mechanical complexity and fewer moving parts, leading to potentially lower maintenance costs and a longer lifespan.
Cost-Effective Solution
Many lawn mowers come with a side discharge option that can be easily installed by the user. The cost of installing side discharge is usually minimal, making it a very cost-effective way to improve your mowing experience.
Disadvantages of Side Discharge
Messy Appearance
A key drawback of side discharge is the messy appearance it can create. Grass clippings can be blown onto walkways, gardens, or other areas, requiring additional clean up.
Potential for Uneven Cut
The force of the grass being blown out can sometimes affect the evenness of the cut, resulting in an uneven look.
Not Suitable for Mulching
Side discharge cannot be used for mulching, as the clippings are ejected from the mower instead of being shredded and returned to the lawn.
Installing Side Discharge on Your Lawn Mower
The installation process for side discharge varies depending on the model of your lawn mower. However, in general, the steps are fairly straightforward:
- Identify the Side Discharge Cover: Locate the cover that blocks the side discharge port. This cover is usually made of plastic or metal.
- Remove the Cover: Use a screwdriver or wrench to remove the screws or bolts holding the cover in place.
- Install the Discharge Chute: Depending on your mower, you may need to install a discharge chute that directs the clippings out the side. This typically involves attaching the chute to the mower deck and securing it with screws.
- Reinstall the Cover: Once the chute is installed, replace the original cover over the discharge port.
Installing a Side Discharge Chute
If your mower doesn’t come equipped with a side discharge chute, you can purchase one separately. Look for a chute that is compatible with your mower model. Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer for installing the chute.
Choosing the Right Side Discharge Setting
Some lawn mowers offer multiple side discharge settings. These settings adjust the angle and force of the clippings being ejected. Experiment with different settings to find the one that works best for your lawn and your preferred mowing style.
Tips for Using Side Discharge
Mow in a Pattern
To minimize the mess, mow your lawn in a pattern, such as a spiral or back-and-forth motion. This will help to distribute the grass clippings more evenly and reduce the amount of clippings blown onto unwanted areas.
Adjust the Height of Cut
Using a lower height of cut will help to minimize the amount of grass clippings blown onto unwanted areas.
Consider Using a Grass Catcher
For more sensitive areas like gardens or walkways, you can temporarily use a grass catcher to prevent clippings from being blown onto these areas.
Final Thoughts
Installing side discharge on your lawn mower can be a simple and effective way to improve your mowing experience. By providing a faster, more efficient method of cutting grass, it can save you time and effort, making lawn care more enjoyable. However, it is important to weigh the pros and cons of side discharge before making a decision, considering factors such as the size of your lawn, the cleanliness of your desired outcome, and the potential impact on your surrounding areas. By understanding the benefits and drawbacks, you can make an informed decision and choose the mowing method that best suits your needs.
FAQs
What is side discharge, and how does it work?
Side discharge is a type of lawn mower deck design that allows grass clippings to be discharged out the side of the mower deck. This is opposed to other designs like mulching or bagging, where the clippings are either chopped up finely and returned to the lawn or collected in a bag. Side discharge is considered the most basic type of mowing system and is often found on older or less expensive mowers. It works by using a simple blade design that throws clippings out the side of the deck through an opening.
The main advantage of side discharge is its simplicity and affordability. It’s also well-suited for larger yards or areas with thick grass. However, it can leave behind visible clumps of grass and may not be ideal for delicate lawns or gardens.
What are the advantages of side discharge?
Side discharge has several advantages over other mowing systems. It’s a simple and affordable option that works well for large yards or areas with thick grass. It’s also generally a more powerful mowing system that can handle tougher cutting conditions.
However, it’s important to consider that side discharge can leave behind visible clumps of grass. It may not be ideal for delicate lawns or gardens, and it can also lead to scattered clippings in landscaping beds or flower gardens.
When should you use side discharge?
Side discharge is best suited for large yards, especially when dealing with thick or tall grass. It’s also a good choice if you’re looking for a basic and affordable mowing system.
However, it’s not the ideal choice if you prefer a neat and tidy finish or if your lawn is delicate or has a lot of landscaping beds. Side discharge can also be messy, so it’s not recommended for areas with a lot of wind or if you’re looking to minimize the amount of clippings left behind.
How do you install side discharge on a lawn mower?
Installing side discharge on a lawn mower typically involves removing the existing mulching or bagging system and replacing it with a side discharge chute. The exact process will vary depending on the specific model of your lawn mower.
Some mowers may have a built-in side discharge chute that simply needs to be unblocked, while others may require you to purchase and install a separate chute. It’s always a good idea to consult the owner’s manual for your specific lawn mower to determine the correct installation procedure.
How do you maintain a side discharge lawn mower?
Maintaining a side discharge lawn mower involves regular cleaning and sharpening of the blades. It’s important to remove any debris or buildup from the deck and underside of the mower after each use.
You should also sharpen the blades at least once a season or more often if you notice a decrease in cutting performance. Regular maintenance will help ensure that your lawn mower performs optimally and provides a clean cut.
What are the disadvantages of side discharge?
Side discharge has several disadvantages compared to other mowing systems. It can leave behind visible clumps of grass, making it less ideal for lawns with delicate landscaping or a tidy appearance. It’s also not as effective at mulching grass clippings, which can lead to a buildup of organic matter on the lawn.
Additionally, it can be messy, with clippings potentially scattering onto surrounding areas like landscaping beds or flower gardens. These drawbacks might make it less appealing for those who prioritize a clean and efficient mowing experience.
What are some alternatives to side discharge?
If you’re looking for alternatives to side discharge, you have several options. Mulching mowers chop up grass clippings finely and return them to the lawn as fertilizer. This is a more environmentally friendly and efficient method that promotes healthy lawn growth.
Bagging mowers collect grass clippings in a bag, which you can then dispose of or use for composting. This is a good choice if you want to prevent clippings from spreading on your lawn or landscaping.