The warm weather has finally arrived, and you’re itching to get out there and enjoy your beautiful lawn. But there’s a problem: your trusty old lawn mower has finally given up the ghost. Now you’re staring down the barrel of a new purchase, and the question on everyone’s mind is: where can I find the cheapest lawn mower? We’ll dive into the best places to find a great deal on a lawn mower, from online retailers to local shops and even secondhand options. We’ll also explore factors to consider when choosing the right mower for your needs and budget. So, let’s get started!
Short Answer: The cheapest place to buy a lawn mower depends heavily on your needs and preferences. Online retailers like Amazon and Walmart often have competitive prices, while local hardware stores and big box retailers offer in-person shopping experiences and potential for negotiation. Secondhand options like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and local auctions can be surprisingly affordable but require careful inspection.
Where to Find the Best Deals:
Online Retailers:
Amazon
Amazon is a go-to for many shoppers, and for good reason. They often have competitive prices on lawn mowers from various brands, making it easy to compare and find the best deal. Amazon also offers Prime shipping, which can significantly speed up delivery and save you money on shipping costs.
Walmart
Walmart is another major online retailer with a wide selection of lawn mowers at competitive prices. They often run sales and promotions, making it a good option for finding a bargain.
Home Depot
Home Depot’s online store offers a decent selection of lawn mowers, and their website is easy to navigate. While prices might not be the absolute lowest, they often offer free shipping on orders over a certain amount.
Lowes
Lowes is another big box retailer with a strong online presence. They offer a competitive selection of lawn mowers from popular brands. They also run frequent promotions and sales, making it a good place to find a deal.
Local Stores and Shops:
Local Hardware Stores
Local hardware stores can be a great place to find a lawn mower, especially if you’re looking for personalized service. They might not have the same selection as big box stores, but they can often offer expert advice and competitive prices, especially if you’re willing to negotiate.
Big Box Retailers
Big box retailers like Home Depot, Lowes, and Target offer a vast selection of lawn mowers from a range of brands. They often have competitive prices and readily available customer support. You might also find that their in-store displays allow you to see and test out different models before you buy.
Local Mower Shops
Local mower shops, while not as common as they once were, can be an excellent resource for finding a great deal, especially if you’re looking for a specific brand or model. These shops often specialize in lawn mowers and can provide expert advice and repair services.
Secondhand Options:
Craigslist
Craigslist is a popular platform for buying and selling used items, including lawn mowers. You can often find great deals on Craigslist, especially if you’re willing to put in the effort to find a good seller and inspect the mower thoroughly.
Facebook Marketplace
Facebook Marketplace is another excellent option for finding used lawn mowers. It offers a more localized experience than Craigslist, which can be helpful if you’re looking for something in your immediate area.
Local Auctions
Local auctions, both online and in person, can be a great way to find a deal on a used lawn mower. You’ll need to be prepared to pay attention to the bidding process and understand the condition of the mower before you buy.
Tips for Getting the Best Deal:
- Shop Around: Don’t settle for the first price you see. Compare prices from multiple retailers, both online and in person, to find the best deal.
- Look for Sales and Promotions: Many retailers run sales and promotions throughout the year, especially during spring and summer. Sign up for email alerts from your favorite retailers to be notified of upcoming sales.
- Consider Buying Used: A used lawn mower can be a great way to save money. Just be sure to inspect the mower carefully before you buy it and ask about its maintenance history.
- Negotiate: Don’t be afraid to negotiate with local retailers or sellers. They may be willing to come down on the price, especially if you’re buying multiple items.
- Consider Refurbished Models: Many retailers offer refurbished lawn mowers at discounted prices. These models have been inspected and repaired, and they often come with a warranty.
- Don’t Be Afraid to Wait: If you’re not in a rush, you can often find better deals by waiting for sales and promotions.
Choosing the Right Lawn Mower for You:
Types of Lawn Mowers:
Rotary Mowers
Rotary mowers are the most common type of lawn mower, and they are known for their affordability and ease of use. They use a spinning blade to cut grass, and they are well-suited for most types of lawns.
Reel Mowers
Reel mowers are a more eco-friendly option that uses a series of blades to cut grass. They are quiet and require less maintenance than rotary mowers, but they are also more expensive and can be difficult to use on thicker lawns.
Robot Mowers
Robot mowers are a relatively new type of lawn mower that can cut your lawn autonomously. They are convenient and efficient, but they can be expensive.
Choosing the Right Size:
The size of your lawn will influence the type of mower you choose. For small yards, a manual reel mower or a small rotary mower might be sufficient. For larger yards, a powerful rotary mower or a riding mower might be more appropriate.
Other Considerations:
Power Source:
Lawn mowers can be powered by gas, electricity, or batteries. Gas mowers are typically the most powerful, while electric mowers are quieter and more environmentally friendly. Battery-powered mowers offer a good balance of power and convenience.
Features:
Some lawn mowers come with features like mulching, bagging, and self-propelled options. Consider which features are important to you and your lawn care needs.
Price:
It’s important to set a budget before you start shopping for a lawn mower. Prices can vary significantly depending on the type of mower, power source, and features.
Conclusion:
Finding the cheapest place to buy a lawn mower involves a little research and patience. Whether you’re looking for a new or used mower, there are plenty of options available. By comparing prices from various retailers, looking for sales and promotions, and carefully considering your needs, you can find the perfect lawn mower for your budget and your yard. So, get out there, start shopping, and get ready to enjoy your beautiful lawn all season long!
FAQ
Where is the cheapest place to buy a lawn mower?
Generally, the cheapest place to buy a lawn mower is through online retailers like Amazon, Walmart, or Home Depot. These retailers often have sales and discounts, and you can compare prices from different sellers to find the best deal. Additionally, you can often find refurbished or used lawn mowers for sale at a lower price than new models.
However, it’s important to consider the cost of shipping when buying online. If you need a lawn mower quickly or you’re not comfortable buying a large appliance online, your local hardware store or big box retailer might be a better option.
What is the best time of year to buy a lawn mower?
The best time of year to buy a lawn mower is in the late summer or early fall. This is when retailers are trying to clear out their inventory of the current year’s models to make room for the next year’s models. You’ll often find deep discounts and clearance sales during this time.
You can also find good deals on lawn mowers in the spring, but they won’t be as deep as the late summer/early fall sales.
What are some factors to consider when buying a lawn mower?
When buying a lawn mower, there are a few key factors to consider. The first is your budget. Lawn mowers range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, so it’s important to set a budget before you start shopping. You should also consider the size of your lawn, the type of terrain, and the features you need.
If you have a small lawn, a manual reel mower might be sufficient. For larger lawns, a gas-powered or electric mower may be a better option. If you have a hilly yard, you might want to consider a self-propelled mower.
What are some popular lawn mower brands?
There are many popular lawn mower brands on the market, including:
- Honda: Known for their reliability and durability.
- Toro: A well-established brand with a wide range of models.
- Husqvarna: Known for their powerful and innovative mowers.
- John Deere: A well-respected brand known for their quality and performance.
- Craftsman: An affordable brand with a wide range of models.
These brands offer a variety of models to choose from, so you can find the perfect mower for your needs and budget.
Are electric lawn mowers worth it?
Electric lawn mowers are becoming increasingly popular, and for good reason. They are quieter and more environmentally friendly than gas-powered mowers. However, electric mowers also have some drawbacks. They require a power source, and their cords can be a nuisance.
If you have a small yard and don’t mind the occasional extension cord, an electric mower may be a good option for you. But if you have a large yard or frequently mow in the heat, a gas-powered mower might be a better choice.
How do I know if a used lawn mower is a good deal?
When buying a used lawn mower, it’s important to inspect it carefully to make sure it’s in good working condition. Look for signs of wear and tear, such as rust, cracks, or damage to the blade. You should also start the mower to make sure it runs smoothly.
If you’re unsure about the condition of a used lawn mower, it’s best to avoid buying it. You can also get a used lawn mower from a reputable source, such as a lawn mower repair shop or a local used appliance store.
What are some tips for maintaining my lawn mower?
To keep your lawn mower running smoothly, it’s important to maintain it regularly. This includes:
- Changing the oil: This should be done every 25 hours of use or according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Sharpening the blade: A sharp blade will provide a clean cut and prevent damage to your lawn.
- Cleaning the air filter: A dirty air filter can restrict airflow and reduce engine performance.
- Checking the spark plug: A worn or damaged spark plug can cause starting problems.
By following these tips, you can help to prolong the life of your lawn mower and ensure that it performs at its best.