THINGS TO KNOW WHEN BUYING YARD EQUIPMENT

Spring is just around the corner, and many homeowners are itching to get outside to make their yards both beautiful and functional. There are many reasons why people want to prepare for prime backyarding season. Making neighbors green with envy, establishing a space for kids and pets to play safely, creating an outdoor family room or office and expanding entertaining space are all worthy backyarding pursuits.

Kris Kiser

President and CEO

Outdoor Power Equipment Institute

1605 King Street

Alexandria, VA 22314 turfmutt.com

(703)549-7600

Now is the time to get “backyard ready” for outdoor living this spring and summer. Remember, completing big outdoor jobs is always easier with help from outdoor power equipment. The right mowers, trimmers, edgers, blowers, pruners, chainsaws and more can help you get the work done faster and safely maintain your yard.

Plan Your Needs

Sketch your yard. Include any major features such as trees, bushes, a vegetable garden, flower beds, lawn furniture, play or sports equipment, an outdoor patio or bird bath. Note where maintenance may be needed.

Consider Equipment Needed

Find your tools. List what is needed or what could be upgraded. Repair anything that needs attention or identify where a newer or better machine is required.

A large vegetable garden may require a cultivator or tiller. An upgrade to a zero-turn mower might make maintaining a large lawn easier. A string trimmer might make caring for bushes or trimming grass near a fence line less of a hassle. A pole pruner can help trim back limbs that are too high to reach safely with a saw, and a leaf blower can clear leaves faster than a rake. Chain saws make quick work of tree trimming and more.

Adding a Generator

Increasingly, consumers are turning to generators for emergency situations. Consumers want and need reliable power, and when electricity goes out, generators keep your home humming. Today’s generators offer a variety of features, and there is a product for every need. While shopping, don’t forget outdoor-rated extension cords and fuel cans.

Research Equipment Online

Think about efficiencies of scale. The right equipment can mean more time for other activities and make doing yard work more enjoyable, too. Researching online before your purchase will help you pick the right type and size of equipment needed for the job.

Ask Questions

Talk with the staff at the store or ask online about the equipment you are considering. Pick up and hold the equipment to determine if it is a “fit” for you. Discuss safety features and ask about manufacturer fueling and care instructions. Find out how often the equipment may need to be serviced.

Plan Storage and Maintenance

Store your equipment in a cool, dry place. It also should typically be serviced at the end of the fall and the beginning of the spring. Find or download the owner’s manual, as well.