Summer is peak season for landscaping companies. If your equipment breaks, so does your business. Here’s the no-BS guide to keeping your tools running and your profits flowing.
Essential Mower and Trimmer Maintenance Tips
Your mower and trimmer are the lifelines of your landscaping business. Follow these simple steps to keep them running perfectly:
1. Change the Oil Regularly
Change your mower’s oil every 50 hours of use. Dirty oil makes your engine run hotter and causes breakdowns. Fresh oil extends equipment life and saves you money on repairs (source).
2. Keep Blades Sharp
Dull blades tear grass instead of cutting it, making your lawns look bad. Sharpen your mower blades every 20-25 hours of use. Sharp blades cut faster and cleaner, letting you move on quickly to the next customer.
3. Clean Air Filters Weekly
Dirty air filters choke engines, wasting gas and power. Check and clean filters weekly—replace them if damaged. It’s a cheap fix that saves you big-time on gas and repairs.
4. Inspect Spark Plugs Often
Bad spark plugs kill your engine’s efficiency. Check plugs monthly and replace once a year. New spark plugs keep your gear starting easy every time.
Common Equipment Issues to Check NOW to Avoid Downtime
Ignoring these common issues will cost you thousands of dollars in lost work. Here’s what to check regularly:
1. Belt and Cable Checks
Belts and cables get worn out fast. Check weekly for cracks or looseness. Replace worn belts early—waiting means bigger breakdowns.
2. Tire Pressure and Condition
Flat tires waste your valuable time. Check tire pressure daily and replace tires before they’re bald. Good tires mean smooth lawns and quick jobs.
3. Fuel System Maintenance
Old or dirty fuel clogs your equipment. Always use fresh gas, and add stabilizer if storing gear. Clean fuel lines regularly.
How Proper Tool Maintenance Saves You Thousands Annually
Your equipment maintenance costs a fraction compared to downtime and emergency repairs. The math is simple:
- Preventive maintenance costs: $100-$200 per tool/year
- Emergency repair downtime: $500-$1000 per day in lost jobs
Spending just a little on routine maintenance saves thousands in downtime each year. Proper tool maintenance isn’t optional—it’s essential to your profits (source).
Equipment Upgrades Worth Investing in This Summer
Smart landscapers reinvest in their gear. Here are summer’s best investments for your landscaping business:
1. Battery-Powered Equipment
New battery-powered mowers and trimmers save money on gas and maintenance. They’re quieter, easier to use, and customers love them.
2. Robotic Lawn Mowers
Robotic mowers are expensive but pay for themselves. They mow automatically while you work on higher-paying jobs, helping you take more clients this summer.
3. GPS and Job Management Apps
Apps like Jobber can help you schedule smarter, route quicker, and finish more jobs per day. Stop guessing—start managing your business from your phone.
Keep Your Tools Sharp to Keep Your Profits High
Don’t risk your summer profits with sloppy equipment maintenance. Follow these simple steps, avoid breakdowns, and invest smartly to crush your competition and win more business this season.
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