What Size Lawn Mower Do I Need? – How to Choose

You may be wondering, “What size lawn mower do I need?” It’s a common question among new home owners, or owners that are ready to take on mowing themselves. Different sizes and grades of mowers contribute to your overall mowing success.

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Our hope is that they’ll guide you in selecting the right size mower for your needs. Most of the time, your landscaping crew is comprised of you and your trusty mower. Let’s be sure your “teammate” is equipped to get the job done right.

How to Choose the Right Lawn Mower

To start, there are two important factors to think about. You’ll see a distinction in the grades and sizes of tractors. You’ll need to determine if entry-level or mid-grade is the right choice for you. These differ in cylinders, horsepower, transmission, seat type, and price.

1. Choose by Acreage

Best Lawn Mower for 1 Acre

What’s the best mower for small yard about 1 – 1 ½ acres (or less)? The single-cylinder engine. These entry-level tractors have lower horsepower. They’re not built to pull loads or to mow large areas. They are particularly great if you have obstacles you’re trying to mow around. They offer gear-driven (manual) transmissions. These types tend to be trouble-free and very durable.

We recommend a riding lawn mower (or even a push mower if you’re up for it). But you may not know how to pick a riding lawn mower. You’ll need a deck width around 42 – 46”. The engine should be 14 – 16 HP.

Best Lawn Mower for 3 Acres

We still recommend the riding lawn mower. For this acreage, you’ll need an 18 – 24 HP engine. The deck should be between 46 – 54”.

Best Lawn Mower for 5 Acres +

What’s the best mower for 5 acres? Stick with the information for 3 acres. But shoot for at least a 48” deck in this case. These mid-grade lawn tractors are versatile and powerful. With twin-cylinder engines, they boast more horsepower and low-end torque.

You must have one if you plan to use any kind of attachment regularly. Further, their hydrostatic transmissions allow for simple and easy speed adjustments as you are driving. They’re much smoother than the manual, entry-level grade. A singular shift takes you where you want to go.

Visit the Bobby Ford Kubota Greater Houston Area location for all your needs! Bobby Ford Tractor and Equipment will have what you’re looking for.

Bonus Tip: If you’re asking, “What size mower for 10 acres?” then the mid-grade might be your selection as well. You could also look to a Kubota zero turn or residential garden tractor. These have heavy-duty frames and transmissions. They have larger wheels and the most horsepower – at 20 – 27 HP. They can pull a tiller, thatcher, cultivator, or other small implements.

2. Choose by Distance Between Obstacles

It’s a good idea to look at the lay of your land and fixed man-made and natural structures. Do this before you begin shopping. Assess the smallest distance between any gates, trees, and other obstacles on your property.

If your lawn is hilly, you may need a smaller deck, so you don’t essentially dig up your yard (unless you can float your deck like a pro). The deck must fit through allotted spaces when you’re driving. And it must be made for your natural terrain.

Lawn mower deck sizes matter! Check out Bobby Ford’s Kubota mowers. We have a wide variety of Kubota and Bad Boy Mowers in the Greater Houston Area that will surely suit your needs.

3. Choose to Minimize Time

Mowing shouldn’t always be about time. Quality cut and a safe experience is what you’re after. But it rarely hurts to save 30 minutes or more! Especially when mowing your yard becomes a weekly chore. Barring any unique lawn features, a larger deck size and more HP will usually help you finish the job more quickly.

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What Kind of Lawn Mower Do I Need – Zero Turn vs. Riding Mower?

Both options require little physical exertion on your part, but you might still be torn between a zero turn vs. riding mower.

You should know that there is no power to the front wheels of a zero turn. They’re great for level, expansive lawns but not ideal for hills. You might opt for the zero turn if there are a lot of trees on your lawn.

If you’re concerned with mowing time, zero turn mowers cut at speeds of 5 – 8 mph. A riding lawn mower normally cuts at speeds of 3 – 4 mph.

What Is HP in Lawn Mowers?

HP (or horsepower) is all about how we rate power in a lawn mower. This allows you to understand the mower’s maximum workload and abilities. The bigger and heavier the machine, the more HP it’ll have. It can handle a multitude of tasks and loads.

What Are CCs in Lawn Mowers?

“CC” stands for cubic centimeters. The larger the number, the larger the engine. Horsepower is a measure of work, not size. When shopping today, you’ll see CC everywhere. Know that it can generally be converted into HP. Typically, you’re looking at about 14 – 17 CC in 1 HP.

Contact Bobby Ford Tractor and Equipment Now!

Contact Bobby Ford Tractor and Equipment today! We’ll answer your questions. You can rely on our expertise, quality service, and excellent selection.