(NAPSA)—If you’re considering getting a walk-behind mower, you may want to start by taking a walk around youryard. Lawn mowers comein a variety of sizes, types and prices, so surveying the area you are mowing can help you decide on the most efficient mower. Here are some questions to consider from the experts at Murray Inc., a lawn mowerprovider for more than 50 years. Q: Does yard size and terrain matter when choosing a mower? A:Yes. All walk-behind mowers can be pushed around a yard but many mowers have the added benefit of self-propulsion, provid- ing added power to turn or drive the front or back wheels. For larger lawns (at least 4 acre), having this extra propulsion can help reduce the time and effort to get the job done. This will also minimize effort when cutting lawns withhilly terrain. Some self-propelled mowers offer a single speed, while others come with a variable speed system allowing the user to adjust the pace of the mower. Multi-speed drive-multiple gears allow users to change mowing speedsfor increased efficiency. Front wheel drive enhances maneuverability, as well as traction. Rear-wheel drive provides the best traction on all terrains and thick grass. Mowers with higher rear wheels offer additional maneuverability which is helpful on hilly or unevenyards. Q: How will I dispose of my grass clippings? A: Many walk-behind mowers feature a convertible cutting deck system equipped to disperse grass clippings in at least two ways. Mowers with 2-in-1 capability The size of your lawn will help determine which type of lawn mower you buy. can handle lawn clippings by either discharging them or mulching them (or in some cases by either mulching them or bagging them). Mowers are also avail- able with 3-in-1 versatility which means the mower performs three different functions. It can dis- charge grass, mulchit or bag it for disposal. When the grass is mulched, it is chopped into small bits, then falls to the ground where it becomes a naturalfertilizer. Q: Do I need a convertible mower? A: Choose a mowerthat best fits the way you usually mow your lawn and hasthe flexibility to adapt to changing mowingconditions. A convertible mower lets you change back and forth easily withouttools. Q: How important is horsepowerin a lawn mower? A: The more you can get the better. In order to improve mulching performance, higher horsepower engines are desired. Orif you let your grass becometall before cutting, additional horsepowercan help get the job done. For more tips on walk-behind mowers, visit www.murray.com.
