Final answer:
The maintenance cost of a mower can be influenced by fuel efficiency, blade material, and frequency of use, as these factors determine fuel consumption, longevity/sharpness of blades, and wear and tear on the mower.
Step-by-step explanation:
The maintenance cost of a mower can be influenced by various factors. Here, we discuss three factors: fuel efficiency, blade material, and frequency of use as they contribute to the overall maintenance costs.
- Fuel efficiency is a significant factor because it determines how much fuel the mower consumes during operation. A mower with low fuel efficiency will consume more fuel, leading to higher operating costs over time.
- Blade material impacts the longevity and sharpness of the blades. Blades made of high-quality materials may require less frequent sharpening or replacement, thus reducing maintenance costs.
- Frequency of use affects the wear and tear on a mower. Regular and extensive use will lead to more frequent maintenance needs, such as oil changes, blade sharpening, or part replacements.
Considering the provided references:
- The efficiency of a three-blade design, as mentioned regarding its lower tip speed and safety (Reference 13), suggests that blade design can influence maintenance through its impact on operational safety and potential damage to blades.
- When a person does work on the lawn mower, the mower may gain energy when stored energy, like fuel, is turned into mechanical work, and lose energy through friction or damage which requires more frequent maintenance (References 4).
- A land manager's observation of flowering time in mown vs. unmown fields indicates how grass type and its management can affect the frequency and type of mower maintenance needed over time (References 31 and b).