Keeping the air filter in your lawn mower clean is a must if you want optimal performance and engine longevity. If the air filter gets clogged, it can increase fuel consumption and degrade your mower’s efficiency.

This guide will walk you through the cleaning process, and tell you how to change the air filter on a lawnmower, if necessary. We’ll also highlight the high performance of JAK Max air filters, and why they make the ideal choice for your lawnmower.

Why It’s Important to Clean and Change Your Lawn Mower Air Filter

Your lawn mower’s air filter prevents foreign particles like dust and debris from entering the air flow to the engine. This ensures that they don’t contaminate the air-petrol mixture during combustion.

The consequences of neglecting to maintain your air filter can affect your lawn mower as a whole:

  • Reduced engine performance: If the air filter is dirty it will not only allow contaminants in; it can also partially block the air flow, putting strain on your engine.
  • Increased fuel consumption: When the air flow is restricted, the engine will need to burn more fuel, to compensate for this lack of oxygen and maintain performance.
  • Engine damage: Prolonged use of a dysfunctional air filter can also lead to engine damage. Without proper cleaning, this can allow debris to enter the engine, creating wear and tear.

JAK Max lawn mower air filters provide superior air flow protection, offering extended durability. Specifically designed to trap all kinds of foreign particles, they help to ensure optimal performance and prolong the lifespan of your mower. We offer filters for a wide range of different mowers.

How often should you change your lawn mower air filter?

Generally speaking, filters on home lawn mowers should be cleaned once for every 25 hours of use. Ideally you should change the air filter once a season, before you use it for the first time in the year.

However, certain environments can influence how often to change a lawn mower air filter. Exceptionally dusty conditions place more demand on this component. Ideally you should inspect it and clean it after each use.

Interestingly, the type of grass you mow can affect your mower’s air filter. Wet grass can produce excessive moisture, and if the grass has a high pollen count this will also clog the filter more often.

Other signs that indicate you may need to clean or replace your oil filter include a feeling of decreased engine power, irregular stalling, and a rise in fuel consumption. You should also always check for any visible debris.

Step-by-Step Guide on How To Clean a Lawnmower Air Filter

Tools and materials needed:

  • Screwdriver
  • Cleaning brush
  • Soapy water (for foam filters)
  • Towels

Safety precautions:

Always work in a well-ventilated area, and disconnect the spark plug to prevent accidental starting.

Step 1:

Locate the air filter, unscrew the cover and take it off. Then gently remove the air filter.

Step 2:

Clean the filter, noting the difference between a foam one and a paper one. You can wash a foam filter in warm, soapy water. Once dry, apply a little air filter oil. Don’t use water on a paper filter. Instead, brush it gently to remove debris.

Step 3:

Once you’ve cleaned your air filter, simply slot it back into its casing and screw the cover on again.

How to Change the Air Filter on a Lawn Mower

Tools and materials needed:

  • Screwdriver
  • Replacement air filter (choose a JAK Max filter for enhanced durability and performance)

Safety precautions:

As always, disconnect the spark plug, and make sure you’re working in a safe area.

Step 1:

Find your air filter unit, remove the cover and take out the old filter.

Step 2:

Replace the filter with a new one that matches the specifications for your mower. JAK Max stocks air filters are made from high-quality materials, and designed for a wide variety of lawn mower makes and models. We’ll ensure a perfect fit.

Step 3:

Screw the cover on again, making sure that the filter is seated properly.

Special Considerations for Different Types of Lawn Mowers

If you have a push mower, you’ll typically find the air filter in an easily accessible place. Riding mowers, however, have bigger air filters placed deeper inside the engine assembly, so you may need to read the manual to locate it.

As mentioned, some mowers use foam filters, while others are made of paper. The latter should be replaced as soon as they become clogged – you can’t wash them. You can clean and reuse a foam filter more often.

JAK Max offers filters for both push and riding mowers, once again suitable for a range of manufacturers.

In Conclusion

It’s essential that you clean your lawn mower air filter at least every 25 hours of use, to ensure optimal engine performance and longevity. You can maximise this by choosing JAK Max air filters, with their superior filtration properties. We’ll also advise you on how to change the air filter on your lawn mower.

FAQ’s

What If I Don’t Clean My Air Filter Regularly?

If you neglect cleaning your lawn mower’s air filter, you’ll end up using more fuel while getting less engine performance, and also risk engine damage.

Can I Use Any Type of Air Filter Oil?

You should always use the air filter oil specified in your mower’s user manual. JAK Max offers high-quality oils for foam filters, plus accessories like service kits.

How Can I Tell if My Air Filter is Damaged?

A quick visible inspection is all you need. Look for holes, tears and clogging that can’t be cleaned.

How Often Should I Change My Lawn Mower Air Filter?

An air filter usually lasts for around 25 hours of use. At the very least you should replace it once a season.

Visit your nearest JAK Max dealer for premium air filters and expert advice.