Before you begin working in the yard this summer, you need to be sure your tools are in good shape. A lawnmower can only work so well without maintenance; hoses waste water if they are leaking; weed eating can cause back strain if you don’t pay attention to several factors. Check out these tips that will lead to a better yard this summer.

Your Lawnmower

Change the filter if you have not changed it since last year. If you have a plastic filter and have changed it recently, remove it and clean it with warm, soapy water. If your mower has a paper filter, replace it.

Disconnect the spark plug and turn the mower on its side and clear out old dried grass and debris carefully. You may need a screwdriver to remove hard clumps. Use the water hose to spray it clean. If your yard has a fungus, use a disinfecting spray or liquid to clean it thoroughly.

Check the status of the spark plug. If it shows signs of wear such as black marks or oil stains, you might want to replace it; if not, at least remove it and clean with a wire brush. Set it aside until all other maintenance is done.

The blade should be balanced and sharp. Wear thick work gloves and remove the nut that holds the blade in place. Use a metal file and sharpen the beveled edge. If you don’t feel comfortable performing this task yourself, take the blade – or even the entire mower – to a repair shop to have the blade sharpened.

Check the balance using a level while it is on the post but unscrewed. An unbalanced blade results in poor cutting patterns and can also damage your grass. Additionally, an unbalanced blade can damage your mower. Once the blade is balanced and sharp again, use your thick work gloves to replace the blade and the nut.

Replace the spark plug.

Water hoses

Check every inch of your water hoses before you begin to water. You can use plumber’s tape and duct tape to seal small cracks, but you will have to monitor them throughout the summer to be certain the leaks have not resprung. Replace the washers in the connectors if you use more than one hose or any sprinkler attachments. These plastic or rubber washers can save money on your water bill and only cost about a dollar for a pack of 10.

Weed-eaters

There are numerous types and brands of weed-eaters. Depending on how much grass you need to edge and how many trees you need to edge around, you want to get the lightest weight weed-eater you can find. Look for one that has a curved handle and that has an adjustable height clip. This can be a back-breaking chore if you have one that is too heavy or short. Another consideration is whether to use a gas-powered or electric machine. If using a corded machine remember to keep the cord out of any water sources as a precaution against electrocution. If you plan to use a gas-powered machine, consider purchasing a clip-on shoulder strap to ease back strain. Also remember that gas-powered machines require special oil and gas mixtures in order for the machine to function properly, so be sure you want that additional step in your yard care regimen.

Once you are gassed-up or plugged in, be sure the handle and base guard are tightly secured so that they don’t slip or fly off during operation of the machine

Loppers and hedge clippers

Long poles with a cutting device at the top attached to a rope handle are called loppers (sometimes pronouned LO-pers). This tool allows you to trim your higher tree branches without using a ladder. Check the extending pole lock clamp to be sure it still locks tightly, if not, it is your choice – use it at your own risk, or get a new pole. Check the rope handle to be sure the rope glides smoothly in its bracket, and check the blade to be sure it is free of debris at the joint and on the actual blade itself. You can use mineral oil or WD-40 for cleaning and oiling purposes.

Short-handled hedge clippers need to provide a crisp cut in order to prevent damage to your trees and shrubs. Check the hinges and blades. You can sharpen your blades using heavy grit sandpaper and cutting the paper a few times, or take them to a lawnmower shop to be sharpened. Be sure the handles are not damaged and are attached securely to the blade. Some handles have a small screw that can be tightened to keep the handles tightly attached.

Now that your yard care tools are ready for action, be sure you take care of your body. Use a sunscreen, wear protective gloves, use bug repellent, and dress in loose clothing coupled with close-toed shoes. Have water available instead of soda or tea because sugary and caffeinated beverages can add to dehydration.