Air filter is an important part of petrol lawn mower engine intake system, because it is what allows the mower to “breathe.” An engine needs an exact mixture of fuel and air in order to run, and all of the air enters the system first through the air filter. This catches the dirt and other foreign particles in the air, preventing them from entering the system and possibly damaging the engine.
Air filters, belonging to the lawn mower parts, are generally pretty cheap due to the filter’s simple construction. Most are paper-like or fibrous material, folded accordion-style and arranged on a plastic or metal frame. Some are made out of a cotton or fabric-like material, which is then oiled in order to increase airflow.
Having a clean air filter is important for your lawn mower’s performance. This means that filters should be changed regularly otherwise the lawn mower’s engine will suffer. A dirty filter can also cause other lawn mower parts or systems to run ineffectively, such as the emissions control system, which regulates the air-fuel mixture. It can also cause your spark plugs, which ignite the fuel in the combustion chambers, to foul, as there will be too much fuel without enough air. If your spark plugs foul, you may have problems starting the engine and keeping your car running.
Most people should change their air filter at least once a year. You can change it yourself or have a mechanic inspect it, and change it if necessary, during an oil change or your yearly tune-up.
If you plan to change your air filter yourself, here is a video tutorial on how to do it.
LawnEQ has wide array of lawn mower parts for all types of lawn mowers at very reasonable prices.