Steps for Cleaning the Air Filter of a Lawn Mower

Kelly Burke is a certified turf management expert with credentials in organic land care and holds a license for pesticide application.

Project Summary

• Duration of Work: 15 minutes
• Overall Duration: 1 hour and 15 minutes

• Proficiency Level: Novice

A well-functioning air filter serves as the primary barrier for a gas-powered lawn mower against the dust and debris stirred up while mowing. When the air filter is in optimal condition, it effectively blocks dirt from reaching the engine via the carburetor. However, a deteriorated air filter can allow dirt and debris to infiltrate the engine, which may result in difficulties starting the mower and can shorten the engine’s lifespan.

Frequency of Cleaning a Lawn Mower’s Air Filter

Maintaining your lawn mower by cleaning or changing the air filter is an easy task that can enhance its efficiency and prolong its lifespan. It’s advisable to clean the foam pre-cleaner every 25 hours of use. The paper air filter should be replaced once a season or after 300 hours of use. In environments with a lot of dust, you may need to clean and replace the filter more often.

Tip

Search for an air filter compatible with your specific mower model, and be sure to consult the owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommendations. There are three varieties of air filters available: a foam filter that needs to be oiled to properly coat the foama paper filter that resembles accordion pleats housed in a plastic frameand a hybrid filter, also known as a dual-element filter, which combines a foam component (often referred to as a pre-filter or pre-cleaner) with a paper filter as the primary element.

Requirements

Devices / Instruments

• Protective gloves
• Cleaning basin, washing basin, or garden hose.
• Fresh, dry rags, fabrics, or paper napkins.

Materials

• Substitute filter (if needed)
• 1 to 2 teaspoons of motor oil for the foam filter.
• Liquid dish soap

Instructions

Cease the Lawn Mower

Turn off the mower’s engine and allow all moving components to come to a complete stop and cool down before you touch anything.

Warning

Avoid using the mower without an air filter, as it can lead to significant engine damage.

Remove the Spark Plug.

Before taking off the air filter cover, make sure to disconnect the spark plug wire.

Take off the cover from the air filter.

Take out the screws or detach the clips that hold the protective cover over the air filter of the lawn mower. Typically, the air filter is positioned near the upper part of the engine and is enclosed in a metal or plastic cover, which is generally fastened with screws or snap-on fittings.

Take out the air filter.

Take out the air filter and examine it closely. For paper filters, gently tap it against a flat surface to dislodge any loose debris. Check the filter by holding it up to a bright light. If the paper element obstructs a considerable amount of light, it’s best to replace it rather than attempting to clean it. For foam air filters, look for any signs of deterioration, such as crumbling or noticeable brown or yellow discoloration, which indicates it’s time for a replacement. If the foam filter appears to be in good condition, you can clean it. For hybrid air filters, refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines for cleaning or replacement. Ensure to inspect the foam pre-cleaner as wellif it feels stiff, brittle, or shows significant staining, it typically needs to be replaced.

Remove the Foam Filter and clean it.

Clean the foam filter by rinsing it in a wash basin, sink, or using a garden hose to effectively eliminate dirt. Apply dish soap to break down grease and assist in dirt removal. Make sure to rinse the foam completely to remove all soap, and then use paper towels, cloths, or your hands to squeeze out any remaining water.

Remove moisture from the foam filter.

Prior to applying oil to the foam filter, ensure it is completely dry. Begin by pressing the foam with paper towels or a dry cloth to remove excess moisture. After that, place the foam in direct sunlight for approximately one hour to achieve additional drying.

Lubricate the Foam Filter.

Once the foam is completely dry, apply oil to it. You can either pour the oil into your hands or apply it directly onto the foam, then work it into the filter to ensure even coverage. Take care to avoid using too much oil, as you don’t want it to leak into the mower.

Tip

One different method for applying oil is to place the foam inside a plastic bag or a baggie, pour in the oil, and then knead the bag to ensure the foam absorbs the oil. To remove any surplus oil, gently press the foam with a fresh paper towel.

Clean the air filter connection.

Prior to placing the air filter back in position, wipe the filter housing with a dry cloth. Avoid using solvents, as they may harm the air filter component. Additionally, refrain from using compressed air, as it could push dirt into the lawn mower’s carburetor.

Reinstall the air filter.

Install the air filter into the designated slot, ensuring it is securely in place without any openings.

Substitute the Shroud

Reinstall the protective cover, ensuring that the air filter element is not pinched or harmed during the procedure.

Warning

Do not attempt to push the shroud back into position forcefully. If it doesn’t fit back together smoothly, it’s likely that the new filter element has been installed incorrectly.

Reattach the Spark Plug.

Remember to reattach the spark plug wire to ensure your mower can start.