Husqvarna Hu700h Review

If you’re looking for a reliable gas mower to handle a medium to large lawn, you’ve probably come across the Husqvarna HU700H. This review will give you a comprehensive and unbiased analysis of this popular walk-behind mower. We’ll look at its power, features, and real-world performance to see if it’s the right fit for your yard.

Choosing a lawn mower is a big decision. You want something powerful enough to get the job done efficiently, but also durable and easy to use. The Husqvarna HU700H promises a lot with its 160cc engine and self-propelled drive. Let’s see how it actually holds up after a full season of use.

At its core, the HU700H is a self-propelled gas mower designed for homeowners who want a robust machine without professional price tags. It’s built with Husqvarna’s typical focus on durability. The steel deck and large rear wheels are immediately noticable, suggesting it can handle rougher terrain.

We’ll break down every aspect, from assembly to bagging performance. This isn’t just a list of specs; it’s a real look at what it’s like to use this mower week after week.

Key Features and Specifications

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, here’s a quick overview of what the Husqvarna HU700H offers:

Engine: 160cc Honda GCV160 OHC engine (in most regions; some may have a Husqvarna engine variant).
Cutting Width: 22 inches, which is standard for this class.
Cutting Heights: Adjustable from 1-1/4 to 3-3/4 inches via a single lever.
Drive System: Front-wheel drive with variable speed control.
Deck Material: Steel with Husqvarna’s Air Induction® technology.
Grass Handling: 3-in-1 functionality: mulch, bag, or side discharge.
Bag Capacity: 2.6 bushels.

Unboxing and Assembly Experience

Getting the mower ready is your first task. The HU700H comes partially assembled. You’ll need to attach the handle, which is straightforward. The instructions are clear, and all the necessary tools are usually included.

Here are the basic steps:

Unbox and lay out all parts.
Bolt the upper and lower handle sections together.
Attach the assembled handle to the mower deck using the provided knobs and bolts.
Install the grass bag onto its holder.
Add engine oil and gasoline (neither are included).

The whole process should take about 20-30 minutes. A common minor frustration is that the handle bolts sometimes feel a bit cheap, but they do hold securely. Make sure you check the tire pressure too; they often ship a little soft.

Performance on the Lawn

This is where the rubber meets the road—or rather, the blades meet the grass. The 160cc Honda engine starts reliably, usually on the first or second pull when the engine is cold. It provides ample power for thick grass and even light weeds.

Cutting Quality and Clipping Management

The cutting performance is very good. The Air Induction® system does a decent job of lifting grass blades before cutting, leading to a more even trim. In mulching mode, it chops clippings finely, assuming you don’t let the grass get too tall between mows.

Bagging: The 2.6 bushel bag fills up quickly, especially in spring. You’ll be making frequent stops to empty it on a large lawn.
Side Discharge: Works well for cutting overgrown areas quickly.
Mulching: Effective for regular maintenance, returning nutrients to the soil.

Self-Propelled Drive and Maneuverability

The front-wheel drive system is a highlight. The variable speed control is a lever on the handle; press it to go, release it to stop. It’s intuitive. The speed range is suitable for a steady walking pace, and it has enough torque to help you up slight inclines.

Turning is where front-wheel drive shows a limitation. It’s less agile than a rear-wheel drive model when making tight turns around trees or garden beds. You’ll need to tip the mower back slightly to pivot. The large rear wheels do help with this, rolling easily over bumps and dips.

Maintenance and Durability

A mower is a long-term investment. The HU700H is built with a solid steel deck that resists rust and damage from debris. The engine is a proven model known for its longevity if you care for it properly.

Routine maintenance is standard for a gas mower:

Change the engine oil after the first 5 hours, then annually.
Replace the air filter each season.
Sharpen or replace the blade at least once a year.
Use fuel stabilizer if storing for the winter.

The deck is relatively easy to clean. The single-point height adjustment is a huge plus, making it simple to change settings without fiddling with four separate wheels. One thing to watch is the plastic discharge chute; it can become brittle over time, so be gentle with it.

Pros and Cons: A Balanced View

After extensive use, here’s the honest breakdown.

Advantages

Powerful & Reliable Engine: The Honda motor starts easily and handles tough conditions.
Excellent Cut Quality: Delivers a clean, even lawn when the blade is sharp.
Convenient Height Adjustment: The single lever is a time-saver.
Sturdy Construction: The steel deck feels like it will last for years.
Good Value: Often priced competitively for its feature set.

Drawbacks

Front-Wheel Drive Limitations: Less agile for complex yards with many obstacles.
Bag Capacity: Could be larger to reduce stoppages on big lawns.
Handle Comfort: The foam grips are adequate but not the most comfortable for very long sessions.
Weight: It’s a heavy mower, which can make manual maneuvering (like pulling it back up a curb) a bit of a chore.

Who Is The Husqvarna HU700H Best For?

This mower isn’t for everyone, but it’s perfect for a specific set of needs. It’s an ideal choice if:

You have a flat to moderately sloped lawn of 1/3 to 3/4 of an acre.
You want the assist of self-propulsion without paying for a premium rear-wheel drive model.
You value a durable steel deck over a lighter aluminum one.
You prefer the simplicity and power of a gas engine over battery options.

Conversely, you might want to look elsewhere if your yard is very hilly, has lots of tight corners, or is smaller than 1/3 acre where a simpler push mower would suffice.

Final Verdict

The Husqvarna HU700H is a workhorse. It delivers strong, consistent performance for a typical suburban lawn. The combination of a Honda engine, steel deck, and practical features makes it a trustworthy tool.

While the front-wheel drive and bag size have minor drawbacks, they are trade-offs for its very competitive price point. For many homeowners, this mower hits the sweet spot between capability, durability, and cost. It won’t dissapoint if your needs align with its strengths.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Does the Husqvarna HU700H have a Honda engine?

In most markets, yes, it comes with a Honda GCV160 engine. It’s always best to double-check the product description at the time of purchase, as specifications can occasionally change.

Is the Husqvarna HU700H self-propelled?

Yes, it is a self-propelled lawn mower with a front-wheel drive system. You control the speed with a lever on the handle.

How do you change the oil in a Husqvarna HU700H?

Run the engine for a few minutes to warm the oil. Then, tip the mower on its side (with the air filter facing up), place a pan under the deck, and remove the drain plug to let the oil flow out. Refill with the recommended SAE 30 or 10W-30 oil.

What is the cutting height range?

You can adjust the cutting height from 1.25 inches up to 3.75 inches using the single lever located near each wheel.

Can you mulch with the Husqvarna HU700H?

Absolutely. It’s a 3-in-1 mower, meaning it can mulch, bag, or side-discharge clippings. You’ll need to install the mulch plug that comes with the mower to use it in mulching mode.