If you’re looking for a tough, no-nonsense mower for a medium-sized yard, a Husqvarna LC221A review is a great place to start. This model is known for being a straightforward workhorse, and we’re going to look at everything that makes it a popular choice.
This comprehensive review will cover its power, cutting performance, and everyday usability. Our goal is to give you a reliable assesment to see if it’s the right fit for your lawn care needs.
Husqvarna LC221A Review
The Husqvarna LC221A is a 21-inch, 160cc gas-powered push mower. It sits in the brand’s value-focused lineup, offering core Husqvarna engineering at a more accessible price point than their premium models. It’s built for reliability over a long list of fancy features.
Let’s break down what you get with this mower.
Key Features and Specifications
Before we get into the details, here are the basic specs you’ll want to know:
* Engine: 160cc Honda GCV160 engine (on most models) or a Husqvarna 150cc engine.
* Cutting Width: 21 inches.
* Cutting Height: 8-position single-lever adjustment (1.25″ to 3.75″).
* Deck Material: Steel.
* Wheels: 7-inch front, 8-inch rear.
* Weight: Approximately 65 lbs.
* Mulching: Ready (kit included on most models).
* Bagging: Side-discharge or rear bagging (bagger often sold separately).
Engine Power and Performance
The heart of any gas mower is its engine. Many versions of the LC221A come with the renowned Honda GCV160. This is a huge plus. Honda engines are celebrated for their easy starts, smooth operation, and legendary durability.
Even the models with the Husqvarna engine are designed for dependable performance. The 160cc class provides ample power for cutting typical grass, even if you’ve let it grow a little too long. It handles moderate slopes reasonably well, though very hilly terrain might require a self-propelled model.
Starting is usually simple thanks to the auto-choke system. You prime the bulb, pull the cord, and it typically fires right up. The noise level is standard for a gas mower—not the quietest, but not unusually loud either.
Cutting Quality and Deck Design
The 21-inch steel deck is a classic size. It’s narrow enough to maneuver around tight spots like trees and garden beds but wide enough to make decent time on open lawn. The cutting performance is solid.
The single lever for height adjustment is a favorite feature. You simply move it to one of eight positions, and it changes the height for all four wheels at once. No more bending down to adjust each wheel individually. The range is excellent, allowing for a manicured short cut or letting your grass grow taller for summer heat.
The mower comes as a 3-in-1: side discharge, mulching, or bagging. The mulching kit is usually included, which is great for returning nutrients to your soil. For bagging, you’ll likely need to purchase the rear bagger attachment separately, which is a common practice for mowers in this class.
How Does the Cut Look?
You can expect a clean, even cut from the LC221A. The blade is well-balanced, and the deck design creates a good airflow to stand the grass up before cutting. It won’t leave streaks or miss patches if you overlap your passes correctly. For a homeowner seeking a neat, tidy lawn, it delivers perfectly reliable results.
Maneuverability and Ease of Use
At around 65 pounds, it’s a lightweight mower for its class. This makes pushing it on flat ground very easy. The 7-inch front and 8-inch rear wheels roll smoothly over most lawn surfaces. Turning is simple thanks to the light weight.
The handle is adjustable and folds down for compact storage. The controls are minimal and intuitive: a blade engagement lever and the height adjustment. There’s no extra complexity here, which is part of its appeal.
One thing to note is that it is a push mower, not self-propelled. If you have a very large yard or significant slopes, your arms and legs will get more of a workout. For flat or gently sloping yards under half an acre, it’s very manageable.
Durability and Build Quality
Husqvarna is a brand with a long history in outdoor power equipment. The LC221A reflects that with a generally sturdy construction. The steel deck is robust and can handle the occasional bump into a root or sprinkler head.
The wheels are plastic but feel durable for residential use. The overall fit and finish is good for its price category. It’s not a commercial-grade tank, but with proper care, it should last a typical homeowner for many years. The inclusion of a Honda engine on many models significantly boosts its long-term reliability prospects.
Maintenance and Storage
Routine maintenance is straightforward. Like any gas mower, it requires:
1. Regular oil changes (check manual for intervals).
2. Air filter cleaning or replacement.
3. Sharpening the blade at least once a season.
4. Winterizing if you store it with fuel over the cold months.
The deck is easy to clean. The simple design means there aren’t many nooks for grass to get trapped. Its light weight and foldable handle make it easy to lift into a shed or slide against a garage wall.
Always remember to disconnect the spark plug before performing any maintenance, especially when handling the blade. Safety first.
Pros and Cons Summary
Let’s weigh the good and the not-so-good.
Pros:
* Often features a reliable Honda engine.
* Very easy to use with simple controls.
* Excellent single-lever height adjustment.
* Lightweight and easy to push on flat ground.
* Good build quality for the price.
* Mulching kit is typically included.
Cons:
* Not self-propelled (can be tiring on hills or large yards).
* Rear bagger is usually an extra-cost accessory.
* Some may prefer a larger cutting width for big, open spaces.
* Basic feature set lacks extras like electric start.
Who Is The Husqvarna LC221A Best For?
This mower is an ideal fit for a specific set of homeowners. You’ll likely be happy with the LC221A if:
* You have a flat or gently sloped yard up to about 1/2 acre.
* You value simplicity and proven reliability over high-tech features.
* You prefer a lightweight mower that’s easy to store.
* You want the quality of a name brand without the highest price tag.
* You are comfortable with routine gas engine maintenance.
It might not be the best choice if you have a very hilly property, a very large lawn (over 3/4 acre), or if you physically need a self-propelled assist. In those cases, looking at Husqvarna’s self-propelled models would be a smarter move.
Final Verdict
The Husqvarna LC221A is a compelling option in the budget-friendly gas mower segment. Its strengths are clear: a dependable engine (often a Honda), exceptional ease of use, and a clean cut. It removes fuss from the mowing process.
While it lacks the conveniences of self-propulsion or electric start, it excels at the fundamentals. For the homeowner with a modest, relatively flat yard who wants a gas mower that starts easily, cuts well, and lasts for seasons, the LC221A is a thoroughly reliable choice. It does it’s job without complaint, which is exactly what many people need.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does the Husqvarna LC221A come with a bagger?
Usually, no. The mower is typically sold as a “3-in-1” with side discharge and mulching capabilities (mulching plug included). The rear bagger is a separate accessory you need to purchase. Always check the product listing or with the retailer to confirm what’s in the box.
Is the Husqvarna LC221A self-propelled?
No, the LC221A is a push mower. You provide all the pushing power. Husqvarna has other models, like the LC221SP or models in the “HU” series, that are self-propelled if you need that feature.
What kind of oil does it take?
It uses standard SAE 30 motor oil for warmer temperatures (check your manual for specifics). Many owners use 10W-30 as well. Always refer to the owner’s manual for the exact specification and capacity for your engine, especially as it might be a Honda or Husqvarna engine.
How do you engage the blade on the LC221A?
You simply press and hold the “blade control” lever on the handle against the handlebar. This is a common safety feature; the blade stops as soon as you let go of the lever.
Can it handle tall, wet grass?
It can handle moderately tall grass reasonably well thanks to its power. However, like any mower, it will perform much better if you mow frequently and avoid cutting wet grass, which can clump and clog the deck. For very overgrown conditions, take it slow and make multiple passes.
Where is the Husqvarna LC221A made?
Husqvarna is a Swedish company, but their mowers are assembled in the United States using globally sourced parts, including engines from Japan (Honda) or their own manufacturing.