How to Clean Briggs and Stratton Lawn Mower Air Filter

Cleaning your air filter is simple, but it is one of the most critical maintenance procedures that you can do to protect the engine and improve the lawn mower's performance. If you own a Briggs & Stratton mower, knowing how to clean or replace the air filter correctly can save you money, fuel, and trouble in the long run.

Table of Contents

1. Foam vs. Paper Filters: What's the Difference?
2. Why the Air Filter Matters
3. Filter Types and Compatibility
4. When and How to Clean the Filter
5. Cleaning vs. Replacing: Cost and Considerations
6. Effects of Neglecting Filter Maintenance
7. Limitations to Keep in Mind
8. Final Thoughts

Key Takeaways

• A clean air filter improves airflow, power, and fuel economy.
• Foam filters are reusable and can be cleaned; paper filters cannot.
• Lousy air filtering will lead to engine wear and hard starts.
• Maintenance prevents bigger repair bills.

Foam vs. Paper Filters: What's the Difference?

Briggs & Stratton engines use foam or paper air filters, both of which have positives and negatives. The foam filters are cheap and can be reused, suited for dusty environments, but must be oiled after each cleaning to hold smaller particles. Paper filters, however, perform well out of the box with excellent filtration but must be replaced when dirty or clogged. A dual-element design is used in some models, which includes both elements for maximum protection.

How the Air Filter Works

Its only purpose is to keep dirt and debris out of the engine. Without it, dirt enters the combustion chamber and deteriorates internal components over time.

A clean filter assures the correct amount of fuel-to-air mixture, essential for smooth performance, easy starting, and reduced emissions. With restricted airflow, your mower has to work harder, burn more fuel, and last shorter.

Filter Types and Compatibility

Three air general filter types can be found in Briggs & Stratton mowers:

• Foam filters – Washable, best for dusty conditions.
• Paper filters – High filter, disposable.
• Dual-element filters – A washable foam pre-filter and paper core combined.

Always refer to your engine's manual or filter housing for the right part number when cleaning or replacing anything.

When and How to Clean the Filter

Cleaning foam filters is easy and requires few tools:

1. Take out the spark plug for precautionary measures.
2. Open the filter cap and remove the foam insert.
3. Rinse it gently with warm water and dish soap.
4. Rinse thoroughly and squeeze out any leftover water.
5. Let it air dry fully.
6. Add a few drops of fresh engine oil to it and knead it well into the foam.
7. Install the filter and cover back in.

Paper filters need to be regularly checked. If they are dark in color, plugged, or torn, replace them. Don't attempt to clean a paper filter—it will deteriorate and lose its filtering effect.

Cleaning vs. Replacement: Cost and Considerations

For all intents and purposes, cleaning a foam filter is free. A few minutes of your time and some soap are all it takes. Replacements are also inexpensive, averaging anywhere from $7 to $15, depending on the filter type.

Paper filters must be changed each season or earlier in dry environments. Dual-element systems need cleaning of the foam component and paper component replacement as needed. Frequent checking is important. If a filter is cracked, brittle, or permanently discolored, replace it instead of risking engine damage.

Consequences of Filter Neglect

Neglecting air filter maintenance can result in:

• Decreased engine performance
• Poor fuel mileage
• Sticky starts
• Greater emissions
• Engine wear over time

Such issues do not appear immediately but instead build up and lead to costly repairs or even outright failure of the engine.

Limitations to Remember

Foam filters are not permanent. After a few washes, they may deteriorate or become deformed. When the foam becomes crumbly or loses its ability to hold oil as effectively as before, it is time for a replacement.

Also, paper filters become progressively less efficient as they age and cannot be rebuilt. Trying to extend their life by tapping or blowing them out only increases the risk to the engine. It's always safer to replace a questionable filter than to gamble on damage to an engine.

Final Thoughts

Learning to change or clean your Briggs & Stratton lawn mower air filter is one of the easiest ways to maintain your equipment running in great condition. It only takes a few minutes but has a dramatic effect on performance and lifespan.

Keep to a routine maintenance schedule, and always use original Briggs & Stratton replacement components to ensure proper fit and filtration. Your mower—and your wallet—will appreciate it.