Using a riding aerator will definitely save you quite a bit of time if you have a large property.  A riding aerator can cut down on labor time by ten fold on the right property.  For core aeration on large properties, you only have three options. You can use a walk behind aerator which is not an effective use of your time.  You can use a pull behind aerator mounted to a tractor, but you have to be careful not to rut or tear up the lawn.  Most effectively you can use a riding aerator.  Riding aerator’s are the best option for the commercial lawn maintenance company.  Riding aerator’s are designed specifically for use on turf grass.  Using a unit that is turf grass friendly, will cut down on damage that can be caused by a pull behind aerator.  There are several companies that produce a ride on aerator unit.  Below are some of the specs of these units.

Riding Aerator

Riding Aerator Manufacturers.

Exmark-  Exmark makes a 30″ stand on aerator.  This aerator comes with a Kawasaki engine and electric start.  The machine has a top speed of 7.5 miles per hour and has a fuel capacity of 5 gallons.  The riding aerator has 48 coring tines that are capable of plugging soil 2″ to 5″ deep.  The machine weighs 1,015 pounds, so it much lighter than a compact tractor and a pull behind aerator.

L T Rich Products-  L T Rich Products produces a Z-plug riding aerator.  This aerator comes with a 23 hp Vanguard engine and electric start.  The machine has a top speed of 8 miles per hour.  This unit has a 36″ aeration width compared to the Exmark unit which is 30″.  The riding aerator has the ability to remove plugs up to 3 1/2″ deep.  The machine weighs 1,135 pounds, making it a little heavier than that of the Exmark unit.