Battery-Powered Lawnmowers: Are They Worth It? Helpful Tips

Understanding the worth of battery-powered lawnmowers can be challenging. With our comprehensive review, we aim to simplify this process for you.

Do Battery-Powered Lawnmowers Worth It?

Yes, battery-powered lawnmowers are often worth the investment, especially for smaller lawns. They offer lower noise, reduced emissions, and easier maintenance. However, they may require frequent recharging and might struggle with thicker grass. Despite these, they are viable alternatives to gas mowers.

Curious about the worth of battery-powered lawnmowers? Dive into our comprehensive review to find out if they’re the right fit for your lawn care needs.

Are battery-powered lawnmowers more expensive than gas lawnmowers?

Recent battery-powered lawnmowers are similarly priced to gas models. For high-end models, you can expect to pay a little bit more for bigger batteries. Also, the second set of batteries can make a battery-powered model more expensive. Battery-powered ride-on-mowers are still considerably more expensive than gas ride-on-mowers.

But the purchase price difference does tell the whole story. Gas lawnmowers require a lot more maintenance, and filling the gas tank is generally more expensive than charging the batteries. Due to their simpler design, my experience is that they are more reliable. Charge the battery, and you are good to go.

Battery life expectancy

A problem for battery-powered lawnmowers, and other battery-powered machines is the life expectancy of the battery. Like the battery from your phone, its capacity degrades over time. Most people know a lithium-ion battery loses capacity the more often you charge it. But also when you don’t use the battery it loses capacity.

How long a lawnmower battery will last depends on many factors, like how often you charge it, the charging speed, the battery size, quality, brand, and the storage temperature. With average usage, you can expect a 5 to 10 years lifetime or longer.

To extend the life as much as possible, I recommend long-term storage to get the battery at 50% charge. Remove it from the lawnmower, and keep it at a cool location.

Are Battery-Powered Lawnmowers Easier To Start?

Generally, battery-powered lawn mowers are easier to start. You just have to put a charged battery in the mower, and they are ready to go. Only if the battery is empty or bad, the mower will not run.

In recent years, mower manufacturers have made gas lawnmowers also easier to start, and more reliable. But to keep them starting well they need to be maintained well. And as a gas lawnmower engine contains a lot more moving parts, there is a lot more that can go wrong.

Are Battery-Powered Lawnmowers More Eco-Friendly?

Generally, a battery-powered lawnmower will be more eco-friendly. Electric motors are zero emissions, but if the electricity that charges the batteries comes from a non-eco-friendly source, they are less eco-friendly than you think.

But if the electricity comes from a renewable source like solar or wind, hydro or even nuclear, it means the electricity that charges the batteries does not add emissions. In those cases, the battery-powered lawnmower will be more eco-friendly.

Another important point to consider is the battery itself. What happens when they die? Recent innovations in battery materials are making them more eco-friendly, but they still contain a lot of rare materials. This is why you see more and more battery recycling.

A Buyer’s Guide for the Battery Powered Lawnmowers

The battery-powered lawn mowers are very quiet and very clean. The main issue is that they are not as powerful as gas-powered lawnmowers. Some of these factors should be considered when purchasing a lawnmower.

Some products may have some imperfections, but that does not mean that they should be invalidated. For example, an appliance has been designed poorly. The main element to consider includes what the device has to offer. For example, the sound produced by the battery-powered lawnmower is bearable.

The main issue is the mechanical life of the battery-powered lawnmower; nevertheless, every product has its cons. Different tools have varying features that may be annoying to some people while also pleasing other individuals.

Manufacturers usually focus on adding some substance to the materials. They also ensure that the design is enticing so that they may attract a larger client base. Also, the manufacturer ensures that you can get value for your money, depending on the price of each product. As a client, you should be able to determine the value of your product. Here, when shopping for a battery-powered lawnmower, you need to factor in its value.

Different principles apply to battery-powered lawnmowers. The principles must be tested before the launch of these products to the market. The tools are ordinarily light, small, and quiet, and they are started by pushing a button. The battery-powered lawn mowers are also a suitable example of the development cycle whereby the products are improved gradually. The battery-powered lawnmowers usually experience some inconsistency in the cut quality and power output. The design flaw also possesses some significant challenges.

Are battery power lawnmowers any good?

Recent battery-powered lawnmowers are as good as gas models. They are priced similarly and will be even cheaper in the long run. Battery-powered lawnmowers need a lot less maintenance, no oil, and no gas. They are an excellent choice for laws smaller than half an acre.

The run time of recent higher-end models has increased such that you can cut close to half an acre on one charge. That means they will run around 70 minutes. They use often multiple batteries to achieve this.

If your model does not last that long, I recommend purchasing an additional set, so you can work with one, and charge the other.

One thing to keep in mind is, good rechargeable lawnmower batteries have a lifetime of 10-20 years and 1000 charge cycles, with proper usage and maintenance. Like with electric cars, the more often you charge them, the shorter the lifetime. Also, fast charging decreases the lifetime. With cheaper rechargeable batteries you can expect a lifetime of around 5 to 10 years and 500 charge cycles, or even less.

Additional Information

Battery-powered lawn mowers are easy to maintain. Therefore, you will spend less by investing in this machine. It is also easy to operate. The spare parts are also readily available in various stores. Besides, the device isn’t gas-operated. This implies that it is cheaper compared to other lawnmowers. If you own a small yard, you need to consider a few factors before investing in a battery-powered lawnmower. For instance, what is your budget?

Will you be able to recharge the batteries before the mowing begins? Homeowners should answer these and more questions before investing in a battery-powered lawnmower. If you are a prospect owner, you also need to consider the factors highlighted in this blog post before investing in a battery-powered lawnmower. 

Final Remarks

We all detest noise pollution. Unfortunately, some lawnmowers come with noise pollution, particularly when it’s time to operate them. This is a feature to worry about. With battery-powered lawnmowers, you should not worry about noise pollution during the process of mowing your yard. They are quiet.

Another factor many home and commercial owners look into when choosing a lawnmower is the impact of the machine on the environment. Some models of lawnmowers contribute to environmental pollution. Battery-powered lawnmowers do not contribute to air pollution.

When looking for a battery-powered lawnmower, you should weigh your needs. Some of the questions include; will you manage to foot the maintenance costs, are you going to mow a steep or flat yard, and is it possible to invest in the spare parts of the machine? It would help if you also learned how to operate the device before investing in it.

Other than that, you should also read the manual that comes with the machine. Here, you will learn more about the uses of your machine. You will also garner lessons about how to operate your battery-powered lawnmower. In the end, you will also learn how to incorporate different maintenance tips into your usual routine.

Performance of Battery Walk-Behind Mowers

When it comes to yard work, having the right tools is essential. Comprehensive testing by Consumer Reports reveals that battery walk-behind mowers, specifically from Ego, Greenworks, and Ryobi, are giving their gas counterparts a run for their money.

In fact, these battery mowers performed as well, if not better, than the best gas-powered mowers in the market.

• Suitability of Battery Mowers for Smaller Lawns

If you have a lawn that is less than a half-acre in size, battery walk-behind mowers are a suitable choice for you. They offer enough power to handle the job efficiently and are generally easier to maintain than gas-powered mowers.

• Superior Performance of the Greenworks Self-Propelled Mower

In the category of self-propelled battery mowers, Greenworks takes the lead. Its model earned the same score as the top-rated gas model, evidencing the fact that battery mowers can compete head-on with traditional gas mowers.

• Comprehensive Testing by Consumer Reports

The ratings given by Consumer Reports are based on rigorous and comprehensive testing. To determine how well a mower performs, the team plants 1,800 pounds of grass seed and then cuts 500,000 square feet of grass in three modes.

This extensive testing procedure ensures that the ratings and recommendations given are reliable and thorough.

• The Overall Scoring Process

The overall score of each mower model is not just based on its performance. Consumer Reports also takes into account predicted reliability and owner satisfaction ratings. This holistic approach ensures that consumers are provided with the most accurate representation of each mower model.

• Recommended Battery Mowers by Consumer Reports

In their latest ratings, more than half of the recommended walk-behind lawnmowers are battery-powered. This signifies a growing trend towards environmentally friendly, battery-operated lawn care equipment.

• Ideal Mowers for Different Lawn Sizes

The size of your lawn plays a significant role in deciding the type of mower that would be most suitable. For lawns of less than a quarter acre, a battery push mower is recommended due to its convenience and ease of use.

If your lawn is between a quarter-acre and a half-acre, a self-propelled mower would be a better fit. They are more powerful and require less effort to maneuver around larger lawns.

• Comprehensive Lawn Mower and Tractor Buying Guide

Consumer Reports also provides a comprehensive Lawn Mower and Tractor Buying Guide to assist consumers in making informed decisions.

The guide, which includes in-depth ratings for members, can be found on the Consumer Reports website. The recommendations and ratings in this guide make it easier for consumers to find a mower that fits their needs and budgets.

• In conclusion

Battery walk-behind mowers have proven to be a game changer in the lawn care industry. Their impressive performance and the growing trend of environmentally conscious consumers have pushed manufacturers like Ego, Greenworks, and Ryobi to the forefront of the market.

So the next time you are in the market for a new mower, don’t overlook the battery-powered options.

Debunking Myths About Battery Mowers

When it comes to maintaining your yard, lawnmowers are a must-have. The market is abuzz with numerous types, including gas mowers and battery mowers.

However, certain misconceptions about battery mowers abound, often leading to bias. This article aims to debunk five common myths about battery mowers to provide a clearer perspective.

• Myth 1: Gas Mowers are Superior in Grass Health

While advancements in blade design have undoubtedly improved the performance of gas mowers, particularly in damp or tough grass conditions, it’s wrong to assume battery mowers don’t keep up.

Many battery-powered mowers now feature similar technological advances, ensuring an equally good cut quality.

• Myth 2: Battery Mowers are More Expensive

Yes, the average added cost of battery mowers stands at about $50. However, a more nuanced comparison that factors in machine features, operating costs like fuel for gas mowers, and battery replacements for battery mowers would provide a better picture.

Remember, the true cost of any equipment shouldn’t only consider initial acquisition cost but also ongoing costs.

• Myth 3: Gas Mowers Are More Durable

The belief that gas mowers last longer and are more robust is common. While it is true that the life expectancy of gas mowers typically surpasses that of battery-powered mowers (with the latter often needing replacement after about five years), it’s worth pointing out that battery technology is improving.

With proper maintenance and care, newer battery mowers are closing the longevity gap.

• Myth 4: Battery Mowers Have More Demanding Maintenance

It used to be that gas mowers required constant and messy oil changes, which gave battery mowers an advantage in the maintenance department.

However, that’s no longer the case. Innovations, such as the Just Check & Add Technology, have significantly simplified maintenance for gas mowers, making them just as easy, if not easier, to maintain than their battery counterparts.

• Myth 5: Battery Mowers Aren’t As Easy to Start and Store

Battery mowers are usually lauded for their fast starts and easy storage. Conversely, gas mowers were often cursed for their hard-to-pull start cords and bulky frames.

However, newer gas mower models now feature push-button starts and foldaway options, matching, if not exceeding, the convenience of battery mowers.

• Myth 6: Battery Mowers are More Eco-Friendly

A common misconception is that battery mowers are more eco-friendly because they don’t emit fumes during use. However, it’s important to remember that recharging these mowers uses electricity, which can originate from coal-powered plants.

Also worth considering is battery disposal, which poses environmental challenges. In contrast, gas mowers have evolved to become cleaner, with reduced emissions and models possessing Quiet Power Technology, which combats noise pollution.

The Environmental Protection Agency provides further guidelines on green yard care.

• Takeaway

In conclusion, while battery mowers do hold certain advantages, they’re not necessarily superior to gas mowers, as often presumed. Before deciding on which type to go for, consider your specific mowing needs, budget, and preferences.

A well-chosen mower, be it battery-powered or gas-powered, can serve you equally effectively and efficiently. So, conduct your research, weigh your options, and make a well-informed purchase.

Suitability of Battery-Powered Lawnmowers for Small Yards

For homeowners with small yards, battery-powered lawnmowers can be a game-changer. Unlike gas-operated mowers, these machines are compact, lightweight, and extremely user-friendly. Not only for mowing, but they can also scale well for trimming and cleaning surfaces with minimal physical effort.

• The Ego Electric Lawn Mower: A Feat in Technology and Design

One great example of the battery-powered grasp of engineering and design is the Ego electric lawn mower. With a hefty front handle, maneuverability becomes less of a concern, even for beginners.

The distinctive LED dashboard shows the battery charge level and allows for easy switching between various settings.

• The Advent of Technological Improvements in Battery Mowers

Over the years, numerous advancements have been made in the technology of battery-powered mowers. The advent of lithium-ion batteries, for instance, offers better durability and run time compared to older generations of batteries.

Such batteries combine power and efficiency in a way that traditional batteries fail to replicate.

Another significant advancement is the introduction of brushless motors, which not only offer increased reliability but also improve the life expectancy of the machine.

Yet another progress is the electronically controlled output. It adjusts the motor speed and blade speed based on the underlying grass conditions. As a result, it eliminates the risk of either burning out the motor by overloading it or obtaining a less-than-ideal cut due to slow blade speed.

• Safety Advantages of Battery-Powered Lawnmowers

In addition to their technological advancements, battery-powered mowers are inherently safer to use than their gas-powered counterparts. They’re quieter in operation, reducing noise pollution, and do not have hot surfaces that pose burn risks, a feature particularly beneficial for households with children.

• Testing Battery-Powered Lawnmowers

The process of testing these machines includes mowing various types of grass and handling different terrains. The objective is to check the overall performance while specifically focusing on achieving a neat and precise cut.

• Recommended Brands for Electric Lawn Mowers

Among the multitude of available options, the Craftsman, Toro, Husqvarna, and Makita electric lawn mowers stand out based on their performance garnering in the tests. These manufacturers have managed to successfully balance power, durability, and practicality in their designs.

This study on Electric Lawn Mowers carried out by the Nature Conservancy also recommends them.

• Final Thoughts

In conclusion, battery-powered lawnmowers, like the models from Ego, Craftsman, Toro, Husqvarna, and Makita, bring together convenience, function, safety, and technology.

Their suitability for homeowners with small yards is undeniable. With these powerful yet compact and user-friendly machines, keeping your yard in good shape becomes less of a chore and more of a joy. A well-chosen electric lawn mower can offer you the freedom and flexibility you need – and deserve.

• Battery-Powered Lawnmowers: Lightweight for Easy Maneuvering

When tackling difficult terrains or slopes in lawn care, the weight of your lawnmower is crucial. A lightweight lawnmower, like battery-operated models, can be a great advantage.

Typically weighing in at approximately 50-60 pounds, these mowers are much easier to maneuver. Whether you’re dealing with slopes or hilly areas, their lightness makes them highly efficient.

• Less Noise with Battery-Operated Mowers

Noise pollution is a significant concern, especially in densely populated neighborhoods. Battery-powered lawnmowers are impressively quiet, typically emitting only around 65-80 decibels while in use.

On the flip side, gas-powered models can produce noise levels of up to 90 decibels. This information is not guessed but based on data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• The Environmentally Friendly Choice: Battery-Powered Lawnmowers

For environmentally conscious homeowners, choosing a battery-powered lawnmower can serve as a greener option. Unlike gas-operated models, they do not emit toxic fumes. This makes them safer for the environment, the operator, and those nearby.

• Easy Maintenance with Battery-Operated Models

With a battery-powered lawnmower, you could also save significantly on maintenance. You won’t need to worry about a gas engine, making the maintenance process less intensive compared to gas-powered models.

• Enhancing Usability with Simple Start and Stop Mechanism

Operating a battery-powered lawnmower is simple. Most come with a push-button start and stop mechanism. Additionally, the absence of a power cord enhances maneuverability and reduces the chances of an accident.

• Economic Benefits of Battery-Powered Lawnmowers

In terms of affordability, you can generally expect a battery-powered mower to fall in a reasonable range, typically between $150 and $450. In comparison, gas-powered models usually demand a higher upfront investment.

• Considering Power Capabilities

Despite their advantages, battery-powered lawnmowers do come with some limitations. The main one is their lack of power to handle long hours of continuous mowing or particularly tall grass.

Therefore, if your mowing needs include regularly dealing with thick, tall grass or large areas, a gas-powered option might be more suitable.

• Battery Life Expectancy in Battery-Powered Lawnmowers

Looking at battery life, these mowers typically last about 40-60 minutes before requiring a recharge. Make sure to take this into consideration when planning your mowing session, especially if you have a large yard.

• Additional Investments: Extra Batteries

To overcome the limited battery life, you may need to purchase additional batteries. Keep in mind that while this might be an added expense, it could also help you in uninterrupted mowing operations.

• Maintenance Steps for Battery-Powered Lawnmower

Proper maintenance of a battery-powered lawnmower includes several important steps. These involve carrying out regular cleaning, properly storing and charging the battery, lubricating the moving parts, and sharpening the blades.

Following these suggested, maintenance steps can ensure your mower stays in optimum working condition for many years. The US Department of Energy provides excellent resources for maintaining electric equipment.

From a professional standpoint, battery-powered lawnmowers offer many advantages making them a great option for homeowners. Whether it’s their lightweight, lower noise levels, or environmentally friendly operation, these machines cater to modern lawn care needs.

Remember to be aware of their limitations, particularly in terms of power and battery life, to make the best decision for your lawn.