Greenlinks Blog
Electric Lawnmowers
-Here are five practical things to consider before purchasing.
1. The size of your lawn.
Small lawns are perfect for electric lawnmowers. They can be mowed in the one-hour time limit of the battery powered models, and the length of electrical extension cord needed for the corded models is easy to manage. Because electric lawnmowers have smaller mowing decks, decide if you are willing to trade time mowing for the environmental benefit, especially if you have a medium or large-sized lawn. If you have a medium or large-sized lawn, a cordless model may be perfect as a trim mower and some models come with edger/trimmer attachments.
2. The contour of your lawn.
The downside: Electric lawnmowers are not self-propelled. If your lawn has steep slopes, mowing uphill will require extra oomph. The upside: Because electric mowers are lighter, they are easier to handle. The mower doesn’t pull you down the slope, giving you more control.
3. Corded models.
In general they are less expensive and lighter than the battery-powered ones. However, they do require convenient electrical outlets. It’s best to have an outdoor outlet on two sides of your house.
Corded models require changing the way you mow because for safety the extension cord must be on the mowed side of the lawn. Mowing is done in a back and forth pattern. Rather than pivoting to change direction, the handle is flipped back and forth.
With strategy and practice you mow your lawn as efficiently as before.
4. Battery-operated models.
You won’t have to change your pattern of mowing, but they are heavier making them harder to push. If you have a medium or large lawn, an extra battery charged and ready to use is advised because the batteries only last for an hour. On the other hand, when the battery runs out, you can rest while it recharges. Remember, you are pushing the mower.
5. Maintenance.
If you enjoy the feel of grease and oil on your hands, changing spark plugs and roar of a well-tuned engine, then an electric lawn mower is not for you. The amount of maintenance on an electric mower is very low, saving you time and money.
- You won’t buy gas, oil and annual tune ups.
- You won’t spend time changing oil, hauling gas and taking your mower in for tune ups and repair.
- No more storing flammable liquid or worrying about spills in your vehicle and garage or the danger to children and pets.
The underside of the mower must be kept free of grass buildup that blocks airflow to cool the engine. Fortunately, it’s easy to clean because there aren’t any liquids in the mower, it is lightweight, and is easily turned on its side for cleaning.