Battery operated lawn mowers score high on ease of use and functionality. But there are certain areas where these machines may be less than impressive. Here I discuss some basic pros and cons of battery powered lawn mowers.
| Did you know? Healthy lawns help purify water that enter aquifers. They also serve as natural air conditioners. |
With soaring oil prices, gas powered lawn mowers may no longer be a viable choice for most homeowners. And moreover, such machines contribute highly to environment pollution. Electric lawn mowers may be a solution, but given their power chords, these machines offer low functionality. So in order to help consumers bypass all such inconveniences, lawn mowers that run on high capacity batteries were invented. Offering independent operation, convenience, and performance, these machines are making a buzz in the lawn mower industry.
The Pros
Mobility
The main benefit of using battery powered lawn mowers is their mobility. Their working is not bound by the limitations of electrical cords. Electric lawn mowers have a constant problem of managing corded electrical engines. Moreover, in the presence of electrical cords, there is a lurking risk of kids or pets being electrocuted.
Removable Battery
Some cordless lawn mowers come with removable batteries. So when one set of batteries runs out, you can put it to charge while you use another set and get the job done.
Self-Propelled
Cordless lawn mowers offer self-propelled functionality too. Here the rear wheels of the machine are powered; all you have to do is decide the direction and control the speed. But note that this self-propelled feature can eat up the battery’s life.
Maintenance
Apart from being economical, these lawn mowers are also low on maintenance. They lack gas, oil, spark plugs or cords, unlike conventional mowers. On an average, you may have to pump gas worth $30-$40* in a gas operated mower. But in case of a battery operated one, the maintenance fee may be as low as $5*.
*Prices depend on the actual use of the machine.
Environment
Did you know that operating a gas powered mower for about an hour pollutes the environment as much as driving a car for 20 miles? Pollution-free operation is the most admirable quality of battery powered mowers. Furthermore, when compared to gas powered mowers, these machines are virtually mute.
Some Cons
» Battery powered lawn mowers may not be a good choice for people who have large lawns. Usually, batteries that come in these machines require recharging after an hour of operation. The charging time of a battery could be about 10-20 hours. So in such a scenario, using different sets of batteries would ensure continuous operation.
» If your lawn is uneven or crowded with long or wet grass, then a battery powered lawn mower may not be so handy. These machines perform well on flat grounds, and in cutting level grass.
» Battery operated lawn mowers are relatively less powerful than their counterparts that run on gas. You cannot use them to mow a large amount of grass at a time. In such a case, regular mowing is preferable for proper lawn care.
» Given the batteries, cordless mowers are usually on the heavier side when compared to their corded counterparts. And this may act as a disadvantage for mowing steep slopes, uneven surfaces, or ground that is not hard enough to support their weight.
Top Manufacturers
A lawn mower is a major household investment which you just cannot make relying on some fancy or phony adds or marketing campaigns. Always go for the best. Here is a list of some reputable companies which are known to manufacture the best battery powered lawn mowers on the market.
1. Black and Decker
2. Earthwise
3. Epic
4. Friendly Robotics
5. Greenworks
6. Solaris
7. Toro
8. Worx
So if you are someone who owns a small lawn, does not mind regular mowing, and care about the environment, then a battery operated lawn mower is just what you need.