Electric lawn mowers have experienced a significant surge in popularity in recent years, driven by a combination of environmental consciousness, technological advancements, and shifting consumer preferences.
As awareness of environmental issues like air and noise pollution continues to grow, more homeowners are seeking eco-friendly alternatives to traditional gas-powered lawn mowers.
Electric mowers offer a cleaner, quieter, and more sustainable solution, emitting zero harmful emissions and reducing noise levels, making them particularly appealing in urban and suburban environments.
Moreover, advancements in battery technology have addressed previous limitations, such as limited runtime and power, making battery-powered electric mowers more practical and efficient than ever before.
Additionally, the convenience factor cannot be overlooked, as electric mowers require minimal maintenance compared to their gas-powered counterparts, eliminating the need for fuel, oil changes, and spark plug replacements.
The ease of use, coupled with the lower long-term operating costs, has further contributed to the growing adoption of electric lawn mowers among homeowners, landscapers, and commercial users alike.
As society continues to prioritize sustainability and convenience, the trend towards electric lawn mowers is expected to persist, driving further innovation and market expansion in the years to come.
Benefits of Electric Lawn Mowers
Electric lawn mowers offer a plethora of benefits that make them an attractive choice for homeowners and landscapers alike. Some of these benefits include:
Environmental Friendliness:
Electric lawn mowers produce zero emissions during operation, making them an eco-friendly alternative to gas-powered mowers. This reduction in emissions helps to minimize air pollution and decrease the carbon footprint associated with lawn care activities.
Quiet Operation:
Unlike noisy gas-powered mowers, electric mowers operate quietly, reducing noise pollution in residential neighborhoods. This makes them ideal for early morning or late evening mowing sessions without disturbing neighbors or violating noise ordinances.
Ease of Use:
Electric mowers are generally lighter and easier to maneuver than gas-powered mowers, making them suitable for users of all ages and physical abilities. Their push-button start and simplified maintenance requirements, such as no oil changes or fuel mixing, contribute to their user-friendly design.
Lower Operating Costs:
Electric mowers have lower operating costs compared to their gas-powered counterparts. They do not require gasoline, oil, or spark plugs, resulting in savings over time. Additionally, electric mowers typically have fewer moving parts, reducing the need for maintenance and repair.
Convenience:
With electric mowers, users don’t have to worry about running out of gas or dealing with the hassle of pull-starting engines. They can simply plug in the mower and start mowing, eliminating the need for trips to the gas station or storing flammable fuels.
Reduced Vibrations:
Electric mowers produce fewer vibrations during operation compared to gas-powered mowers, resulting in a smoother and more comfortable mowing experience. This can be particularly beneficial for users who experience hand fatigue or discomfort when using traditional mowers.
Versatility:
Electric mowers come in corded and cordless models, offering users flexibility in choosing the best option for their lawn size and layout. Cordless models, powered by rechargeable batteries, provide freedom of movement without the constraints of cords, while corded models offer unlimited runtime as long as they’re connected to a power source.
Overall, the benefits of electric lawn mowers, including environmental friendliness, quiet operation, ease of use, lower operating costs, and versatility, make them a compelling choice for homeowners looking to maintain a beautiful lawn while minimizing their impact on the environment.
Gas or Electric: Which mower is best?
Comparison of Gas vs. Electric Mowers:
Introduction to Testing: The speaker conducted a thorough comparison between the best gas and electric lawn mowers available, aiming to determine which performs better across various challenges.
Audience Engagement: Before diving into the comparison, the speaker engaged their audience, asking for predictions on which type of mower they believe would emerge victorious.
Performance Test Setup: The speaker embarked on a “lawn mower marathon,” where they walked continuously until the battery died or the gas ran out, putting both types of mowers through real-world endurance tests.
Observations during Use: Throughout the testing process, the speaker provided real-time commentary on the performance and user experience of both electric and gas mowers. They highlighted aspects such as weight, battery life, noise levels, and ease of use.
Noteworthy Encounters: During the testing, the speaker encountered various situations, including interactions with individuals interested in receiving a free electric mower. These anecdotes added a personal touch to the evaluation process.
Endurance Test Results: After thorough testing, the speaker revealed that the electric mower lasted approximately 12 minutes less than the gas mower, showcasing a notable difference in runtime.
Performance Challenges: The speaker conducted a “bog down showdown,” where both mowers faced dense, overgrown grass to determine which would bog down first. Additionally, a “cut check” was performed to assess each mower’s ability to lift and cut grass effectively.
Ease of Use Assessment: The speaker provided insights into the user experience of both mowers, highlighting differences in handling, maneuverability, and control. They addressed features such as start-up mechanisms, steering responsiveness, and overall comfort during operation.
Cost Comparison: A detailed cost comparison was conducted, factoring in initial purchase prices, maintenance requirements, and operating expenses over a five-year period. The electric mower emerged as the more cost-effective option, considering both upfront and long-term costs.
Top 5 Electric Lawn Mowers
The Worx Powershare Cordless Mower
Best pick
Specifications
The Worx Powershare Cordless Mower is a standout option for homeowners with small yards seeking a reliable and efficient lawn care solution. Its compact size makes it perfect for navigating tight spaces and maneuvering around obstacles commonly found in smaller yards.
Despite its small footprint, this mower packs a punch with an extended battery life powered by two 4.0 Ah batteries. This ensures that users can enjoy uninterrupted mowing sessions without the hassle of frequent recharges.
One notable feature of The Worx Powershare Cordless Mower is its turbo boost feature, which provides enhanced cutting power for tackling tougher grass conditions.
Whether dealing with thick patches or overgrown areas, this mower is up to the task, thanks to its turbo mode. Additionally, its full-width cutting capability allows for efficient mowing, reducing the time and effort required to maintain a pristine lawn.
Lawn care enthusiasts will appreciate the inclusion of a mulch plug and rear roller, allowing for versatile lawn care options. Whether mulching for fertilization or creating visually pleasing stripes, this mower offers flexibility to suit various preferences.
Moreover, the assembly process is straightforward and intuitive, ensuring that users can start mowing with minimal hassle.
Durability is another highlight of The Worx Powershare Cordless Mower, with its sturdy build and sleek black and orange design.
The combination of quality materials and thoughtful design ensures that this mower can withstand the rigors of regular use while maintaining its aesthetic appeal.
In terms of performance, this mower excels with its Eco Mode and turbo options, providing users with the versatility to adjust cutting power according to their needs. Whether prioritizing battery life or cutting efficiency, users can easily switch between modes to achieve the desired results.
Overall, The Works Powershare Cordless Mower offers an excellent balance of performance, convenience, and affordability, making it a top choice for homeowners with small yards.
With its compact size, extended battery life, and versatile features, this mower is sure to exceed expectations and provide years of reliable lawn care service.
Pros
Cons
Greenworks 20in Cordless Lawn Mower
Best Budget
Specifications
The Greenworks 20-inch Cordless Lawn Mower stands out as a top choice for homeowners with larger lawns, offering exceptional value and performance.
With the capacity to handle areas larger than 10,800 square feet, this mower is well-suited for those with expansive outdoor spaces to maintain.
Its ability to cover such vast areas is made possible by its dual battery ports and automatic switch, ensuring uninterrupted mowing sessions without the need for frequent battery changes.
One of the key highlights of the Greenworks mower is its intelligent mowing technology, which adjusts power output based on grass density. This innovative feature optimizes efficiency and battery life, allowing users to achieve consistent results across various lawn conditions.
Additionally, the mower operates with zero emissions and produces minimal noise, providing an environmentally friendly and peaceful mowing experience.
Equipped with two blades, the Greenworks mower delivers precise cutting and mulching performance.
The blades efficiently chop grass into fine pieces, promoting healthy lawn growth by returning nutrients to the soil. With a wide cutting width of 20 inches, users can cover more ground in less time, maximizing productivity during mowing sessions.
Furthermore, the Greenworks mower offers added convenience with its interchangeable battery, which is compatible with other Greenworks products. This compatibility allows users to share batteries across their outdoor power tools, minimizing the need for multiple battery types and reducing overall costs.
In summary, the Greenworks 20-inch Cordless Lawn Mower combines excellent value, advanced technology, and versatile features to deliver outstanding performance for homeowners with larger lawns.
With its ability to handle expansive areas, intelligent mowing technology, and eco-friendly operation, this mower is a reliable and efficient choice for maintaining a pristine lawn year-round.
Pros
Cons
Ryobi 20in Brushless Self-Propelled Mower
Best overall
Specifications
The Ryobi 20-inch Brushless Self-Propelled Mower is a standout choice for homeowners seeking a powerful and efficient lawn mowing experience. Its innovative features and reliable performance make it well worth the investment for those looking to elevate their lawn care routine.
At the heart of the Ryobi mower is its brushless motor, which sets it apart with reduced friction and noise compared to traditional motors.
This technology not only extends the motor’s lifespan but also ensures quieter operation, allowing users to enjoy a more peaceful mowing experience without sacrificing performance.
Despite its powerful performance, the Ryobi mower boasts a lightweight design that makes it easy to maneuver across various terrains.
The self-propelling front-wheel drive system further enhances maneuverability, effortlessly guiding the mower over grass and uneven surfaces with minimal effort from the operator.
Setting up the Ryobi mower is a breeze, thanks to its foldable handles and straightforward battery installation process. Users can quickly unfold the handles and install the battery with ease, getting their mower ready for action in no time.
The mower’s adjustable cutting height adds to its versatility, allowing users to customize their cutting preferences with single-handed operation.
Whether tackling tall grass or maintaining a shorter lawn, users can easily adjust the cutting height to achieve their desired results.
Equipped with a 6Ah lithium-ion battery, the Ryobi mower delivers consistent performance throughout each mowing session. The efficient cutting blades efficiently handle grass clippings while maintaining a lightweight design for ease of use.
In summary, the Ryobi 20-inch Brushless Self-Propelled Mower offers superior performance and features for homeowners willing to invest extra in their lawn care equipment.
With its brushless motor, lightweight design, self-propelling system, and adjustable cutting height, this mower delivers exceptional results with minimal effort, making it a top choice for discerning users seeking the best in lawn mowing technology.
Pros
Cons
Greenworks vs. Ryobi Lawn Mowers
When it comes to selecting a powerful and reliable lawn mower for your garden, Greenworks and Ryobi are two prominent brands that offer a wide range of products catering to various needs. In this comparison, we delve into which mower would be the best choice as summer approaches, considering factors such as price, product range, design, and features.
Greenworks vs. Ryobi Lawn Mowers: Design
One significant distinction in design between Greenworks and Ryobi lawn mowers lies in power and functionality. Ryobi boasts a range of popular 40V lithium mowers engineered with brushless motors, aiming to deliver gas-like power.
Additionally, Ryobi mowers often feature an easy single-point adjustment system for choosing cutting positions conveniently, catering to user preferences with simplicity.
With models equipped with 40V batteries, users can expect up to half an acre’s worth of cutting time, making them ideal for small gardens.
On the other hand, Greenworks mowers prioritize user-friendly operation with features such as push-button starts, often accompanied by a safety key for added security.
Many Greenworks models also sport foldable handles, facilitating compact storage when not in use. Moreover, both brands offer clipping bags designed for easy removal, streamlining the post-mowing cleanup process for added convenience.
User Reviews
Considering user reviews can provide valuable insights into the buying experience with each brand. Greenworks, with its extensive product range, accumulates numerous reviews, offering a glimpse into customer satisfaction.
For example, the popular Greenworks 40V 21-inch brushless mower garners a commendable 4.4-star rating out of 5 on Amazon, based on over 700 user reviews.
However, opinions on Greenworks’ customer service vary, with some praising its helpfulness and others expressing frustration with response times and issue resolution.
Which Should You Buy?
Ultimately, the decision between Greenworks and Ryobi lawn mowers depends on your specific requirements and preferences.
If you prioritize a wide product range and potentially lower prices, Greenworks may be the preferred option, offering versatility and choice. Conversely, Ryobi provides comparable models with similar design and features, backed by excellent customer service, as attested by user reviews.
Both brands offer quality mowers that can cater to different needs, ensuring a great mowing experience for homeowners. Whether you opt for Greenworks or Ryobi, you can expect reliable performance and efficient lawn maintenance, making your gardening tasks a breeze.
Makita 21in Self-Propelled Mower
Best value
Specifications
The Makita 21-inch Self-Propelled Mower is a reliable and efficient option for homeowners with medium-sized lawns, offering a blend of power, convenience, and ease of use to tackle lawn maintenance tasks with ease.
At the core of the Makita mower is its brushed motor, which drives a 21-inch blade to deliver consistent cutting performance. The rear discharge port enhances cut quality by minimizing airflow disruption in the deck design, resulting in precise and clean cutting results across the lawn.
Equipped with two batteries, the Makita mower provides around 40 minutes of runtime, ensuring sufficient power to cover medium-sized lawns without interruption.
This dual battery setup also adds convenience, allowing users to swap batteries when needed for extended mowing sessions.
The inclusion of cruise control further enhances the user experience by enabling convenient speed adjustment during operation. Users can easily adjust the mower’s pace to match their walking speed, reducing fatigue and improving overall comfort during mowing.
Makita’s mower features rubber tires with an aggressive tread pattern, providing improved grip and traction on various terrains. This ensures stability and maneuverability, allowing the mower to navigate smoothly over uneven surfaces with confidence.
The single power lever system simplifies cutting height adjustments, allowing users to effortlessly raise or lower the cutting height to suit their preferences. This user-friendly design feature makes it easy to achieve the desired lawn height with minimal effort.
Setting up the Makita mower is a hassle-free process, thanks to its foldable handles and simple battery installation. Users can quickly fold and unfold the handles for storage or transportation, while the battery installation requires no special tools, ensuring a smooth setup experience.
Overall, the Makita 21-inch Self-Propelled Mower offers commendable performance and convenience for homeowners with medium-sized lawns.
With its powerful motor, rear discharge port, dual battery system, cruise control, and user-friendly design, this mower simplifies lawn maintenance tasks while delivering reliable results, making it a top choice for discerning users seeking efficiency and performance in their lawn care equipment.
Pros
Cons
EGO Power Plus 21in Self-Propelled Mower
Best color
Specifications
The EGO Power Plus 21-inch Self-Propelled Mower is a standout choice in the world of electric lawn mowers, offering unmatched performance, convenience, and affordability to homeowners looking for reliable lawn care equipment.
At the heart of the EGO mower is its interchangeable 56V Arc lithium batteries, which provide consistent power to tackle lawn maintenance tasks with ease.
This battery system ensures reliable performance throughout the mowing session, allowing users to achieve consistent results without interruptions.
Equipped with a brushless motor, the EGO mower features automatic power adjustment technology that adapts to dense grass conditions, ensuring optimal cutting performance in various mowing scenarios.
Whether dealing with thick patches or regular maintenance, this mower delivers the power needed to achieve a clean and precise cut every time.
The inclusion of a control lever allows users to adjust the mowing pace according to their walking speed, enhancing comfort and control during operation.
With six different height settings to choose from, users have the versatility to customize their lawn’s appearance to their preferences, ensuring a tailored mowing experience.
The EGO mower offers multiple grass disposal options, including mulching, side discharge, or bagging, providing flexibility to suit different lawn care needs. Conveniently placed controls on or near the handle make operation effortless, allowing users to access essential functions without hassle.
For added convenience, the EGO mower features a retractable and foldable handle, allowing for compact storage when not in use. This space-saving design ensures that the mower takes up minimal storage space in sheds or garages, maximizing available space for other tools and equipment.
Overall, the EGO Power Plus 21-inch Self-Propelled Mower delivers top-notch performance at an excellent price-quality ratio.
With its powerful battery system, brushless motor, adjustable mowing pace, versatile height settings, convenient controls, and compact storage design, this mower offers exceptional value to homeowners seeking reliable and efficient lawn care equipment.
Pros
Cons
Makita 21in vs EGO Power Plus Mower
Makita’s Swift Engagement:
As the test begins, the Makita mower stands out for its swift engagement, offering a quicker response compared to its counterpart. The narrator emphasizes how this immediate response becomes apparent while mowing, highlighting the efficiency of Makita’s drive system.
Unlike some battery-powered mowers plagued by a lag when disengaging the motor, the Makita mower instantly responds, facilitating seamless operation.
Efficient Performance in Thicker Grass:
Moving on to testing in thicker grass, the Makita continues to impress with its uninterrupted performance.
Despite encountering slightly longer and denser grass, the Makita effortlessly powers through without missing a beat. This demonstration underscores Makita’s robust design and superior capability to handle challenging grass conditions with ease.
Comparison with Competitor:
In contrast, the competitor, represented by the EGO mower, struggles to maintain consistent performance in thicker grass.
The narrator highlights the EGO mower’s tendency to stop abruptly when faced with denser grass, requiring a moment to ramp up and resume operation. This contrast in performance serves to underscore Makita’s dominance in challenging mowing scenarios.
Final Verdict:
The comparison concludes with a resounding endorsement of the Makita mower, hailed as the preferred choice for its superior speed, responsiveness, and performance, even in demanding grass conditions.
The narrator’s preference for the Makita mower is evident, emphasizing its efficiency, reliability, and overall superiority over the competition. This thorough assessment reaffirms Makita’s position as a top contender in the realm of battery-powered mowers, earning it high praise for its exceptional performance and user-friendly design.
Choosing the Right Electric Lawn Mower Before Buy
Potential buyers considering purchasing an electric lawn mower should carefully evaluate several key features to ensure they select the most suitable model for their needs:
Corded vs. Cordless: Determine whether a corded or cordless electric mower would be more convenient for your lawn size and layout. Corded mowers offer unlimited runtime but require access to a power outlet and may be less maneuverable. Cordless mowers provide greater freedom of movement but are limited by battery life and may require recharging during use.
Battery Life: For cordless electric mowers, battery life is crucial. Consider the size of your lawn and choose a mower with a battery that can comfortably handle the area without needing frequent recharges. Look for mowers with long-lasting batteries or the option to use interchangeable batteries for extended runtime.
Cutting Width: The cutting width of the mower determines how much grass it can cut in each pass. Larger cutting widths can reduce mowing time for larger lawns but may be less maneuverable in tight spaces. Consider the size of your lawn and any obstacles present to determine the optimal cutting width for your needs.
Adjustable Cutting Height: Look for mowers with adjustable cutting height settings to accommodate different grass lengths and preferences. Being able to customize the cutting height allows for more precise lawn maintenance and can help achieve the desired grass height for a healthy lawn.
Mulching, Bagging, or Side Discharge: Consider your preferred method of grass disposal—mulching, bagging, or side discharge—and choose a mower that offers the appropriate functionality. Some mowers may offer all three options, providing versatility for different lawn care needs.
Ease of Use and Maintenance: Evaluate the mower’s ease of use, including features such as ergonomic handles, easy-start mechanisms, and intuitive controls. Additionally, consider maintenance requirements such as blade sharpening, battery charging, and overall durability.
Reviews and Recommendations: Take the time to read reviews and seek recommendations from other users to gauge the overall performance and reliability of the mower models you’re considering. Pay attention to factors such as cutting performance, battery life, build quality, and customer support.
By carefully considering and checking these electric lawn mower features, potential buyers can make informed decisions and choose a mower that meets their specific requirements for lawn care.
The Agricultural Research Service (ARS) conducts research to develop and transfer solutions to agricultural problems of high national priority.
Introduce myself
I’m delighted to share my passion for gardening and expertise in electric lawn mowers with you. As a dedicated gardening enthusiast for over a decade, I’ve spent countless hours tending to my own lush green spaces, cultivating everything from vibrant flower beds to neatly manicured lawns.
My journey with electric lawn mowers began several years ago when I decided to make the switch to eco-friendly gardening practices.
Since then, I’ve had the pleasure of using various electric mower models to maintain my outdoor oasis. From compact cordless mowers perfect for my small urban garden to robust self-propelled models ideal for larger lawns, I’ve experienced firsthand the convenience, efficiency, and environmental benefits of electric mowers.
Through extensive research, hands-on testing, and continuous learning, I’ve honed my knowledge of electric lawn mower technology, performance, and maintenance. Whether it’s advising friends and family on selecting the right mower for their needs or sharing insights on online gardening forums, I’m always eager to help others make informed decisions and achieve beautiful results in their own green spaces.
So, if you’re seeking guidance on navigating the world of electric lawn mowers or simply looking for tips to elevate your gardening game, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s embark on this green journey together and cultivate thriving outdoor havens that bring joy and tranquility to our lives!
Faqs
Do electric lawn mowers have bagging capabilities?
Many electric lawn mowers come with grass catcher bags for collecting clippings. Some models offer mulching functionality, which shreds grass clippings and returns them to the lawn as a natural fertilizer.
Are electric lawn mowers powerful enough?
Electric lawn mowers have come a long way in terms of power. Modern models with brushless motors can tackle most residential lawns effectively. However, for very large yards or thick, overgrown grass, a gas-powered mower might still be a better option.
Which is better, corded or cordless?
Corded electric mowers offer unlimited runtime as long as you have an outlet nearby. They’re typically lighter and less expensive than cordless models. However, the cord can limit maneuverability.
Cordless mowers provide more freedom of movement but are limited by battery life. They tend to be heavier and more expensive than corded models.
Do I need a large extension cord for a corded electric mower?
The ideal extension cord length depends on your yard size. A good rule of thumb is to choose a cord slightly longer than the farthest point you need to reach while mowing. Look for a heavy-duty outdoor extension cord with the appropriate gauge for your mower’s amperage.
Final Thought
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
electric mowers are a cleaner alternative to gas-powered models, emitting zero pollutants during operation.
By eliminating air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions associated with gas engines, electric mowers contribute to improved air quality and help combat climate change.
This environmentally friendly choice aligns with the growing emphasis on sustainability and eco-conscious living. Switching to electric mowers represents a proactive step toward reducing our carbon footprint and preserving the planet for future generations.
How I clean my Electric Lawn Mower
Preparation: Gather your supplies, including dish soap, a car wash brush, a car rim brush, a wash mitt, a flathead screwdriver, a bucket, and a hose with a nozzle.
De-Clumping: Use the flathead screwdriver to remove clumps of grass stuck in the mower’s deck. This step ensures a clean surface for washing.
Soap Solution: Fill your bucket with dish soap and water. Dish soap is safe for your mower and helps break down dirt and grime.
Deck Washing: Carefully spray down the deck of the mower, avoiding electronic components. Use the car wash brush to loosen and remove grass residues.
Rim Cleaning: Use the rim brush to clean hard-to-reach areas, ensuring a thorough cleaning of the mower’s exterior.
Mitt Scrubbing: Use the wash mitt to scrub the entire mower, focusing on removing stubborn dirt and residues.
Grass Catcher Maintenance: Clean the grass catcher inside and out with soap and water, ensuring it’s free from debris and odors.
Final Rinse and Drying: Rinse the entire mower with water, avoiding electronic components. Wipe down the mower with a towel to remove excess water and ensure thorough drying.
Battery House Precautions: If the battery housing got wet, ensure it’s completely dry before reinserting the battery. Allow at least 24 hours for thorough drying to prevent any potential damage.
Following these steps will not only keep your electric mower clean but also ensure its optimal performance and longevity.
In conclusion, maintaining your electric mower with regular cleaning not only ensures its longevity and optimal performance but also contributes to eco-friendly lawn care practices.
By following the steps outlined above, you can keep your mower in top condition while minimizing environmental impact. Let’s make informed choices and embrace sustainable lawn care practices for a greener and healthier planet. Together, we can contribute to a more eco-friendly future.
Call to Action
Feel free to share your experiences with electric lawn mowers and sustainable lawn care practices in the comments section below.
We’d love to hear about your journey towards eco-friendly living and any tips you have for maintaining your lawn in an environmentally conscious way.
Don’t hesitate to ask questions or start a conversation – let’s learn from each other and work towards a greener future together!
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