Types Of Electric Cordless Mowers
Manual tools have always been used for lawn care. Later, powered lawn care tools replaced the manual use of mowers. There are several types of electric cordless mowers, each suited for different lawn care requirements.
Rotary Mowers
Rotary electric cordless mowers use blades that rotate horizontally to cut grass. The user simply has to push it through the grass and help it do its job. The blades are designed to cut any type of grass, including hard and tall types. Since it uses a rotary motion, the blades are set higher than the grass cutting deck. This feature reduces grass clumping during operation. Clumping can cause wet and dry patches to occur on the lawn.
Reel Mowers
Unlike the rotary mowers, reel mowers have blades that rotate vertically like the scissor-type lawn mower. This mower works best when cutting soft grass like fine fescue. Striking blades cleanly cut the grass without leaving ragged grass ends. This feature promotes quick grass healing. Its wheels have lower traction and are suitable for flat and soft terrains. The design and low power requirement make it the most quiet lawnmower.
Mulching Mowers
Mulching mowers cut and recut grass before dropping it back into the lawn. Unlike other mowers, it doesn't have to collect grass into a basket. It cuts the grass into tiny pieces and leaves them back on the lawn. This feature saves the user the time and effort required to collect grass clippings. The clippings are also nutrient-rich and help fertilize the lawn. Mulching mowers are available as self-propelled, cordless electric, and gas-powered models.
Self-Propelled Mowers
Self-propelled mowers are more advanced than regular electric mowers. They have a driving system that moves them forward, eliminating the need for pushing. Users must guide the mower while the driving system propels it. Most of these types of mowers have rear-wheel drive. Some have all-wheel drive while others have front-wheel drive.
What Makes An Electric Cordless Mower Durable
When it comes to materials that comprise what makes equipment last long, mowers are no different. The same goes for lawnmowers. Hence, ascertaining the materials used in constructing this tool will explain its durability level. Below are factors that influence its durability:
Steel Deck
This is a mowing deck made from steel material. Thick-gauge steel is used to make these decks. The steel material resists impacts, won't warp, and is heatproof. Since users apply these features, it's no surprise that steel decks usually last longer than aluminum ones. However, steel is susceptible to rust. Hence, it needs frequent painting and may eventually rust if not maintained. If the paint starts flaking, it's time for repainting. Regular repainting can last a steel deck for over 20 years.
Aluminum Deck
Aluminum decks are lighter than steel and typically more expensive. Although, as a lighter material, it might not resist impacts as effectively. It doesn't rust, but it can break if not cared for. Aluminum decks usually last around 10-15 years.
Plastic Decks
Plastic decks are less durable than steel and aluminum decks. They are used on less expensive lawnmowers. However, plastic is rustproof. Besides, it's a much lighter build and may not withstand heavy impact as long. Plastic decks usually last around 5-10 years.
How Strong Are The Blades
Reinforced blades are typically made of steel, which is strong enough to withstand wear and tear. Also, they feature a tough edge that can wear down without breaking. Therefore, stronger blades will last longer. Biostep and undercut blades are examples of reinforced blades.
Materials Used To Make Mowers
- Engine: The engine delivers power to the mowers. It is important to note that electric cordless mowers don't have an engine. They have electric motors powered by batteries. These cordless mowers are low maintenance, quiet, easy to operate, and environmentally friendly as they produce no emissions. Although, they have a limited run time and charging time. Often, electric motors are located near the rear of gas and self-propelled mowers.
- Battery: Batteries store electrical energy and supply power to the mower when needed. Cordless electric mowers use lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries. Lead-acid batteries are affordable but heavy and have a shorter lifespan. Lithium-ion batteries are more expensive but lightweight and have a longer lifespan and higher energy density.
- Gas engines: It can be 2-stroke or 4-stroke. Gas engines use a 2-stroke or 4-stroke cycle to generate power. 2-stroke engines are lightweight, powerful, and have fewer moving parts. They are also cheaper to manufacture. Gas engines work by consuming gasoline and exhaust within the engine cylinder. 2-stroke engines release exhaust through ports. While 4-stroke engines do this through a dedicated exhaust valve.
- Spindle: It is important to note that a spindle houses and rotates the blades. Mower spindles are made from strong materials. Common examples include steel, aluminum, and magnesium. Steel spindles are usually heavy but extremely durable and cost-effective. Aluminum spindles are lightweight, rust-resistant, and moderately durable. While magnesium spindles are lightweight, strong, and premium priced.
- Drive systems: Drive systems are responsible for providing power to specific wheels. Drive systems use different types of transmissions like variable-speed and hydrostatic. Variable-speed transmissions automatically adjust speed and efficiently transfer power. Hydrostatic transmissions use fluid power to provide speed and direction. They offer smooth and easy lawnmower operation with low maintenance needs.
Ways To Use An Electric Cordless Mower
- Lawn care maintenance: Electric cordless mowers are perfect for maintaining healthy lawns year-round. They easily cut grass at a consistent height. This helps the grass grow thicker and deters pests and diseases. Mowing allows the grass to grow better and promotes a safer outdoor area. Moreover, these mowers leave behind nutrient-rich grass clippings to fertilize the lawn.
- In garden bed edging: Electric cordless mowers can help users create neat edges on garden beds. By rotating the mower horizontally, it can trim overgrown garden grass where it's not needed. This offers an even edge between the garden bed and lawn for an appealing look. It is important to note that cordless mowers work best on small garden beds. Hence, they should only be used on garden beds less than 200 square feet.
- In landscape borders and pathways: Unwanted grass can grow along concrete edges and in cracks. An electric cordless mower can help eliminate and prevent this garden issue. It smoothly trims grass on sidewalks, patios, and driveways. This gives the hardscapes a neat and well-cared-for appearance. And since the mower is cordless, users can easily maneuver it around difficult landscaping features.
- In tight lawn areas: Electric cordless mowers work great when mowing in tight spots. It easily passes between obstacles like flowerpots and trees that larger mowers can't get through. This mows small, narrow areas the bigger mowers leave behind. Thus, ensures the lawn looks even all over the outdoor space. The mower can also access tight corners that are hard to reach. This helps to maintain a healthy lawn in those small spaces.
- Underplanting around trees and in shaded areas: Growing grass under trees can be difficult because it doesn't get enough sunlight. However, an electric cordless mower can help this lawn issue. It can cut shaded grass around the base of trees or old garden beds. This keeps the area neat and prevents the grass from taking over. It also helps other landscaping features like rocks and barriers by clipping the grass around them.
How To Choose An Electric Cordless Mower
- Motor power: Motor power is one of the most important factors to consider. It's because motor power determines how effortlessly and quickly a mower can work. Generally, efficient motors take less time to finish lawn care. While less powerful motors take more time to finish lawn care. In residential mowers, motors range from 1 to 2 KW. These motor powers are sufficient for casual lawn maintenance. Although, it's worth noting that business mowers can have higher motor powers.
- Wheel size: Wheel diameter affects maneuverability and traction. Smaller wheel diameters enhance maneuverability. On the other hand, larger wheel diameters promote better traction. Hence, depending on the terrain type, one should consider either a small or large wheel. Generally, wheel diameters range from 15 to 25 centimeters. Unless specified otherwise, 20-centimeter-diameter wheels are standard on most mowers.
- Grassbox capacity: This is the volume of the grassbox. It determines how much grass clippings can be collected before the box needs emptying. Large grass boxes postpone the need to empty them. While small grass boxes require frequent emptying. Grassbox capacity ranges from 25 to 80 liters.
- Lawn mower width: This is the width of the mower deck. It influences how long the lawn mower takes to finish its job. Wider mower decks reduce lawn care time. While narrower ones increase it. Common mower deck widths are 30 to 50 centimeters, though they can go as wide as 100 centimeters.
- Battery voltage: Higher voltage typically increases power and efficiency. Thus, making the mower more powerful and effective. In electric cordless mowers, voltage usually ranges from 20 to 80 volts. Although, as previously stated, it's worth checking the battery voltage of the mower before purchasing.
Q and A
Can an electric cordless mower be left in the rain?
No, leaving an electric cordless mower in the rain isn't recommended. Rain creates a wet and muddy lawn. Mowers are designed to operate only on dry lawn conditions. Operating the cordless mower on a wet lawn creates clumps of wet grass. This clump grass can cause the mower to bog down, leading to poor lawn care results. Also, it may damage the mower's internal components and clog the grass chute.
What maintenance does an electric mower need in the winter?
Electric mowers require basic winter care to last a long time. Before storage, give the mower a thorough cleaning to remove grass and debris. This helps prevent rust and other damages. Clean the areas the mower can't reach using a cloth. Then, check the battery for signs of damage and ensure it's fully charged. Store the mower indoors to prevent rust.
Can I run over sticks with an electric mower?
It's advisable to avoid running over sticks with an electric mower, especially larger ones. Common sense is always essential. If the stick is small, observing the context comes into play. Ensure the terrain type allows for easy maneuverability. Also, ensure the sticks are dry enough to allow the blades to easily cut through. This helps prevent damage to the blades or clogging the mower.
Can electric mowers handle wet grass?
Electric mowers aren't suitable for mowing wet grass. They struggle to cut through thick, wet grass, which may lead to their jamming. Wet grass sticks to the mower's underside, creating buildup that clogs the blades. This makes it tough for the mower to operate. It also leads to poor lawn care results.
