How to Choose the Best Battery for Electric Lawn Mower

By Gerald, Updated on March 21, 2024

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Electric lawn mowers have been around for 90 years, but it’s only in the last decade, with the revolution in battery technology, that battery-powered lawn mowers have shown huge improvements. Summer is coming, is it time to buy an electric lawn mower?

Batteries play a vital yet overlooked role in powering lawn mowers. The right lawn mower battery maintained properly can last several seasons through many starts and runtimes. This comprehensive guide details everything you need to know to optimize your mower’s battery performance.

Part 1. Lawn mower type

Let’s first talk about the general classification of lawnmowers. In terms of power systems, they can be divided into rechargeable lawnmowers, plug-in lawnmowers, and gasoline lawnmowers.

1. Cordless lawn mower

Cordless lawnmowers, as the name suggests, are powered by rechargeable batteries. With the development of battery technology, this type of lawn mower should be the mainstream in the future. It is easy to operate, is not affected by power supply, and can be used in a variety of situations. It is also small, lightweight, can be operated by housewives and the elderly, and has low noise. It has become more and more mainstream for use on small lawns at home.

More importantly, this kind of machine can generally use different blades according to different objects. For example, you can use film to cut young grass and use a blade to cut old grass, shrubs, or even branches. And because of its small size, it can be operated freely in a small space. This will allow the work to be done without leaving any dead ends, and it can be processed thoroughly at one time without having to manually use a sickle to process it twice.

However, due to the battery capacity, this machine does not work for too long at a time and needs to be recharged every ten minutes to an hour. Therefore, it is recommended to prepare an extra battery when purchasing and use two batteries interchangeably, so that it will work more efficiently.

2. Plug-in lawn mowers

A plug-in lawn mower uses a household 220V power supply and is connected to the lawn mower through a power cord to provide continuous power to the machine. The disadvantage is that during use, the long power cord at the end of the machine may affect the convenience of operation. Moreover, it is inconvenient to use in some places due to the location of the power socket or the length of the power cord. The advantage is that as long as there is a power source, it can provide a steady stream of power, allowing the machine to work continuously and powerfully.

3. Gasoline lawn mower

Gasoline lawnmowers rely on burning gasoline to power the machine. This type of machine is generally larger in size, bulky, and inconvenient to store. The price is higher and the maintenance cost is also expensive. And the noise is high during use. This type is generally suitable for use in environments where large areas of lawn cannot be plugged in. For example, large areas of lawns are used in property management, schools, hospitals and other units.

Compared with electric lawnmowers, gasoline lawnmowers work more efficiently. The engine has more horsepower and can mow weeds faster. However, the sound will be louder than that of a generator when used, and gasoline needs to be added. It has high power and a long working time, but the noise and vibration are also more obvious, so it is suitable for places with low environmental requirements.

Part 2. Understanding lawn mower batteries

A lawn mower is a lead-acid or lithium-ion battery similar to automotive varieties that provides the electrical “kick” for starting a mower’s engine. Measured in Cold Cranking Amps (CCA), it must supply enough amperage to the solenoid for cranking until the engine ignites. Selecting the proper lawn mower battery type is key.

Part 3. Popular lawn mower battery types

The major varieties are lead-acid (wet, gel, or AGM) and lithium-ion chemistry. Each offers pros and cons for mowing needs:

Lead-acid provides the lowest upfront cost but requires more maintenance.
AGM sealed and gel models resist spills but cost marginally more.
Lithium-ion batteries last the longest period between recharges, excel in cold weather starts, however carry a higher initial price tag.

When choosing a new lawn mower battery, consider your mower’s needs along with climate, mowing frequency, and budget. Riders may benefit from longer-range lithium packs versus casual walkers.

Part 4. Lawn mower battery prices

While worthwhile lawn mower battery types range from $30 for basic lead-acid to $200+ for commercial lithium models, your individual needs determine the value:

Standard Lead-Acid: $30-$60
AGM Sealed Lead-Acid: $50-$80
Gel Cells: $70-$100
Lithium-Ion: $150-$250

Professional mowers tackling large acreage daily merit investing in premium batteries delivering more cycles and faster charges. But casual users can get by for less.

Part 5. How long does a lawn mower battery last?

The lifespan of a lawn mower battery typically ranges from 2 to 5 years. The lifespan of a lawn mower battery can vary significantly based on several factors. While a general estimate of 2-5 years is often given, it’s essential to consider the nuances that impact battery longevity.

Battery Type:

Lead-acid batteries: Typically last 200-300 charge cycles. Typically last 2-3 years with proper care. They are more affordable but require regular maintenance.
Lithium-ion batteries: Can endure 300-500 charge cycles, with some high-quality models reaching 1000 or more. Offer a longer lifespan of 3-5 years or more. They are generally more expensive but require less maintenance.
Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries: Often boast 2000-3000 charge cycles or more. A newer technology known for exceptional longevity, often lasting 4-6 times longer than lead-acid batteries.

Usage Patterns:

Frequent, heavy use can accelerate battery aging.
Short, occasional use can prolong battery life.

Maintenance:

Proper charging, storage, and cleaning can extend battery life.
Neglect can lead to premature failure.

Environmental Conditions:

Extreme temperatures can negatively impact battery performance and lifespan

Part 6. Best lawn mower battery

Determining the “best” lawn mower battery depends heavily on your specific needs and preferences. Factors such as lawn size, terrain, desired features, and budget will influence your decision.

Best 10 Riding Lawn Mower Battery Review 2024

That said, based on general performance and user satisfaction. A lithium-ion lawn mower battery is definitely worth considering. They’ve become increasingly popular for several reasons:

Lightweight: Lithium-ion batteries are significantly lighter than their lead-acid counterparts, making the mower easier to handle.
Longer lifespan: They typically last longer, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
Consistent power: Lithium-ion batteries deliver consistent power throughout their discharge cycle, ensuring optimal performance.
Environmentally friendly: They are free from harmful chemicals and are more eco-friendly.

Maintenance-free: Unlike lead-acid batteries, they don’t require regular maintenance like checking and refilling electrolyte levels.

However, it’s essential to consider the size of your lawn. For larger lawns, you might need multiple batteries or a particularly high-capacity one to ensure you can finish mowing without interruptions. Additionally, the initial cost of a lithium-ion battery is generally higher than a lead-acid battery, but the long-term savings and convenience often outweigh this upfront expense.

Part 7. Extending lawn mower battery life

Proper maintenance and care doubles a lawn mower battery’s lifespan. Some tips:

Check lead-acid battery water levels monthly and only use distilled water for top-offs.
Remove lead-acid batteries when storing to prevent freezing damage.
Clean any corrosion buildup from terminals with a wire brush or lemon juice annually.
Avoid exposing batteries to extreme heat like direct sun or sub-freezing cold for long periods.
Only partially discharge before recharging lawn mower batteries – don’t fully drain them.
Use a quality trickle or maintenance charger to keep lead-acid batteries optimally charged when not in use long-term.

Adhering to basic carekeeping enhances both performance and return on investment over the battery’s lifetime.

Part 8. Key attributes when buy a lawn mower battery

When a lawn mower battery fails and needs replacing, measure the old unit first to ensure compatibility. Other attributes to match include:

Physical dimensions fitting the mower’s compartment
Matching voltage rating (most mowers use 12 volts)
Connector polarity/wiring configuration
Sufficient CCA rating for engine size
Watertightness for outdoor use (sealed AGM/gel preferable over wet lead acid)
Manufacturer warranty coverage in case of early defects

Stick to reputable lawnmower battery brands for quality. Also, inspect seller ratings when ordering online. Procuring lawn mower batteries from a local parts chain allows for verifying fit and specs too.

Overall, lawn mower batteries deserve the same level of care, maintenance, and replacement attentiveness as an automobile’s to maximize performance seasons. Even small investments like periodic charging safeguard significantly more expensive components.

In conclusion, the right lawn mower battery maintained properly can offer years of reliable lawn care assistance. Follow the tips covered to extend usefulness and better maintain peak starting ability season after season. With the proper type, care, and replacement attentiveness, a mower’s battery need not become an afterthought.

Part 9. FAQs about lawn mower battery

Is it necessary to “match” a new battery to an older one?

Not required, but using batteries of similar age/condition avoids imbalance issues.
How long should a lawn mower battery last with proper care?

One to three mowing seasons on average, or three to five years for lithium models.
Is it okay to leave the battery connected during winter storage?

No, removing and fully charging indoors above freezing temperature extends lifespan.
What voltage do most lawnmowers run on?

Twelve volts is standard for automotive and most mowers. Always verify it matches the existing battery.
How can you test if a battery is still holding a charge?

If a lawn mower fails to crank after several attempts, the battery likely needs replacing. Professional testing can also determine the state of health.