Electric lawn mowers: device, rating and selection

The use of gasoline mowers is not always the optimal and rational solution. In such situations, it is much easier and cheaper to opt for electrical devices. Such models of modern lawn mowers are widely represented on the market by many manufacturing companies.

The so-called push-type grass mowers are almost completely a thing of the past and become history. Now the robot knives are maximally lightened by power plants. It should be noted that the device of an electric lawn mower remains extremely simple. However, there are some nuances that you should pay attention to.

First of all, it should be noted that all lawn mowers equipped with electric motors have the same structure. The design features of these units make it possible to cut the grass as quickly and efficiently as possible. Unlike scythes and trimmers, the wheel mower maintains the same height.

The units under consideration have a solid platform on which the engine is mounted in such a way that its shaft is located in a horizontal plane, that is, parallel to the ground. It is on it that the mower knives are fixed (1 or 2). The quality of mowing grass is determined by the speed of rotation of the cutting elements. And in this case we are talking about directly proportional dependence.

The platform is equipped with wheels for comfortable movement of equipment and a handle on which the controls are located. Today, manufacturers offer models of electric mowers with both rigidly mounted and swivel wheels. The first option is less convenient to use, since the device will have to be lifted to make turns. The second type of technology in this regard is much more comfortable, and therefore more functional.

In addition to the fact that the swivel wheels allow you to use the machines with minimal physical effort, they are less damaging to the treated lawns. Taking into account the design features, it is these mower models that will be the optimal solution for areas with plantations, gazebos, children's swings and other objects. Due to maximum mobility, it becomes possible to mow grass with minimal effort in almost any zone of the lawn, including areas under trees and shrubs.

Electric motors are covered with protective covers or casings. This minimizes the risk of injury to the operator when objects get under the knives. Most often, these elements are made of durable plastic, less often - of metal.

Like any other technique, electrified lawn mowers have their own clear advantages and certain disadvantages. Speaking about the advantages, it is necessary first of all to highlight the following points.

• Compared to gasoline models, operating costs are significantly lower because electricity is cheaper than gasoline.
• Maximum ease of maintenance and minimum maintenance are due to the simplicity of the design, which includes the electric motor and the working area.
• Lack of emission of harmful substances that pollute the environment. Electric mowers operate on so-called green energy.
• The most simplified process of equipment start-up.
• The minimum noise level during the operation of the unit, even at extreme loads. And in this case, we are talking about the comfort of both the operator himself and those around him.
• Relatively light weight, due to which the mobility of the equipment and its maneuverability are significantly increased. As practice shows, even fragile women caring for their lawns can easily cope with such a technique.

Particular attention should be paid to the maximum ease of use of electrical models. Their owners do not need to worry about the availability of fuel and the preparation of the fuel mixture. Among other things, fewer components and assemblies greatly simplify maintenance and preventive maintenance.

Another important point is that the considered category of lawn mowers is capable of functioning without special preparation. In this regard, such devices compare favorably with their gasoline "counterparts". Taking into account all of the above, we can confidently say that the purchase of such equipment will significantly reduce costs with sufficiently high performance indicators.

Despite a fairly wide range of clear competitive advantages, electrified models also have a number of disadvantages. First of all, it is worth noting that such a lawn mower will turn out to be the wrong decision in situations where it is necessary to process large areas. As a rule, this equipment is not designed for such work. The thing is that the radius of its action is limited by the length of the cord and carrying.

Another important point is the complete dependence of the performance of the mowers on the availability of connection points to the electrical network. Some users refer to the disadvantages of the need to constantly monitor the position of the wire. It is always required to ensure that it does not fall under knives and is not damaged, which can lead to extremely negative consequences.

Among other things, the risk of electric shock to the operator must be taken into account. Similar problems can be encountered when the wire is damaged and in the process of performing work in wet areas. It is also worth noting that most electric models are significantly inferior to gasoline ones in terms of power. However, all of the above disadvantages, subject to the safety rules, are fully compensated by their undeniable advantages.

Now on the market there is more than a wide range of different models and modifications of electric mowers produced by many manufacturing companies around the world. They can be conditionally divided into 3 main categories.

• Household - devices designed and used for the treatment of small areas. They differ in affordable cost and relatively small resource.

• Semi-professionalideal for those who need to work on medium-sized plots with minimal operating costs.

• Professional. In this case, we are talking about lawnmowers with an electric power unit, designed for continuous use over large areas. This equipment, as a rule, has a metal case and is characterized by increased reliability, strength and durability.

Naturally, the size of the cultivated areas and the intensity of use are not the only criteria by which all existing models are divided into categories. So the following types of electric mowers can be distinguished.

• Rotary, in which the knife is located on a vertical shaft. In the process of work, this element is in the horizontal plane and mows the grass with chopping movements.Users pay attention to the fact that models with a direct knife drive do not allow you to achieve an ideal lawn condition, but at the same time they cut thick grass with high quality.

• Drum drums, which are more complex designs, which include one fixed and several movable knives. The latter are mounted on a cylindrical drum, and the grass is cut using a scissor method. The stems are lifted by the moving part of the machine, after which they are mowed. Such equipment is effective, but does not cope with tall grass.

The main parameter when comparing these two varieties will be the power of the power unit. In the overwhelming majority of cases, the leaders are rotary models. Another difference is the number of wheels. Electric mowers are also classified taking into account the characteristics of the power supply of the engine. Taking into account the operating conditions and a number of other factors, the potential buyer can choose the following options.

• Wired carconnected to a household or industrial power supply by means of a cord. Such modifications are relatively inexpensive. At the same time, their main disadvantage is precisely the presence of a connection wire. Its limited length and the need to use extension cords significantly limit its functionality.

• Cordless mowerequipped with an integrated rechargeable battery. The latter is charged from the mains using a special charger. Such models belong to household and are most often used when processing small areas. Their main competitive advantage, compared to wired units, is maximum mobility. They, like trimmers, allow you to effectively cut grass in hard-to-reach places and around various objects.

In addition to all of the above, mowers equipped with electric motors are divided into manual, wheeled and self-propelled. In the first case, we are talking about the already mentioned trimmers, which are controlled exclusively by the operator's hands. Such models are indispensable when performing work on uneven surfaces with a large number of different obstacles.

Nowadays, advanced technologies are being actively introduced in all industries. Air cushion lawn mowers are one of the clearest examples of innovative solutions. The main design feature of this equipment are knives, which have a special design and simultaneously perform the functions of propellers. In the process of intensive rotation, they create a stream of air that lifts the machine above the ground to the required height.

Special attention should be paid to robotic mowers that can operate in automatic mode. In this case, an analogy can be drawn with the popular robotic vacuum cleaners. In this case, human participation is reduced to enclosing the treated area with ropes and starting the installation. To date, such models are at the stage of finalization and have not yet become widespread. An equally important factor is their rather high price.

Turning any plot into a luxurious and well-groomed lawn is possible with the right choice of the appropriate equipment. As already noted, potential customers have access to more than a wide range of models from both leading manufacturers and small companies.

One of the key criteria for making the right choice in each specific case will be the operating features. For example, for mini-flower beds, an electric trimmer will suffice.In situations with large areas, you should think about more powerful pieces of equipment. Of course, operating conditions are far from the only determining factor.

Now on the market, the consumer is offered 2 categories of electrified lawn mowers.

• Self-propelled, which are vehicles equipped with wheels and moving independently. In such situations, the operator can only set the direction of travel. The power plant provides rotation of the cutting elements and wheels. These models are characterized by increased weight, efficiency and endurance.

• Manual, moved by the efforts of the operator. These mowers are compact, lightweight and easy to operate.

The convenience of its use directly depends on the weight of the equipment (both manual and self-propelled). Naturally, a lightweight lawnmower will be as maneuverable as possible and will allow you to effectively mow grass on any surface. The weight of devices depends on a number of factors. Two-wheeled models in most cases weigh in the range of 13 kg. The mass of their "brothers" with 4 wheels reaches 40 kg. The choice in this case will be influenced by the peculiarities of the operating conditions of the equipment.

In the catalogs of manufacturing companies, there are models with different power plants, including those with asynchronous motors. However, regardless of the features of the motors, one of the main selection criteria is still their power. For modern devices, this indicator varies in the range of 0.3-3 kW. It should be borne in mind that a powerful mower will be more productive. In this case, the energy consumption will be higher.

Among other things, the intensity of heating of the device depends on the power. Based on this, it is strongly recommended to clarify the limits of the time of continuous work. Also, the indicator under consideration determines the location of the engine itself.

The way in which the cut grass is collected and removed is very important. Today, there are 3 options:

• lawn mowers with a container (grass catcher);
• side discharge units;
• equipment with mulching function.

As long-term practice shows, the second option is relevant when processing heavily overgrown areas with tall grass. The latter does not get stuck on the way to the container, but is simply thrown aside without interfering. However, after that, you will have to remove the cut stems. Some of the models have a mulching function, which consists in chopping the cut grass and spreading it over the treated area. It should be borne in mind that such machines are equipped with more powerful engines.

Wheels are among the important parts of a lawn mower. The operability and productivity of equipment largely depends on their number, design features and material. Experienced owners recommend choosing models with large diameter and wide wheels that cause minimal damage to the lawn surface and are designed for mowing tall grass.

Attention should be paid to the design of the wheels, which must rotate on metal bushings. As many years of practice have proven, the most reliable option is bearings. Some models currently on the market have plastic bushings. Many users change them to metal counterparts.

The lawn mower can be driven by both front and rear wheels.In this case, the leading ones always have a larger diameter. The installation of piano-type wheels rotating around a vertical axis maximizes the maneuverability of units, including three-wheel modifications. If the operation of the mower involves frequent maneuvering, then the models of equipment with enlarged rear wheels will be the best choice.

The most convenient are the swivel mechanisms. Mowers equipped with these wheels do not have to be lifted when the direction of travel is changed. The larger the diameter, the easier it is to move the apparatus. It is also worth considering that the wide rubber wheels are less pressed and damage the lawn.

In this case, we are talking about a method of transmitting torque from the power plant to the mower blade system. The blades are bladed, fixed to the shaft and rotated parallel to the ground. Taking into account this parameter, 2 categories of devices can be distinguished. Models belonging to the first type have a belt drive.

The second option without a belt drive provides for the location of the knives directly on the shaft, that is, there is a direct transmission. These two types of structures differ from each other in the complexity of manufacture, reliability, functionality, durability and, of course, cost.

The grass collector is a special container in which the cut grass is collected. The duration of the continuous operation of the mower directly depends on the volume of this container. It is important to take into account that when operating models without a grass catcher, after the completion of the work, you will have to clean the area, which requires a certain amount of time.

The size of the grass container should be selected commensurate with the area to be treated. If the lawn is small and regularly mowed, then a grass catcher with minimal or no volume can be dispensed with. By their design, these accessories for modern lawn mowers can be hard and soft.

The bevel width is determined by the dimensions of the knives and the deck. Naturally, the larger the equipment, the larger the area processed by it. Most models cut a strip from 30 to 40 cm wide in one pass.In more expensive and massive devices, this figure reaches 46 cm.

The main advantage of the wide bevel models is their performance and the ability to reduce operating costs. At the same time, the narrow devices are characterized by maneuverability, thanks to which it is convenient to mow grass around various objects and obstacles. For small areas (up to 2 "ares"), mowers with a working width of up to 34 cm are suitable.

An equally important point is the height of the bevel - an indicator that displays the distance between the ground and the upper part remaining after processing the grass. This parameter is adjustable and can be set by changing the height of the wheels using a button or a lever, rearranging the axle in the deck and by activating a special system. In the latter case, we are talking about central height control. As they say in the reviews, such models are more convenient, but at the same time they are more expensive.

It should be remembered that the minimum bevel height is only 2 mm. The upper threshold directly depends on the design features of a particular electric lawn mower.

Today we can distinguish 3 types of equipment, taking into account this criterion, namely:

• wire mowers that work only directly from the mains;
• equipment equipped with rechargeable batteries and characterized by maximum mobility;
• universal models that can operate both from a 220V network when connected with a wire, and from a battery.

The capacity of the batteries used varies from 1.6 to 6 A * h, and the voltage is from 12V to 82V. Cordless mowers are designed for maximum ease of use.

The blades of electrified grass mowers are located in the deck. This item, depending on the manufacturer and the price category to which the model belongs, the following can be made:

• made of plastic;
• made of aluminum;
• of steel.

Mowers with aluminum decks are the most expensive today. Their main competitive advantages include increased corrosion resistance and durability. Plastic elements, as a rule, fail rather quickly and are less reliable.

When choosing any technique, it is recommended to take into account the availability and list of additional options that expand its capabilities. These features include the following.

• Folding handles, thanks to which it is possible to reduce the dimensions of the device, which in itself greatly simplifies its transportation and storage. At the same time, bringing the mower to working condition does not require a lot of time and the use of tools.

• 3 in 1 option. We are talking about access to three modes of mowing grass. Such mowers can throw the cut stems to the side, move them into the grass catcher or apply mulching.

• Aeration. This refers to models equipped with aerators - devices that loosen the soil and effectively remove debris, moss and weeds.

When choosing a lawn mower, it is necessary to take a comprehensive approach to assessing the characteristics of models and operating conditions. For periodic lawn care, the most simple and inexpensive devices are quite suitable. If we are talking about regular processing of the site, then you should think about acquiring more functional representatives of the lines of leading manufacturers.

Taking into account more than a wide range of equipment, presented now in the corresponding market segment, it is quite simple to choose a model that would fully satisfy the needs of a potential buyer in each specific case. So, some customers are interested in the smallest and most maneuverable mowers, while others are trying to choose from inexpensive equipment. Taking into account the current ratings and reviews of the owners, you can form the top of the most popular models.

• Greenworks GLM1035 - American brand corded lawnmower with mulching option and 40 liter grass catcher. The kilowatt motor and rotary cutter system ensure efficient mowing of grass 35 cm wide and 2 to 8 cm high.

• Bosch ARM 33W / EEU Is a representative of the German industry in the modern market. The wired model with a plastic case differs from its competitors in its relatively low weight (11 kg).

• Lawn Mower EMAX42I-QS from the American company Black & Decker is equipped with a 1.8 kW engine and a 50-liter grass catcher. The width and height of the bevel are 42 and 2-7 cm, respectively.

• Champion EM3813 - domestic production equipment. The model is powered by a 22V household network and has a 1.3 kW motor.

• Italy is represented on the market by many brands. For example, the G 48 PK Comfort Plus model from the Italian company Oleo-Mac boasts a 70-liter container for cut grass, mulching function and a cut width of 46 cm.

In addition to the listed models of famous brands, we should mention the products of the German company Wolf-Garten, which has almost a century of history and is one of the industry leaders. Manufacturers from China are increasingly stepping on the heels of such giants. And a vivid proof of this are the compact and functional models of CMI electric mowers, which differ, first of all, by their affordable cost against the background of good performance.

Analyzing the recommendations of manufacturers and experienced professionals regarding the operation of electric lawn mowers, a number of the most important points can be highlighted. And above all, we are talking about the following risk factors:

• high speed of rotation of metal cutting elements;
• high voltage of electric current;
• the possibility of falling under the knives of various objects on the treated lawns.

Strict adherence to all the rules will allow minimizing all existing risks. Every time before using the mower, carefully check the condition of the switch with socket, wiring, equipment body and blades. If possible, during the preparatory stage, it is necessary to remove foreign objects from the lawn.

Only after the listed manipulations can the mower be started. You should move around the site as evenly as possible and only forward. It is important to remember that reverse is only allowed when the engine is off. The most difficult is to work on slopes, the movement on which should be carried out only along, and not up or down.

It is best to operate electrical devices in dry soil and grass. Otherwise, the risk of electric shock to the operator increases dramatically. Another important point is the position of the electrical cable, which should not be in the path of the moving unit.

The service life of any equipment depends on the quality of its care. After each use of the electric mower, all dirt must be thoroughly removed. In this case, first turn off the power and place the device on a flat, hard surface. It is highly undesirable to wash electrical equipment with water. The remains of soil and grass are removed with rags and brushes.

Unfortunately, even the highest quality products manufactured by renowned manufacturers are not immune to malfunctions. Based on this, the owners of lawn mowers have to deal with situations when the equipment stopped starting or started to smoke in the process. It should be borne in mind that all breakdowns of such equipment are divided into mechanical and electrical. In the first case, we are talking about breakdowns of knives, wheels, handles, body elements, and in the second - about the failure of the electric motor, battery, controls and damage to the wiring. The most common problems include the following situations.

• Extraneous sounds in the deck area, which are symptoms of poorly tightened fasteners.
• Strong vibration accompanying the activation of the knife system. Poor fixation of the knives or damage may be the cause.
• Whistling sounds when the mower is operating. Most often, this indicates that foreign objects have entered the mowing area.
• Significant deterioration in the quality of lawn processing. In such situations, sharpening or replacement of knives is required.

In situations with self-propelled models, many faults are associated with the drive system. Problems with the uniform movement of the machine may indicate belt wear. It is quite possible to eliminate such a malfunction (replace the belt with a new one) on your own.

Summarizing, it can be concluded that many mechanical faults can be dealt with with their own hands with the appropriate knowledge, skills and tools... If you had to deal with electrical breakdowns, then the most rational solution would be to contact a specialized service. This approach will avoid aggravating the problem and reduce the financial costs of repairs.

Feedback from real owners of electric lawn mowers helps a potential buyer to assess the performance of the equipment as objectively as possible. As in the situation with any equipment, on the vastness of the World Wide Web, you can find both positive and negative statements from users. Wherein the characteristics of mowers equipped with electric motors and internal combustion engines are often compared.

Judging by the reviews, many make a choice in favor of electric models, taking into account the noise level. From the point of view of this parameter, gasoline mowers are clearly inferior. At the same time, attention is focused on the difference in the cost of gasoline and electricity. Those who decide to change the equipment equipped with an internal combustion engine to an electric analogue most often note the absence of noise during operation and the smell of gasoline.

At the same time, not everything is so cloudless, and negative reviews are often found on the Internet. In situations with wired models, their owners are unhappy with the limited working area. When it comes to cordless mowers, the downsides include the relatively short cycle times. An equally important factor for some users is the risk of electric shock to the operator.

For tips on choosing an electric lawn mower, see the video.