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How long does an electric lawn mower battery last?
The lifespan of electric lawn mower batteries varies based on their capacity, as well as factors such as grass thickness and moisture. To estimate how long your battery will last, simply multiply the amp-hour (Ah) capacity by the voltage.
This calculation will provide you with the total watt-hours of the battery, with higher numbers indicating longer run times.
Let’s face it…
If you’re thinking about upgrading to a cordless electric lawn mower, one of the biggest concerns you might have is how long does an electric lawn mower battery last?
After all, no one wants to be stuck halfway through mowing their lawn only to have their mower run out of power.
The good news is that electric lawn mower batteries have come a long way in recent years, with advancements in battery technology leading to longer runtimes and improved efficiency.
However, various factors influence battery longevity, both in terms of a single charge and the overall lifespan of the battery itself.
In this guide, we’ll have a look at the key factors that determine electric lawn mower battery life, helping you understand how to choose the best battery-powered mower for your needs and how to maximize its performance.
How Long Does an Electric Lawn Mower Battery Last Per Charge?
First let’s answer the following question:
How long does an electric lawn mower battery last PER CHARGE?
The truth is, it’s not possible to know how long it’ll last per charge.
The runtime of an electric lawn mower battery depends on multiple variables, making it difficult to provide a one-size-fits-all answer.
However, by looking at factors like the battery’s ampere-hour (Ah) rating, voltage (V), and external conditions such as grass density and moisture, you can get a good estimate of how long your mower will run before needing a recharge.
One simple way to estimate runtime is by calculating the battery’s total energy capacity, measured in watt-hours (WH).
You can determine this by multiplying the battery’s Ah rating by its voltage.
The higher the watt-hour value, the longer the battery should last under ideal conditions.
Now…
Real-World Battery Performance
While theoretical calculations provide a good starting point, real-world performance often differs due to environmental factors.
In practical use, most electric lawn mower batteries last between 30 to 90 minutes per charge.
Self-propelled mowers tend to consume more power than push mowers, reducing overall runtime.
Some real-world examples include:
- Greenworks 80V 4Ah: Lasts about 60 minutes on a mid-sized lawn.
- EGO Power+ 56V 5Ah: Provides around 45-60 minutes per charge.
- Ryobi 40V 6Ah: Can run for up to 70 minutes in optimal conditions.
These numbers can vary based on mowing conditions, with factors such as long, thick, or wet grass draining the battery faster.
What Affects an Electric Lawn Mower’s Battery Life?
Beyond the basic voltage and capacity ratings, several external factors impact how long your electric mower’s battery will last.
Understanding these can help you optimize performance and ensure your battery lasts as long as possible.
Here are the key factors that influence battery runtime:
Grass Type & Condition
If you’re cutting dense, wet, or overgrown grass, your mower’s motor will need to work harder, depleting the battery more quickly.
Terrain
Likely will be an obvious statement, but sloped or uneven lawns require more power compared to flat, smooth surfaces.
Mower Efficiency
Some electric mowers feature brushless motors, which are more energy-efficient than brushed motors, extending runtime.
Weather Conditions
Hot temperatures can cause batteries to overheat, while cold temperatures can reduce battery efficiency.
Self-Propelled vs. Push Models
Self-propelled models consume more energy since they power both the blades and the wheels.
Blade Sharpness
Dull blades require more power to cut through grass, draining the battery faster.
Battery Age
Over time, lithium-ion batteries naturally lose capacity, shortening their runtime per charge.
By taking these factors into account, you can better estimate how long your mower’s battery will last under your specific conditions.
How Long Will a Lawn Mower Battery Last Before Replacement?
While a single charge determines how long you can mow in one session, the lifespan of the battery itself is another crucial factor.
Most lithium-ion batteries in electric lawn mowers last between 3 to 5 years or around 500 to 1,000 charge cycles before their capacity significantly degrades.
So, how to extend battery lifespan?
Without a doubt, proper care and maintenance can help you get the most out of your electric lawn mower battery:
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Avoid fully depleting the battery
Try not to let the charge drop below 20% before recharging.
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Use the correct charger
Always use the manufacturer’s recommended charger to prevent overcharging or damage.
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Store batteries properly
Keep them in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or freezing temperatures.
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Don’t leave batteries in the mower
If you won’t be using the mower for a while, remove the battery and store it separately.
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Charge before long-term storage
If storing for the winter, charge the battery to 50-75% and check it every couple of months.
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Keep battery contacts clean
Dirt and debris can interfere with charging and discharge efficiency.
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Use the battery regularly
Long periods of inactivity can degrade battery health over time.
By following these guidelines, you should be able to significantly expend the battery lifespan of your electric lawn mower.
Now…
Even with the best care, batteries will eventually degrade. Which leads me to the next point:
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Lawn Mower Battery
Here are some telltale signs that it’s time to replace your mower’s battery:
The first one is that if your battery no longer lasts as long as it used to, it may be reaching the end of its lifespan. And if it takes much longer to charge but doesn’t hold a charge well, it could be deteriorating.
Bulging, leaks, or excessive heat are clear indicators that the battery should be replaced immediately.
And the most obvious one is that if your mower shuts off unexpectedly or struggles to maintain power, the battery might be failing.
One thing I suggest is that you focus on buying QUALITY yard tools that will serve you for years.
Electric Lawn Mower Battery Replacement?
First things first:
When you find yourself shopping for batteries, regardless of the application, it’s important to understand how capacity is measured and what that rating means.
The video below is extremely helpful to understand the battery basics:
Now…
If you need to replace your battery or are considering a new electric mower, here are some key things to keep in mind:
Check Compatibility
Always ensure the replacement battery is compatible with your mower model.
Look for Higher Ah Ratings
A higher amp-hour (Ah) rating means a longer runtime.
Consider Extra Batteries
Some brands offer additional batteries or dual-battery setups for extended mowing time.
Compare Brands
Trusted brands like EGO, Greenworks, Ryobi, and Worx generally provide reliable batteries with good lifespans.
Factor in Warranty
Many high-quality battery brands offer warranties ranging from 2 to 5 years.
This should help with with choosing the right battery for your gear, or make sure you get a quality product in the first place.
Electric Lawn Mower Batteries: Final Thoughts
The truth is…
Understanding how long an electric lawn mower battery lasts involves looking at both per-charge runtime and the overall lifespan.
While several factors influence battery performance, you can maximize efficiency by:
- Choosing a mower with a high Ah rating and efficient motor.
- Considering external conditions like grass type and terrain.
- Properly maintaining and storing your battery to extend its lifespan.
Most electric lawn mower batteries will provide 30 to 90 minutes of runtime per charge and last 3 to 5 years with proper care.
By selecting the right battery and following best practices, you’ll get the best performance from your cordless electric mower and enjoy hassle-free lawn maintenance for years to come.
Be sure to check out our other articles on home products here!
Now, I’d love to hear from YOU:
How long do electric lawn mowers last in your experience?
Share your thoughts, questions, or suggestions in the comments section below!
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