An electric lawn mower is a great
investment—quiet, efficient, and eco-friendly. But just like any piece of
equipment, it needs regular care to keep running smoothly. If you want to get
the most out of your mower and avoid costly repairs or replacements, proper
maintenance is key. The good news? It’s simple and doesn’t take much time.
Let’s go over everything you need to do to keep your electric lawn mower in top
shape for years to come.
Keep the Blades Sharp
Dull mower blades tear grass instead of
cutting it cleanly, leading to an unhealthy lawn and making the mower work
harder than necessary. Sharpening your blades for your electric lawn mower
once or twice a season ensures clean cuts and reduces strain on the motor.
To sharpen the blades:
- Unplug or remove the battery – Always disconnect power before handling the blades.
- Remove the blade – Most mowers have a central bolt
holding the blade in place. Use a wrench to loosen it. - Sharpen with a file or grinder
– Run a sharpening file or bench grinder along the blade’s edge at the
original angle. - Balance the blade – Uneven sharpening
can cause vibrations. Place the blade on a nail or balancing tool to
ensure both sides are even. - Reinstall and tighten – Secure the blade back into place and reconnect the power.
If you’re uncomfortable sharpening the blade
yourself, many hardware stores offer this service.
Clean After Every Use
Grass clippings, dirt, and moisture can build
up inside your mower, leading to reduced efficiency and potential damage. A
quick clean after each use keeps it running smoothly.
●
Remove
debris – Use a brush or cloth to clear clippings
from the deck, wheels, and air vents.
●
Check
the underside – Grass buildup underneath can block airflow,
so scrape it off with a plastic putty knife.
●
Wipe
down the exterior – A damp cloth removes dust and prevents
corrosion.
●
Inspect
for damage – Check for cracks, loose parts, or any
unusual wear while cleaning.
Never spray water directly onto an electric
mower. Instead, use a damp cloth or compressed air for hard-to-reach areas.
Battery Care for Cordless Mowers
If you have a cordless electric mower, the
battery is the most important (and expensive) component to maintain. Proper
care extends its lifespan and ensures consistent performance.
●
Charge
correctly – Follow the manufacturer’s charging
instructions. Overcharging or undercharging can reduce battery life.
●
Avoid
full discharge – Letting the battery drain completely can
shorten its lifespan. Recharge when it reaches around 20-30%.
●
Store
properly – Keep batteries in a cool, dry place when
not in use. Avoid extreme heat or cold, as both can damage the cells.
●
Clean
battery contacts – Wipe the battery terminals with a dry cloth
occasionally to prevent dirt buildup.
If your battery stops holding a charge,
replacement may be necessary. Always use manufacturer-approved batteries to
avoid compatibility issues.
Maintain the Cord (For Corded
Mowers)
For those using a corded electric mower,
keeping the power cord in good condition is essential for safety and
performance.
●
Check
for damage – Inspect the cord for cuts, frays, or
exposed wiring before each use.
●
Use
the right extension cord – Ensure it’s rated for outdoor use and
matches the power requirements of your mower.
●
Avoid
tangles and knots – A tangled cord can weaken the wiring over
time. Coil it loosely when storing.
●
Keep
it dry – Never mow over wet grass with a corded
mower, as moisture can damage the cord and create electrical hazards.
If you notice any damage, replace the cord
immediately.
Store It Properly
Where and how you store your electric mower
makes a big difference in its lifespan. Proper storage prevents rust, battery
degradation, and unnecessary wear.
●
Keep
it dry – Store the mower in a garage, shed, or other
covered area to protect it from rain and humidity.
●
Elevate
if possible – Keeping it off the ground prevents moisture
damage. A shelf or wall mount works well for smaller models.
●
Remove
the battery – For cordless models, take out the battery
before long-term storage to prevent power drain.
●
Cover
it – If storing in an open space, use a breathable cover to protect
against dust and dirt.
During the off-season, check on it
occasionally to make sure no rust or damage is developing.
Check the Motor and Moving Parts
The motor is the heart of your electric mower,
and while it requires less maintenance than a gas engine, occasional checks
keep it in top shape.
●
Listen
for unusual noises – Strange sounds could indicate a problem
with the motor or internal components.
●
Ensure
proper airflow – Keep vents clear of debris to prevent
overheating.
●
Lubricate
moving parts – Some mowers have wheels or
height-adjustment mechanisms that benefit from occasional lubrication.
If you notice performance issues, consult the
user manual or a professional for troubleshooting.
Keep an Eye on Safety Features
Electric mowers come with built-in safety
features like automatic shutoffs, safety keys, and blade-brake systems. These
should always function properly.
●
Test
the safety key – Ensure it properly engages and disengages.
●
Check
the start mechanism – If your mower has a push-button start, make
sure it responds immediately.
●
Inspect
the handle and trigger – Worn or loose components can affect control
and safety.
If any safety features stop working, address
the issue immediately to prevent accidents.
Why Maintenance Matters
A well-maintained electric lawn mower cuts
better, lasts longer, and saves you money in the long run. It’s also better for
the environment since fewer replacements mean less waste. By following these
simple maintenance steps, you’ll keep your mower running efficiently season
after season.
Take a few minutes after each use for basic
cleaning, check the blades regularly, and store it properly when not in use.
With just a little care, your electric mower will stay reliable for years to
come.