How long do lawnmower batteries last? You’ve just invested in a high-quality lawnmower and can’t wait to cut your grass, but there’s a common misconception about lawnmowers: the battery life.
This is for good reason, as changing the battery can be time-consuming and costly. You’re also curious about how long it will take to fully charge the battery before you can use the lawnmower again.
Our reliable lawn mowers depend on lawn mower batteries to keep them running smoothly and enable them to start up.
Lawn mower batteries, however, have a limited lifespan, just like any battery. Planning for maintenance, repairs, and budgeting can be made easier if we are aware of how long lawn mower batteries normally last.
In this article, we’ll look at the variables that affect lawn mower battery life and provide you with some information on the typical lifespan of various power sources.
Knowing the anticipated battery lifespan is crucial for a well-maintained and effectively functioning lawnmower, whether you’re an experienced lawnmower owner or are thinking about buying one.
I hope this complete guide will be interesting and informative for you to read.
Table of Contents
How Long Do Lawn Mower Batteries Last?
Here is the answer to how long a lawn mower battery last, if your lawn mower has a battery, it will either use a lithium-ion battery or a 6 or 12-volt lead-acid battery.
In addition, the lead-acid batteries or the riding mower should last between three and four years with adequate care.
Lithium-ion batteries or the lawn tractor battery, which are normally projected to last up to 5 years or 500 charging cycles, are used in the majority of battery-powered mowers.
Factors That Impact Lawn Mower Battery Life
A lawn mower battery longevity can be impacted by several things. You may increase the battery life by making informed decisions and taking the necessary action by being aware of these aspects.
The following are some important elements that affect how long a lawn mower battery lasts.
Battery Type
Lawn mowers use a variety of batteries, including lithium batteries and lead-acid batteries. Each variety has unique traits and battery life. In general, lithium-ion batteries last longer than lead-acid batteries.
Usage Patterns
Battery life is significantly influenced by how often and how long you use the lawn mower. Continuous, vigorous use may hasten the battery’s depletion. They may deplete more quickly if you often mow large areas or have a large yard compared to occasional or light use.
Maintenance Procedures
A lawn mower battery’s longevity can be significantly impacted by good maintenance of the battery charge using a charger. The lawn mower battery life and performance can be maintained by performing routine maintenance, maintaining tight connections, and cleaning the battery terminals.
Habits Of Charging
Charging procedures might shorten the life of the battery. Constant deep discharges might damage the battery’s cells and lower its total capacity. After use, regularly recharge it; do not leave it with a low charge for too long.
Storage Condition
When the electric lawn mower is not in use, such as during the off-season or prolonged periods of inactivity, proper storage is essential. Keep the mower batteries out of direct sunlight and severe temperatures in a cool, dry location. To maintain the health of the lawn mower battery, it is ideal to store it with a partial charge, often about 50%.
Quality And Brand
The quality and brand of the lawn mower battery might also affect how long lawn mower batteries last. Longer lifespans are frequently the result of higher-quality lawnmower batteries’ superior construction, materials, and general endurance.
It’s crucial to keep in mind that these variables interact, and the particular set of circumstances will influence how long a lawn mower battery lasts.
Moreover, you can maximize the longevity so that the lawn mower battery last longer and assure dependable performance for a prolonged period by being aware of these aspects and putting proper maintenance methods into practice.
How to increase battery lifespan?
You can adhere to the following recommendations and best practices to lengthen the battery life of your lawn mower.
Review the Manufacturer’s Instructions
Refer to your owner’s manual or manufacturer’s manuals for detailed information on battery maintenance, charging, and care.
You can increase the battery’s lifespan by taking the appropriate precautions by adhering to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Correct charging
To make the lawn mower battery last it should be charged properly regularly to prevent deep discharges. After each use or when the battery has depleted between 30 and 50 percent of its capacity, it is normally advised to recharge to make the lawn mower battery last.
As much as possible, avoid entirely draining the battery because deep discharges can stress the battery and shorten its lifespan.
Avoid Overcharging
While keeping the battery charged is essential, doing so at the risk of damaging it. Disconnect the battery from the charger as soon as it is fully charged to prevent overcharging, which can cause overheating and shorten the battery’s lifespan.
Store the battery properly
Follow these instructions if you’re keeping your lawn mowers or batteries for a prolonged period:
- Charge it to approximately 50% of its maximum capacity before storing.
- Keep the battery out of the sun’s rays and from places with high or low temperatures.
- Keep the batteries out of the freezer to prevent damage.
- Throughout storage, periodically check the battery’s charge level and recharge it if necessary.
Maintenance and Inspection
Check the batteries for any indications of damage, corrosion, or loose connections regularly. Clean and check for tightness and security in the battery terminals. Address any problems you see right away to limit further harm.
Avoid extreme temperatures
It can affect battery performance and lifespan. Avoid exposing the battery to temperatures that are too high or too low whenever possible.
In addition, if you reside in a location with extreme weather, you might want to store the battery indoors or insulate it to protect it from sharp temperature changes.
Avoid Heavy Use
Using the lawn mower frequently and excessively may break down the battery. You should modify your mowing techniques to reduce the battery’s unnecessary strain. If your lawn is extensive, you might want to split up your sessions so the battery can cool down in between uses.
You can extend the life of your lawn mower battery, make the lawn mower battery last, and assure dependable performance for a long time by adhering to these best practices and advice.
The Difference Between Riding And Cordless Push Mowers
The key distinction between cordless mowers and riding lawn mowers is how they are used and how they are made.
Let’s examine these distinctions.
Lifespan
Riding lawn mower battery last between 3 to 4 years, however, Compared to lead-acid batteries, cordless mowers — which are typically lithium-ion batteries — tend to last longer. The cordless mower battery last up to seven years or more with proper care and upkeep. With benefits including longer life, less weight, and quicker charging times, lithium-ion batteries are typically maintenance-free.
Application
The larger, gas-powered riding mowers that are powered by riding lawn mowers require lawnmower batteries that are specifically made for them. These riding mowers provide the ease of riding while mowing and are often used for larger lawns. In riding mowers, the lawnmower batteries are generally used to start the motor and power extras like lights or electronic attachments.
Lithium batteries are battery-powered mowers and are made for more compact electric push mowers. These lithium batteries offer the ease of cordless operation without the need for gasoline and are mainly used for smaller lawns. The mower motor that powers the cutting blades in cordless push electric mowers is directly powered by lithium batteries.
Battery Type
The chemistry and design of cordless lithium batteries and riding mower batteries frequently differ.
Riding lawn mower battery. Lead-acid batteries are typically used in gas-powered riding mowers. The high current required to start the engine can be provided by lead-acid batteries, which are dependable and long-lasting. Periodic maintenance for these batteries is necessary, including checking and topping off the electrolyte levels.
Cordless Mower batteries. Lithium-ion batteries are frequently used in cordless mowers. In comparison to lead-acid batteries, lithium-ion batteries have advantages such as being lighter, charging more quickly, and lasting longer. Lithium-ion batteries don’t require any maintenance and deliver enough power to the push mower electric motors.
Battery Capacity
Riding lawn mower batteries typically have a higher capacity compared to cordless lithium batteries due to the difference in application and power needs.
Batteries for riding mowers
Riding lawn mower batteries typically have capacities measured in ampere-hours (Ah), which can range from 15Ah to 35Ah or more. Riding lawn mower batteries usually can run the engine and numerous accessories for a longer time because of their increased capacity.
Lithium-ion battery
Compared to riding mower, lithium-ion battery typically has a smaller capacity. Watt-hours (Wh) are the standard unit of measurement for capacity, and it can have a range of 40Wh to 200Wh or more. The lesser capacity is enough to run the push mower for the specified amount of time while also powering the electric motor.
Why lithium battery considered to be long-lasting?
Several characteristics of lithium-ion batteries’ chemistry and architecture are responsible for their reputation as long-lasting batteries.
High Energy Density
Lithium-ion batteries can store a lot of energy in very tiny and lightweight packaging because of their high energy density.
Because of their high energy density, lithium-ion batteries can maintain a constant power output for a longer time, which adds to their durability.
Extended Cycle Life
Compared to other battery chemistries, such as lead-acid, lithium-ion batteries often have a longer cycle life. A battery is fully discharged and recharged once during a cycle. Lithium-ion batteries can withstand hundreds to thousands of cycles before their capacity starts to significantly degrade. Their total longevity is a result of their prolonged cycle life.
Low Self-Discharge
Because lithium-ion batteries self-discharge slowly while not in use, they keep their charge for a longer period. By preventing the battery from entirely discharging over time, this feature lowers the risk of irreparable damage and increases the battery’s lifespan.
Minimal memory effect
Lithium battery, commonly referred to as battery memory, has a small memory effect. Memory effect describes the reduction in battery capacity caused by repeated charging without complete discharge. Since lithium-ion batteries are less prone to this occurrence, they can continue to operate at full capacity over time.
Advanced Battery Management System
A lithium battery uses sophisticated Battery Management Systems (BMS), which are common. Voltage, temperature, and charging/discharging rates are just a few of the different battery performance factors that a BMS helps monitor and control. The BMS optimizes the battery’s longevity by making sure it runs within safe parameters.
Superior Performance in Extreme Temperature
Lithium-ion batteries can function in a wide variety of temperatures, both hot and cold, without noticeably degrading performance. Compared to other battery chemistries, they are more resistant to severe temperatures. Because lithium-ion batteries can keep their capacity and function even in adverse environmental circumstances, this temperature tolerance helps them last longer.
Continued Technological Advancements
Lithium-ion battery technology has undergone continual research and development. The materials, manufacturing processes, and overall battery design have all improved as a result of this continual development.
Because of these developments, lithium-ion batteries now perform better, last longer, and have greater safety features.
Even though lithium-ion batteries have longer lifespans than certain other battery chemistries, usage patterns, charging habits, and environmental factors can still have an impact on a battery’s lifespan. Lithium-ion battery lifespan can be increased by following correct battery maintenance and care instructions.
FAQ
How do I know if my mower needs a new battery?
Several signs could mean that your mower needs a battery replacement.
Starting Difficulties
If your mower is difficult to start or needs several efforts to start, the battery may be weak or failing. This is particularly true if you’ve already ruled out alternative probable problems like fuel or spark plug troubles.
Slow Cranking
When starting the lawn mower, if you find that the engine cranks slowly or turns over slowly, it can be because of the bad lawn mower battery. A slower cranking speed can be the result of the battery’s diminished power.
Dim Lights or Electrical Problems
If your lawn mower contains lights or other electric mower parts, such as an electric starter or solenoid, and you find they are dim or malfunctioning, it may be an indication that your battery is dying and cannot supply enough power.
Age of the Battery
Consider your battery’s age. Depending on usage and care, the average life of a lawn mower battery is between two and four years. It might be time for a replacement if your battery is older and showing any of the issues listed above.
Testing the Battery
You can check the battery’s voltage if you have access to a battery tester or voltmeter. A fully charged battery should usually measure between 12.6 and 12.8 volts. If the reading is noticeably lower, the battery may be failing or weak.
You can try jump-starting your mower with the aid of another car or a battery charger if you think the battery in your mower is the issue.
It’s probably time for a new battery if the mower starts readily with the jumpstart but struggles to start on its own. If you have any questions or require additional help with battery change, it is advised that you study your mower’s handbook or get in touch with an expert.
How do you tell if the battery in your lawn mower is dead?
You can tell if your battery is dead or ready to die in one of two ways. The first one is the more straightforward voltage check, which involves connecting a meter to the battery and determining whether the battery voltage is adequate.
Depending on the type of mower you have, this might be anywhere between 12V and more. Checking for clicking noises when starting the mower by pulling the rope or turning the ignition key while seated on the machine is a simpler approach to determining if your battery is dying. Your battery is probably dead if the engine won’t crank or makes a slow-clicking sound.
Why do lawn mower batteries not last?
For a variety of reasons, lawn mower batteries might have a relatively short lifespan.
Limited Cycle Life
Lead-acid batteries, which can only be charged and discharged so many times, make up the majority of lawn mower batteries. The lead acid battery undergoes a cycle each time it is charged and discharged. The lead acid battery capacity to maintain a charge decreases over time, shortening its useful life.
Inadequate Maintenance
Negligent maintenance procedures can shorten battery life. The battery life can be impacted by a variety of factors, including neglecting to charge it frequently, failing to keep it clean and free of corrosion, and improperly storing the battery during the off-season.
Seasonal Storage
Lawnmowers frequently go inactive for periods, such as the winter. The battery’s capacity and performance may be compromised if it is not properly maintained or stored during certain times. The performance of the lawn mower batteries can also be harmed by cold temperatures.
Under- or Overchargin
Both overcharging and undercharging can shorten the life of the battery. Undercharging can result in sulfation, a situation where sulfate crystals accumulate on the battery plates and reduce their capacity, while overcharging can generate excessive heat and destroy the battery.
Environmental factors
Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, can affect the performance and lifespan of batteries. High temperatures may speed up the chemical reactions in the battery, hastening its deterioration. The lithium-ion battery capacity to keep a charge can be decreased in cold weather, and if the battery freezes, it could cause harm.
Age and Wear
Lawn mower batteries deteriorate with time, just like any other battery. They lose some of their ability to keep a charge and supply power as it ages. Usage habits, load, and maintenance procedures all have the potential to hasten wear and shorten the battery life.
It’s critical to perform routine maintenance to extend the life of your lawn mower battery. This entails routine battery maintenance, terminal cleaning, and safe battery storage while not in use. The battery life can also be increased by being aware of usage patterns and avoiding deep discharges.
How long does a 40-volt lawn mower battery last?
If the battery in your lawn mower is 40 volts, it is a lithium-ion battery. A 40-volt one may be recharged approximately 500 times throughout its lifecycle and normally lasts between 40 and an hour on a single charge. Accordingly, a 40-volt lawn mower battery ought to last three to five years.
How much does it cost to replace a lawn mower battery?
Several variables, including the type of battery, the brand, and the store where you buy it, can affect how much it costs to replace a lawn mower battery. The price range is roughly estimated as follows:
Traditional Lead-Acid Batteries. The normal price range for conventional lead-acid batteries, which are frequently used in lawn mowers, is $20 to $80. The price can change based on the quality, brand, and capacity of the battery.
Maintenance-Free Batteries. A more sophisticated and long-lasting solution, maintenance-free batteries are often referred to as sealed or absorbed glass mat (AGM) batteries. Depending on the type and capacity, these batteries often have a greater price range, starting at about $50 and increasing up to $150 or more.
Lithium-ion batteries. Some lawn mowers might be compatible with lithium-ion batteries because lithium-ion batteries are lighter and have a longer battery life than lead-acid batteries. Lithium-ion batteries, however, are generally more expensive. Depending on the brand, capacity, and compatibility with your particular lawn mower model, prices might range from $100 to $300 or more.
It’s crucial to keep in mind that these pricing ranges are only estimates, and the real cost can change depending on your region, the particular battery model needed for your mower, and any extra features or guarantees offered with the battery. To find out the exact cost of the battery you require, it is advised to check with nearby merchants, online shops, or accredited dealers.
What are the advantages of lawn mower batteries?
The following are a few benefits of lawnmower batteries:
Environmentally friendly. Lawnmower batteries have zero emissions when in use, which helps to keep the environment cleaner and healthier. They are a greener choice than gas-powered lawnmowers since they produce less noise and air pollution.
Ease of Use. Compared to their gas-powered counterparts, electric mowers powered by batteries are typically simpler to start and use. No starter cord or gasoline mixing issues are necessary. To begin mowing, simply charge the battery, put it into the lawnmower, and press a button.
Quieter Operation. Compared to gas-powered lawnmowers, electric lawnmowers powered by batteries run much more quietly. This makes it possible for more tranquil and neighbor-friendly mowing sessions, which is especially advantageous for residential areas where noise restrictions could be in place.
Lightweight and maneuverable. Compared to their gas-powered counterparts, battery-powered lawnmowers often weigh less. As a result, they are simpler to maneuver around yard obstructions. Additionally, because of their weight, they are easier to transport and store.
Instant Start. Electric lawnmowers equipped with batteries have this feature. The engine doesn’t need to be warmed up or primed. When a button is pressed or a lever is pulled, the lawnmower is immediately ready to begin cutting grass.
Lower Operating Costs. Although a lawnmower battery may cost more upfront than a lawnmower driven by gas, the long-term operating costs may be lower. Battery-powered lawn mowers don’t need fuel, which lowers continuing costs. Additionally, compared to gas-powered motors, battery maintenance expenses are typically lower.
Versatility. They are frequently compatible with other outdoor battery-powered devices made by the same company. This increases overall adaptability and simplicity by allowing you to share batteries between tools like trimmers, blowers, and chainsaws.
How often should you charge a lawn mower battery?
The type of battery, usage habits, and storage conditions are just a few of the variables that affect how frequently it needs to be charged. The following are some general principles:
Regular Use. Even during the mowing season, it’s advised to charge the battery of your lawn mower at least once a month if you use it frequently. By doing this, you can keep the battery charged and keep it from entirely discharging, which can shorten the battery life.
Infrequent Use. It’s crucial to keep the battery charged if you use your lawn mower infrequently or during times of inactivity, such as in the winter. It is typically advised to charge the battery every 30 to 60 days for infrequent use to prevent full discharge.
Storage Times. It’s important to fully charge the battery before storing your lawn mower, especially if you want to keep it indoors throughout the winter. Throughout storage, keep an eye on the battery’s charge level and replenish it as necessary to keep it at a healthy level.
Avoid Deep Discharges. When at all feasible, try to keep the battery from experiencing deep discharges. When the battery is almost completely discharged before being recharged, deep discharges happen. Deep discharge can shorten the lawn mower batteries life and speed up battery degradation. Before the battery’s voltage becomes dangerously low, try to recharge it.
Moreover, remember that maintaining and charging your lawn batteries properly might help the lawn mower batteries last longer. Consult the owner’s manual or get advice from the manufacturer if you’re unclear about how to charge a particular battery.
What are the Disadvantages of lawnmower batteries?
Here are some disadvantages of mower batteries:
Limited runtime. They have a finite runtime, which is influenced by the battery capacity and the amount of lawn that needs to be mowed. Before continuing use, the battery must be recharged once its charge is finished. Larger yards or people who want uninterrupted mowing sessions may find this to be a limitation.
Charging time. Depending on the battery capacity and the charger being used, charging a lawnmower battery can take several hours. This implies that there can be downtime as the battery recharges in between cutting sessions. To make sure the battery is ready when needed, it’s crucial to schedule charging periods appropriately.
Mobility Restricted. Because they rely on battery power, they are less mobile than gas-powered lawnmowers, which can be readily refueled. Before beginning a mow session, users must make sure the battery is fully charged. They may also need to plan their mow route to avoid running out of battery power before finishing the job.
Upfront cost. Compared to gas-powered lawnmowers, electric lawnmowers powered by batteries may have a greater upfront cost. The initial cost of the lawnmower itself, extra batteries, and a compatible charger can be higher. However, it’s important to take into account any potential long-term fuel and maintenance cost reductions.
Battery lifespan. Lawnmower batteries can have a respectable lifespan, but they are not impervious to deterioration over time. The battery’s capacity could progressively decline, cutting down on runtime. The battery may eventually need to be changed, which will add to the expense.
Dependency on electricity. Battery-operated electric lawn mowers are dependent on a steady supply of electricity. It may be difficult to mow your lawn if there is a power outage or if there isn’t an electrical outlet nearby. On the other hand, gas-powered lawnmowers offer more versatility because they can run in places without electricity.
Weight and Bulk. Despite being generally lighter than gas engines, lawnmower batteries nevertheless add weight to the machine. This may have an impact on mobility, particularly if the battery is big or if you have to raise or carry the lawnmower a lot.
Conclusion
Several variables, including battery type, usage habits, maintenance routines, and environmental conditions, might affect how long a lawn mower battery lasts. Compared to more modern options like maintenance-free or lithium-ion batteries, traditional lead-acid batteries typically have a lifespan of 2 to 4 years.
In addition, a lawn mower battery life can be increased by performing regular charging, using a trickle charger, performing appropriate maintenance, and according to manufacturer guidelines.
The battery life can also be increased by paying attention to usage patterns, avoiding deep discharges, and appropriately storing the battery when not in use.
Ultimately, you can ensure dependable operation and extend the life of your lawn mower battery by taking good care of it. I hope this complete guide was interesting and informative for you to read.
