How to Buy an Electric-Powered Rotary Mower

Show your commitment to protecting the environment with an electric mower. Today, the dragging-the-cord-behind-you monsters are being replaced with battery-powered machines, making this an attractive alternative to gas mowers.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Electric Mulching Mowers
• Replacement Blades

1. Choose an electric mower if your lawn is 1/3 acre or less in size.

2. Select a mower with a wide cutting swath. Many electric mowers are narrower then their noisier, gas-powered cousins.

3. Keep in mind that a rear-bag mower collects clippings much more effectively than side-baggers. They hold more and allow the mower to fit into smaller areas. Side-baggers usually cost less, however.

4. Try out the grass catcher. It should be easy to remove, dump and replace.

5. Give the cutting height adjuster a try. Some are very easy to use; others require changing the setting on each wheel.

6. Remember that you'll have to mow more frequently because most electric mowers can't handle tall, thick or wet grass very well.

7. Ask how the deadman bail works. This is a required safety feature that either kills the engine or stops the blade when the handle is released. In the second type, the engine keeps running ' preferable to restarting the mower every time you have to empty the grass catcher.

8. Keep in mind that battery-powered mowers are heavier than corded mowers and may need to be recharged before you're done mowing if your yard is larger than a 1/4 acre.

9. Expect to pay between $100 and $175 for a corded electric mower and from $200 to $400 for a cordless one.

Tips & Warnings

• Look for rebates from manufacturers and utility companies on electric mowers. These groups are trying to increase the market and offer good incentives for buyers.
• Get fit. Electric mowers aren't self-propelled.
• Expect much less maintenance with an electric mower than a gas-powered one.

[rgathright]

on 10/4/2008 We should all do our part to save the enviroment and encourage the growth of the solar and wind power industries. Cordless electric lawn mowers go a long ways towards these goals. I recently purchased the Black & Decker Cordless Electric Lawnmower the CMM1200. I hope my review will help you make a decision about our future.

http://www.epinions.com/review/Black_Decker_19_In_24_Volt_Cordless_Mulching_Mower/content_445899312772

[happycook]

on 1/21/2007 Not addressed above are "electric reel mowers" which allow you to use the mower as a push mower when you want and use the battery when you need. This gives you the option of still using the mower when the battery runs out or at times of less growth...in the most environmentally friendly way...as a push mower.

I think ultimately the most important thing to look for is cordless mowers, since the cords are really irritating!