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These days, there are a number of battery powered lawnmowers on the market, sold on the fact that they are much quieter to run than other models. What many homeowners fail to realise, however, is that battery powered mowers are not a new invention - the traditional ride on mower runs very similarly to a car, using both fuel and a battery for power. If your lawnmower uses a battery, it is important that you keep it maintained if you want it to continue working.
So, what sort of batteries can be used in our lawnmowers? Generally, they are rechargeable (much like those used in our cars), but each has different features and advantages. Some of the common types include:
Lithium/Other: these batteries have a low storage capacity and are highly expensive. As such, they are not currently used in lawnmowers.
Lead Acid: these batteries (also used in our cars) are currently used in a number of mowers but are slowly being replaced.
Alkaline: these batteries are generally not used for lawnmowers, as they are better suited to small electric device applications.
Nickel Cadmium: these batteries are extremely low on maintenance, leading them to slowly replace lead acid types in most mowers.
As you can see, only the lead acid and nickel cadmium batteries are currently being used in lawnmowers, each requiring different levels of maintenance to keep them operating at their optimal level.
Lead acid batteries require the most amount of maintenance, making them the most hated feature of many lawnmowers. To begin with, the hole (closed by a plug) for adding water must be clear of obstructions at all times. The battery must also be transported correctly, otherwise you risk the chance of dangerous hydrochloric acid leaks. And, finally, only distilled water can be used to top up its water level.
Nickel cadmium batteries, on the other hand, require the least amount of care, which is why most homeowners now look for lawnmowers that contain these types. In fact, they are basically maintenance free - all you need to do is run the lawnmower until the battery is completely discharged, at which point it will begin to recharge.
When it comes to completing regular and appropriate maintenance on your lawnmower's battery, it is important that you follow the instructions provided with your mower (or its new battery, if you have had to replace it). This will go a long way towards prolonging the life of your lawnmower's battery, lowering your running costs over time and ensuring that you can always mow the lawn when you need to.
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