How long does a mower battery last? If you've got a lawn mower, it's key to know the battery's duration.
In this article, I'll answer this question, discuss ways to extend the lifespan of your lawn mower battery and get the most value out of it.
This knowledge will help you with planning, budgeting, and making your equipment last longer.
What types of lawn mower batteries are in the market?
Lawn Mower Battery Types
There are two main types of lawn mower batteries in the market:
- Lead-acid
Each type has its own pros and cons that affect how long they last.
Lithium-ion batteries are popular because of their high energy and power density, as well as long lifespan.
These batteries are lightweight, require no maintenance, and provide consistent power throughout their lifetime.
These characteristics, along with their capability for fast discharge, have made them nearly ideal for portable electronics applications.
Source: sciencedirect.com
Lead-acid batteries have been the choice for lawn mower batteries for years.
They're affordable, reliable, but require regular maintenance. It involves checking water levels and cleaning terminals.
Although they're cheaper initially, lead-acid batteries don't last as long as lithium-ion batteries.
Still, what are the factors that influence how long a lawn mower battery lasts?
Factors Affecting Lifespan of Lawn Mower Battery
Lawn mower battery life expectancy is influenced by several important factors.
Battery Quality
The battery you choose affects how long it lasts.
High-quality batteries are made with better materials and construction, so they last longer.
Investing in a well-known brand and choosing a battery made for lawn mowers can make a difference.
Usage Patterns
Using your lawn mower frequently and aggressively can affect the lifespan of your battery.
If you mow large areas or tackle tough terrain often, your battery will be strained and may not last if it would with lighter use.
Overusing the mower or not recharging the battery properly can reduce its lifespan.
Maintenance Practices
Taking care of your lawn mower battery is important.
You should clean the battery terminals regularly to keep them free from dirt and corrosion. This will prevent damage and make it work better.
Also, make sure you store and charge it correctly to make it last longer.
Temperature Conditions
The temperature affects how long your lawn mower battery lasts.
Extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold, can mess up the battery's chemical reactions, making it not last as long.
Avoid exposing your battery to extreme temperatures to prevent damage.
Charging Habits
Charging your lawn mower battery incorrectly can also affect its lifespan. If you overcharge or undercharge it, the battery cells can get damaged, reducing their capacity and overall lifespan.
Remember to follow the manufacturer's charging recommendations and avoid overcharging the battery.
| Frequently Asked questions | Lead Acid | Lithium-ion |
|---|---|---|
| Can I damage a battery with incorrect use? | Always store battery fully charged. | Keep partially charged. Low charge can turn off protection circuit |
| Do I need to apply a full charge? | Fully charge every few weeks or months. Continuous low charge causes sulfation. | Partial charge better than a full charge |
| Does battery heat up on charge? | Gets lukewarm towards end of charge | Must stay cool or slightly warm |
Source: batteryuniversity
Overall Battery Health
Your battery's overall health impacts how long it lasts.
Check for damage, like leaks or bulging regularly, and fix any problems right away.
Also, focus on how the battery performs and notice any changes that could mean it needs replacing.
Expected Lifespan of Lawn Mower Batteries
One common question that homeowners often ask is, "How long should a lawn mower battery last?"
The average lifespan of a lawn mower battery is approximately three years.
The typical estimated life of a Lithium-Ion battery is about two to three years or 300 to 500 charge cycles, whichever occurs first.
Source: Newwark Electronics
Some high-quality lithium-ion batteries can last up to five years with proper care and maintenance.
Careful maintenance can also extend a lead-acid lawn mower battery's lifespan to three - four years.
The lifetime of batteries can vary across different brands.
So, it's important to do your research and choose a brand that's known for making batteries that are durable and long-lasting.
Signs Your Lawn Mower Battery is Dead
- No sound or clicks when trying to start: This indicates there's not enough power to turn the engine.
- Slow engine crank or no crank at all: The starter motor struggles or fails to turn the engine over.
- Dim headlights (if applicable): Weak or flickering headlights suggest low battery power.
- Low voltage reading with a multimeter: A reading below 12 volts indicates a dead or dying battery.
- Old age: Lawn mower batteries typically last three years. If yours is older, it's likely nearing the end of its lifespan.
How to Test Your Lawn Mower Battery:
- Visual inspection: Check for corrosion or damage to the battery terminals.
- Charge the battery: If it is low, try charging it fully. If it won't hold a charge, it's likely dead.
- Use a multimeter: Measure the battery's voltage.
A good healthy lawnmower battery should register between 12.6 to 12.7 volts. Source: Warwick Batteries UK Ltd
Tip: If you're unsure how to test your battery, consult your lawn mower's manual or seek assistance from a professional.
Acting early will help you avoid sudden breakdowns and plan for a battery replacement.
Maintaining and Extending Battery Lifespan
Regular Cleaning and Maintenance Tips
Keep your lawn mower battery in good condition by regularly cleaning and maintaining it.
Start by disconnecting the battery from the mower and using a dry cloth or brush to remove any dirt or debris. Avoid using water or other liquids because they can harm the battery.
Then, inspect the battery terminals for any signs of corrosion. If you see any buildup, gently clean it with a mixture of baking soda and water. Don't forget to wear gloves and eye protection when handling corrosive materials.
Proper Storage Techniques for Off-Season Periods
When the mowing season ends, store your lawn mower battery correctly.
Fully charge your lead-acid battery before storing it, but keep your lithium-ion battery partially charged. This helps prevent damage and extends the lifespan.
Find a cool, dry place to store the battery, away from sunlight, extreme temperatures, and moisture.
It's best to remove the battery from the mower and store it in a well-ventilated area.
Checking and Tightening Connections
Regularly check the connections between the battery and the mower.
If the connections are loose or corroded, it can cause power loss or inefficient charging.
Use a wrench or pliers to tighten any loose nuts or bolts and make sure the connection is secure.
If you see any signs of corrosion on the connections, clean them with a mixture of baking soda and water.
Put on a little petroleum jelly after you clean to keep it from rusting again.
Ensuring Adequate Charging Patterns
It's important to charge your lawn mower battery properly if you want it to last.
Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for how long and how often to charge it.
Responsible Battery Recycling and Disposal
When a lawn mower battery dies, it needs to be disposed of or recycled responsibly. This helps protect the environment and reduces the risks of battery waste. Plus, recycling allows us to recover and reuse valuable materials like lead and acid for other things.
Check with your local municipality or waste management authority to find out where you can recycle lawn mower batteries.
Some communities have specific places where you can safely drop off your old batteries.
You can also look into battery collection programs offered by retailers and manufacturers. They allow you to return your old batteries for proper recycling or disposal.
By doing this, you can help promote responsible battery recycling and protect the environment.
Conclusion: Taking Care of Your Lawn Mower Battery for Long-Lasting Performance
To keep your battery in good shape, monitor it, clean it, don't let it die or get overcharged, store it right, and follow what the manufacturer says.
By doing these things, you can ensure that your battery lasts as long as expected and performs at its best.
How do you make sure your lawn mower battery lasts a long time?
1 comment
My 3 year old Worx is suddenly not charging. What is wrong and what can I do?
Please help. I am 86 years old and not very active at present as I’ve hurt my hip.