Battery for a Lawn Mower: Care, Maintenance and Replacement

Battery-powered lawn mowers have become a popular choice for homeowners who want an eco-friendly and convenient way to keep their garden in shape. But just like the mower itself, the battery needs care to stay reliable and last for years.

This guide combines practical advice and expert insights from trusted sources, covering everything from charging habits to storage, troubleshooting, and when it’s time for a replacement.

Why Lawn Mower Battery Care Matters

A well-maintained battery can:

1. Extend your mower’s lifespan
2. Save you money on replacements
3. Ensure reliable starts every time
4. Prevent safety hazards caused by damaged or drained batteries

Neglect, on the other hand, can leave you with a mower that refuses to start right in the middle of the mowing season.

Do Lawn Mower Batteries Need Servicing?

Yes. While they don’t need servicing in the same way a petrol engine does, batteries benefit from regular checks and cleaning. Simple actions like wiping down terminals, checking connections, and storing correctly can make a huge difference.

Charging Basics: How to Keep Your Battery Healthy

Proper charging is the foundation of good battery care. Here are the essentials:

1. Regular charging: Don’t wait until the battery is completely flat. Partial recharges are healthier.
2. After each use: Ideally, give your mower’s battery a top-up charge.
3. Off-season charging: If you won’t use the mower for months, recharge the battery once a month.
4. Avoid deep discharges: Letting the battery drain completely can shorten its life.
5. Overcharging is harmful: Don’t leave it plugged in endlessly—most modern chargers prevent this, but caution is wise.
   

Should You Trickle Charge?

Yes, during long storage periods, a trickle charger can maintain a steady, low charge to keep the battery in good condition.

Storage: Where and How to Keep Your Battery

A storage environment is just as important as charging habits.

1. Cool, dry place: Keep batteries away from extreme cold or heat.
2. Indoors if possible: Freezing temperatures or damp sheds shorten battery life.
3. Remove battery when storing mower: This prevents slow discharge and protects from corrosion.
4. Cover connections: Keep dirt and moisture away from terminals.

Safety First: What Not to Do

1. Don’t use a damaged battery—cracks, leaks, or swelling are red flags.
2. Don’t hose down your battery mower. Clean it with a damp cloth and dry thoroughly.
3. Don’t use chargers or batteries not designed for your mower. Compatibility matters for safety and performance.
   

Troubleshooting Common Battery Issues

Batteries sometimes act up, even with good care. Here are common problems and solutions:

1. Battery won’t hold charge → Could be old age (3–5 years is typical lifespan).
2. Battery drains too quickly → Check for faulty connections, parasitic drain, or failing cells.
3. Mower won’t start → Try testing the battery with a voltmeter. Around 12.6V usually means it’s healthy.
4. Battery always dead → Possible charging system issue or battery at end of life.

Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Lawn Mower Battery

Even with the best care, batteries wear out. Replacement may be needed if you notice:

1. Reduced mowing time despite full charge
2. Battery losing charge quickly during storage
3. Visible damage or corrosion
4. Voltage tests consistently below normal levels
5. Battery older than 5 years and showing decline

Tips to Extend Battery Life

Practical steps you can take today:

1. Charge soon after use instead of letting it sit discharged
2. Avoid mowing in very wet or cold conditions
3. Store battery separately indoors during winter
4. Use only the recommended charger and battery type
5. Keep contacts clean and dry
6. Use the mower regularly—idle batteries degrade faster

Choosing the right tool also affects battery life, so consider choosing between drills and impact drivers when planning your work.

Comparison: Key Battery Care Practices

Charging

1. Charge the battery after each use and at least once a month during the off-season.
2. Avoid deep discharges to prevent battery damage.
3. Quick tip: Avoid overcharging—regular but moderate charging is ideal.
4. For long storage periods, consider using a trickle charger to maintain battery health.

Storage

1. Store the battery in a cool, dry place.
2. Whenever possible, remove the battery from the mower and store it indoors.
3. Both the storage environment and proper removal are essential for maintaining battery performance.

Safety

1. Never hose down the mower while the battery is installed.
2. Regularly test the battery voltage and check for potential drainage issues.
3. Avoid using damaged batteries and ensure the battery is compatible with your mower.
4. Routine safety checks protect both the mower and the user.

Battery Life

1. Battery lifespan typically ranges from 3 to 5 years, influenced by usage and care.
2. Proper care, including charging, storage, and safety checks, helps extend battery longevity.
3. Environmental conditions also play a role in how long a battery lasts.

Takeaway: Regular maintenance, safe handling, and proper storage practices are key to maximizing your battery’s lifespan and performance.

FAQs About Lawn Mower Batteries

How long does a lawn mower battery last?
Typically 3–5 years, depending on use, charging habits, and storage conditions.

Should I leave my lawn mower battery plugged in all the time?
No. Occasional top-ups are good, but continuous charging can shorten life.

Can I use any charger for my lawn mower battery?
Only use the charger designed for your battery type and voltage.

Why does my battery keep draining?
Possible causes include faulty connections, parasitic drain, or an old battery.

Final Thoughts

Your lawn mower battery is at the heart of keeping your garden tidy with minimal effort. With the right care—regular charging, proper storage, safety checks, and timely replacement—you can maximize its performance and avoid costly breakdowns.

If you’re looking to upgrade or replace your mower, check out these reliable battery-powered options:

1. Makita DLM481 Self-Propelled Lawn Mower – A powerful and efficient mower with long-lasting battery performance.
   
2. GE CM 36-33 Li Power X-Change Lawn Mower – Lightweight, eco-friendly, and perfect for hassle-free lawn care.

Treat the battery as an investment, and your mower will reward you with years of reliable service.