How Much Does It Cost to Operate an Electric Lawn Mower?

Electric lawn mowers are a popular choice for households looking to maintain their lawns with minimal environmental impact and noise. In this article, we explore the operating costs and the various factors that influence them. We'll also discuss the advantages and disadvantages of different types of lawn mowers.

Types of Lawn Mowers: Electric vs. Gasoline

Electric lawn mowers come in two main types: corded and cordless. The choice between the two depends on your specific needs and circumstances. While corded mowers provide a steady power supply, they are limited by the length of the cord. Cordless mowers offer more flexibility but come with higher battery replacement costs.

The Cost Breakdown for Electric Mowers

Based on personal experience and industry standards, operating an electric lawn mower can be significantly cheaper compared to traditional gasoline mowers. For example, a 12-amp Ego cordless lawn mower with a single charge can mow an entire acre of yard for less than 50 cents.

Cost of Charging: Cognizant of the energy costs, the article mentions that the energy meter recorded less than a cent for mowing the lawn. This is a significant reduction in cost compared to gasoline mowers, where oil changes and fuel costs can add up to $20 or more per refill.

Operational Costs

The cost to operate an electric lawn mower varies based on several factors:

Battery Amps: Higher amps equate to longer runtime without needing to recharge. A 12-amp mower, for instance, can mow a quarter-acre lot for less than 20 cents. Battery Replacement: For cordless mowers, the cost of battery replacement is a significant ongoing expense. Battery prices can be quite high, and they need to be recharged frequently. Voltage Capacity and KWh Rates: These factors can influence the cost of electricity used to charge the mower, but it is generally much lower than the cost of gasoline.

Comparison with Gas Mowers

Gasoline-powered lawn mowers require frequent oil changes, filter replacements, and tune-ups. These routine maintenance tasks can add up to about $20 to $50 each time, plus the initial cost of buying the oil. Over the years, this can total several hundred dollars for oil replacement alone.

Considering the operating costs, the author finds that electric mowers are significantly cheaper in the long run. They also offer the convenience of starting with a simple flip of the switch and a quieter, cleaner operation.

Factors to Consider When Purchasing

1. Battery Choice: Opt for the highest amp battery possible to extend mowing time. This can save you the hassle of frequent recharging.

2. Yard Size: Electric mowers are best suited for small to medium-sized yards. Larger lawns might require more frequent recharging.

3. Maintenance: Although electric mowers have lower maintenance costs, they still need periodic blade sharpening. Gas mowers, on the other hand, might require more regular maintenance.

Conclusion

In conclusion, electric lawn mowers offer a cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and convenient alternative to traditional gasoline mowers. The main considerations are the type of mower (corded vs. cordless) and the ongoing cost of battery replacement for cordless models. Overall, investing in a good quality electric mower can save you money and make lawn maintenance easier.