Electric lawn mowers have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their eco-friendliness and ease of use. However, many people wonder if electric lawn mowers are as quiet as their gas-powered counterparts.
When it comes to noise levels, electric lawn mowers have a clear advantage over gas mowers. Electric mowers are generally much quieter than gas mowers, producing an average noise level of around 75 decibels, while gas mowers can produce noise levels of up to 95 decibels.
However, noise levels can vary depending on the specific model of lawn mower, so it’s always a good idea to check the decibel level before making a purchase.
Advantages of Electric Lawn Mowers
Eco-Friendly
Electric lawn mowers are an eco-friendly option compared to gas mowers. They do not emit exhaust fumes or contribute to air pollution, making them a great choice for those who want to reduce their carbon footprint. Additionally, electric mowers do not require oil changes or other maintenance tasks that can harm the environment.
Quiet Operation
One of the main advantages of electric lawn mowers is their quiet operation. They produce significantly less noise than gas mowers, making them a great option for those who want to avoid disturbing their neighbors or want to mow their lawn early in the morning or late at night without causing a disturbance.
Lower Cost of Ownership
Electric lawn mowers are often less expensive to own and operate than gas mowers. They do not require gas or oil, which can save you money in the long run. Additionally, they require less maintenance, which can also save you money on repairs and upkeep.
Ease of Use
Electric lawn mowers are generally easier to operate than gas mowers. They are lighter and easier to push, making them a great option for those with smaller lawns or who have difficulty pushing heavier mowers. Additionally, they do not require any complicated starting procedures, making them easier to use for those who are not mechanically inclined.
Types of Electric Lawn Mowers
Corded Electric Lawn Mowers
Corded electric lawn mowers are powered by electricity from an outlet. They are suitable for small to medium-sized lawns and are often more affordable than cordless and gas-powered mowers.
Corded mowers are lightweight, easy to maneuver, and have fewer moving parts, which means they require less maintenance. They also have adjustable handles and cutting widths, making them versatile and suitable for different types of grass.
One disadvantage of corded mowers is that the power cord limits the range of motion, making them unsuitable for large lawns or tight spaces. The cord can also be a tripping hazard, and users need to be careful when mowing around it.
Corded mowers are also not suitable for wet grass, and users need to be cautious when mowing on uneven terrain.
Cordless Electric Lawn Mowers
Cordless electric lawn mowers are battery-powered mowers that are suitable for small to medium-sized lawns. They are lightweight, easy to maneuver, and have adjustable handles and cutting widths. Cordless mowers are also zero-emission and quieter than gas-powered mowers.
One disadvantage of cordless mowers is that the battery life limits the mowing time. Users need to recharge the battery after a certain period, which can be inconvenient for large lawns. Cordless mowers are also more expensive than corded mowers, and the batteries need to be replaced after a certain period.
Robotic Lawn Mowers
Robot lawn mowers are suitable for medium to large-sized lawns and are ideal for users who want to save time and effort. They are battery-powered and operate autonomously, using sensors to navigate around the lawn. Robot mowers are also zero-emission and quieter than gas-powered mowers.
One disadvantage of robot mowers is that they are more expensive than corded and cordless mowers. They also require a boundary wire to be installed, which can be time-consuming and challenging for some users. Robot mowers are also not suitable for mowing on steep slopes or in tight spaces.
Performance and Features
Cutting Width and Deck Height Adjustment
One of the key features of electric lawn mowers is their ability to adjust the cutting width and deck height. This allows users to customize the mowing experience to their specific needs.
Most electric lawn mowers have a cutting width of 14-21 inches, which is suitable for most residential lawns. The deck height adjustment ranges from 1-4 inches, which ensures that the grass is cut to the desired length.
Adjustable Cutting Heights
Electric lawn mowers offer adjustable cutting heights, which is a significant advantage over gas mowers. This feature allows users to change the height of the blades to suit the grass length. The cutting height adjustment ranges from 1-4 inches, which ensures that the grass is cut to the desired length.
Mulching and Bagging Options
Electric lawn mowers offer mulching and bagging options, which are essential for maintaining a healthy lawn. Mulching grass clippings returns nutrients to the soil, which helps to maintain the lawn’s health. Bagging options are also available for those who prefer a cleaner look.
Run Time and Battery Charge
Electric lawn mowers have a run time of about 30-60 minutes, depending on the model. The battery charge time is about 2-4 hours, which is normal for rechargeable lithium-ion batteries.
Brushless Motor
Electric lawn mowers have a brushless motor, which is more efficient and quieter than gas-powered lawn mowers. The brushless motor also requires less maintenance, which is a significant advantage.
Side Discharge and Self-Propelled
Electric lawn mowers offer side discharge and self-propelled options, which are significant advantages over gas-powered lawn mowers. The side discharge option allows users to mow in tight spaces, while the self-propelled option makes mowing effortless.
LED Headlights
Electric lawn mowers have LED headlights, which are a significant advantage over gas-powered lawn mowers. The LED headlights make mowing in low light conditions much easier.
Maintenance and Safety
Maintenance Tips
When it comes to maintaining electric lawn mowers, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Sharp Blades: First, it’s important to keep the blades sharp, as dull blades can damage the grass and lead to a less-than-perfect cut.
- Keep Deck Clean: It’s also a good idea to clean the cutting deck after each use to prevent buildup of grass clippings and debris. Some models may have a bagger attachment that will need to be emptied regularly.
- Battery Charge: Another important maintenance consideration is the battery charge. For cordless electric lawn mowers, it’s important to keep the battery charged to ensure optimal performance. Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries are commonly used in cordless models, and they can be recharged multiple times before needing to be replaced.
Safety Considerations
When using an electric lawn mower, safety should always be a top priority. It’s important to read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and follow all safety guidelines. Some safety considerations to keep in mind include:
- Always wear appropriate clothing and footwear, including eye and ear protection.
- Avoid mowing on hills or steep slopes, as this can be dangerous and may cause the mower to tip over.
- Keep children and pets away from the mowing area.
- Be aware of the noise rating of the mower, as prolonged exposure to loud noise can lead to hearing damage.
- When using a corded electric lawn mower, be sure to keep the cord away from the cutting blades to avoid damage or injury.
In addition to these safety considerations, it’s also important to properly adjust the cutting height of the mower to suit the type of grass being cut. Some models may have adjustable cutting heights, which can be helpful for maintaining a healthy lawn.
Overall, electric lawn mowers can be a great option for those with small yards or who are looking for a quieter, more environmentally-friendly alternative to gas-powered lawn mowers. With proper maintenance and safety precautions, electric lawn mowers can provide a reliable, efficient way to keep your lawn looking its best.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use an Electric Mower Early in The Morning or Late in The Evening without Disturbing My Neighbors?
Generally yes, electric mowers can be used early in the morning or late in the evening without disturbing neighbors due to their low noise levels. However, if you have a particularly small yard it is still possible to disturb sleeping neighbors or cause dogs to bark, waking up the rest of the neighborhood.
Are Electric Mowers Suitable for Noise-Sensitive Environments Like Hospitals?
Electric mowers are suitable for noise-sensitive environments such as hospitals or schools due to their quiet operation.
How Does the Noise Level of An Electric Mower Compare to Other Outdoor Appliances Like Leaf Blowers or Chainsaws?
Electric mowers produce less noise compared to other common outdoor appliances like leaf blowers or chainsaws.
Do Electric Mowers Emit Noise Pollution that May Harm Wildlife or Pets?
No, electric mowers emit minimal noise pollution, which is unlikely to harm wildlife or pets.