It may leak out only a few percentage points per month. Remove the battery when storing the tool. What is Causing My Lawn Mower Battery Life to Drain? From the newest $100,000 Tesla to the humble golf cart at your local course, the batteries that power them have come a long way, both in power and in the amount of care required. It shortens the life of your battery and increases the risk of a fire if you dont charge it after every use. If you have a battery that has not been charged in the past 12 hours, it is time to start charging it. In fact, it can actually make the batteries more prone to overheating, according to a study published last year in the journal Energy & Environmental Science by researchers at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Transport and store batteries away from metal objects like keys, coins, screws and nails. Overcharging a battery causes excessive gassing the electrolyte gets hot and both hydrogen and oxygen gas are generated. Charging a lawn mower battery during the winter protects it from becoming completely depleted. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. Start charging: The charger will indicate if it is charging or discharging. We just got a Toro electric-start "Recycler"-brand lawnmower. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. Which method is being used doesn't really matter that much. Corrosion is especially bad during cold and wet winter months and gets even worse when the lawn mower battery has a build-up of dirt and grime on the walls and terminals. Lawn mower batteries typically charge at a rate of 10 amps for about an hour. For the Ryobi RY48110, which costs around $2,500 new, replacing a dead battery will cost you about $66. Make sure you turn off your mower when charging. The mower's battery will charge in approximately one hour if you use a 10-amp charge. Always remove the lawn mower battery from the charger when it reaches a full charge. In general, a lawn mower battery should be charged after every use. If you have a 12-volt charger and you plug it into a wall outlet, it will take approximately two hours to fully charge your battery. GreenWorks, however . These mower batteries charge using one of two systems. That means keeping the batterys charge level at 20-percent or better. All lawn & garden batteries are flooded lead-acid batteries. However, in certain circumstances and at very low temperatures, a lawn mower battery can freeze. http://www.geniuschargers.comCharging a Lawn Mower battery has never been easier. Learn more about how to check and charge your battery along with checking your lawn mowers charging system here. If this isnt possible, make sure that the area where youre storing your lawn mower is well-ventilated and has good air flow. If the battery has been drained to this point, then chances are, it is shot. For example, a Ryobi 20-inch 40-volt mower costs about $400 at Home Depot. Charge the battery in excessively hot or cold temperatures, which Koenig says can also cut into the batterys useful life. They're both capable of charging the battery so that you can mow the lawn. There are 12 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. Smart chargers have the ability to charge batteries safely at the optimal rate, so they dont overcharge or undercharge and they wont overwork your battery. You can do this with metal files, chisels, or a blade sharpener if you have one. Turn off by pushing in the ignition key or turning off switch on electric start models, then push down on blade control lever (on manual starting). These can connect the positive terminal and negative terminal and short the battery out. The charger will handle the battery on its own from there. Purchases made through these links may provide a commission for us, at no extra cost to you. Over time, lawn mower batteries lose energy. When it comes to maintaining a lawnmower battery, a battery tender is a must-have accessory. You should leave your battery on the charger until it is fully charged. The charger may become slightly warm during charging, this is normal. Sharp blades will cut grass much easier and require less exertion from you and the battery. Method 1 Charging with a Battery Charger 1 Protect yourself with gloves, glasses, and proper ventilation. Keep the battery dry, clean and free from oil and grease. Unfortunately, charging or checking, and cleaning the connections of a battery damaged during the cold of winter will not always bring it back to life. CTEK - 40-206 MXS 5.0 Fully Automatic 4.3 Amp Battery Charger And Maintainer 12V. You should also make sure your batterys voltage is right for your machine and use. Follow this blog to stay up to date with what you need to keep your lawn in tip-top shape year-round. #1 Charge! The rating is defined as the current a lead-acid battery at that temperature can deliver for 30 seconds and maintain at least 1.2 volts per cell (7.2 volts for a 12-volt battery). This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. These crystals reduce its capacity to hold a charge and may cause permanent damage if left unchecked. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. First, find an area where its cool and dry. Charging types for electric lawn mowers depend upon both battery and charger type. Use a flat-head screwdriver to pry off the battery caps. Ensure your battery remains charged by charging it. The LED indicator makes determining if the battery is charged fully very easy. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
\n<\/p>


\n<\/p><\/div>"}, {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/2a\/Charge-a-Lawn-Mower-Battery-Step-6.jpg\/v4-460px-Charge-a-Lawn-Mower-Battery-Step-6.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/2a\/Charge-a-Lawn-Mower-Battery-Step-6.jpg\/v4-728px-Charge-a-Lawn-Mower-Battery-Step-6.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"

\u00a9 2023 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. This is a lower current, so it will take your battery longer to charge than a higher current. One of the most vulnerable times for your lawn mower battery is during the cold, sometimes freezing, winter months. Also, the cables are protected against reverse polarity, overheating, overcharging, and sparking, making them very safe charging cables. Battery Lawn Mowers. How Caring for Your Lawn Mower Affects Battery Life. Its a rechargeable battery that can be recharged by plugging it into a wall outlet. [1] While working with batteries, sparks and electrical mishaps are a possibility. It's important to maintain this standard as it's safe for the battery and helps extend its life. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. A lot, The grass is grown for the purpose of transplantation. (Finally Explained!). CCA (cold cranking amperes) - the amount of current a battery can provide at 0 degrees F (-18 degrees C). So, if your charger isn't automatic, it's especially important to unplug on time. Consult a professional if you dont have the skills, or knowledge or are not in the condition to perform the repair safely. The device is then allowed to rest for several minutes before being charged again. Remove excess grass clippings and dirt from the underside of the mower before storing it for the season, as these can cause rust. Keep The Battery Clean Another thing that you need to check is how the battery looks. Great options for lawn mower battery care in the winter include: Lawn mower batteries are an expensive and vital performance component of any lawn mower. The battery can be powered up for up to eight hours with the help of the charger. A battery that is in good condition will hold onto most of its charge with minimal charge leakage. A maintenance charger will keep your battery fresh while it is in storage. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. How often should I charge my lawn mower battery? Never charge a lawn mower battery with any more than a 10 amp charger. The most common type of lithium ion battery is the NiMH (Nickel Metal Hydride) battery. Charging your lawn mower battery is not always required. Although this corrosion can get cleaned with a baking soda and water solution and a wire brush, if the damage is too severe, they need replacement. Should I leave my lawn mower battery plugged in? If possible, wash them with water and/or soap before drying completely with paper towel or cloth. To use jumper cables, you'll need both ends to comfortably reach the lawn more and car battery at once. Remove the old battery from its compartment in your lawnmower by removing the hold-down bolts and screws connecting it to any electrical connections inside the machine. Using a multimeter will help you determine the voltage of the battery power on your lawn mower. Raising or lowering the current will shorten or lengthen your charging time. The freezing temperatures of winter wreak havoc on a lawn mower battery. Put The Battery Back. This very low current means that it is slowly charging the battery while keeping it safe. By using our site, you agree to our. In the past, battery manufacturers have tried to solve the problem by adding a layer of plastic to the inside of the cell. Most battery-powered motors have lithium-ion batteries that can last for up to 5 years. If your portable jump-starter doesnt have a plug, you cant use it to jump a 6-volt battery. Keeping the walls and terminals of your battery clean not only helps it run better and transmit better energy to your lawn mower, but it also helps protect it while stored during the winter. If you are concerned that the mowers electricity is too low, make sure that you use the multimeter and set it for DC current testing. This post may include affiliate links. If you forget to put away your lawn mower, it can get rusty or the battery can get damaged. Stop use if the battery is overheated, damaged or modified. Some regular chargers will shut off automatically when it has reached a full charge, but for those that do not, you will have to remember to take the charger off the battery. If you use this feature often, or if you are storing the mower for an extended period of time during the winter months, there are some things that you should do to keep your batteries healthy. The terminal connections are where the battery cables connect the lawn mower to the lawn mower battery. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
\n<\/p>


\n<\/p><\/div>"}, {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/20\/Charge-a-Lawn-Mower-Battery-Step-12.jpg\/v4-460px-Charge-a-Lawn-Mower-Battery-Step-12.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/20\/Charge-a-Lawn-Mower-Battery-Step-12.jpg\/v4-728px-Charge-a-Lawn-Mower-Battery-Step-12.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"

\u00a9 2023 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. In the winter, your battery will lose life due to a lack of use. Charging a lawn mower battery is critical for maintaining energy levels and for protecting from winter conditions that could freeze the liquid battery components. The life of your battery can keep draining if your battery isnt making a good connection due to bad or corroded terminals and loose cables. You can even leave some smarter trickle chargers on your charger for a few days or weeks at a time, but it's best to discuss this with the manufacturer. Sulfation is a buildup of lead sulfate crystals on the plates of your battery. Place batteries near fire or heat, including a pilot light, which increases the chance of explosion. 304 North Cardinal St.Dorchester Center, MA 02124. If your battery has frozen over winter, it may take some time for it to thaw out enough so that you can hook up your charger. If you live in an area with extreme seasonal temperaturesperhaps one where summers are hot enough for people to run their air conditioners all day longyou might want to consider using a trickle charger instead of simply stashing your lawnmower away during winter months. There are some genuinely great products for quick and efficient . Dont leave the battery on the lawn mower all day long. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. Taking care of your lawn mowers battery will maintain its longevity, however, there are many factors that go into charging your lawn mower. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. If possible and practical for your situation: remove the battery from where its stored; put it on a charger; maintain it according to manufacturer specifications; store it indoors if at all possible (outdoor temperatures if very low). The voltage of the battery, the amps needed to charge it, and how often you use will affect how long you need to charge your lawn mower battery. However, trickle-charge units take eight hours or more and will sometimes take all day. Once the charger indicates that the battery is fully charged, remove the black wire first, then the red wire. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/e5\/Charge-a-Lawn-Mower-Battery-Step-1.jpg\/v4-460px-Charge-a-Lawn-Mower-Battery-Step-1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/e5\/Charge-a-Lawn-Mower-Battery-Step-1.jpg\/v4-728px-Charge-a-Lawn-Mower-Battery-Step-1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"

\u00a9 2023 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. For example, a lithium-ion battery can be charged up to 80% of its capacity in one hour, while a nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery will only last for about 30 minutes before needing a recharge. It is possible for you to charge a lawn mower battery with a car battery charger. Most lawn mowers use a 12-volt battery. As most lawnmower batteries come in 12-volt, choose a battery charger that is compatible with it. When you care for the entire machine, you will prolong your lawn mowers battery and save money. In conclusion, Honda lawn mower repair services near you provide you with expert solutions for all your mower needs. (Read This First! How many amps does a lawn mower typically consume? You have to understand your lawn mower and its battery so that you can care for it properly. The voltage of your lawn mowers battery will depend on these factors: Lawn mowers produced in the 1980s will most likely use a 6-volt battery, which has a shorter charge and usage time. You should perform actions on your battery before replacing it including checking connections, charging the battery, and testing the overall battery voltage. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. In order to keep your lawn mower battery charged, youll need to store it in a dry and cool place. Try to bypass any safety or control devices to change the voltage rate at which a battery charges, Koenig says. However, proper care of the battery on your lawn mower means that you keep it fairly well charged or promptly charge it back to full strength if it becomes dead for any reason, including exposure to cold weather or freezing. Note that some newer battery chargers may have adjustable Amp-hours. The spinning blades of a running lawnmower can cause electrocution if you have an electrical short in your charger or its connected to something that touches them. The more charge your lawn mower is leaking, the worse condition your battery is in. Some drainage can be normal for a lawn mower battery, but make sure that there are not any major issues, like: If you leave the keys in the ignition, you could forget to turn the mower off or your mower could be staying in standby mode. Last Updated: March 17, 2023 Unfortunately, that also means no more mowing the lawn! Proper battery maintenance will help your lawn mower perform at its best and live longer. Environmental consciousness and advances in electric mower performance are convincing more Americans to buy electric lawn mowers to replace their gas ones. The company has raised funding from notable investors like Y Combinator, Joe Montana, Alexis Ohanian, Barbara Corcoran and others. While this output is larger, it can unfortunately damage the battery, especially if it is used regularly. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. If you follow the simple safety and precaution steps listed in this article, you will know how to take better care of your lawn mower battery in the winter. Leaving your ignition key in the on position or a faulty charging system can also affect your battery. As seen in Forbes, CNBC and USA Today, LawnStarter makes it easy to schedule service with a local lawn care professional. The sod is the same as any other crop., Treatments with a higher rate of application may be necessary for brown lawns. A cool and dry place indoors is recommended for lawn mower battery storage. The Most Comprehensive Answer, Is It Ok To Water Grass At Night? Fully charging a lawn mower battery will take longer than charging it for single use. If they freeze while they are still attached to the machine, this can permanently damage them and make them useless. If youre curious about which type of electric lawn mower is best for you, check out our guide on the best electric lawn mowers for homeowners. With a little maintenance and charging throughout the seasons, you can keep it running for years. A completely depleted battery is much more difficult to charge and will not usually have the same length of power or endurance as a battery that has been properly cared for. What Affects Lawn Mower Battery Charging Times? Cleaning the lawn mower battery before storing it and before using it again in the spring is highly recommended for quality upkeep that gives the battery longevity. If the seed is thrown on the ground, will it grow? Some chargers can charge your lawn mower battery at a current of 20 amps, and this will reduce the charging time. How Do You Charge a Lawn Mower Battery Over Winter? As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Charging a lawn mower battery at 2 amps should take around 4-6 hours. Longer charging times will be caused by connecting the battery to a lawn mower battery that has fewer Amps. Continue with Recommended Cookies. Just like with a cellphone or laptop battery, a slow charge is best for a deep, thorough charge on a riding mower battery. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. A trickle charger is a type of charger that uses a small amount of electricity to charge a devices battery over a short period of time. You might expect your lawn mower to stay charged while in storage, however, the battery can drain, even if you are not using it. Clamps to fit top-post or side-post batteries. This prevents damage from occurring when youre not around (like overnight) so you dont have to worry about leaving it connected all night longit will automatically shut off when done! Trickle chargers keep the battery constantly charging by delivering a slow and steady charge. Park your lawn mower or tractor on a flat, level surface so that you can gauge the proper water level inside the battery. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. Store batteries where terminals can be protected. LawnStarter is a startup making lawn care easy affordable and reliable. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. Locate jumper cables. Plug the charger into a standard 120 volt power outlet and let the battery charge for 8 ~ 24 hours. Complete Explanation, Do I Need To Remove Grass Before Laying Gravel ~ Quick Facts, What Are The Best Perennial Plants For Pots? This protects the battery by: When a lawn mower battery is overcharged, the battery can get damaged and need to be replaced faster. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
\n<\/p>


\n<\/p><\/div>"}, How to Relieve & Prevent Headaches & Migraines Fast, How to Unclog a Toilet: With a Plunger and without a Plunger, How to Use Uber for the First Time: Complete Beginner's Guide, How to Take a Screenshot on a Windows PC: 8 Simple Tricks, https://www.gardenguides.com/13404469-how-do-i-charge-a-lawn-tractor-battery.html, https://www.gardentoolexpert.com/how-to-test-a-lawnmower-battery-a-step-by-step-guide/, https://obsessedlawn.com/how-long-does-it-take-to-charge-a-lawn-mower-battery/, https://batterymanguide.com/how-long-does-it-take-to-charge-a-lawn-mower-battery/, https://kylesgarage.com/can-you-jump-start-a-lawn-mower-with-a-car/, https://www.lawnsbesty.com/can-you-overcharge-a-lawn-mower-battery/, https://husqvarna.custhelp.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/922/~/general-info---can-i-use-my-vehicle-to-jump-start-my-lawnmower%3F, https://support.cubcadet.com/s/article/186-1. If you have a battery compartment, remove it from there and place it in a plastic bag or another container. Don't worry, the process is super simple. How long does it take to charge a Toro lawn mower battery? Home Blog Lawn Mowers Gas-Powered Lawn Mowers A Guide To Winter Lawn Mower Battery Care. You can check the amount of charge with a (cheap) multimeter. How Can You Make Your Lawn Mower Battery Last Longer? Treating your lawn mower right will benefit your battery as well. The first step. Grass and dirt can build up on the blades, which can damage them. It takes about 12 to 16 hours to charge a fully discharged battery. Ego, whose lawn mower, string trimmer, leaf blower, and chain saw have all performed well in Consumer Reports' tests, says its gear doesn't require any midseason charging. Use a broom to sweep away any debris on top of the engine and wheels first off, then use a hose or pressure washer to spray out underneath until no more dirt comes out. The higher the voltage of the battery, the longer it will take you to charge it to its full capacity. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
\n<\/p>


\n<\/p><\/div>"}, {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/23\/Charge-a-Lawn-Mower-Battery-Step-5.jpg\/v4-460px-Charge-a-Lawn-Mower-Battery-Step-5.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/23\/Charge-a-Lawn-Mower-Battery-Step-5.jpg\/v4-728px-Charge-a-Lawn-Mower-Battery-Step-5.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"

\u00a9 2023 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. Be sure you charge in a ventilated area . The following chart shows the common temperatures that freeze lawn mower batteries based on how much charge they have left in them if left overnight. This is why the 12-volt battery is the standard for most lawn mowers. Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 15,380 times. Consult a professional if you dont have the skills, or knowledge or are not in the condition to perform the repair safely. Follow all safety instructions provided in your equipment operators manual before diagnosing, repairing, or operating. Learn how to charge and maintain your lawn mower battery, and some helpful. By this time, it should have a full charge. The answer depends on the type of charger you use. But with that choice comes the responsibility of learning how to charge and maintain lawn mower batteries. It is a good idea to keep your lawn mower on a trickle charger when you are using it regularly so you do not have to worry about taking the charger off. What Keeps Draining My Lawn Mower Battery? How Long Does a Lawn Mower Battery Usually Last? Recharge the battery before putting it back into the mower. What happens if you charge a battery too long? However, the discharge takes place slowly. Always follow local regulations and recycle the battery at a local recycling center. Lawn mower batteries are smaller than vehicle batteries for cars. Thirdly (and most importantly), follow these steps: You may find that this is the solution to your problems. It is recommended to put the charger on well before you want to use it during mowing season so that you do not have to wait for it to charge. The charger will need to be plugged into an outlet for at least 30 minutes before it can be fully charged. And when recharging, disconnect when it reaches 100-percent. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. Most battery chargers will deliver a current of up to 10 amps to the battery because it is a combination of a safe and quick way to charge the battery. Jeremy provides instant satellite quotes and can coordinate service from a smartphone or web browser. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. If you leave your battery connected to your lawn mower, a combination of energy drain and long periods of time will ruin your battery. However, if you connect the charger to an AC adapter, the charging time will be much longer. Second, make sure that the charger is working properly before using it on your lawn mowers battery; if not, take them both in for repairs or replacement before proceeding with this process. Its time to replace the device if you notice that its still indicating a low status. How do you store a lawn mower battery for the winter? Use the battery recommended by your lawn mower manufacturer.