Things To Consider When Buying Robot Lawn Mowers
Robot lawn mowers have become increasingly popular in recent years, offering homeowners a convenient and hands-free way to maintain their lawns. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your needs. Here are some key factors to consider when buying a robot lawn mower:
Cutting Capacity
A robotic lawn mower’s cutting capacity is an important factor to consider when making a purchase. The cutting capacity is typically measured in acreage, with most robotic mowers designed to cut between a quarter acre and half an acre of grass. If you have a larger lawn, you may need to invest in a high-end model that can cover up to 1.5 acres or more.
It’s also important to consider the width of the mower’s cutting path, which can range from 7 to 24 inches. Keep in mind that not all mowers can deliver a perfect edge, so you may still need to trim the edges yourself.
Battery Life and Charging Time
Since robot lawn mowers run on battery power, it’s crucial to consider the battery life and charging time of the model you choose. The typical run time for a residential robot mower is around 60 to 120 minutes, but some models can run for up to 150 minutes or longer.
Look for a mower with a base station for automatic recharging, and consider the recharging time as well. Some models can fully recharge in as little as 30 minutes, while others may take up to 120 minutes.
Smart Features and Connectivity
Many robot lawn mowers come equipped with smart features and wireless connectivity options. These features allow you to control and monitor your mower from your smartphone or smart home system.
Smart functions may include custom scheduling, zone mapping, weather sensors, theft warnings, and remote control for manual spot cutting. Some models even offer diagnostics and cutting history data through their accompanying apps.
Mapping and Navigation Abilities
Robot lawn mowers navigate your lawn using perimeter wires, GPS, or cameras. Boundary-wired and camera-based models typically cut in a random path, while GPS-enabled models can follow specific paths more consistently.
If your lawn has significant slopes or irregular terrain, consider a model with advanced navigation features such as mapping software and oversized wheels. Additionally, look for a mower that can handle multiple cutting zones if you have a large lawn.
Before purchasing a robot lawn mower, assess your lawn’s terrain and size to determine the best model for your needs. With the right features and capabilities, a robot mower can help you maintain a beautiful lawn with minimal effort.