Robot Lawn Mower Buying Guide
The following guide will help you identify what you need to look for in a robotic lawn mower.
Yard Size
This maybe the most important factor to consider. How big your yard is and how much area the automatic lawn mower can mow. This must be aligned. All models will list their recommended mowing size and match that with your lawn. The biggest yard size our robot lawn mowers mow is 3/4 of an acre.
Here's a helpful scale guide to determine your yard size and the appropriate mower.
1/8 acre = 5445 sqr ft
1/4 acre = 10,890 sqr ft
1/2 acre = 21,780 sqr ft
3/4 acre = 32,670 sqr ft
Perimeter Wire Set Up
Robot lawn mowers need a perimeter wire installed to zone your yard, so the mower knows where to mow and not stray from your lawn. This is a one time set up but will take time and patience. This isn't an option but a requirement. So ask questions and do your research on which mower has the best set up efficiency.
You don't want to spend weeks setting up your yard for zoning, but a few hours or days, depending on the style, shape and size of your yard. Please note, the more islands or curves or unique yard design you have, the more work will be required to install the perimeter wire for your yard.
If you do not want to do it yourself, you can have the manufacturer install the perimeter wire set up for you. Robomow now offers this convenience. See below for their prices.
Battery Life
You need to consider the battery life of your robotic lawnmower. Almost all use a docking station: the robotic lawnmower will begin cutting the grass, and when the battery runs low, it will return to the docking station to charge.
The problem is that it takes longer for your robot lawn mower to charge than it does to run. If you have a big lawn, then you need to consider a robot with a large battery capacity or short charge time. If the yard is small, than the battery size isn’t as important, but still a consideration.
And when the battery does fail, you can replace it with a new one. Batteries tend to last about 3 years or so and range from $300 - $600.
Scheduled Mowing
Almost all robotic lawnmowers offer the ability to schedule when you want it to mow your lawn. This convenience means you can use your yard for enjoyment and then have it mowed when you're busy doing something else or have it mow at night while asleep. Ultimately, you can have your mowing done when you want based around your lifestyle and schedule.
Grass Clippings
And to maintain that fresh cut look for a perfect looking lawn, it's recommended to have it mow at least 2 or 3 times a week. It cuts the grass into very small clippings that are buried in the roots of the lawn, where they decompose and act as a natural fertilizer for your grass. Grass clippings contain 80-85% water, and release valuable nutrients back into the soil.
Noise Levels
Robotic lawnmowers can sometimes take much longer than a normal person to cut your grass. They work by crisscrossing your yard several times to ensure that your grass is 100% completely cut. If you aren’t home, then the noise isn’t going to be a problem, but if you are home frequently, then you may want to look at a much quieter model.
Most models today mow at low noise levels so they won't disturb you or your neighbors giving you the additional option to mow at night.
Detecting Objects
Robot mowers detect an obstacle in its way during operation. When the mower collides with an obstacle, the mower will stop the rotation of the blade immediately, and then stop movement in that direction and reverse itself away from the obstacle. Anything less than 6 inches, though, should be removed from your lawn prior to mowing.
Anti Theft Protection
Most mower are equipped with an anti-theft feature, which sounds an alarm in the event of unintended use or removal of the mower from its designated area. A valid PIN code is entered or the mower is unlocked via a registered mobile device.
Mow in Rain
Depending on the brand, some mowers (Robomow) can mow in the rain but it's not recommended. Most mowers have rain sensors on top of it so when it rains, it will stop mowing and dispatch towards its charging station.
Support
If you buy unbranded models of robotic lawnmowers, then they may not offer any support. Confirm the brand you select offers extensive support by asking them questions and browsing their website's support area. Mowers take time to set up and will require replacement parts, so therefore you want a brand that will be there for you. They should offer How To guides, videos and phone support.
We're an authorized dealer for all our robot lawn mowers, so you have the complete support with any purchase from us.
Spare Parts
You will need a healthy supply of blades, spare parts and batteries so confirm that the robotic lawnmower you choose includes these. Also check the availability of parts and accessories prior to purchase because natural wear and tear should be expected and eventually need to be replaced.
If you have any further questions, feel free to send a message on our Contact Us page or email us at info@robotcleanerstore.com.
And here's a helpful link to our robot lawn mower collection!