8 Benefits of a Robotic Lawn Mower

Pushing a lawn mower, even a self-propelled one, can be tedious and time-consuming. But what if the mower pushed itself? A robotic lawn mower can offer efficiency, convenience, and environmental benefits, revolutionizing how we approach lawn care and maintenance.

If you still need convincing, check out these 8 benefits of a robotic lawn mower as an alternative to traditional push or ride-on mowers.

What is a robotic lawn mower?

A robotic lawn mower is an autonomous, self-propelled device that cuts grass without human involvement. As highly innovative machines, robotic lawn mowers utilize sensors, navigation technology, and smart programming to navigate a lawn, mow grass at the desired height, and return to a docking station for recharging.

As such, robotic lawn mowers are well-suited for homeowners with little time seeking a modern and efficient way to maintain their own lawns.

8 benefits of a robotic lawn mower

Using a robotic lawn mower offers a range of benefits that contribute to efficient and convenient lawn care. Here’s why you should consider investing in such a tool.

1. Robotic lawn mowers require less storage space

One potential benefit of using a robotic lawn mower is that it requires less storage space compared to traditional gas-powered mowers. Here’s a more detailed look at how a robotic mower contributes to space efficiency:

• Compact size – Robotic lawn mowers are generally smaller and more compact than traditional lawn mowers. Their design is focused on functionality and efficiency, allowing easy navigation and operation within confined spaces.
• No fuel storage required – Unlike gas-powered lawn mowers that require space for fuel storage (such as in a shed or garage), robotic mowers rely on rechargeable batteries. This eliminates the need for storing fuels, oils, and other materials needed for optimal operation.
• Small docking stations – Robotic mowers often come with docking stations where they can recharge when not in use. Most stations are compact and can discreetly be placed in a corner of the lawn or garden. If stored indoors, they won’t take up too much space.
• Fewer maintenance tools – Robotic mowers typically have fewer components that require maintenance compared to traditional mowers. As a result, there is less need for storing various tools and equipment for such purposes.

2. Robotic lawn mowers are convenient

Probably most importantly, robotic lawn mowers don’t cut into your free time. They operate at night or while you’re at work according to your set mowing schedule. Besides the occasional edging, you won’t need to worry about the state of your grass, so you can spend more time entertaining or relaxing outdoors.

Once the installation is out of the way, your mower will be almost entirely self-sufficient. Simply select the mowing schedule you wish on the onboard control panel, and it will handle the rest. 

Most robotic mowers connect to home WiFi networks or use a Bluetooth signal, allowing you to program and control them from your mobile device. They also have GPS tracking capabilities for easy navigation, so your mower knows where it has already mowed and where it needs to go next.

Because the mower makes frequent, shallow cuts, your robot will maintain a consistent cutting height throughout your turf’s growing season.

3. Robotic lawn mowers mow efficiently

Yes, robotic mowers really work. Grass grows at different rates, depending on the nutrient content in different areas of your lawn. Mowing just once a week can lead to inconsistent patches of thick and sparse growth, especially during the warmer months. A robot mower gives you that clean, even look by mowing more frequently.

Because the mower makes frequent, shallow cuts, your robot will maintain a consistent cutting height throughout your turf’s growing season. Many autonomous mowers have an automatic spiral-cut feature that identifies thicker patches and dedicates extra mowing time to that area. This keeps your grass even and presentable all week long. 

The random mowing pattern of a robot mower is designed to cover the whole lawn without leaving streaks or tire marks from following a set path. There’s no easier way to cut grass evenly than by using a robot mower.

4. Robotic lawn mowers are less harmful to the environment – and to you

Robotic mowers operate on electricity rather than gas, being powered by rechargeable batteries. As such, they’re an eco-friendly way to cut grass and eliminate issues such as dangerous emissions that contribute to atmospheric carbon buildup and are harmful when inhaled. Did you know the environmental impact of a gas-powered lawn mower operating for an hour is comparable to that of a car driving about 100 miles?

While they aren’t always carbon-neutral (the electricity from your home still has a carbon footprint), robotic mowers greatly reduce the environmental impact on your lawn and its immediate vicinity. Say goodbye to burning fuel, residue, or buildup and ignition with a simple press of a button. Leaks and condensation that pollute lawns and local watersheds also will become a thing of the past.

And if you suffer from allergies, robotic mowers are a great way to reduce airborne grass pollen. Since they cut grass in smaller increments, they reduce pollen production. Not to mention that their autonomous quality means you won’t have to be nearby while the grass is being mowed.

Whether or not you plan to switch to a robotic model, electric mowers are a much healthier and greener alternative to traditional lawn mowers (gas-powered mowers).

5. Robotic lawn mowers are quiet

Robotic mowers have another advantage over traditional ones: they barely make a sound. Their smaller cutting decks and lightweight cutting blades require less motor power than full-size electric mowers, allowing them to operate virtually silently. Some models, like the Gardena Sileno series, operate with as few as 56 decibels of sound output, quieter than a window-unit air conditioner.

Because you don’t have to worry about disturbing the neighbors, you can let your robot mower run at night without losing sleep. This option is invaluable for homeowners who want a beautifully manicured lawn without ever having to see or hear the mower. Most autonomous mowers come with built-in anti-theft features, so you can sleep soundly while your mechanical mower pulls a graveyard shift.

6. Robotic lawn mowers can mulch

Robotic mowers often come with mulching capabilities, which means they cut grass into fine clippings that act as a natural fertilizer for the lawn. Instead of contributing to thatch buildup like full-sized grass clippings from traditional mulching mowers, finely mulched grass returns the nutrients from the blade tips to the soil and the grassroots. 

Also called “grasscycling,” this process improves soil moisture retention, enhances microbial activity and soil health, and removes the need for collection and disposal of grass clippings.

7. Robotic lawn mowers are low-maintenance

With a robotic lawn mower, you don’t have to change the oil, refill the gas, or replace spark plugs. Can you say low maintenance? Simply hose off the undercarriage occasionally, change the blades once or twice a year, and replace the battery every two to four years. Following these steps should get you 10-plus years out of your unit (sometimes even as much as 20 years). 

8. Robotic lawn mowers provide long-term savings

Robotic mowers have fewer moving parts than traditional ones, reducing maintenance costs. Since no gasoline is involved, you’ll see substantial savings on fuel. 

And let’s not forget about durability. With fewer mechanical components and less wear and tear, robotic mowers generally experience fewer breakdowns, reducing the need for costly repairs. Besides that, they have a longer lifespan compared to traditional mowers. Their durable design and efficient operation help them last longer, providing better value for your initial investment.

That said, while you can look forward to long-term savings, you must still consider the initial upfront cost, which is typically quite high, some maintenance costs, and repair expenses in case of malfunction. Consider the following when calculating potential costs down the line:

• The lawn mower brand and quality – Your robotic lawn mower’s reliability is dependent on the brand and its reputation. High-quality models will typically break down less, saving you expenses in the long run.
• Possible DIY repairs – Minor issues can be addressed with some DIY work if that’s something you can tackle. That way, you’ll save on professional repair costs and have your mower up and running faster.
• Warranty coverage – Familiarize yourself with your warranty terms when it comes to repairs and replacements. Know the warranty period and what you can expect in case of issues.
• Service centers and support – Know under what circumstances you can contact authorized service centers for issues with your lawn mower model.

FAQ about robotic lawn mowers

Does a robotic mower really eliminate all yard work?

While you’ll certainly see a drastic reduction in the amount of time you spend thinking about your lawn, a robot won’t perform every task you need. You’ll likely need to go out occasionally with a string trimmer to clean up the edges, especially along fences and walls. Some robots, namely the WORX Landroids, have a cut-to-edge feature that reduces or eliminates the need for extra weed whacking, but personal involvement will still be necessary.

Can robotic lawn mowers handle yards of any size or any terrain?

Robotic lawn mowers are still limited by the size of your lawn. Some models, like the Husqvarna 450XH, can handle yards well over an acre, but that extra capability comes with a higher price tag. 

Most robotic mowers are designed to cut between a quarter acre and half an acre of grass. So if you have a large lawn, a robotic mower might not be for you. Check out our list of the best battery-powered lawn mowers or our guide to the best riding mowers.

Before purchasing a robotic mower, assess your lawn’s terrain and slope conditions. If your lawn has significant slopes or irregular terrain, choose a model specifically designed to handle such conditions. Check the specifications carefully.

When it comes to uneven terrain, some important features include:

• Slope capacity
• Wheel design
• Anti-tip and lift sensors
• Terrain mapping and navigation

Can I use a robotic mower on multiple lawns?

Robotic mowers are usually designed to operate within a specific predefined area or boundary. 

Some robot models allow you to use the mower on multiple lawns by transporting the docking station and adjusting the setup. These mowers can handle multiple zones or lawns by allowing you to program different cutting schedules and paths for each zone.

However, checking the manufacturer’s guidelines and specifications for compatibility is always recommended to prevent malfunction or damage.

How long does it take for a robotic mower to charge?

Charging times vary by model and depend on factors such as battery capacity. Ordinarily, charging can take anywhere from 30 minutes to a few hours. When the battery is depleted, the mower will automatically make its way back to the docking station, so you won’t have to worry about this task.

Some factors that influence charging time:

• Battery capacity
• Charging technology
• Battery type (lithium-ion batteries are lightweight and generally charge fast)
• Charging station
• Environmental conditions, such as temperature, as they affect battery performance

We advise referring to the manufacturer’s specifications for information on your model’s capabilities.

What happens if the robotic mower encounters a problem during operation?

Many robotic mowers are equipped with error-detection features. If an issue arises, the mower will typically shut down automatically and send an alert (this can be an error code, a LED indicator, or a smartphone app alert). Users can then address the problem, whether it’s a simple obstruction or a more significant issue that requires servicing.

Do robotic mowers pose any risks to children or pets?

Robotic mowers are generally safe for children or pets to be around. They’re designed with safety features such as anti-collision sensors to help avoid accidents. However, they also have sharp blades that may cause injury if they come into contact with children or pets. It’s a good idea to:

• Supervise the lawn mower when it’s in operation, especially if children or pets may be nearby
• Schedule mowings when children and pets won’t be around in the yard
• Build a fence to keep children or pets away from the mowing area
• Educate children and other family members on the overall operation of a robotic lawn mower and the dangers associated with it 

Can robotic mowers handle very tall, overgrown grass?

While robotic mowers are designed for regular, frequent mowing, they may struggle with extremely tall or overgrown grass. Unkempt grass can interfere with the robot mower’s cutting capacity, efficiency, battery life, and navigation capabilities. Keeping the grass at a manageable height is recommended for optimal performance.

Pro help ready when you need it

Lawn mowing takes some research, and not everyone is up for it. If you want to transform your lawn into a masterpiece, you can benefit from expert lawn care services in your vicinity. They can elevate your outdoor space with precision mowing and that professional touch that goes the extra mile.

Lawn Love writer Stephen Kime contributed to this article.

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Main photo credit: Pexels | Pixabay | License