The hum of a gas-powered engine and the smell of freshly cut grass are classic summer sounds. But for many homeowners, the hassle of maintaining a gas mower, the noise pollution, and the environmental impact make it an undesirable chore. Enter the corded electric lawn mower – a powerful, efficient, and often more affordable alternative.
This article will delve into the world of corded lawn mowers, exploring their benefits, drawbacks, and how to choose the best one for your needs. We’ll guide you through key features to consider, different types of corded mowers, and provide recommendations for top-rated models in various categories.
In short, this article aims to empower you with the knowledge you need to make an informed decision about whether a corded lawn mower is the right choice for you and your lawn.
Why Choose a Corded Lawn Mower?
Corded electric lawn mowers offer a compelling blend of performance, affordability, and environmental friendliness. Here’s why they’re a popular choice for many homeowners:
- Power and Performance: Corded mowers are known for their raw power, thanks to the direct connection to a power source. They can handle thick grass and even light brush with ease.
- Environmentally Friendly: Unlike gas-powered mowers, corded mowers produce zero emissions, contributing to cleaner air quality.
- Quiet Operation: The absence of a noisy engine makes corded mowers a much more pleasant experience for you and your neighbors.
- Lower Maintenance: With no engine oil to change, spark plugs to replace, or air filters to clean, corded mowers are incredibly low-maintenance.
- Cost-Effective: Corded mowers are generally less expensive than their gas-powered counterparts, both in terms of initial purchase price and long-term operating costs.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Corded Lawn Mower
Before diving into specific models, it’s essential to understand the key factors that influence a corded lawn mower’s performance and suitability for your needs. Here’s a breakdown:
1. Cutting Width
- What it means: The cutting width determines how much grass the mower can cut with each pass.
- What to consider: Smaller cutting widths (12-16 inches) are ideal for smaller lawns or navigating tight spaces. Wider cutting widths (18-21 inches) are more efficient for larger lawns, reducing the number of passes needed.
2. Cutting Height Adjustment
- What it means: The ability to adjust the cutting height allows you to customize the length of your grass.
- What to consider: Choose a mower with a wide range of cutting height adjustments to suit different grass types and your personal preferences.
3. Mulching Capability
- What it means: A mulching mower finely chops grass clippings into tiny particles that act as a natural fertilizer, returning nutrients to the soil.
- What to consider: If you’re looking for a more eco-friendly and efficient way to maintain your lawn, a mulching mower is a great option.
4. Power Source and Cord Length
- What it means: The power source provides the electricity to operate the motor, while the cord length determines the working radius.
- What to consider: Ensure that the cord length is sufficient to cover your entire lawn without requiring frequent plug changes.
5. Additional Features
- What it means: Look for features that enhance convenience, safety, and user experience.
- What to consider: Some mowers offer features like ergonomic handles, safety switches, bagging capabilities, and even wheels with ball bearings for smoother maneuvering.
Types of Corded Lawn Mowers
Corded lawn mowers come in different configurations, each with its advantages and disadvantages. Understanding the key types can help you narrow down your search:
1. Rotary Mowers
- Features: These are the most common type of corded lawn mower, featuring a rotating blade that cuts grass.
- Advantages: They’re typically more affordable, durable, and efficient for most lawn types.
- Disadvantages: Can leave a slightly uneven cut, especially on uneven terrain.
2. Reel Mowers
- Features: These classic mowers use a set of rotating blades to cut grass with a scissor-like action.
- Advantages: Deliver a precise, clean cut and are excellent for fine lawns.
- Disadvantages: Can be challenging to use on thick or tall grass and require more effort.
3. Robotic Mowers
- Features: These innovative mowers are fully automated, navigating your lawn autonomously.
- Advantages: Convenient, efficient, and great for maintaining large lawns.
- Disadvantages: Can be expensive and require setup and installation.
Recommended Corded Lawn Mowers
Now that you’ve gained a solid understanding of the factors to consider and the different types available, let’s explore some top-rated models across various categories:
1. Best Overall Corded Lawn Mower: Greenworks 12-Amp 14-Inch Corded Electric Lawn Mower
- Pros: Powerful, lightweight, compact, and easy to maneuver.
- Cons: Not suitable for very large lawns.
2. Best Corded Lawn Mower for Large Lawns: Sun Joe MJ401E 14-Inch Electric Lawn Mower
- Pros: Wide cutting width, powerful motor, and adjustable cutting height.
- Cons: Can be somewhat heavy.
3. Best Corded Mulching Lawn Mower: Earthwise 12-Amp 14-Inch Corded Electric Lawn Mower
- Pros: Powerful, efficient mulching capabilities, and ergonomic handle.
- Cons: Can be slightly noisy.
4. Best Budget-Friendly Corded Lawn Mower: Worx WG430 14-Inch Corded Electric Lawn Mower
- Pros: Affordable, lightweight, and user-friendly.
- Cons: Not the most powerful option.
Conclusion
Choosing the right corded lawn mower can significantly enhance your lawn care routine. By considering your lawn size, budget, and desired features, you can find the perfect model to ensure a healthy, well-maintained lawn. Whether you opt for a powerful rotary mower, a precise reel mower, or a convenient robotic mower, a corded electric lawn mower offers a sustainable and efficient alternative to traditional gas-powered models.
FAQs
Q: What are the advantages of using a corded lawnmower?
A: Corded lawnmowers offer a number of advantages over cordless mowers, primarily their power and cost-effectiveness. Their direct connection to an electrical outlet provides constant, uninterrupted power, allowing you to tackle even the toughest lawns without worrying about battery life. This constant power output also translates to a more efficient and powerful cut, making it ideal for thicker grass and larger areas. Compared to cordless models, corded lawnmowers are generally more affordable, making them an attractive choice for budget-conscious homeowners.
Q: Are corded lawnmowers limited in their reach?
A: The main drawback of a corded lawnmower is its limited reach. Being tethered to an electrical outlet restricts your movement, limiting you to areas within close proximity to a power source. This can be inconvenient for larger lawns or those with irregular shapes. You might need to use extension cords, which can be a safety hazard, or switch outlets frequently to cover your entire lawn. However, for smaller, more compact lawns, the limited reach might not be a major concern.
Q: What types of corded lawnmowers are available?
A: Corded lawnmowers come in a variety of styles and sizes, catering to different lawn needs and preferences. You can find traditional reel mowers, which are manual and eco-friendly, as well as electric rotary mowers that offer more power and features. The latter can be further categorized into different sizes and cutting widths, allowing you to choose a mower that best suits your lawn size.
Q: Are corded lawnmowers safe to use?
A: While generally safe, corded lawnmowers require extra caution due to the electrical cord. Always use the appropriate extension cord, ensuring it’s in good condition and not frayed. Avoid running over the cord with the mower, and be mindful of its location while mowing to prevent tripping or entanglement. Following these safety measures will help ensure a safe and enjoyable mowing experience.
Q: How do I choose the right corded lawnmower?
A: Selecting the right corded lawnmower depends on several factors, including your lawn size, budget, and personal preferences. Consider the mower’s cutting width, power, and features like mulching capabilities or height adjustments. Smaller lawns might benefit from lighter, less powerful models, while larger lawns demand more powerful, wider-cutting mowers. It’s also important to compare prices and choose a model that fits your budget.
Q: Is it difficult to maintain a corded lawnmower?
A: Corded lawnmowers are generally easy to maintain. Unlike cordless models that require battery charging and maintenance, corded mowers only need occasional blade sharpening and cleaning. Regular cleaning after each use helps prevent dirt and debris buildup, ensuring optimal performance and extending the life of your mower.
Q: Are corded lawnmowers environmentally friendly?
A: While corded lawnmowers require electricity, they can still be considered eco-friendly, particularly compared to gasoline-powered mowers. They produce zero emissions, reducing your environmental footprint. Moreover, their efficiency and durability mean they might require less frequent replacements, further minimizing their environmental impact.