The sweet hum of an electric lawn mower, the crisp scent of freshly cut grass – it’s a summer ritual many enjoy. But what happens when that hum turns into a frustrating silence? A non-working electric lawn mower can quickly turn your chore into a nightmare. This article dives deep into the most common reasons why your electric lawn mower might be refusing to cooperate, providing you with the knowledge and troubleshooting tips to get your mower back in action.
The Short Answer
The reasons your electric lawn mower isn’t working can range from simple solutions like a dead battery or a clogged cutting deck to more complex issues like a faulty motor or wiring. By systematically checking common culprits, you can often diagnose and fix the problem yourself, saving you time and money.
The Power Problem: Is It Even Getting Power?
Before you start tearing your mower apart, let’s tackle the basics. It’s essential to ensure your electric lawn mower is actually receiving power. This might sound obvious, but a simple oversight can be the root of your frustration.
Checking the Power Source:
- Cordless: For cordless models, start by checking the battery. Is it fully charged? If not, charge it and try again. You can also try a different battery, if you have one, to rule out a faulty battery.
- Corded: Make sure the cord is properly plugged into an outlet and that the outlet is working. Check for any damage to the cord, like frayed wires or loose connections. A faulty cord can prevent power from reaching your mower.
Troubleshooting the Power Switch:
Sometimes the issue lies with the power switch itself.
- Inspect for Damage: Look for any visible damage to the switch, such as cracks or loose parts.
- Test the Switch: Try cleaning the switch with a soft brush or a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. This may remove any dust or debris that could be obstructing the switch.
- Continuity Test: If you’re comfortable with electrical testing, you can use a multimeter to check if the switch is properly conducting electricity.
Is the Battery Behaving?
If you’re using a cordless lawn mower, the battery is a vital component. Even if the battery shows a charge, it might not be providing enough power to run the motor.
Battery Troubleshooting Steps:
- Check the Battery Level: Ensure the battery is fully charged. Many modern batteries have LED indicators to show their charge level.
- Check for Corrosion: Examine the battery terminals for any signs of corrosion. This can hinder the flow of electricity. Clean the terminals with a wire brush or baking soda solution.
- Battery Age: If your battery is old, it might be losing its capacity to hold a charge. Consider replacing it if you’ve been using it for a long time.
The Cutting Deck: The Heart of the Operation
The cutting deck is where the magic happens, but it can also be the source of problems.
Clogged Cutting Deck:
- Check for Obstacles: A clogged cutting deck can prevent the blades from spinning properly. Inspect the deck for any debris, grass clippings, or even small branches.
- Clear the Deck: Use a brush or a garden hose to clear the debris. For stubborn clogs, you might need to use a small tool, like a screwdriver, to pry out the blockage.
Damaged Blades:
- Inspect the Blades: Bent or damaged blades can create uneven cuts and can also affect the overall performance of your mower.
- Sharpen or Replace: Sharpen your blades regularly for optimal performance. If they’re severely damaged, replace them with new ones.
Motor Trouble: The Engine That Makes It All Work
The motor is the powerhouse of your electric lawn mower, and a faulty motor can bring your mowing efforts to a standstill.
Motor Overheating:
- Signs of Overheating: A hot motor can be a sign of a problem. Feel the motor after a few minutes of use. If it’s excessively hot, it might be overheating.
- Causes and Solutions: Overheating can be caused by a lack of lubrication, a clogged air intake, or an overloaded motor.
- Overloading: Avoid mowing excessively thick or wet grass, as it can put extra strain on the motor.
Faulty Motor:
- Signs of a Faulty Motor: A motor that’s making strange noises, like grinding or humming, is a clear indication of a potential problem.
- Replacing the Motor: In most cases, a faulty motor needs to be replaced.
Electrical Issues: The Power Flow
Even if your electric lawn mower is receiving power, a problem with the wiring or electrical components can prevent the motor from working properly.
Checking the Wiring:
- Inspect the Wires: Look for any frayed wires, loose connections, or signs of damage to the electrical wiring.
- Repair or Replace: If you find any damage, repair it or replace the wire.
Circuit Breaker:
- Check the Breaker: If your lawn mower is plugged into an outlet connected to a circuit breaker, make sure the breaker hasn’t tripped.
- Reset the Breaker: If the breaker has tripped, reset it by flipping the switch back to the “on” position.
Taking a Deeper Dive: When Troubleshooting Fails
If you’ve checked all the common culprits and your electric lawn mower still refuses to start, it’s time to delve a little deeper.
Professional Assistance:
- Contact a Repair Shop: If you’re not comfortable troubleshooting electrical or mechanical issues, consider taking your lawn mower to a reputable repair shop.
- Manufacturer Support: Check the manufacturer’s website or contact their customer support line for troubleshooting tips or information about potential issues.
Prevention is Key: Keeping Your Electric Lawn Mower in Tip-Top Shape
To avoid unnecessary frustrations with your electric lawn mower, preventive maintenance is crucial.
- Regular Cleaning: Clean the cutting deck, blades, and motor housing after each use. Remove any debris or grass clippings that could accumulate and cause problems.
- Sharpen Blades: Sharpen the blades regularly, ideally after every few uses, to ensure optimal cutting performance.
- Proper Storage: Store your lawn mower in a dry, clean place.
- Battery Maintenance: If you have a cordless lawn mower, follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for charging and storing the battery.
Final Thoughts: Getting Back to the Joy of Mowing
A non-working electric lawn mower can be frustrating, but with a little patience and knowledge, you can often troubleshoot and fix the problem yourself. By understanding the common causes, you can systematically check the power source, the battery, the cutting deck, the motor, and the wiring to identify the root of the issue. If you’re not comfortable tackling the problem yourself, don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance. Remember, a well-maintained electric lawn mower will make your mowing experience much more enjoyable and efficient.
FAQ
Why Won’t My Electric Lawn Mower Work?
Here are seven FAQs with answers to help you troubleshoot your electric lawnmower:
Q1: My electric lawnmower won’t turn on. What should I do?
A: The first step is to check the power source. Ensure the extension cord is plugged in securely and that there is power flowing to the outlet. If the power source is fine, inspect the mower’s power switch. Make sure it’s in the “on” position and that there isn’t any debris obstructing it. If the switch seems faulty, consider replacing it. You can also test the mower’s battery if it’s a cordless model. If the battery is depleted, charge it fully before trying to start the mower again.
Q2: My electric lawnmower keeps turning off. What’s the issue?
A: This is usually a sign of an overloaded circuit. Your lawnmower might be drawing too much power, especially if you’re using an extension cord that’s too long or thin. Try using a shorter, thicker extension cord or directly connecting the mower to a power outlet. If the problem persists, it could be an issue with the mower’s motor or a faulty switch. In such cases, it’s best to contact a qualified technician for repairs.
Q3: My electric lawnmower is making strange noises. What could it be?
A: Strange noises from your electric lawnmower could indicate a number of issues. A grinding noise might be caused by a clogged blade or a problem with the motor bearings. A clicking noise might signify a loose connection in the electrical system. It’s important to identify the source of the noise and address it accordingly. If you’re unsure about the cause, seek professional assistance.
Q4: The blade on my electric lawnmower isn’t spinning. Why?
A: A non-spinning blade could be due to a few reasons. First, check the blade’s safety switch. This switch usually prevents the blade from starting unless the handle is engaged. Ensure the handle is securely in place. If the switch is working, the issue might be with the motor or the belt that connects the motor to the blade. You can visually inspect the belt for any damage or looseness. If the problem persists, a qualified technician can assess and repair the mower.
Q5: My electric lawnmower is cutting unevenly. What’s going on?
A: Uneven cutting is often caused by a dull blade. You can try sharpening the blade or replacing it with a new one. If the blade is sharp, the issue could be with the height adjustment mechanism. Make sure it’s properly calibrated and that the wheels are rolling smoothly. You can also check for any obstructions in the cutting path.
Q6: The battery on my electric lawnmower isn’t charging. What should I do?
A: First, check the charging port and cable for any damage or debris. Ensure the charger is plugged into a working outlet. If the charging light on the charger or the mower isn’t indicating that it’s charging, it could be a faulty charger or battery. Try using a different charger or contact the manufacturer for replacement options.
Q7: My electric lawnmower overheats. What can I do?
A: Overheating is a common problem with electric lawnmowers, especially during prolonged use. Make sure you’re following the manufacturer’s recommendations for use and maintenance. Let the mower cool down regularly, especially during long mowing sessions. If the overheating problem persists, it could be due to a faulty motor or cooling system. Seek professional assistance from a qualified technician for repair or replacement.