Maintaining your lawn mower involves more than just regular oil changes and blade sharpening. Battery care, especially during the off-season, is crucial for ensuring a smooth start when spring rolls around. A common question among lawn mower owners is whether or not to remove the battery when storing the mower. The answer isn’t always straightforward and depends on various factors. Let’s delve into the pros and cons to help you make the best decision for your equipment.
Understanding Lawn Mower Batteries
Before deciding whether to remove your battery, it’s important to understand the different types and their characteristics. Lawn mowers predominantly use lead-acid batteries, similar to those found in cars, although smaller. Lithium-ion batteries are also becoming increasingly common, offering advantages in terms of weight and lifespan.
Lead-Acid Batteries
Lead-acid batteries are the workhorses of the lawn mower world. They are relatively inexpensive and reliable. However, they are susceptible to self-discharge and sulfation if left unattended for extended periods. Self-discharge is the natural process of a battery losing its charge over time, even when not in use. Sulfation occurs when lead sulfate crystals form on the battery plates, hindering the battery’s ability to hold a charge. Regular charging can help prevent sulfation.
Lithium-Ion Batteries
Lithium-ion batteries are lighter, have a longer lifespan, and offer better performance than lead-acid batteries. They also have a lower self-discharge rate. However, they are more expensive and can be sensitive to extreme temperatures. Storing them in a cool, dry place is essential for maximizing their lifespan.
Arguments for Removing the Battery
There are several compelling reasons why you might want to remove the battery from your lawn mower during storage. These reasons primarily revolve around preventing damage and extending the battery’s lifespan.
Preventing Self-Discharge
As mentioned earlier, all batteries self-discharge over time. This is especially true for lead-acid batteries. Removing the battery and storing it in a cool, dry place can significantly slow down the self-discharge process. This helps ensure the battery retains a sufficient charge for starting the mower when you need it.
Avoiding Sulfation
If a lead-acid battery is allowed to discharge completely, sulfation can occur. This can permanently damage the battery and reduce its capacity. Removing the battery allows you to periodically check its charge level and top it off with a battery charger, preventing sulfation.
Protecting Against Extreme Temperatures
Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, can negatively impact battery performance and lifespan. Removing the battery and storing it in a climate-controlled environment can protect it from these damaging effects. Ideally, store the battery in a cool, dry place where temperatures remain consistent.
Preventing Accidental Starts
While less common, there’s always a risk of accidental starts if the battery remains connected. This is particularly important if you have children or pets around. Removing the battery eliminates this risk and ensures the mower remains safely out of operation.
Arguments Against Removing the Battery
While there are valid reasons to remove the battery, there are also some arguments against it. These reasons often relate to convenience and the potential for losing or misplacing the battery.
Convenience
Removing and reinstalling the battery can be a hassle, especially if you have multiple lawn care tools or a busy schedule. Leaving the battery in place simplifies the process of getting your mower ready for use when needed.
Potential for Loss or Misplacement
If you remove the battery and don’t store it properly, there’s a risk of losing or misplacing it. This can be frustrating and require you to purchase a new battery, negating any potential benefits from removing the original one. Ensure you have a designated storage location for the battery if you choose to remove it.
Modern Battery Technologies
Some modern lawn mowers come equipped with advanced battery management systems that can mitigate the effects of self-discharge and sulfation. These systems may periodically trickle-charge the battery to maintain its optimal charge level, even during storage. If your mower has such a system, removing the battery may not be necessary.
Best Practices for Battery Storage
Regardless of whether you choose to remove the battery or leave it in place, proper storage is crucial for maximizing its lifespan. Here are some best practices to follow:
Clean the Battery Terminals
Before storing the battery, clean the terminals with a wire brush to remove any corrosion or buildup. This ensures a good connection when you reinstall the battery.
Charge the Battery Fully
Before storing the battery, fully charge it using a compatible battery charger. This helps prevent sulfation and ensures the battery is ready to go when you need it.
Store in a Cool, Dry Place
Store the battery in a cool, dry place where temperatures remain consistent. Avoid storing it in direct sunlight or in areas prone to extreme temperatures. A garage or shed is often a suitable location, provided it’s not subject to excessive heat or cold.
Check the Battery Periodically
If you choose to remove the battery, check its charge level periodically using a voltmeter. If the charge level drops below 50%, top it off with a battery charger.
Use a Battery Tender
If you choose to leave the battery in the mower, consider using a battery tender or trickle charger. These devices automatically maintain the battery’s optimal charge level without overcharging it.
Specific Considerations for Different Lawn Mower Types
The decision of whether to remove the battery can also depend on the type of lawn mower you own.
Electric Lawn Mowers
Electric lawn mowers rely entirely on battery power. Removing the battery during storage is generally recommended, especially if you live in an area with harsh winters. This protects the battery from extreme temperatures and ensures it retains its charge.
Gas Lawn Mowers with Electric Start
Some gas lawn mowers come with an electric start feature, which requires a battery. The same principles apply to these batteries as to those in electric lawn mowers. Removing the battery during storage is often a good idea, particularly if you don’t plan on using the mower for an extended period.
Robotic Lawn Mowers
Robotic lawn mowers typically have lithium-ion batteries. While lithium-ion batteries have a lower self-discharge rate than lead-acid batteries, they can still be affected by extreme temperatures. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific storage recommendations. Some robotic lawn mowers have built-in winter storage modes that optimize battery care.
The Importance of Following Manufacturer’s Recommendations
The best source of information regarding battery storage is the manufacturer’s manual for your specific lawn mower model. The manual will provide detailed instructions on how to properly care for the battery and whether or not it should be removed during storage. Always prioritize the manufacturer’s recommendations over general advice.
Making the Right Decision
Ultimately, the decision of whether to remove the battery from your lawn mower is a personal one. Consider the factors outlined above, including the type of battery, your climate, your storage space, and your convenience preferences. Weigh the pros and cons carefully and choose the option that best suits your needs and circumstances. Proper battery care is essential for ensuring your lawn mower starts reliably season after season.
Is it always necessary to remove the lawn mower battery for winter storage?
Removing the battery for winter storage is not always strictly necessary, but highly recommended, especially in colder climates. Low temperatures can significantly reduce a battery’s capacity and lifespan. Leaving the battery in the mower, exposed to these temperatures for extended periods, can lead to sulfation, a process that damages the battery and reduces its ability to hold a charge.
By removing the battery and storing it in a climate-controlled environment, like a garage or basement, you can protect it from extreme temperatures and prevent sulfation. This practice can significantly extend the life of your lawn mower battery and ensure it’s ready to go when spring arrives. Consider connecting it to a battery tender to maintain a full charge during storage.
What are the benefits of removing the battery from my lawn mower?
The primary benefit of removing the battery is extending its lifespan. As previously mentioned, cold temperatures are a major culprit in battery degradation. Removing the battery and storing it indoors prevents this damage, saving you the cost of prematurely replacing the battery. A secondary benefit is reducing the risk of corrosion or leaks from the battery potentially damaging other components of your lawn mower.
Additionally, removing the battery offers a layer of safety. If the lawn mower is stored in an area accessible to children, removing the battery prevents accidental starting and potential injury. It also reduces the risk of electrical shorts occurring during storage, minimizing the chances of a fire hazard.
How do I properly remove the battery from my lawn mower?
First, ensure the lawn mower is turned off and has cooled down completely. Locate the battery compartment, which is typically under the seat or near the engine. Disconnect the negative (-) terminal first, followed by the positive (+) terminal. Use a wrench to loosen the nuts securing the terminals and carefully detach the cables.
Once disconnected, gently lift the battery out of the compartment. Inspect the terminals for corrosion and clean them with a wire brush if necessary. Store the battery in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Remember to label the cables so you know which one is positive and which is negative when reconnecting.
How should I store the lawn mower battery after removing it?
Store the battery in a cool, dry place where temperatures remain relatively stable, ideally between 40°F and 70°F (4°C and 21°C). Avoid areas with extreme heat or cold, such as unheated sheds or direct sunlight. Elevate the battery off the ground to prevent moisture absorption.
Consider using a battery tender or trickle charger to maintain the battery’s charge level during storage. These devices prevent the battery from self-discharging over time and keep it in optimal condition for the next mowing season. Check the battery’s voltage periodically to ensure it remains above the recommended level (typically around 12.6 volts for a 12-volt battery).
Will removing the battery void my lawn mower’s warranty?
Removing the battery for storage purposes will not generally void your lawn mower’s warranty. Warranties typically cover manufacturing defects and component failures under normal operating conditions. Routine maintenance, such as removing the battery for off-season storage, is considered a best practice and does not qualify as misuse or abuse.
However, it’s always wise to consult your lawn mower’s warranty documentation or contact the manufacturer directly to confirm specific details. Pay attention to any specific instructions regarding battery maintenance or storage that may be outlined in the warranty. Following the manufacturer’s recommendations is crucial to maintaining warranty coverage.
What happens if I leave the battery in the lawn mower during winter?
Leaving the battery in the lawn mower during winter can lead to several negative consequences. The most common issue is battery degradation due to cold temperatures. This can significantly reduce the battery’s ability to hold a charge, potentially rendering it unusable by the time spring arrives. You might find yourself needing to purchase a replacement battery sooner than expected.
Furthermore, leaving the battery unattended can increase the risk of corrosion on the terminals and cables. This corrosion can hinder the flow of electricity and make it difficult to start the lawn mower. In some cases, it can even damage other electrical components. Self-discharge is also accelerated in cold temperatures, leading to a completely dead battery.
How often should I check on the battery while it’s in storage?
It is a good idea to check on the battery roughly every one to two months while in storage, especially if you’re not using a battery tender. This allows you to monitor the battery’s voltage and ensure it’s not dropping too low. If you notice a significant voltage drop, you can recharge the battery before it becomes irreversibly damaged.
Visually inspect the battery terminals for any signs of corrosion or leakage. If you spot any issues, address them promptly. Cleaning the terminals with a wire brush and applying a corrosion inhibitor can help prevent further damage. Regular checks allow you to take proactive steps to maintain the battery’s health and ensure it’s ready to use when the mowing season returns.