Robotic Lawn Mowers – Do They Really Work? Find Out Here!

Author: Tee Hall

There is a lot of interest surrounding robotic lawn mowers, which is understandable considering the newness and novelty of the technology. Imagine relaxing on your deck while a robot cuts your lawn for you, and does a beautiful job. But are automatic lawn mowers living up to the hype? And which is the best robotic lawn mower for you?

There are a number of factors for prospective owners to consider before making the decision to buy a robotic lawn mower. These are very new technology gadgets. Regardless of make or model, owners say they all seem to last an average of 2-3 years, however, some will go on much longer than that average. Robotic lawn mowers are not maintenance free and most owners mentioned that one can expect to spend between $250-$300 per year on upkeep. Most of this maintenance is performed by the owner, therefore the robots are designed for easy exchange of parts. Also, unless your lawn has clear edges, there will likely still be a little trimming that will need to be done, for example in the areas around trees or along fences if the robot can’t get as close as it needs.

There are 2 main brands of robotic lawn mowers in the US and Canada: the LawnBott and the RoboMower. Both makes and models provide a beautifully cut lawn and contribute to its health with frequent mowings, mulching systems and random mow patterns.

All models, except the LawnBott Spyder LB2100, require a few hours of time set up of the perimeter wire, and then usually some tinkering until you get the pattern that best fits your lawn. The wire is laid on the ground and held in place with the included pegs, or it can be buried a few inches deep for full invisibility. When the robotic lawn mower senses the perimeter it turns and goes off in another direction. Fully automated robots also use the perimeter wire to lead them back to their docks for charging. Some people complain that this one-time perimeter wire set up is harder than expected. However some people, having heard how hard it is, actually find it far easier than expected. Once your pattern is perfected, the hard part is over.

When buying, consider your needs. Do you want fully automated, hands off mowing? You are then best suited for a fully automated unit with a docking station. Consider the size and slope of your lawn when choosing a model. If you have slopes more than 15 degrees, a LawnBott is likely a better choice than a RoboMower. If you have a very large yard, LawnBotts have models designed for the largest spaces. Alternatively you can consider buying 2 smaller units to work in tandem. You should also consider your climate and grass type. Some models will cut higher than others, or they have bigger wheels to raise the height of the cutting blades.

In general, RoboMowers are basic, functional units with less bells and whistles, and the price reflects this. They are quieter than gas mowers but you wouldn’t be able to use them at night without disturbing the neighbours. They are slower than the LawnBotts, requiring several mowing sessions to cover their reported area. RoboMowers are designed to mimic traditional mowing schedules and therefore cut the grass when it is longer. The blades mulch the clippings very well.

LawnBotts are quieter, (mowing at night is not a problem), flashier and have more high end options. They mow faster than RoboMowers and can handle a steeper grade. They are designed to mow more often and so take off the tips of the grass, effectively mulching your lawn.

Most owners really love their robotic mowers, often giving them names, decorating them or their docking stations, and chatting about them in forums. They rave about how even if they were spending more money than they would with their gas or even a reel mower, the convenience alone is worth the price tag. Many users find they are actually spending considerably less money than they would on lawn services companies, and they get better looking lawns.

Are they worth the price? That becomes a personal decision. How much is your free time and convenience worth to you? How much do you hate cutting your lawn, buying gas for your mower, enduring dust, allergies, biting insects, noise and heat? Are you concerned about the impact gas mowers have on the environment? Robotic lawn mowers are also safer than other lawn mowers. In general, owners considered them to be very good value for the money.

Once you have decided that a robotic lawn mower is for you, then comparing features of the different makes and models will be helpful in deciding which type to get. And perhaps most importantly, gathering information from reviews by actual owners will give you the best chance to choose a make and model that you will be happy with for years.

If you do a little research and have reasonable expectations for this new and evolving technology then we feel that you will be well satisfied you have chosen the best robotic lawn mower for you. Then sit back, and enjoy your free time as your new friend mows your lawn for you!

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/gardening-articles/robotic-lawn-mowers-do-they-really-work-tips-and-advice-for-prospective-owners-4528585.html —- About the Author:  Tee is an avid, eco-conscious, gadget-loving gardener who recently discovered robotic lawn mowers. Visit www.bestroboticlawnmowerreviews.com for reviews of the most popular makes and models based on owners’ comments as well as field tests and editorial reviews.

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