Charging and storing lawn mower and lawn tractor batteries
As specialists in the safe charging, storage and disposal of lithium-ion batteries, we are often asked how to charge and store lawn mower batteries correctly. In this blog post, we present some basic recommendations for cordless lawn mowers, starter batteries for lawn tractors with combustion engines and robotic lawn mowers. To be on the safe side, always read the instruction manual, as every lawn mower and every battery has different special features.
Charging and storing batteries for cordless lawn mowers
Lawn mowers need sufficient power to function properly. Cordless mowers are therefore usually equipped with powerful lithium-ion batteries, which - similar to e-bikes - can store a lot of energy. This makes lithium-ion batteries useful, but also potentially dangerous: in the event of damage, they can ‘thermally run away’ and start to burn or even explode. To reduce the risks and extend the service life of the battery, lawn mower batteries should be charged and stored correctly:
To avoid deep discharge, you should charge your lawn mower batteries after each use. If the lawn mower batteries are stored for longer periods - e.g. in winter - they should be stored at a medium charge level. Low charge levels can lead to deep discharge, while full batteries increase the risk of fire.
It is generally advisable to store the lithium-ion batteries separately from the lawn mower in a cool, but frost-free and dry place. When storing the lithium-ion battery in a RETRON BOX, you do not need to worry about the risk of fire. Garden sheds and sheds are unsuitable for storing lawn mower batteries, as the temperature inside can become very hot in summer.
The above recommendations also apply to electric lawn tractors and ride-on mowers with batteries.
Charging and storing starter batteries for lawn tractors and ride-on mowers
Normally, you do not need to charge the starter batteries of ride-on mowers and lawn tractors, as they are charged by the combustion engine and the alternator. At least during the mowing season, you do not need to remove the battery from the lawn tractor. As a rule, the batteries in lawn tractors are classic 12 V lead-acid batteries like those used in cars - and they can also be left out in the blazing sun in summer. In winter, it makes sense to disconnect or remove the battery so that it does not discharge unnecessarily. It is best to store the lawn tractor battery in a fireproof battery protection box such as the RETRON BOX. But be careful: Damaged batteries from ride-on mowers should be disposed of quickly. In the case of defective lithium-ion batteries, it is even mandatory to use a fireproof box for safe transport.
If the battery is flat, a lawn tractor or ride-on mower can always be jump-started or a charger can be used. It is important to follow the operating instructions for both the vehicle and the charger or starter. Lawn tractor batteries often tolerate less charging current than car batteries, so caution is advised. Once starter batteries have been discharged, you should also consider replacing them, as they are usually already weak in this case.
Charging and storing robotic lawnmower batteries
Even with robotic lawnmowers, you do not normally have to worry about charging the battery: The lawn mower returns to its charging station on its own in good time. Once the lawn mower battery is empty - e.g. because the robotic lawnmower has got stuck somewhere - it can simply be placed back in its charging station.
In winter, we strongly recommend removing the battery and storing it in a cool, dry place. A fireproof battery protection box is ideal for this. For safety reasons, you should not place the robotic lawnmower's charging station directly next to the house or next to easily flammable objects. If the built-in lithium-ion battery catches fire while charging, no further damage will occur.
