As winter ends, preparing your robotic lawn mower for the new season is essential. Conduct a thorough inspection for damage, clean it, check for corrosion on charging contacts, and test the batteries. Unlock any time lock features and update the software while reviewing your mowing schedules. Additionally, assess your lawn for obstacles and inspect boundary wires. Consistent maintenance ensures your mower’s longevity, allowing you to enjoy its services for many seasons.
As the winter months fade away, it’s time to get your robotic lawn mower ready for the upcoming season. If you winterized your mower last fall, now is the perfect opportunity to ensure it’s in great shape for a seamless start. In this guide, we’ll walk you through essential checks and preparations to make before you unleash your robotic helper on your lawn.
Inspect Your Robotic Mower for Damage
Even if you previously examined your robotic mower for potential issues before winter, it’s wise to perform a thorough inspection now. Look for any minor damages, such as wear on the tires, wheel brushes, or the outer casing, and take the time to repair these issues. It’s easy to overlook these small details.
Don’t forget to check the blades of your mower, as sharp blades are crucial for effective cutting. Depending on the model, you may already have a spare blade set included at purchase. If not, replacement blades can usually be purchased directly from the manufacturer.
Clean and Maintain Your Robotic Mower
After inspecting your mower for any damage, it’s time for a thorough cleaning to remove any leftover grass clippings. Even if you cleaned it before winter, a second round of cleaning is beneficial. A simple rinse with a garden hose will suffice.
For tougher dirt, consider using a pressure washer, but be cautious—using too much pressure can harm delicate plastic components. A gentle manual clean with a cloth is often the best approach.
Check for Corrosion on Charging Contacts
If your mower spent the winter in a garage, high humidity could lead to corrosion. This can affect both the blades and the charging station contacts. If you notice any rust on the contact points, you can carefully clean it off with a small wire brush and a specialized contact spray.
Charge and Test the Batteries
Throughout the summer, your robotic mower will autonomously navigate your yard and return to its charging station when needed. However, over time, the battery’s capacity may decrease, especially if it hasn’t been charged or used regularly. Cold temperatures can also impact battery performance.
After the winter break, it’s normal for the battery to have around 80 percent capacity after the initial charge. This doesn’t necessarily indicate a malfunction. With regular use, the battery’s performance may improve, but if you find the runtime insufficient for your lawn area, it might be time for a replacement. Brands like Ecovacs and Husqvarna offer individual batteries for their models.
Unlock the Time Lock Feature
Many robotic mowers come equipped with a time lock feature that engages if the device has been inactive for an extended period. Usually, you’ll need to unlock this feature via the associated mobile app by entering a PIN you created.
Update Software and Review Settings
While preparing your mower, check the app for any available updates. Keeping the software current is essential for optimal operation. After updating, review the mowing and resting schedules from last season to ensure they still align with your needs.
Most robotic mowers are equipped with a rain sensor that should also be checked. While light rain typically poses no threat, heavy rainfall can be damaging over time. You can usually set the threshold for when your mower should return to its station.
Prepare Your Lawn for the New Season
In addition to getting your robotic mower ready, it’s vital to assess your lawn for any inconsistencies. Items like small hills, fallen branches, or stones can harm your mower. Address any bare spots by reseeding them, ensuring your robotic mower can operate smoothly.
It’s also essential to inspect boundary wires or navigation beacons, as these can be damaged during winter. If you use boundary wires or cables, check them thoroughly. Navigation beacons, like those used with the Ecovacs Goat G-1-2000, should be stored indoors during the colder months.
Conclusion: Consistent Maintenance is Key
Thoroughly preparing and regularly maintaining your robotic mower is crucial for its longevity. Following the steps outlined above will help you make the most of your gardening companion. With consistent care, you can enjoy your robotic mower for many seasons to come.
Are you in the market for a new robotic mower or considering switching brands? Check out our comparison of the top models to find the perfect fit for your lawn care needs.