Beatrice Lang
Electric lawn mowers are generally considered to be less complex than petrol models and require less maintenance. However, they can still break down and some issues are harder to diagnose. When something goes wrong with an electric lawn mower, it can be difficult to find a repair shop with the right expertise to fix it. This means that some people choose to fix their electric lawn mowers themselves. Common problems include clogged air vents, loose connections, and broken or frayed wires.
How to fix an electric lawn mower
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Engine cutting out | Grass or debris stopping blades from turning |
| Corded mower not working | Check cord is plugged in at both ends, outlet has enough power, and circuit breaker is on |
| Cord frayed or broken | Cut damaged section, strip an inch off the end to reveal wires, get a male plug end and wrap wires around appropriate contacts, repeat with female plug at other end |
| Mower stops mid-cut | Too much grass built up on the underside of the deck |
| Mower overheating | Remove casing and clean air vents, or use an air compressor or leaf blower to blow debris out |
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What You'll Learn
Check for debris in the air vents
To fix an electric lawn mower, you should check for debris in the air vents. Over time, grass clippings, dirt, and debris can accumulate in the air vents, especially if you use the mower regularly. This can obstruct airflow and cause the mower to overheat. To prevent this, you should regularly clean the air vents and empty the bags to remove any build-up and ensure optimal airflow. A clean ventilation system can prevent stalling and prolong the lifespan of your mower's motor.
To clean the air vents, you can use an air blower to blow dust and grass cuttings out of the motor vents. Alternatively, you can use a broom, dish scrubber, scrub brush, or cloth to remove loose debris, dirt, and dried grass clippings from the vents. Compressed air is especially useful for removing dry residue and grass clippings from small crevices. It is important to keep the vents clean at all times to prevent damage to the motor and extend the life of the mower.
In addition to cleaning the air vents, you should also clean the underside of the mower to prevent grass clippings, dirt, and moisture from accumulating and causing corrosion, decreased performance, or damage to the mower. To clean the underside of the mower, place the mower on a flat surface and tilt it on its side with the carburettor or air filter facing up to prevent the carburettor from flooding. Remove any loose debris with a brush, then use a mower deck scraper or a putty knife to gently scrape away any remaining debris. Be sure to wear protective eyewear during this step, as debris will be flying. If you notice any rust, you can use a wire brush to scrape it away.
Finally, remember to store your mower properly when not in use. Keep it under a cover to prevent dust and moisture from damaging the internal and external parts. Proper storage will help ensure that your mower lasts for a long time.
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Check the power cord is plugged in properly
If your electric lawn mower is not working, one of the first things you should do is check that the power cord is plugged in properly. This may sound obvious, but it is often overlooked and can save you a lot of time and trouble.
Start by inspecting the power cord for any signs of damage, such as a worn or loose plug or connector. If the cord is old or has been damaged, it may not be making a proper connection with the mower, preventing it from receiving the necessary power to operate. Check both the male and female ends of the connector for any signs of burning or melting, as this could indicate that the cord is not making a secure connection.
If you notice any damage to the power cord, it may be necessary to replace it. However, if the cord looks intact, ensure that it is securely plugged into the mower and that there is no slack in the connection. You can do this by gently tugging on the cord to see if it is firmly in place. Additionally, make sure that the cord is properly strain-relieved at the plug and where it enters the chassis of the mower.
In some cases, the problem may not be with the power cord itself but with the connection between the cord and the mower. To test this, try plugging the cord into a different outlet or device to see if it works. If it does, then the issue may lie with the mower's inlet or internal wiring. In this case, you may need to consult a professional or seek further guidance on repairing or replacing the inlet. Remember always to exercise caution when working with electrical appliances and ensure that the power is disconnected before handling any connections or components.
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Check for loose cables
If your electric lawn mower is acting up, one of the first things you should check for is loose cables. Loose cables are a common issue with electric lawn mowers and can be caused by a variety of factors, including age, overheating, or physical damage.
To check for loose cables, start by locating the cables in your lawn mower. They are typically found near the push bar or the on/off button. Visually inspect the cables for any signs of damage, such as fraying, melting, or exposed wires. If you notice any issues, it's likely that the cables need to be repaired or replaced.
In some cases, the cables may appear intact, but the connections may be loose. To check for loose connections, gently tug on each cable to ensure it is securely attached. If you find any loose connections, simply tightening them may solve the problem.
If your lawn mower is turning itself off, the issue could be a loose cable or a faulty contact on the on/off button. In this case, you can try adding electrical tape to the spot where the push bar makes contact with the switch. This can help improve the connection and potentially resolve the issue.
It's important to note that working with electricity can be dangerous, so if you're uncomfortable or unsure about what to do, it's best to consult a professional or a lawn mower repair shop. They will have the knowledge and experience to properly diagnose and fix the issue, ensuring your safety and the optimal performance of your lawn mower.
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Clean the carburettor or fuel filter
A dirty carburettor can cause a lot of issues with your lawn mower, such as trouble starting, stalling, running rough, or producing black smoke. Luckily, a quick clean can fix the issue. Before cleaning the carburettor, ensure your mower is switched off or unplugged and completely cooled down. Set up in a well-ventilated area, as the old oil can be toxic to inhale.
To clean the carburettor without removing it, you will need carburettor cleaner, compressed air, and cleaning rags. First, remove the bowl and clean it with carburettor cleaner. Scrub the inside and outside of the bowl thoroughly. If the carburettor is too dirty to be cleaned by hand, consider replacing the bowl. Next, clean the carburettor with carburettor cleaner, removing as much grass and muck as possible. Use a wire brush to get off stubborn dirt and debris. If you notice signs of rust, use sandpaper to remove it.
If you want to do a more thorough job, you can remove the carburettor from your mower for cleaning. First, remove the spark plug cable by gripping the plug and pulling it directly away from the engine. Be careful not to pull on the actual cable, as you could damage it. Then, remove the air filter housing and take out the air filter. Once the carburettor has been exposed, inspect the parts and interior for any issues. Use compressed air to blow off any built-up dirt and gunk from the carburettor.
Finally, reinstall the carburettor, the air filter, and the throttle cable. Slide the carburettor back on its mounting bolts and position the bowl, fastening the bolt. Place the air filter and screw on its outer cover. Reattach the throttle cable, turn the fuel line's shut-off valve, and plug the spark plug cable back into the spark plug.
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Check for a blown fuse
If your electric lawn mower is not working, one of the possible reasons could be a blown fuse. Blown fuses are a common occurrence in riding lawn mowers and can be caused by a short circuit, which happens when a damaged wire or failed component lets electrical current flow to the metal frame of the mower. This excessive current can cause wiring damage and fires.
To check for a blown fuse, first locate your fuse box or electrical panel. The fuse for the electrical outlet that your lawn mower uses should be labelled, making it easier to find. You will typically see round, screw-in fuses in the fuse box. These round fuses will have a sight glass that helps you see whether the fuse is blown. Before you replace the fuse, look at the element inside to see if it is burned and separated, indicating that it is blown. If the element is intact, the fuse is likely not blown.
If you are unsure, you can try replacing the fuse with a new one of the same amperage rating. After installing the new fuse, plug in a small electrical device, such as a lamp or a night light, to check if the outlet has power. If the appliance does not work, then the house fuse for the outlet is likely blown. In this case, you will need to replace the blown fuse or reset a circuit breaker.
If the electrical outlet has power after checking the fuse and replacing it, you can try using your lawn mower again. If the appliance still does not work or the fuse blows again, you may have a short circuit or a bad component in your mower. To prevent the fuse from blowing again, you will need to find the broken wire or component causing the short circuit. This can be challenging, but you can use a wiring diagram for your type of riding lawn mower to help you locate the short.
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Frequently asked questions
There could be several reasons why your electric lawn mower won't start. First, check if the battery needs to be replaced. Look for cracks and corrosion, or test it with a multimeter. Next, check if the spark plug is functioning—remove it, connect the plug wire, ground it off the engine, and turn over the engine. If there's no spark, the plug might be contaminated with gas, carbon, or oil.
If your mower is functioning but not cutting grass, first inspect the blade to see if it's installed correctly. The crankshaft that the mower blade is attached to can only rotate in one direction, so the blade must be installed correctly, with the sharpened cutting edge facing the right way. Most blades will have a stamp or wording to indicate which side should face up or down.
If your lawn mower is sparking, it could be due to a dirty or worn-out spark plug. Check for carbon build-up, which will look like a grey or black coating on the part. If this is the case, you'll need to clean or replace the spark plug.
A stalling lawn mower could be due to old fuel causing a blockage. Old fuel can become stale or evaporate, leaving a gummy residue that clogs the tank. Simply drain the tank and refill it with fresh gas. Another possible cause is clogged mower blades—grass clippings can get clogged in the mower deck, especially when cutting wet or long grass.
