Electric riding mowers have grown in popularity in recent years as an alternative to traditional gas-powered riding mowers. Electric mowers provide some advantages, like producing no emissions and requiring less maintenance. However, they also come with some downsides, like limited range per charge and higher upfront costs. In this article, we’ll examine the pros and cons of electric riding mowers to help you decide if investing in one makes sense for your needs.
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How Electric Riding Mowers Work
Electric riding mowers work by using a large rechargeable battery pack to power an electric motor. The motor then turns the blades to cut the grass. Here are some key things to know about how electric riding mowers operate:
- Powered by a large rechargeable battery – Electric riding mowers have a large lithium-ion battery pack, similar to an electric vehicle. This battery pack powers the mower and all its functions.
- Electric motor drives the blades – An electric motor, not a gas engine, provides power to turn the cutting blades. Electric motors provide torque without the noise and emissions of a gas engine.
- Battery range – Each charge of the battery will provide a certain amount of run time before needing to recharge. Range varies by model, but is typically 1-2 hours of continuous mowing per charge.
- Longer recharge times – It takes about 4-8 hours to fully recharge the battery pack after it’s been depleted. This is longer than a gas refill.
- Zero emissions – Without a gas engine, electric mowers produce no emissions or engine noise when running.
Understanding how electric riding mowers differ mechanically from gas models can help inform expectations around performance and maintenance.
Pros of Electric Riding Mowers
Here are some of the major advantages of choosing an electric riding lawn mower over a traditional gas model:
Environmentally Friendly
Electric mowers are emissions-free, producing no exhaust or air pollution. This makes them better for the environment than gas mowers. Many municipalities and homeowner associations now limit or prohibit the use of gas yard equipment due to emissions and noise, making electric models a greener choice.
Lower Maintenance
Without oil changes, air filters, spark plug replacements and other routine maintenance tasks needed for gas engines, electric mowers are simpler and cheaper to maintain long-term. You still need to perform basic upkeep, but maintenance is greatly reduced.
Quiet Operation
Electric riding mowers produce very little noise when running – the main sound is the blades cutting grass. This makes electric mowers far less disruptive to use in neighborhoods than loud gas engines.
Performance and Handling
Electric riding mowers typically have strong torque and power output from electric motors. Many also have improved steering and maneuverability through independent wheel motors and precise speed control. This can provide an easier, more responsive mowing experience.
Less Vibration
Without the vibrations inherent to gas engines, electric riding mowers produce much less shaking while in operation. This creates a more comfortable experience for the operator.
Convenience
Never having to handle smelly gas and oil changes again is a major convenience benefit of electric mowers. Just charging up the battery is a much cleaner process. Some models also have backup battery packs for quick swapping when one charge depletes.
Potential Energy Cost Savings
While electric rates vary regionally, charging an electric mower battery is often cheaper over the long run than purchasing gas. And with solar charging options, some homeowners are able to mow using self-generated solar electricity at minimal cost.
Fewer Parts to Wear Out
Without belts, pulleys, oil systems and spark plugs that wear out over time, electric riding mowers have fewer components that need periodic replacement. This can translate into more years of usable service life.
Cons of Electric Riding Mowers
While electric riding mowers provide some attractive benefits, they do come with downsides to consider as well:
Higher Upfront Cost
Electric riding mowers currently cost thousands more than comparable gas models. Prices range from $2,500-$4,500 for electric riding mowers versus $1,500-$3,000 for entry level gas mowers. The battery pack is the main cost factor.
Limited Range
On one battery charge, an electric riding mower may run for 1-2 hours depending on model, terrain and grass conditions. This is usually enough for smaller residential lawns under 1 acre. But range limits become an issue for larger properties of 2+ acres.
Long Recharge Times
It takes about 4-8 hours for an electric riding mower battery to fully recharge after being depleted. This is considerably slower than refueling a gas mower. Having backup batteries helps, but still requires hours of recharging downtime.
Less Power for Tough Terrain
Electric mower motors max out at around 20-25 horsepower, while gas mower engines often reach up to 30 horsepower. This power difference means electric models may lack torque for the toughest mowing conditions.
Weather Limitations
To protect battery life, most electric mower manufacturers recommend against operating in heavy rain. Gas mowers can run in all weather. Wet grass can also negatively impact electric mower traction and range.
Lead Acid vs Lithium-Ion
Cheaper electric mowers use older lead acid batteries. These require more maintenance, provide less range and degrade faster than pricier lithium-ion battery models. Lead acid technology is dated compared to lithium-ion options.
Best Uses for Electric Riding Mowers
Due to their strengths and limitations, electric riding mowers tend to work best under the following conditions:
- Small to mid-sized residential lawns (up to 1-2 acres)
- Relatively flat, even terrain without thick vegetation
- Low-maintenance lawns mowed regularly (grass not allowed to grow too tall)
- Homes with access to electrical outlets or solar power charging
- Areas with strict emissions or noise restrictions
While electric riding mowers can work on larger properties, you may need to invest in extra backup batteries and allow substantial recharging time between mowing sessions. For lawn care pros or very large lawns, gas-powered equipment remains the better choice for now based on range and power.
Cost Comparison: Electric vs Gas
Upfront purchase price is almost always higher for an equivalent electric vs gas riding mower model. But electric can pay off long-term due to lower operating costs. Here’s an overview of both:
Purchase Price
| Mower Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Gas riding mower | $1,500 – $3,000 |
| Electric riding mower | $2,500 – $4,500 |
As you can see, electric riding mowers cost $1,000+ more upfront largely due to battery pack costs. Prices for both types increase with higher power, build quality and features.
Estimated 5 Year Costs
| Cost Type | Gas Mower | Electric Mower |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase price | $2,000 | $3,500 |
| Fuel/electricity | $1,500 | $500 |
| Maintenance | $1,000 | $300 |
| Total | $4,500 | $4,300 |
Factoring in estimated fuel and maintenance savings over 5 years, the total cost of ownership becomes comparable between electric and gas mowers.
Top Electric Riding Mower Brands
Several major equipment brands now manufacture electric riding mower models. Here are some of the top options:
John Deere
The gold standard in mowers, John Deere offers two electric riding models: the E100 and E150. They use large lithium-ion battery packs for up to 3 hours of run time. Expect smooth, responsive steering and cutting-edge digital displays.
Ryobi
Ryobi electric riding mowers cost much less than competitors, with prices from $2,600-$3,000. The 38″ and 42″ deck models get 1-2 hours per charge and use lead acid batteries. Best value for budget-focused buyers.
Craftsman
Craftsman’s electric riding mower can mow up to 1.5 acres on a single charge. It uses a lithium-ion battery pack and has power steering for easy maneuverability around obstacles. 2 year warranty included.
Cub Cadet
The Ultima Series ZT1 50 from Cub Cadet is a premium zero turn electric riding mower. It combines high-grade components with up to 2.5 hours of mowing runtime per charge. One of the top electric models available.
Greenworks
Greenworks makes several electric riding mowers at lower price points than the competition. They use twin lead acid batteries. While range is limited, they get the job done on a budget.
FAQs About Electric Riding Mowers
How long do electric riding mower batteries last?
It depends on the battery chemistry. Lead acid batteries degrade faster over time and need replacement within 2-4 years. Lithium-ion batteries maintain capacity better and can last 5+ years. Proper recharging and storage helps prolong battery lifespan.
Can you mow an acre with an electric riding mower?
Most electric riding mowers can mow 1-2 acres on a single 1.5-2 hour charge. For larger 2-3 acre plots, you may need to allow mower recharge time between sessions. Or invest in extra backup batteries you can swap to extend mowing time.
Is an electric mower worth it if you have a small lawn?
For homeowners with small suburban lawns under 1/2 acre, a less expensive walk-behind electric mower is likely the better choice over a riding mower. But if you prefer the convenience of riding vs walking, an electric model can still be a worthwhile upgrade.
Are electric riding mowers self propelled?
Yes, the electric motor provides power to both the wheels and blades. No need to push them manually. Higher-end models have precision speed control for adjusting pace as needed.
Can you mulch with an electric riding mower?
Most electric riding mowers have a standard side discharge cutting deck. Some models offer optional mulching kits or blades to enable mulching grass clippings instead of bagging or side discharge.
Conclusion
Electric riding mowers provide environmental benefits, less maintenance, and smoother, quieter operation compared to gas-powered models. However, they remain considerably more expensive upfront and aren’t ideal for large rural acreages.
For eco-conscious homeowners with lawns approximately 1-2 acres who don’t require ultra-long runtimes per charge, electric riding mowers are a compelling option. Maintenance savings compared to gas mowers can make up for the higher initial investment over time.
With rapid advancements in electric vehicle technology in recent years, electric riding mower performance and cost should continue improving. Within the next 5-10 years, they may become viable rivals to gas mowers for a wider segment of buyers.