Ryobi electric lawn mowers provide an environmentally-friendly, quiet, and easy alternative for homeowners seeking to ditch gas-powered mowers requiring more maintenance. As battery technology continues advancing, Ryobi manufactures a range of capable electric riding and push mowers suitable for most residential yards.
This comprehensive guide explores Ryobi’s electric mower line-up covering their key specifications, pricing considerations, charging logistics, maintenance tips, safety recommendations and commonly asked questions to help identify which Ryobi electric suits your property.
Benefits of Ryobi Electric Lawn Mowers
Here are the foremost advantages Ryobi electric mowers present compared to gasoline-powered lawn mowers:
Zero Emissions and Low Noise
Ryobi electric mowers cut grass cleanly and quietly without disturbing neighbors. No smelly exhaust or pull cords exist on electric start mowers.
Lower Operating Costs
Eliminating gas, oil, and engine tune-ups saves money long-term. Battery power proves more affordable per cutting session.
Always Ready to Mow
No priming the carburetor for reluctant starts after sitting. Turn the key and begin mowing quickly with instant torque.
Fewer Safety Risks
Without hot mufflers or combustible fuels, electric mowers present less fire or mechanical hazards. Kids can safely operate with supervision.
Clearly Ryobi electric mowers offer homeowners with average sized yards under 1 acre significant benefits and convenient operation suitable for most cutting conditions.
Types of Ryobi Electric Mowers Available
Ryobi manufactures several electric mower models spanning push reel mowers to riding tractors. Compare the offerings to select which mower suits your lawn size and terrain.
Electric Push Mowers
Best for small, flat yards under 1/4 acre. Models include manual reel mowers or self-propelled rotary mowers.
Best Use: Tiny yards, young operators, light trimming duties
Cordless Self-Propelled Mowers
Ryobi’s most popular electric mowers use 40V or 80V lithium batteries powering brushless motors. Variable speed rear wheel drive models included.
Best Use: Medium flat or hilly lawns around 1/2 acre.
Electric Riding Lawn Mowers
For larger yards, Ryobi riding mowers equipped with lead acid or lithium batteries provide effortless mowing for up to 2 hours per charge.
Best Use: Lawns 1 to 2 acres with lots of open cutting space.
So in summary, consider your lawn’s total square footage and complexity acknowledging run times to determine which Ryobi electric mower type suits your property best.
Must Read: 40V Ryobi Lawn Mowers: Battery-Powered Cutting Power
Key Specifications on Ryobi Electric Mowers
Use this overview of technical specifications across Ryobi’s electric mower line to compare options and models for your needs:
Voltage: 36V to 80V
Power Source: Lead acid or lithium ion batteries
Deck Width: 18 to 48 inch cutting width
Drive System: Rear wheel single speed or variable speed
Speed: Self-propelled models reach 3.5mph
Run Time Per Charge: 30 to 120 minutes depending on battery capacity
Charging Time: 1 to 4 hours
Safety: Keyed start prevents accidental blade engagement
Noise: Roughly 60 dBa
Warranty: 3 year consumer warranty
Top Ryobi Electric Mower Models Compared
These three highest rated electric mowers represent Ryobi’s finest options for push and riding formats best suited for small to large residential lawns.
Best Self-Propelled: Ryobi 40V Brushless 21”
This nimble mower handles most flat or hilly terrain under 1 acre per charge using dual 40V 5Ah batteries. The 21” metal deck mulches, bags and side discharges.
Specs:
- 40V Brushless Motor
- 5 inch Wheels
- Variable Speed Rear Drive
- 21” Cutting Width
- 55 Lbs Weight
Cost: $449 (Batteries and charger separate)
Best Riding Mower: Ryobi 38” 75Ah Electric Rider
Serious landowners will appreciate the convenience of electric start paired with smooth speed control to mow up to 2 acres on a charge. Optional installed LED headlights allow mowing until dusk.
Specs:
- 38” Deck Width
- 500W Brushless AC Motor
- 8 MPH Top Speed
- 75Ah Lead Acid Batteries
- 500 Lbs Weight Capacity
Cost: $2,599
Most Affordable: Ryobi 16” Push Reel Mower
Going old school, this manual reel mower provides emissions free cutting without batteries or cords. The compact 16” width suits tiny yards or precision trimming while getting exercise.
Specs:
- Dual Wheel Design
- Adjustable Cutting Height
- Heat Treated Alloy Steel Blades
- Cushioned Grip Handle
- 16” Cut Width
- 34 Lbs Weight
Cost: $199
Charging and Battery Care Essentials
Optimizing electric mower battery life and performance depends proper charging and storage habits. Here are best practices owners must follow:
Use Recommended Batteries
Ryobi batteries and chargers are designed specifically for compatibility and safe charging rates. Using third party alternatives risks damage.
Charge After Each Mowing Session
Fully recharging batteries after each use reduces sulphation buildup extending overall battery lifetime.
Avoid Extreme Temperatures
Heat and cold degrade batteries faster. Store mower and spare batteries in a climate controlled space like a shed or garage.
Plug In During Winter Months
To prevent fully draining batteries in storage, plug chargers in year round even without active usage. Top off the charge monthly.
Following these battery care essentials helps justify the initial investment of cordless electric mowers over the long haul.
Safety Considerations for Electric Mowers
While avoiding hot exhaust, Ryobi electric mowers come with unique safety considerations compared to gas models:
Disconnect Power Before Inspecting or Adjusting
Remove battery packs before lifting the deck or reaching under the cutting area. Engage the safety lock switch securing the park break too.
Avoid Damaging Battery and Electrical Components
Prevent puncturing lithium batteries or use extreme caution when cleaning around sensitive wiring or circuitry with fluids.
Wear Snug Fitting Clothes
Dangling drawstrings or loose matierals could become entangled around spinning shafts or pulleys. Wear properly fitted clothing.
Let Units Fully Stop Before Changing Direction
Maneuver gradually — don’t rapidly reverse direction or brake abruptly that could over-stress systems.
Following basic precautions greatly minimizes the potential special risks electric mowers can pose compared to gas-powered alternatives.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ryobi Electric Mowers
Curious about other practical aspects of how Ryobi’s electric lawn mowers compare to traditional gas mowers? Here are answers to some commonly asked questions:
Howdoes cut quality compare to gasoline-powered mowers?
Equivalent, assuming sharp blades are installed. Electric motors deliver plenty of torque for clean cutting whether spinning, bagging or mulching.
How cold of temperatures can they operate in?
Lithium ion batteries provide full power down to around 45 Fahrenheit. Colder weather reduces peak power output as chemistry changes.
Do batteries lose charging capacity over time?
Gradual capacity loss is unavoidable. Expect around 500 recharging cycles before significant degradation requiring battery replacement manifests. Proper recharging maximizes longevity.
Are electric mowers more maintenance intensive?
Not at all — no oil changing, air filters or carburetor cleaning required. Just keep blades sharp, components lubricated and batteries conditioned correctly.