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When should you start mowing your lawn in the spring?

Winter was long and cold. Now the days are getting longer, the weather is getting warmer, and you’re ready for the outdoor fun to begin.  So what about your lawn? Does it have spring fever too? Our outdoor space plays a big part in those lazy spring and summer days. It’s where you entertain friends, watch the kids play, and spend long, lazy days. You want to give it good care. But how do you know the right time to begin mowing? Your lawn likely needs some attention after a year in hibernation. Quite frankly, your yard probably looks like you did in your 20s after a bender. Yes, it looks bad. No, you don’t want to rush to clean it up.  Watch out for these three things before you let your mower loose for its big spring cleanup.

Don’t start to early

After a long winter, your lawn probably needs some TLC. But wait! You don’t want to whip out your mower on the first warm day. You might regret this later.  Mowing your lawn when there is still the threat of frost is a bad idea. If temperatures drop below freezing, you can do actual damage. That’s because when you mow grass that hasn’t completely thawed out from winter, you can actually damage the grass blade. Ouch! So wait until you see consistent temperatures above 40 degrees Fahrenheit.

Let it grow

Now you’ve reached the perfect temperature. So you should be good to mow now, right?  Not so fast. You first need to more closely examine your lawn. More specifically, you want to look at the length of your grass’ blades. Before mowing, you need to make sure that your grass reaches the correct height. The ideal height may vary based on different factors. But a good rule of thumb is about 2 inches tall.  And this is important because it protects your lawn’s roots.

Wait for dry conditions

You’re almost there. But there’s one more thing that you need to think about before bringing out the mower. That’s the moisture in your lawn.  You don’t want to mow a lawn that has too much moisture. When blades carry moisture from the rain or morning dew, they’re likely to bend. And this can damage the look of your lawn because this makes it difficult to get a straight cut.  Waiting for dry conditions can be difficult when there are frequent spring showers. But you don’t want to rush it by mowing early. You’ll only make things harder for yourself in the long run.  And once you’ve met all three conditions, it’s time to start mowing. 

So what can you do while you’re waiting to get your lawn ready for spring?

Here are some ideas for get yourself ready for mowing season; - Clear out your yard. Move away debris, branches, stones, and anything else that might have accumulated over winter. - Replace your mower’s blades. If you haven’t been doing proper maintenance on your mower, now’s the perfect time. - Set up your robot mower’s app. If you’ve got a robot mower, make sure your app is set up for spring by determining a mowing schedule and other in-app activities.  Spring is an exciting time. And your outdoor space is a huge part of enjoying the season.  Your lawn needs some love and attention after being ignored and buried under snow all winter. But just remember. You shouldn’t run out with your mower on the first sunny day. 

Make your lawn healthier this year 

Did you know: an autonomous lawn mower not only saves you time and is better for the environment, but also results in a healthier lawn? Robotic lawn mowers fertilize the lawn and mow on a more consistent schedule, leading to greener, lusher, healthier lawns. Click here to browse our selection of robotic lawn mowers so you can start taking the best care of your lawn today. Read the full article

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Why Robotic Lawn Mowers are Best for Child Safety

Your robot mower makes your life easier and gives you back free time. But here’s something that might surprise you: your robotic lawn mower is best for keeping your family safe.  Psychologically, it might feel better to supervise your mower’s every move. After all, you are the protector of the family.  But autonomous mowers are equipped with modern technology that helps them better adjust for real life challenges. This means they’ll turn around or stop to avoid crashing. And this makes them best for child safety.

The safety record for robot mowers

Conventional lawn mowers are dangerous. Even when you’re there to supervise them. In fact, a review of lawn mower safety from May 2020 looked at accident data from 2005 to 2017. And there were consistently high numbers of lawn mower accidents involving children and conventional mowers. This was despite improved safety guidelines. But this isn’t the case for robot mowers. In fact, they have a really clean record for child safety, with NO incidences of children or pets getting hurt. That’s because they can adapt to the whims of your children much faster than even you! Let’s face it. You don’t have eyes in the back of your head. Your mower does.  ​ Here are some of the safety features of robot mowers that make them the safest choice. 

​Safety Sensors

Your robot mower has sensors that allow it create a three-dimensional picture of its surroundings. These help it differentiate between people and other obstacles. And this helps it adjust. Many robot mowers have the ability to react to obstacles by slowing and stopping. They will allow them to change direction and move away. Or they will just stop altogether.  So when there’s a child or small animal nearby, your robot will just turn off. You don’t need to tell it. Your robot just knows child safety and will  readjust. 

Lift Sensors

Kids are curious. So you might be worried they’ll want to know a little more about the new robot in the neighborhood. But you don’t have to worry about them getting hurt if they try to introduce themselves while it’s working Let's say they try to lift the mower. Don’t worry - they won’t lose a finger. Your robot is built with sensors that make it turn off as soon as it leaves the ground. So your children can get up close and personal without concern.

Soft Front Bumper

Maybe your child doesn’t walk into your robot. Maybe instead, your child is playing in your robot's path. The good news is, your robot mower's design helps it handle that scenario. First, your mower has a soft front bumper. This helps it avoid collisions. Additionally, this bumper is enhanced with accelerometers which help your mower further detect obstacles. This keeps your kids safe as well as keeps your robot reacting and safely moving.

Sonar Detection

Your robot’s sonar sensors are integral to its ability to avoid collisions. Much of what makes these robots so safe is their ability to react to real world obstacles.  The sonar detection system allows your mower to perceive obstacles in its path. And this sends a chain reaction throughout your mower that lets it react, and adjust.  This is another reason robot mowers are so good for child safety. They sense what’s coming in real time.

Blade Safety ​

The blades on your robot mower further enhance child safety. First, they’re not as strong as the blades on the conventional mower.  They will immediately stop if they come into contact with a foreign, non-grassy object. So no matter how out of control your kids get, your robot mower has them protected.  Plus robot mower blades don’t throw stones. This is not only great for your windows. You can have peace of mind if your kids are playing near your mower.

Bottom line about safety

Robot mowers are smart technology that increase child safety. Conventional mowers send thousands of children to the emergency room year after year. Robot mowers don’t.  You kids may see you as Superman. But you can't be everywhere at once. Your robot has sensors that observe what’s coming from every direction. And this allows them to react and readjust. Your robot mower might not be there at night to read your child a bedtime story. But while your kids are playing in the yard, your robot mower is a strong protector.  Read the full article

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How Much Time Does the Average Homeowner Save with a Robot Mower?

Imagine you had to write a dating profile. What would you list as your interests? Maybe watching a game. Eating good food. Spending time with the family.  But here’s something you won’t necessarily list under your top 5 favorite hobbies. You won’t list the time you spend pushing a heavy mower back and forth in your yard. For many of us, that one doesn't quite make the cut.  You know that getting a robotic mower gives you back time. That’s time you would rather spend doing ANYTHING else. But how much of it do you get back in your life?

Here’s why this is an essential question. ​

A robot mower is an investment that can run you anywhere from $1,000 - $5,000, depending on the machine you buy.  But money isn’t your only currency. In fact, you might argue that your time is a more restricted currency. You can find ways to make more money, but you can never get back lost time. If you’re like many people, your job gets at least 5 days of your week. And what are you left with? Saturday and Sunday. Better make those hours count.  You know what you get paid for work. Have you ever put a value on those hours that belong exclusively to you?  You can’t make more of them. So it’s important to recognize them as a commodity.

What’s the hourly rate for your free time?

What do you think your free hours are worth? Meaning, how much should someone pay you to take one of those free hours away? So whatever it is, come up with a number. And make sure it feels right to you. Because you’re the one who is selling your free time.  Every hour you spend mowing your lawn is time you’re “selling”.

How many hours does it take?

So back to the original question. How much time will you save using a robot lawn mower? Because you now know why this matters.  The average ½ acre lawn will take about 2 hours to mow. Have a yard that is a full acre? Now you’re up to 4 hours.  That might not seem like a lot of time. But think about it. How often do you mow your lawn? You thought bigger was better. That was until you had to control your constantly growing lawn.

Let’s say you mow your lawn 30 times a year

OK, get out those calculators. We’re going to do some basic math. Because you’re not just looking at 2 or 4 lost hours here. You’ve got to look at the big picture.  If you mow a half acre lawn 30 times a year, and you don’t use a robot mower, you’re looking at a 60 hour investment.  You’ve lost watching 20 baseball games. Or you’ve lost out on 30 happy hours. And you’ve missed 60 1-hour naps.  If your yard is an acre, you’re looking at 120 hours per year.  That’s collateral damage on your free time and social life. 

And what’s that worth?

Maybe it’s hard for you to imagine what you would do with all that free time. You might underestimate your time’s value. So let’s go back to look at the financial value of your free time.  You’re paying yourself $15 an hour to give up your own hard-earned free time. Plus about $6  for 2 gallons of gas. So what does it cost you to mow your own lawn? That’s $36 total each time you mow your lawn. If you’ve got a ½ acre lawn, pushing a mower will cost you 60 hours a year, minimum. And what’s the cost of that?  $1080 for a ½ acre lawn. Increase that to $2160 for a lawn that’s an acre.

Bottom line

A robot mower saves you 60 hours per year for the average lawn. Or about $1080. And that’s only with your time being worth $15 an hour. Imagine if we increase the value.  You’ve only got one life. You’ve got better things to do than spend 60 hours a year on labor. This is labor you can outsource to a robotic mower friend.  When you make an investment you want to get value. Well your time is an investment. So what could you do with 60 hours a year? Read the full article

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How much do robotic lawn mowers cost?

You’ve seen your friend on social media with that fancy robot lawn mower. And you secretly wished you had one too.  But first, you have a question. How much did they pay for that? And can you justify the cost for yourself?

Lower-end robot mowers

Like anything else, robot mowers can range in price. You can get a cheaper one for under $1000 while a high-end mower can run over $5000. But the low-end model is going to be severely lacking in bells and whistles.  There are times when a lower-end mower is all you need. But you need to consider your lawn’s challenges before you go for a value mower. 

How large is your lawn?

If you’ve got a tiny lawn, you’ll have an easier time finding a mower up for the job. If your lawn could double for a golf course, you’re going to need a more powerful, larger machine.  Robot mowers use batteries for their power. And you don’t want your mower to constantly interrupt its work to head back for a charge at the charging dock. A higher end robot will be supercharged with extra battery power.  Additionally, a large lawn will require a mower that can cut a bigger stretch at a time. So they might do fine for small lawns, but will likely not do as well for large ones. 

How complex is your lawn?

Most lawns have obstacles. Maybe you have a garden, hedges, or a fountain. These looked nice when you installed them. But now they’re an added challenge for your mower. Cheaper mowers are good for cutting simple lawns. But a more sophisticated mower will have an easier job moving around your obstacles efficiently. So take a good look at your lawn before you just grab the most bottom line mower.  The lesson here is that even if you have a bad case of robot envy, you can’t just grab the cheapest mower if your lawn isn’t built for it. You’ll just create a lot of frustration for yourself. And $500 is still nothing to scoff at. Don’t waste it. 

Convinced a lower-end mower is for you?

If you have a small, simple lawn, then an economy robot mower will likely do just fine. Your lawn has simple needs, and so all you need is a simple mower. The Landroid M 20V, the Robomow RX 20 cost under $1000. 

Higher-end robot mowers

So now that we’ve seen what a basic mower can do, let’s get into the more sophisticated machines. These are the higher-powered machines that come with all the bells and whistles.  These more advanced mowers can climb hills, tackle large lawns, navigate around complicated obstacles, handle rough terrain, and have battery power that lasts for hours. But this is just a starting point. They are designed for convenience, simplicity, power, and fun.  They also have a higher price tag. A higher-end model can run thousands of dollars, ranging from around $1500 to $5000. Here’s why they're worth the investment. 

High-end, easy to use phone apps

With a higher-end mower, you get a more advanced phone app. Think of this like your very own traffic control center. You’ll be able to do things like set multiple lawn zones. Or you can alter the lawn height. And you can even track your mower from afar.  The more sophisticated technology allows for more flexible and convenient use. You get more advanced options that you can do remotely. And this lets you take more control, while also making your job easier. The Husqvarna Automower 430xh is one of our most popular models, starting at $2,499.00. Read our review of it here.

Up for advanced challenges

Maybe you have a small, flat lawn. But you might still experience challenges that can benefit from a more sophisticated mower.  For instance, these advanced mowers do better in the rain. A basic robot mower might get messy in a storm. Do you have the time to constantly give your mower a deep cleaning? More sophisticated options can breeze through rainy conditions.  And a higher-end mower might have better controls to handle obstacles. Advanced mowers can sense obstacles before they reach them. Meaning you, your family, and your kid’s bike are all protected when your mower is out and about. The Husqvarna 450xh is built for steep inclines and uneven terrain and starts at $3,299.00. 

Easier set up

Advanced mowers can make the initial set up easy. You can do a lot more from the app like establish and maintain mow areas. The whole process is simplified and a lot more intuitive.  Most mowers have wire to map your lawn. But a higher end robot will also have advanced GPS. Not only does this let you track your mower from anywhere. It helps it remember where it has been. And this will make your mower’s operation smoother.

Convinced a higher-end mower is for you?

If you’ve got lots of hills, a large lawn, or lots of intricate obstacles, a higher-end mower will serve you best. And if you want simplicity and lots of bells and whistles, you won’t be happy with a low-end model.  Some higher end models to consider are  - Husqvarna 450X (great with obstacles, tight spaces, and equipped with a long battery life) -- $3,299.00 - Automower 435X AWD (tackles steep hills, with lots of extra features) -- $3,999.00 - Ambrogio L250i Elite S+ (built for large lawns, and those who want an advanced navigation system) -- $4,300.00 So now you know how much robotic lawn mowers cost. And you understand what you get for your hard earned dollars. So now you’re ready to go meet your perfect lawn mowing assistant.  Which robot mower will you get? Read the full article

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Robotic Mower Review: The Husqvarna Automower 450x

Congrats - this is the year when you’re finally getting your robot mower. At long last. It’s the relationship for which you've yearned. So now it comes down to which mower is for you. So how about the Husqvarna Automower 450x? One of the first things you’ll probably notice is that it’s higher end than some other models. But your dad always told you that you get what you pay for. And time is money. You’ve spent enough years pushing your old fashioned mower.  Today we’re going to do a detailed review. We’ll go over the strengths and weaknesses. And we’ll help you decide if the Husqvarna Automower 450x is the perfect new addition to your lawn care routine.

Automower 450x Pros

There are a few things that might have you thinking this is the perfect mower for you. Here are a few reasons why the Automower 450x is one of our top-selling robotic mowers.

Great for difficult terrains

Does your lawn scream go big or go home? Maybe you have tons of hills or areas of soft soil. Some robotic mowers would be quickly sidelined with challenges such as these. But not the Automower 450x.  This automatic mower is specifically designed to handle these challenges. It will go up and down large hills without tipping. And it will navigate large lawns without getting stuck. It can handle a multitude of terrains. And it can cut high grass without a problem. You want an automatic mower you won’t have to babysit. And this is truly a machine that lets you sit back while it takes control. 

Convenient Phone App

Automower connect is Husqvarna's phone app. You can download it easily from both the Google or Apple stores. And this app really simplifies using your mower. Set up a mowing schedule and put it on automatic pilot. Change your schedule from anywhere in the world. Get push notifications to alert you if your mower is stopped or needs any assistance. Automower connect makes getting started simple, and let’s you fully control your mower from the comfort of your phone.

GPS

This GPS is everything. The onboard GPS will actually create a map of your lawn. When you run it, your mower will register which part of your lawn it has covered and adjust accordingly to give you the best cutting result.  Plus, this GPS lets you keep track of your mower when you can’t physically be there. You’ll get GPS theft tracking. Plus, follow your mower’s movement from your smartphone as it mows.

Safety Features

A robot wandering alone through your lawn may bring up safety concerns. Especially if you’ve got pets or kids. You need a robot that will keep your whole family protected and safe. The Husqvarna 450x has built in sensors using ultrasonic technology that allow it to sense obstacles in its way. This allows it to avoid collisions and help keep your family safe. It also shuts the blades off the minute you tip it, so no need to worry about your own hands and fingers if you’re looking underneath.

Compliments a Smart Home

Are you the type that wants to control everything from one device? Maybe you use Amazon Alexa or Google Home. And the great thing is that the Husqvarna 450x easily syncs with your smart home. Control your mower with a simple voice command. Your robot mower made life easy, but this makes things even simpler.

Automower 450x Cons

We just went over all the pros. So now we’ll go over some things to consider before you take the plunge.

The Price Tag

This mower is not the cheapest of the bunch. This is an investment, and it comes with a hefty price tag. In fact, it can run you upwards of $5000. So, if you’re looking for a budget mower, this might not be the best staring place for you.  This mower is designed to make your job simple and attack challenges. But it’s not for the budget shopper or for the customer who might only need something simple and basic.

More Than You Need for Small Lawns

The Husqvarna 450x has great features that allow it to easily traverse complicated, hilly, and large lawns. This is one of its major draws. But what if you have a small, flat, and simple lawn? If that’s the case, you may do well with a more basic Husqvarna model. There’s no point in getting a bunch of bells and whistles you won't use. Really assess your lawn needs before purchasing. You may do just fine without all the extras the Husqvarna 450x offers.

Overall Value

Any automatic mower is an investment. In return, you get back your time and energy. The Husqvarna 450x offers true simplicity in lawn care. Plus, it's equipped with all the tools it needs to effectively do the job, especially if you have a complicated lawn.  However, if you have a small simple lawn, this model may be more than you need. You may want to consider a more basic model from the Husqvarna line. However, for those with large or hilly lawns, this machine is as good as it gets.  The Husqvarna 450x does cost more than other mowers. But with that investment, you get a whole lot of value to simplify your lawn care and your life. Read the full article

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The best safety tech for families in 2021

You’re the protector of your home. You make sure that your family is safe, and that your kids are tucked safely into bed each night. To them, you’re a superhero. But you can’t be there every minute. So you need help. Kind of like a superhero sidekick. And that’s why safety tech for your family might be one of the best things you buy in 2021. Safety tech is the investment that lets you breathe easy during the day and sleep well at night. So we’ve compiled a list of the best safety technology for families in 2021. Here’s the best of the best for safety tech this year.

Nest Protect

Your fire and carbon monoxide alarm may be one of your most important safety investments.  The Nest Protect alarms in your house actually speak with each other. Learn about a threat in your bedroom from the alarm in your living room. Plus Nest Protect checks itself to make sure it's working properly - up to 400 times a day! Plus, you can turn it off and get alerts from the app on your phone. That way you can still protect your family, even when you’re not there. Get it here

Wyze Cam Pan

This is one of the best values for indoor smart surveillance. It’s a nifty camera at a very affordable price. It gives you 360 degree coverage that will automatically track motion. And it has 6 infrared LEDS so it can see great at night. Plus, the app immediately records and alerts you when it detects movement. And there’s no subscription required. Your videos are stored on the cloud for 15 days for free. You are your neighborhood watch. ​

Husqvarna Automower

Smart tech is the best solution to give you more time to enjoy your home. And an Automower is a great tech solution to safely give you back your time. Use the app to set up mowing schedules and change them whenever the weather changes. Plus use the blade safety features to keep your kids safe. The blade will instantly stop if it is lifted or turned over. Plus the outer body of the blade is extra wide, which protects little hands and feet. This is a smart mower that will make you feel smarter for keeping your kids safe. Get it here.

C by GE Motion Sensor

Moving around in the dark can be a real hazard, especially when walking up and down steps. And what happens when you enter a room with your hands full? The C by GE Motion Sensor is a truly smart lighting system for your home. You can set it to activate only during certain hours, keeping kitty from activating it during the day.. But it can help you safely move about at night. Pair it with GE smart bulbs and your good to go! Get it here. ​

August Wifi Smart Lock

It used to be a smart move to leave a key in a plant. Now you’ll just assist a robber. As much as you pride yourself on being able to wrestle anyone to the ground, you’d rather not try. This smart lock allows you to remotely lock or unlock the door from anywhere. Or control your door with voice assist. You can even set it through geofencing to automatically unlock as you approach. Or send yourself smart alerts as others come and go. This is a solution that makes your life easier, but does it in a way that keeps you protected. Get it here.

Kaiterra Laser Egg

What are you supposed to do when you can protect your kids from the monster under the bed, but not the air they breathe? Kaiterra Laser Egg is the smart solution. It gives you fast, reliable detection of air pollution in your home. And it does all this through your wifi connection. Plus, different models have the ability to tell you about chemicals, or CO2 exposure. Then you’ll always know when it's time to open a window or turn on an air filter. And that way, you really can fight the invisible monster. Get it here. ​

Wyze Cam Outdoor

No intruder likes to see an outdoor camera, tracking their every movement. Wyze Cam Outdoor allows you to protect your home like a ninja. It’s budget friendly. It’s wire-free, so set-up is easy. And it has 25ft night vision. Plus, it captures people and animals with 12 second, motion captured videos. This camera is a workhorse, built to survive even the nastiest blizzard. Never worry about what’s lurking out there in the dark again. Get it here. 

Ring Video Doorbell Pro

​Ring Doorbell Pro gives you all the bells and whistles. It has HD video with two way talk. It allows for customizable motion zones. Plus it has infrared night vision. And with a Ring Protect Plan, you can record, view, and share videos and pictures stored on the cloud. Maybe someday you’ll have a butler. But until then, this is the next best thing. Get it here.

Phillips Hue Lights and Sensor

Help your family see while coming in late at night. And scare the bad guys away by shining a spotlight as they approach. This also works for your teenage daughter’s boyfriend. The Phillips Hue Light and Sensor will help give you a warm welcome home with its battery powered sensor. Simply walk by and it will trigger the lights. Setup is a snap and you’ll save on your electric bill. Plus you’ll feel safe knowing your family isn’t left in the dark. Get it here. ​

Samsung Smarthings

Now that you have all this new safety tech, you’re going to want to find a way to control them from one system. And Samsung Smarthings is a great way to do just that. This works with 100s of compatible devices and they all can be coordinated from an app within your smartphone.. That way you can be the master of your domain from anywhere. Make sure eclectic devices are off. Turn on lights when you’re away. And track moisture levels so you know if there’s a leak. There are so many ways you can keep your home safe. And it’s all done with a single device. Your kids think you’re Superman. And now you really can be. Get it here.  ​ Read the full article

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The best robot lawn mowers for 2021

Buying a robot used to be a thing of fantasy. But your childhood dreams are now your reality. So how do you make sure you’re getting the best robot mower? You don’t want to screw this up. You want a robot mower that will serve you. Not one that will sputter or trip over its own robot feet. You want the best. So today we’re going over the best robot mowers for 2021. We’ve taken all the hard work of checking out all of this year’s new arrivals and long-time favorites. That way we can put together this guide to help you bring home your new yard MVP.

​So how do you choose a good robot mower?

Automatic mowers are becoming more and more popular. They make lawn care super simple. However, they’re an investment. Make the right choice, and they give a great bang for your buck. Make the wrong choice, and you're gonna have some explaining to do. So here’s what to look for before you let go of your hard earned cash. - How big is your lawn? You want to determine the perfect size mower for your needs. - What added features do you want? Maybe you want GPS. Perhaps you want one that is better on hills. Or maybe your priority is easy controls from your smartphone. - Do you have what’s needed to get started? Some mowers require a more complex set-up than others. But with that complexity, you may get additional benefits. You want to make an educated decision. We tried all the major robot mower players for 2021. And here are the mowers that will make it easy for your yard to look great while you do absolutely nothing.

Husqvarna 435x

You can’t go wrong with a Husqvarna. They’re a major player in the robot mower world. But here’s why you’ll want to check out the Husqvarna 435x. This Husqvarna is a pioneer in the world of smart lawn care. It has an easy to use smartphone app and advanced GPS navigation. This is a game changer when it comes to convenience and ease of use. It comes with Automower Connect for smartphone control and smart home integration. The app features an easy to use help center that can help you troubleshoot any issue or problem. Plus, you can do everything from setting your schedule to easily mapping your lawn with the built-in GPS. Buy it here.

Worx WR140

Here’s what makes the Worx WR140 a stand-out. Robotic mowers offer amazing convenience. But they don’t come without a hefty price tag. The Worx offers a standout value. You get an automated mower, for a lower price tag. While you won’t get all the bells and whistles you might see elsewhere, you’ll get lots of great features. It navigates narrow passageways with ease. It lets you choose from 5 different cutting heights. And it has an Anti-Collision system that helps you navigate obstacles. This is a reliable mower at a good price. So if you’ve been wanting to enter the world of automated mowers but haven’t fit it into your budget, take another look. The Worx WR140 may be just the mower to get you started. Buy it here.

Husqvarna 315x

The Husqvarna 315x is a top automatic mowing solution for those of us with small to a medium sized lawn. Even rain can’t stop this bad boy from getting the job done. Plus, it handles slopes and narrow areas like they’re nothing. An automatic mower is an investment that should last and last. The proper cleaning and maintenance of your automower is essential to its longevity. And the Husqvarna has simplified its maintenance and care so that it’s a snap. So now, not only do you have a mower that’s doing all your heavy lifting. You have one that’s simplified maintenance so that you never even have to break a sweat. You got your automatic mower so life would be easy. This mower is high tech that provides simplicity at its best. Buy it here.

Honda Miimo 520 ​

Are you intimidated by tech? This robot mower might be the perfect love connection for you. While most mowers are user friendly, the Honda Miimo’s set-up wizard makes getting started a snap. It walks you through the whole operation, step-by-step. No tech knowledge needed. It’s smooth and efficient. Plus it’s quiet. You can barely hear this mowing dynamo move. Plus, it cuts your lawn in a way that creates small grass pieces that can go back and help fertilize, making your lawn healthier. You’ll almost feel guilty, it’s so easy. Learn more here.

Husqvarna 450xH

Most automatic mowers can handle a small incline. But what if your yard makes Mt Everest look like a small hill? Many mowers will be left, sputtering on the sidelines. But not the Husqvarna 450xh. This mower was built for rocky terrain. Watch it as it climbs up and downhill without taking pause. This is the perfect solution for traditionally hard to mow lawns. Plus, it does so without compromising on quality. This mower has incredible precision, making you look like you slaved over your yard. We’ll never give away your secret. Buy it here.

Ready to get yours?

So these are the best automatic mowers for 2021. Don’t spend another year dreaming about getting a robot mower. This is your year to get one. Read the full article

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Do you believe these 7 myths about robot lawn mowers?

The intrigue of a robot lawn mower is real. But then you hear some things that get you nervous. Are these myths, or the truth?  You might be getting all of your information from your Great Uncle Joe’s third cousin. But you have to realize that he says some crazy things.  Robot lawn mowers are technology of the future. And change can seem a little untrustworthy at first. But that shouldn’t stop you from considering getting an autonomous lawn mower. People Have strong responses to autonomous lawn mowers. We've seen it again and again: we introduce a robotic lawn mower to someone, and they have one of these reactions: - they laugh, saying how silly these little robots are - they scoff, saying "how lazy do you have to be?" But here's the thing. Everyone who eventually comes around and gets an autonomous lawn mower of their own ends up seeing clear benefits in less than a week. Robot lawn mowers make your life easy.  No more breaking your back on Saturday afternoon. No more overgrowth when it's rained for a week straight. And no more trying to stand strategically in front of your yard to block your unmanicured lawn from your neighbors. But when something seems easy, you're always looking for a catch. This is probably tied into your survival instinct. In nature, you have to look at everything new with skepticism or you’ll end up eating that poison berry. (But it looked so good!) So your wary nature has good intentions. But believing these myths about robot mowers is getting in your way of a beautiful, healthy, effortless lawn. So we’re going to go over some of the most common myths about robot lawn mowers. And we’ll discuss why they’re just not true.

"Autonomous lawn mowers make me look lazy."

As Bill Gates famously said, "I will always choose a lazy person to do a hard job. Because a lazy person will find an easy way to do it." And look -- at the end of the day -- a shabby, yellowing, patchy lawn is the surefire way to ACTUALLY make you look lazy. Nobody looks lazy with a beautifully green, lush lawn. Furthermore, when you’re spinning your wheels trying to keep up with yard work, you fall behind in other areas.  Maybe you have less time to play ball with the kids. Or perhaps you want to get the paperwork together for your mortgage refinance.  You’re the CEO of your home. Think like a boss. Outsource menial labor. And now  use your energy where it’s really needed. 

"autonomous lawn mowers are too expensive."

When people first discover robotic mowers, one of the first things they ask is "How hard will this hit my wallet?" And here's the thing: many robotic lawn mowers DO cost thousands. But this isn't always the case. There are many budget friendly mowers from $500 and up.  The challenges of your yard determine the complexity of your machine. But if you have a simple yard, you may do very well with a lower end mower.  Additionally, the price comes with value. Something that you can’t buy more of is time. A robot mower is a way to purchase more hours, by freeing up one of your most time consuming activities. And what is that worth to you?  So your robot mower might not be that expensive afterall. 

"Autonomous mowers don’t work as well as traditional lawn mowers."

Hold on there a moment, buckaroo. You might be the master of your yard, but your robot lawn mower has got some pretty good game.  Technology allows your robot to independently handle complex situations. From an app in your phone, you can fully control your mower.  Set up your desired blade length, determine mowing boundaries, and more. Robot mowers are smart technology. And they are designed for more than simply cutting grass. They allow you to have a uniformly manicured and cleanly cut lawn. All without having to push the mower yourself.  And they’re safe too. They know what to steer away from obstacles or little hands. Plus, they’ll stop the blades if someone lifts them.  And now you see. People who say robot mowers can’t work well are just buying into the myths. 

"robotic lawn mowers are just a fad."

You thought you were done with fads when you stopped buying up Beanie Babies in the 90s. So the idea of falling trap to another flash in the pan makes you cringe.  But don’t worry. Your robot mower won’t go out of style like your Furby. And here’s why.  First, robot lawn mowers aren’t new. In fact, the first commercial robot lawn mower came about in 1969. They’re more accessible now because of technology. So you get the phenomenal and affordable robots of today.  Second, they are steadily gaining in popularity because they make life easier. Convenience equals longevity. Trust us. If Tickle Me Elmo could mow your lawn, he’d still be around too.  And finally, the more time wears on, the stronger the robotic lawn care technology is going to get. If anything, autonomous lawn mowers are the way of the future -- not just a passing fad.

"autonomous lawn mowers get stolen."

You worry that getting the hot new mower will make you a target for theft. But today’s robot mowers defy those myths.  They are designed to make them very difficult to steal. So while the bad guys might want to adopt your mower, they won’t get it.  For instance, many robot mowers need a pin for activation. Don’t know the pin? Then you can’t move the mower. And the mower will lock after a few wrong attempts. Plus, the majority of mowers come with GPS. This feature lets you track your mower from anywhere. So if your robot leaves without your permission, you can track him and find him. Don’t you wish you had this for your teenagers? 

"autonomous mowers can’t go over hills or uneven terrain."

If you think robot mowers are just for those with flat yards, then you’ve got it all wrong. The modern robot mower can handle difficult yards brilliantly. Here’s the thing. You’ve got to get the right mower for your lawn’s challenges. Sure there are mowers that are best for flat yards with even terrain. If you’ve got a lawn with challenges, those robot mowers aren’t for you. Steer clear. So read up on your favorite mower before you whip out that credit card. Make sure to honestly access your lawn. And get a mower built for your yard’s terrain. As long as you do that, hills and uneven terrain won’t be  problems. 

"autonomous mowers are best for small yards."

We’ll let you in on a secret. Lean in because this is a good one.  Robot mowers are built for large lawns. Well, not all of them. But many. It’s just like the hills issue. It’s up to you to get the guidance and support of Autmow professionals before you purchase, so we can help you decide on the perfect mower. With so many models to choose from, you don’t necessarily want to go with the first one that strikes your fancy. Some mowers are truly best for small lawns. But that’s fine. Because many other options exist for those with large lawns. These are robot mowers built with stamina and a long battery life.  No more myths Now you know better than to fall for the most common myths that surround autonomous lawn mowers -- because no matter what newer technologies shape our lives, there's always a measure of healthy skepticism about it. Just make sure that skepticism doesn't get in the way of you living a better life -- and enjoying a healthier, happier lawn. Want to learn more about whether an autonomous lawn mower is right for you? Schedule a free demo from Autmow today to learn more about how these amazing machines can help you enjoy a healthier lawn. Read the full article

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Is the Husqvarna EPOS right for me?

Short Answer: Probably not. At least not yet. But it is technology of the future. So learning about what it can do tomorrow is something to get excited about today.  Let’s start with the basics. What is EPOS, and how will it someday make using a robot mower so much easier?

The technology of EPOS: What is it?

EPOS stands for Exact Positioning Operating System. It's a breakthrough technology for professional Automower® robotic lawn mower models. This satellite-based technology enables the mowers to work within virtual boundaries, eliminating the need for physical boundary wires. This new system is designed to significantly increase the flexibility and use of professional robotic lawn mowers in green spaces.

Here’s how it works. 

The EPOS system is made up of three main parts: - the robotic lawn mower - the charging station - the reference station The Husqvarna EPOS mower communicates to the reference station through radio signal and satellite. And this satellite communication allows the set up of virtual mowing stations. But here's the catch: as of now, this technology has it's limits. In order for the technology to work, you need an uninterrupted sky view of your property, with limited trees and buildings around, and you need stellar radio coverage. People are excited about the future of EPOS. Here are the major reasons why the EPOS is so cool, and why this fledgling technology si such a big deal.

What Makes EPOS Technology A Big Deal

The Exact Positioning Operating System technology is exciting. It means: No more boundary line breakage The absence of physical boundary wires eliminates wire breakages. This is awesome for people who need to aerate or scarify without the risk of damaging the installation. Flexible Area Management Easily manage your mow area digitally. This includes being able to set up temporary stay-out zones (the creation of digital zones that are easily activated and de-activated). Program the mower to new areas, even passing over hard surfaces like sidewalks, without wasting time and battery life mowing paths. And finally, you'll easily be able to change installation because mow areas are defined by remote steering via a smartphone. The virtual boundary can easily be edited from your smartphone screen. Precise Area Management A single Husqvarna Automower robotic lawn mower can mow separate areas with different height settings and different schedules. Longer Boundaries and Larger Installations No perimeter wires means something else: unlimited boundary length. This allows for more complex installations in all imaginable shapes and sizes! Remote Steering with a Smartphone AppDrive will let you steer your robotic lawn mower in Automower Connect. Mower blades are disabled while using appDrive, but it works outside of the installation area. Over-the-air software updates Always get the latest software without ever thinking about it.

The wide use of EPOS is still years away

This is new technology, and there are limitations. And unfortunately, these aren’t limitations that affect a small portion of robot mower users. These limitations make it impractical for most of us homeowners to use EPOS. So while we’re living in the world of instant gratification, you need patience. Because if you were to use EPOS today, you’d likely run into technical difficulty. Beware if you have any of these common EPOS obstacles.

Trees and Buildings 

Your mower must communicate with the reference station. This is essential for its function.  However, if you have lots of trees and buildings in the vicinity, you have a problem. These can get in the way of the signal.  And how many of us don’t have any trees or obstacles in our yards? 

Satellite Signals Vary

Remember cell phones in the early days? There were limits to where you could get a signal. With EPOS, the satellite signal varies based on location, time, season, and weather.  So you have to check the signal strength in your area before you invest. And while perimeter wire isn’t fun to set up, you need a robot mower with reliable boundaries.

Who is a good candidate for EPOS?

Unfortunately, the list of those who are good candidates for EPOS is small. To be a good candidate for EPOS, you must have an open space with few trees, and a good satellite signal. The following conditions are likely good candidates for EPOS today - Large open fields - Sports turf - Unobstructed views - Commercial property If you don’t fall into this category, never fear. Technology is constantly evolving. And EPOS will likely continue to improve. 

Is Epos right for you?

Probably not yet. But think about it. It wasn’t that long ago we were setting up our wallpaper on MySpace. Things change quickly.  We’re in the early evolution of EPOS. But there will likely be a day when we remember perimeter wire as a thing of history.   Read the full article

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How do Dogs respond to robotic lawn mowers?

Are you worried about autonomous lawn mower safety when it comes to your dog? Luckily, you don't have to worry about your dog getting in the way of -- or getting hurt by -- your robotic lawnmower. Because here's the truth: while dogs might be curious about what this "thing" rumbling across their lawn is, they soon lose interest to sniff a tree or dig in the dirt.

Dogs won't really care about your new robotic lawn mower

The good news is that your dog might be mildly curious at first, and then the novelty wears off. “There goes that robot thing. Let me watch it for a minute. Oh wait, better chase my tail instead.” Remember, animals lead by their sense of sound and smell. Your dog knows your robot is an inanimate object. It surely doesn’t smell like any animal she has ever met, so it won't "register" as a threat or as another animal.

Robotic mowers have sensors for safety

Traditional lawn mowers can be quite dangerous for dogs and kids, and cause more than 6,000 emergency room trips each year. No wonder there are hundreds of articles online that feature safety tips when it comes to protecting your dogs and kids each time you mow the lawn. But what happens when your dog -- or kid -- gets too close to your robotic lawn mower? Really, nothing. Your autonomous lawnmower has sensors that allow the blades to stop when lifted, and help them work their way around obstacles. So it might bump into your dog's butt ... but then it'll trundle away without incident. So while you think of your pet as family, your robot will sense it like any other obstacle. When Fido comes barking in your robot’s direction, it will know he’s there. And then it will stop, and redirect. And move away from your furry beast.

Mowers have a soft front bumper.

So maybe you’re not yet convinced that your pet is not savvy enough to avoid a collision with your robot mower. After all, he’s not the sharpest tool in the shed. Never fear. Because even if the worst case scenario (gasp: a COLLISION) does occur, your pet will be safe. That’s because your mower has a soft front bumper.  If your mower hits kitty, she will still escape with all nine lives. Your mower simply taps any obstacle with its soft front bumper and redirects.  That way, she’ll be no worse for wear. 

Robotic Lawn Mower Dog Safety

In a nutshell, your robotic lawn mower will get along just fine with your dog. Robotic lawn mower pet safety is just part of having a smart home. First, your pet will not be scared or intimidated. Robot mowers tend not to spook animals. And your pet will sense that your robot is not an invader. Additionally, they come with so many safety features. So even if your pet doesn’t “socially distance” from your robot mower, he won’t get hurt.  Robot mowers are designed to keep your family safe. And that means keeping your family pet safe as well. Now if your robot mower could just learn how to throw a frisbee. He may just become Fido’s new best friend. Read the full article

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How do perimeter wires work?

You bought your dream robot mower. And you couldn’t be happier. But now (GASP), you're faced with a box of perimeter wire.  Queue the scary music from “Jaws” or “Psycho”.  Yes, setting up perimeter wire sounds daunting. But it’s not as bad as it sounds.  Today we’ll go over why you shouldn’t freak out over setting up your perimeter wire. As well as go over some helpful tips to make it easier. 

But first, how does perimeter wire work? 

Think of perimeter wire like an invisible dog fence. An invisible dog fence doesn’t look like a regular boundary, but it keeps Fido from running into the street. Your perimeter wire works in a similar way. Your autonomous mower's charging station sends a signal through your perimeter wire. Your mower's sensor picks up the signal. This communication helps your robot mower understand its boundaries. It knows which areas it should mow, as well as which ones are off limits. And don't worry that the wire will hurt your mower. If your mower runs over a cable, it just stops and moves in another direction. Your perimeter uses sophisticated technology. But to us, it just looks like magic. 

Do you have to lay perimeter wire underground?

The quick answer: not if you don't want to. While wire placed underground is less affected by weather conditions, there’s a big advantage to placing it above ground.  It’s easier! You might worry that perimeter wire above ground will be an eyesore. But in fact, it's hardly noticeable. No one will be able to tell it's there. There are even some additional pluses to keeping the wire above ground (at least at first).  Perimeter wire placed underground is laborious to change. So once you place the wire underground, it’s kind of a commitment.  Placing it above ground lets you test your configuration. That way, you can fix any potential weak spots and easily move the perimeter wire, instead of having to dig it up.

So you’re ready to set up perimeter wire. Which kinds of wire will you use? 

So now you realize that working with perimeter wire will be a piece of cake. Or at the very least, not as terrifying as a night with Freddy Kreuger.  So know that you’ll be using two types of wires. And each wire has a unique and essential function.  Let’s first discuss the boundary wire. This is just as it sounds. It helps design your basic mowing area.  Install the boundary wire to help your robot get to know where it needs to mow. It outlines your lawn and obstacles to give your robot mower a "playing field". Your mower will learn it's boundaries from the wire. And that's how it will mow your lawn in a uniform manner, making sure all areas are given proper attention, and your lawn looks beautiful. Next, lay your guide wire.  Let’s say that your robot mower is on the opposite side of your lawn from the charging station. But now its battery is low. How will it find its way home?  You don’t want it to sputter and die in the middle of nowhere. And that’s why you have guide wire.  This wire will also assist your robot when it goes through narrow passages. And it will help your robot safely return to its charging station. 

What about trees, flower beds, and other obstacles? 

There’s one more major point of discussion when it comes to perimeter wire. You need to lay tracks to help your mower move around obstacles.  The “lollypop method” allows you to use wire to create a boundary around the obstacle. That way, your mower can’t get bump into it. It’s as if your flowers and shrubs are on a protected island.  The distance out you place the wire depends on the type of obstacle. Thats why Husqvarna provides a guidance ruler that helps you measure and removes the guesswork.  Lay the perimeter wire around the obstacle in a clockwise position around your obstacle. And now you’ve got demarcated areas of the lawn that your robot knows to avoid. Sealing off boundaries like this will prevent the mower from getting stuck on tree roots, make operations quieter, and reduce wear on the mower. 

Laying perimeter wire shouldn’t be a nightmare.

Yes, it takes some time and attention. But once it's done, you can set your mower free without worry. Because now your robot mower can easily navigate your yard. And you get to quit your job as a lawnmower babysitter.  So spend a few minutes now. And your weekends will go from an exhausting nightmare to a blissful sweet dream. Read the full article

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How do robotic lawn mowers handle dog poo?

You’ve seen your robot lawn mower tackle a variety of challenges.  It climbed that huge hill. It navigated a winding path. And it just gracefully mowed around your vegetable garden without compromising a single string bean.  But we’ve reached the final obstacle. And this one is a doozy. There’s a big pile of dog poo. And your robot mower is headed right towards it. Who will win?

a Far cry from traditional lawn mowers

Maybe you've experienced this worst-case scenario with a traditional riding or push mower: dog poo smears everywhere. It gets all stuck in the blades. Maybe it even projectiles across the yard and hits your freshly-cleaned windows. (We have heard horror stories from landscaping pros who have to deal with this on a regular basis with their traditional lawn mowers. Needles to say, they are the unsung heroes of lawn care.) And while we're not advocating for you to never clean up the dog poo in your yard, we do get a lot of questions about how robotic mowers handle the "pies" your dogs leave behind in the lawn. Because in the back of your mind, you're wondering if you're going to have to clean the blades or worse, cause your robotic lawn mower permanent damage. Here's the low-down.

What happens to robotic lawn mowers if they run over dog poop?

In a nutshell: not much. You see, since your robotic mower is in constant motion through your yard, the movement helps naturally wipe your blades clean. Furthermore, since the blades on a robotic lawn mower are so protected by the hard shell of the mower's body, you won't see dog poo flying everywhere, because the shell acts like a shield. When your mower goes over a pile of poo, it helps to flatten it. And once it goes over it a few times, it should get really flat. To the point where you will likely not even see it. Then the grass will grow over it. And your big pile of poo will be no more.  And this won’t cause your mower to slow down or perform at a lower level. To you, your robot just beat up a big pile of poo. To your robot mower, it’s just a boring old Tuesday. 

Why You Should still Clean up Dog Poo in your yard

Armed with this new information, should you just ignore it when your dog pops a squat in the yard? Does this mean you never have to do pooper scooper duty ever again? Not so fast. The dog poop might not be a problem for the robotic lawn mower, but it's not healthy for your lawn. It can discolor your grass and even leave burns. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, dog poop is considered a pollutant and a human health hazard. It can carry diseases such as roundworm, hookworms, tapeworms, parvo, and much more. By not picking up the dog poop and mowing over it, you're effectively spreading these diseases all over your lawn, which isn't good for your lawn OR the health of you and your children. So needles to say, pick up the dog mess. Hate picking up dog poo? Check out this robot that picks it up for you. (Yes really!)

Never Worry About Robotic Lawn Mower Damage with Autmow's Maintain Me Program

Like with anything, your robotic lawn mower is bound to experience some everyday wear and tear. It'll run over walnuts, fallen fruit from trees, sticks, and yes, dog poo. While most models handle these like a champ, it's still a good idea to bring in your robot for regular maintenance. Autmow's MaintainMe Program makes it easy to keep everything running smoothly. We'll take good care of your machine and ensure that blades are replaced regularly, boundary wires are in good shape, everything stays clean and good as new. Click here to learn more about Autmow's MaintainMe Program. Read the full article

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Getting the most out of the Automower® Connect App from Husqvarna

Mowing the lawn may no longer be a manual task to check off this Saturday, but that doesn't mean you're not in total control over your cutting height, mowing schedule, and more. The Automower® Connect App is how Husqvarna makes it as easy as possible to simplify your lawn ... and your life, so you get all the reward with minimal effort. In a nutshell, the Automower® Connect App puts your autonomous lawn mower in communication with your smartphone, so you can control every aspect of your lawn care from the convenience at your fingertips... without going outside and breaking a sweat.

How the Automower® Connect App improves lawn health

Your Husqvarna Automower® is a powerful machine on its own, and the app is the icing on the cake. Take a look at some of the things you can do with it.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vyWZ3WdB1cw&t=29s

First, Download the app.

Here's how to get the Automower® Connect App on your phone: ON ANDROID: - Click open the "Play Store" app. - Type in "Automower Connect". - Click "Install." ON IPHONE: - Click open the App Store. - Type in "Automower Connect" - Click "Install." Once the app is downloaded, it's time to pair your mower.

Next, Pair your mower to your app.

The Automower® Connect App makes it easy to set up your autonomous lawn mower so you can get started on a beautiful lawn. Just a few easy steps from within the app: - Click "accessories" - Press enter pin code >> pairing >> new pairing. At this point, your Automower will provide you a pin code on the mower screen itself. So walk over to your mower, lift the cap to access the control panel. On the control panel: - Click "accessories" - Click "Automower® Connect" - Select "Pairing" - Select "New Pairing" Once you receive the pairing code, simply enter the pairing code into the Automower® Connect App, and your app can now communicate with your mower. Voila!

Set your mowing schedule

Next, set your mowing schedule so your Automower knows when to mow. So if you want it to mow primarily when you're at work, or you want it to mow primarily at night so no one sees it -- all that is entirely up to you. To set your mowing schedule: - Click "Settings" - Click "Schedule" - Click "Edit" on the top righthand corner of the screen - Select the days of the week you'd like your Automower® to mow the lawn, and select the hours you'd like it to operate.

Determine cutting height and Spiral Cutting

How short or long you decide to keep your lawn can have big implications for the health of your grass. For example, in the hot summer months, you'll want to keep your grass length longer, because grass growing is slow during hot, dry summer days. But during the wetter, cooler seasons of spring and fall, you might elect to keep a closer trim. With this in mind, you can also take advantage of Spiral Cutting. Your robot goes into spiral cutting when it perceives an area of grass to be longer or thicker than before. And this helps your lawn become more uniform.  In other words, the mower detects areas of your lawn with high growth, tracks them on GPS, and mows those areas more frequently. Here's how: From the app: - Select "Settings" - Select "Operation" - Turn on "Spiral Cutting" - Select your intensity (high, medium, or low) - Save your changes. You get to choose the intensity of the spiral cutting feature. Now make it happen, all from inside the app. 

Track mower location

Want to see how your robot mower spends its day? Now you can.  GPS technology allows you to track your mower's movements both retroactively and in real time. This is all through the Geotracking feature in the app. Set up is as easy as centering your robot and pushing a button.  From within the app: - Click "Map" on the home screen of the app. - You will then see a satellite "bird's eye view" of the yard in which your Automower operates. - In order to see where its mowed, click the "gear icon" in the top right corner. - From here, you can see "movement path" the "geofence radius" and turn off satellite view". Now you can see the exact paths your Automower takes when it cuts the lawn.

Alert Codes and Security

Whether you're away for the day or hanging out in the living room, the Automower® Connect App will alert you when something's not quite right with the mower. Whether your Automower gets stuck, flips over, or gets lifted, the alarm will sound, and the app will ask you to enter in the PIN code. After entering the PIN Code, Click "more details" to learn more about the alert. This feature protects your Automower from being stolen and from being "laid up" too long if it gets stuck somewhere.

Go into eco mode

Want to save money and power? From the app, put your robot mower into eco mode. This is a great option for while your robot buddy is charging.  Certain parts of your mower will power down. And this helps you stay environmentally friendly while still allowing your mower to function. 

This app gets rave reviews!

People love the Automower Connect App. It’s easy to use, allows you to effortlessly update the settings on your mower, and helps keep your lawn looking healthy and lush. Plus it’s reliable. Most users don’t experience a single glitch.  So now that you’ve got your new mower, make sure to download the app. It’s the powerhouse tool to get the most value from your fabulous new mower. Read the full article

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Robotic lawn mowers versus rain

Back in the day, rain immediately meant an end to your lawn care plans. Don't endure the misery of a storm with your old fashioned mower.  But now that you have a robot mower, the story might be different. Can you schedule your robot to work on rainy days? 

Autonomous mowers and the rain

https://youtu.be/oyBi636fo0c No need to live in suspense. You can have your robot mower run in the rain.  But before you grab the streamers and party hats, there’s something you should understand.  Your autonomous mower comes equipped with a rain sensor. This sensor is responsible for assessing the environment, and determining whether it is safe to keep cutting in a storm.  If the environment is hazardous, it will shut down operation.  But your mower won’t sputter and die. When the rainy situation becomes too much, your mower will just go back to the dock for charging. 

Benefits of rain sensors in autonomous mowers.

Your robot’s rain sensor is just one of the many benefits of autonomous mowers. Here are some of the benefits.  It protects your investment. Robot mowers aren’t cheap. While you don’t want damage to your lawn, you really want to keep your robot safe. Your rain sensors protect your investment from things like falling branches and other hazards.  It frees your time. No need to keep checking the forecast. You can just schedule your mower and forget about it. If it starts to rain, your robot will know what to do.  Less need for cleaning. Mowing your lawn isn’t fun. But cleaning your mower is even less desirable. And the rain sensor keeps you from having to clean up from a messy situation. 

Other ways that robot mowers make it easier to cut in the rain. 

There are other advantages to robot mowers for the rain. The rain sensor is the main line of defense. But your robot mower assists in the rain in other ways. It creates smaller clippings. Because you can run a robot mower more frequently, it creates smaller clippings. You're talking about millimeters instead of centimeters. And this will make a rainy situation easier.  You can easily adjust settings on the app. You can raise the cutting height. Or just leave on the weather setting. And these are other ways to improve mower performance in the rain.  

But should you cut your grass in the rain?

So now you know that it is possible to have your autonomous mower run in the rain. But this next question is a real nail biter. Should you?  The rain sensor helps your robot stay safe. But the reality is that rain isn’t the ideal environment for your lawn care.  And autonomous mowers make it so you can mower frequently. Why mow in the rain when you can just schedule your robot for after the storm?

Here’s why it isn’t ideal to mow in a storm.

The C words - clumping and clogging. In the rain, grass can clump. And when this happens, dirt and gunk can clog your mower. And blades don’t cut as cleanly when they’re wet. No fun. You lose natural fertilizer. Autonomous mowers produce clippings that fall back to the grass where they become natural fertilizer. In the rain, the clippings will clump and stop acting as fertilizer.  You could spread disease. With frequent, heavy rainfall, your lawn is more likely to experience disease. When the grass is wet, the mower can spread that disease throughout your lawn.  The issue of seeds. Dr. Joey Williamson, an expert in residential horticulture at Clemson University, talks about the unique problem of weed seeds. If there are lawn weeds going to seed, spreading weed seeds can create a larger infestation. 

Which brands of robot mowers have rain sensors? 

The good news is that there’s no lack of choice when it comes to robot mowers with rain sensors. Many reliable, quality brands come with this feature. Check out some of these options for a high quality mower with a rain sensor.  - Husqvarna - Worx - Ambrogio - Robomow So turn off the weather channel. You’ve been set free.  Your robot mower can’t make sure you always have an umbrella in a surprise rainstorm. But it can keep your mower singing in the rain. Read the full article

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What happens if someone steals your robotic mower?

It might be in the back of your mind when you're leaving on vacation — what happens if someone steals my robotic lawn mower while I'm in Aruba? "I would have thought that they would be an easy target for thieves, but thankfully there are numerous features that make them very secure," says the owner of a robotic lawn mower who writes blogs about his robotic experiences on myrobotmower.com, "Robot lawn mower security features are well developed to both prevent theft and promote recovery if one should be stolen." Thankfully, robotic mower theft remains very low — probably because if the large array of security features that come inherent with these machines. Here's a look at the security features that make it far less likely for someone to successfully steal a robotic lawn mower, and how they work to keep your mower secure... and to give you peace of mind.

GPS Means You Always Know Where Your Mower Is

Even if your robotic mower gets stolen and goes on a ride across the country, you'll know where it went. Thanks to the GPS features, if someone does succeed in getting past all the security measures to make off with your robot, they won't be able to get away with their heist for long. In fact, in Denver recently, an automatic lawn mower led the cops straight to the thief, who was hoarding a bunch of other stolen goods as well. Sweet, sweet justice! According to the Denver Post Article, "An automatic lawnmower was stolen from Loveland’s Lakeside Cemetery in early September but was found using the machine’s GPS. And it’s possible the high-tech mower helped authorities catch the thief and find other stolen goods as well. The mower’s built-in GPS system allows it to operate independently, and its location syncs automatically with a mobile app. At first, Schwery thought the mower ⁠— nicknamed “Cemy” for cemetery ⁠— had simply been overturned. But when he took a closer look at the mower’s GPS location, he realized that it was on the other side of town." Click here to learn more about the Automower Connect App by Husqvarna can help keep your mower safe from theft.

Phone alerts

Robotic lawn mowers are good communicators — they let you know (via push notifications on your phone) if something's up with the mower. For example, if your mower is turned over, picked up, or moved, you'll know what's going on within minutes.

The robot won't work for anyone but its owner. (Because of PIN codes and paired charging bases)

"Even if it is easy to gain access to a property to steal a robotic mower, the theft will serve no purpose," says Belrobotics, "The robot cannot function alone, and an expert technician is required to install the station and make it operational." Each robotic lawn mower also requires a PIN code to be entered onto the robot's control panel to ensure that only the authorized owner of the machine has the ability to use it.... which leads us to our next point.

Blacklisted machines

If you do get your robotic lawn mower stollen, you can call the manufacturer and have the machine blacklisted. This means that if the robot is brought in for servicing, the robot will be immediately flagged as stolen. The service center will then alert the authorities about the possibility of a stolen machine.

It'll sound an alarm

A thief could not gracefully steal a robotic lawn mower, because the machine will sound with a high-pitched, shrill, very loud alarm. (And only the PIN code can halt the alarm sound.) Good luck making a grand escape without turning heads! Some Husqvarna Automowers (like the 450x) allow you to adjust the duration of the alarm from 1 minute to 20 minutes.

Not All Robotic Lawn Mowers Have Anti-Theft Features

While the majority of robotic lawn mower models -- and brands -- do feature anti-theft security features, some lower-end models do not. So before you make a purchase, be sure to check all the specs and features to make sure a machine has anti-theft features... if security is important to you.

Robotic Lawn Mowers Don't Make It Easy for ThieveS

Thieves probably won't try to steal your robotic lawn mower. But if they do, rest assured that the robots are one step ahead of the bandits. Between giving away a thieve's location through GPS tracking, turning heads with a loud alarm, sending immediate text notifications, and not working for anyone but its owner, it's safe to say that your robotic lawn mower will, well, stay pretty darn safe. Want to discover which robotic lawn mower is right for you? Click here to explore all our robotic lawn mowing options by brand. Read the full article

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An Honest review of the Ambrogio 4.0 Elite High Cut Robotic Lawn Mower

In today's market, there are many autonomous mowers from which to choose. So why pick the Ambrogio? Let’s go over everything the Ambrogio has to offer. In this review, we are focusing specifically on the 4.0 Elite High-Cut, which is ideal for medium-to-large lawns and clocks in at around $3,800.00. And see why this powerful machine can be a great home addition and a fabulous investment for a perfect lawn.

Let’s start with the look

Yes, you appreciate your robot’s personality. But let’s admit it. Looks matter.  We see a lot of people drawn to the Ambrogios because they have a more substantial look and feel than some other mowers out there ... they don't look as much like "toys" on the lawn. It's more aggressive-looking than other machines on the market. In other words, the Ambrogio 4.0 Elite High-Cut looks built to work. It has an exposed body, setting it apart from the other "plastic shell" models out there, and large rear wheels with rubber high traction knobby tires. And the model we tried had powered front swivel wheels and also has knobby tread.

A quick machine with solid navigation

When we tested out the Ambrogio 4.0 Elite High-Cut, we were impressed by its speed, efficiency, and its ability to navigate around obstacles with ease. But the real win for this mower is how it handles hills and difficult terrain. Because let's face it -- any old mower can handle an easy, bump-free, flat yard. So when we tested this mower, we got aggressive. How does it do on hills? Does it just sit on the sidelines when faced with difficult terrain? And the good news is that the Ambrogio was up for any challenge. Just throw it an obstacle. Because this is a mower that likes to show off. 

Is it simple to use?

You can control much of your mower’s function from your smartphone. All you need is to download and install the Ambrogio Remote App. Via the app, you can set mow schedules, set cut height, tell your mower to stop or start, and track its location on your lawn. You can even tell it to focus on lawn areas that might be growing faster than others. Plus, the Abrogio has all the modern features like GPS and bluetooth. Some models are even compatible with Alexa and other smart devices. 

How do you get the most out of your Ambrogio?

We thought this was a fabulous machine. But it’s not something that you can just unbox and push start. We recommend you not skip these set-up tips. These will really determine your success with your mower. 

1.Follow this tip for perimeter wire set-up.

When you unleash your mower, it needs some direction of where to go.This isn’t a Roomba. And there aren’t any walls off of which to bounce.  Perimeter wire is key to your mower correctly understanding its boundaries. And it’s also important for your robot getting back to the charging station. Perimeter wire must be done correctly for proper function.  If you get it too close to a wall or tree, it will have trouble getting back to the charging station. Just make sure the perimeter wire is exact with respect to the distances from walls or obstacles.  Need help with your install? Find a Certified Installer near you today.

2. The mower must be programmed before it cuts grass

The Husqvarna mowers do pretty good if you just toss them in a boundary and hit start. The Ambrogios operate a little differently. You’ll need to take the time to set up your mower before it’s first use.  Keep in mind that each area must be set up in relation to the distance from the charger. This means everything from the square footage to mow as well as schedule and times.  Hey, but you only have to do this once. And then you get this amazing machine that can handle nearly any terrain and looks great while mowing. So take a few minutes to do it correctly. 

Areas for improvement

We found the charging station a bit difficult to use. No, this isn’t a deal breaker. But it’s still important to note that at times, the mower struggled to line up perfectly with the charging station. It look some tweaking and leveling, but once we got the adjustments and settings just right, it lined up much better, but it did take some work.

Final thoughts

The Ambrogio is a great line of mowers. And we predict a sales edge over other brands due to the more substantial feel and look, great build quality, and iron-clad ability to handle rough and hilly terrain. So should you consider the Ambrogio as the new addition to your grass cutting robot family? Absolutely. Click here to find your perfect Ambrogio Robotic Mower. Read the full article

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Robotic mowers: Where do the grass clippings go?

Look at your robot mower in action! Cutting your grass is as easy as setting up a schedule in the Automower Connect App. But here’s some food for thought. Where do those grass clippings go?  The clippings disappear like magic. You’re cutting your lawn in a new way. And this saves you more than work and time. Because this changes your grass clippings. 

Mowing with a traditional mower

Let’s face it. Mowing your lawn the old fashioned way can be a chore. Maybe you're getting sick of having to bag all your clippings and hoist them out by the curb every single week. Or if you don't bag them, maybe you're tired of seeing clumps of clippings in the grass -- which can also kill the grass! When the clippings sit there, they'll burn the grass, and that's not good for your lawn. Furthermore, bagging your clippings takes away much-needed nutrients from the soil. And we'll get to that in just a bit.

But how does this affect your grass clippings? 

https://youtu.be/StLnrZlEZwM With a traditional lawn mower, you wait until the grass is high enough to cut. Which means by the time you're out there, you have to take off a few centimeters.  Now you have to get rid of all those blades. Because, quite frankly, your clippings have gone from scraps to a heap. What a pain. But this isn’t good for your grass. In fact, cutting your grass when it’s too high helps deplete the nutrients from your soil.  When you cut your grass when it’s too high, you can seriously damage your lawn. And the clippings left behind are a burden to manage. 

Your robot mower creates a different KIND of grass clipping.

Using the Automower Connect app, you set your mow schedule so that lawn maintenance is a snap. No more procrastination. And no more sky high blades of grass.  Your mower’s got it all under control. And this changes the grass clippings. Since your grass doesn’t grow much between mowings, the grass clippings are very small.  In fact, they’re only a few millimeters long. That’s quite a difference from the centimeters you cut off with your traditional mower. 

And here’s the really good news.

Your robot mower won’t collect your grass clippings. And that means you’ll save the time and effort of discarding them. Because what used to be waste is now plant nutrition. Instead of collecting those clippings, your robot mower will return them to the ground. This will help mulch the soil. And now you have natural fertilizer. Mind you, this isn’t fertilizer you must buy at the store. It’s free and readily available.  And they help improve the grass’ quality and health. 

Healthy nutrition for your lawn.

You can't get your kids to eat your veggies. But you can easily improve your lawn's nutrition. Robot mowers are "mulching mowers." Grass clippings are mulched into very fine pieces of grass that provide useful nutrients such as nitrogen, potassium and phosphorus back to the soil. Mulch provides excellent nutrients to your lawn, and saves you time and money.

There are a multitude of advantages to mulching the soil

Here are a few examples: - It helps retain moisture levels. - More nutrients go back to the soil. - Mulching is easier and faster than laying fertilizer. - It stops grass from building up (No thatch). - It's free. No expensive fertilizers!

But won’t these clippings be an eyesore?

If you tried this with a conventional mower, you’d get clumps of grass sticking to the great. Talk about tacky and ugly.  But this is no problem for your robot mower.  These clippings are so small and fine. So that they won’t clump and stick out on the surface.  Instead, they fall gently back to the soil. And you will never see them. Now you’ve got a lush and healthy lawn.

No, it isn’t magic. It’s just common sense.

When you automate your lawn care, your lawn will receive better care. And now what was waste is nourishment. Welcome to your new lawncare. Read the full article