Commercial Vs. Residential Riding Lawn Mower Differences
Maintaining a well-manicured lawn is essential for any property’s aesthetic appeal and value. A riding lawn mower can make cutting grass much more manageable, especially for those with large properties.
Lawnmowers come in different shapes and sizes, ranging from small push mowers to large riding mowers. Riding lawnmowers are designed for cutting grass in large areas, such as parks, sports fields, and residential or commercial properties.
However, there are different types of riding lawnmowers, and understanding the differences between commercial and residential models is crucial when looking for a new riding lawnmower for sale. This article will discuss the key differences between commercial and residential riding lawnmowers.
Commercial Riding Lawn Mowers
A commercial riding mower is a lawn mower designed for use in large areas such as parks, golf courses, and sports fields. It is a heavy-duty, high-capacity machine capable of cutting grass and other vegetation quickly and efficiently.
Commercial riding mowers usually have a zero-turn radius, meaning they can turn on a dime without leaving uncut grass. They are also equipped with powerful engines, wide cutting decks, and durable blades that can handle the tough job of cutting thick grass and weeds.
These mowers are typically operated by professional landscapers, golf course maintenance crews, and other commercial lawn care professionals who need to maintain large areas of grass and vegetation.
They come in various sizes and configurations to meet the needs of different types of users and applications.
Here are some of the key features of commercial riding lawnmowers:
Larger Engines
Commercial riding lawn mowers typically have larger engines than their residential counterparts. Commercial riding lawn mowers need to be more powerful to handle the demands of commercial use. Most commercial riding lawn mowers have engines ranging from 25 to 35 horsepower. This power is required to handle large areas, thick grass, and frequent use.
Wider Cutting Decks
Commercial riding lawn mowers also have wider cutting decks than residential models. The cutting decks on commercial mowers can range from 48 to 72 inches, allowing them to cover more ground in less time. Large cutting decks are an essential feature for commercial properties with large grass areas that need to be cut frequently.
Durable Construction
Commercial riding lawn mowers are built to be more durable than residential models. They are constructed with heavy-duty materials such as steel and have thicker gauge decks to withstand the wear and tear of frequent use. Commercial riding lawn mowers are designed to last longer than residential models, which makes them a good investment for commercial property owners.
Comfort Features
Commercial riding lawn mowers often come with more comfort features than residential models. They may have adjustable seats, armrests, and suspension systems to provide a smoother ride for the operator. Comfort is essential for commercial property owners who must use the mower for long hours. Comfort features can help reduce operator fatigue and improve productivity.
Residential Riding Lawn Mowers
A residential riding lawn mower is a type of lawn mower designed for use on residential properties. It is a motorized machine with a seat, steering wheel or handles, and cutting blades typically underneath the mower.
Unlike push mowers, which require physical effort to push, riding mowers are designed to be driven like a small vehicle. A gasoline engine powers them and can be either rear-wheel or front-wheel drive.
Residential riding mowers are typically smaller and less powerful than commercial-grade models and are intended for use on lawns up to several acres in size. They may have additional features such as headlights, cup holders, and adjustable seating for added comfort.
Here are some of the key features of residential riding lawnmowers:
Smaller Engines
Residential riding lawnmowers typically have smaller engines than commercial models. Most residential models have 12 to 25-horsepower engines, sufficient for cutting grass in small to medium-sized properties. Smaller engines make residential riding lawnmowers more affordable and easier to maintain.
Narrower Cutting Decks
Residential riding lawn mowers also have narrower cutting decks than commercial models. The cutting decks on residential mowers typically range from 30 to 48 inches. Narrower cutting decks are sufficient for cutting grass in small to medium-sized properties.
Lighter Construction
Residential riding lawn mowers are built to be lighter and more maneuverable than commercial models. They are made with lightweight materials, such as aluminum, and have thinner gauge decks. Lighter lawnmowers make them easier to handle for homeowners who may not have as much experience operating a riding lawnmower.
Simple Controls
Residential riding lawn mowers often have more straightforward controls than commercial models. They may have basic features such as adjustable cutting heights and a single-lever control for engaging the blades.
Find the Best Riding Lawn Mower for Sale
When choosing between a commercial and residential riding lawn mower, it is essential to consider your specific needs. Commercial riding lawn mowers are more expensive but are built to handle heavy-duty use in commercial settings. Residential riding lawn mowers are more affordable and designed for smaller properties.
Understanding the differences between these two types of mowers will help you make an informed decision when shopping for a new lawn mower.
When looking for a riding lawn mower for sale. visiting a reputable riding lawn mower dealer is recommended. They can provide guidance on which type of mower is best suited for your needs and offer a range of models from different manufacturers. Whether you are in the market for commercial or residential lawn mowers. a reputable dealer will help you find the right mower for your property.
When shopping for a riding lawn mower, it’s important to consider your specific needs and choose between a commercial or residential model. Finding reputable riding lawn mower dealers can help you make an informed decision by providing guidance and offering a range of models from different manufacturers.
Diamond B Tractors Equipment is one such dealer, serving South Texas as an authorized Bad Boy Zero Turn Mower, STIHL, and Mahindra dealership. With a large selection of the latest inventory, our friendly and knowledgeable sales, financing, service, and parts departments are prepared to make your experience outstanding when investing in a new mower, chainsaw, or tractor. Get in touch with us today to learn more.
Types of Commercial Mowers (and Which One Is Best for You)
When comparing your options for commercial mowers, there’s a lot to consider: Gas or battery-powered? Seated or walk-behind? Corded or cordless? There are a lot of questions you’ll need to answer before you make your decision.
Some of the best commercial mowers are the ones able to handle difficult terrain, even the steepest hills and slopes. Here’s a full breakdown of the five types of commercial mowers so you can make your purchase with confidence.
Types of Commercial Mowers
Before you choose your commercial mower, consider the different types of lawns you’ll be working with and what your needs are. There’s really no “one size fits all” for commercial mowers, so choosing the right kind of mower will depend on you and your business.
Tractor Mower
Tractor mowers are what you may typically picture for a riding mower. For a tractor mower, the cutting deck is located under the front of the mower itself. This makes it more maneuverable, but it isn’t ideal for a lawn with high grass and brush that needs to be cleared. Tractor mowers are best-suited for flat surfaces without any kind of shrubbery or trees.
Besides the initial purchase price of a tractor mower, you’ll need to invest in maintenance, labor and other costs like replacement parts. On top of that, liability and safety are two big considerations you need to factor. Tractor mowers aren’t at all suited for steep hills and are actually quite dangerous on slopes. Employees can be injured on the job if the tractor mower tips over.
Zero-Turn
A zero-turn mower is a lawnmower with a mowing deck positioned in front of the machine, rather than underneath (often found in traditional lawn tractors). As its name implies, the mower itself has a turning radius of zero.
It can be a riding mower, walk-behind or stand-on. There are also different accessories and attachments that can be installed on the mower for anything from mulching to snow-plowing.
A zero-turn mower is much easier to maneuver and operate than a tractor mower. However, it should be noted that a zero-turn mower isn’t ideal for slopes or hills and can be a safety hazard or liability to anyone needing to cut grass on steep terrain.
Trail Mower
Trail mowers, also called finish-cut mowers, need to be hooked up to an ATV or riding mower in order to operate. They have no propulsion system of their own, but the engine is mounted on top of the cutting deck.
Trail mowers are best for large, flat areas like fields. You might see them being used on golf courses because they offer a finer finish. However, they are not well-suited for lawns with tall grass, weeds or brush. Additionally, they aren’t safe to use on slopes and can topple over, making them a danger for mower operators on a steep hill.
Walk-Behind
A walk-behind mower is commonly used for smaller lawns. They’re more compact and able to work in tighter areas, whereas a remote-control mower, zero-turn or tractor mower are made for covering larger lawns at higher speeds.
As the name suggests, a walk-behind mower doesn’t have a seat, but it does have more power and some are self-propelled. If you need to cover tight corners like landscaped flower beds in a small area, a walk-behind mower can be a really good option. Similar to the mowers listed above, unfortunately the walk-behind is also another threat to operator safety when dealing with slopes.
Remote-Control
Remote-controlled commercial mowers are uniquely designed and equipped to tackle difficult terrain that would be otherwise inaccessible with any other kind of mower. As mentioned above, with any of the riding mower options, you risk the safety of your operator. The steeper the slope, the more dangerous it can be for your crew of mowers. However, a remote-controlled mower can go where these larger machines can’t.
Remote-controlled mowers are a great option to ensure safety and efficiency at all times. SPIDER mowers, for example, have a climbing ability of up to 60 degrees and is ideal for any terrain type, including short grass or heavy brush. They have the ability to navigate the kind of rough terrain of downhill runs, parks, orchards and more. They combine power and precision for any kind of mowing. Explore the many benefits of SPIDER to learn more today.
How Do I Know Which Mower Is Right For Me?
So, which mower is right for you? That comes down to your needs. There are many features to consider, but at the end of the day, your commercial mower of choice should be the safest option for you and your team to operate—it could cost you thousands if someone were to be injured on the job.
Now that you’re familiar with the different types of commercial mowers on the market, determining the best fit comes down to answering a few simple questions.
Consider Your Needs
When it comes to your business, you want the best commercial mower on the market at a fair price. So, in order to pick the right commercial mower for your business, consider these questions:
- How large are the spaces you typically care for?
- Are there any hills or slopes on them? If so, how steep are they?
- What types of terrain are you dealing with regularly?
- What safety certifications do you want for your equipment?
Answering these questions will help you eliminate the commercial mowers that aren’t powerful or precise enough for your business’s needs. For example, if you typically work with particularly hilly or downslope lawns, a remote-control mower would be the best option. They can be safely operated from a distance, eliminating the hazard of falling like a tractor mower would.
Shop With ROI In Mind
As you consider the features and capabilities your mower needs, you should also consider the value it will provide. These high-powered pieces of equipment can run in the thousands of dollars, but if you choose the right one, you’ll see why your investment was worth it. Choosing a remote-control mower like SPIDER, for example, means investing in equipment that performs as effectively as 15 workers at a time.
Conclusion
The ideal commercial mower for your business will depend on your unique needs and the kinds of terrain you’re servicing at your business. Safety, reliability and power are obviously the most important features for a commercial mower, but your individual needs will be the deciding factor in which commercial mower is best for you. Once you take your needs and goals into consideration, you can choose the right mower for your business with confidence.
(Interested in becoming a dealer for SPIDER? Find out how to get started today.)
ZG200-3 Series
- Engine Horsepower: 21.1-26.0 HP
- Deck Size: 48-60"
- Mower Deck Type: Side discharge
- Acreage (/hr): 1-5 acres
- Fuel Type: Gas
- Engine Horsepower: 26.0 HP
- Deck Size: 60"
- Mower Deck Type: Side or rear discharge
- Acreage (/hr): 1-5 acres
- Fuel Type: Gas
SZ Series
- Engine Horsepower: 19.0-26.0 HP
- Deck Size: 36-61"
- Mower Deck Type: Side discharge
- Acreage (/hr): 2.5-4.5 acres
- Fuel Type: Gas
- Engine Horsepower: 36.9 HP
- Drivetrain: 4WD
- Deck Size: 60-72"
- Acreage (/hr): 5 acres
- Fuel Type: Diesel
F90-Series
- Engine Horsepower: 24.8 HP
- Drivetrain: 2WD or 4 WD
- Deck Size: 60-72"
- Acreage (/hr): 5 acres
- Fuel Type: Diesel
- Engine Horsepower: 16.6 HP
- Drivetrain: 2WD or 4WD
- Deck Size: 48-60"
- Acreage (/hr): 1-5 acres
- Fuel Type: Diesel
The Best Commercial Zero-Turn Mowers of 2023
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For lawn-care professionals, commercial zero-turn mowers are essential pieces of heavy-duty equipment that can cut grass all day, every day, leaving a high-quality finish. These machines are built with independently controlled drive wheels that give them the ability to turn, quite literally, on a dime or even pivot in place. And because time is money, pros know that speed, reliability, and easy maintenance are the keys to success. For this reason, commercial-grade mowers are built to withstand the stress of constant use and simplify routine maintenance tasks to maximize production and minimize downtime.
Compared to their residential counterparts, zero-turn commercial mowers are built with thicker steel in the deck and frame, stronger engines, and higher-quality components like spindles, pulleys, and hydraulics. Commercial mowers also travel at speeds up to twice that of residential models and offer a more comfortable ride thanks to high-back seats, larger tires, and robust suspension systems. And commercial mower fuel tanks hold up to 12 gallons or more, so they can run all day without stopping to refuel.
If a commercial zero-turn mower sounds right for you, you’re in luck. We’ve taken a close look at some of the most popular models on the market for this guide. First, read up on the crucial shopping considerations we used as criteria to develop our lineup, then check out our reviews to see why we count these among the best commercial zero-turn mower options available.
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Commercial Zero-Turn Mowers
Brand reputation and customer Комментарии и мнения владельцев are important, but the best way to select a mower is by comparing the measurable differences. Read on to learn how we chose the mowers on our list.
Cutting Deck Size
Matching an appropriate deck size to the landscape is an important step toward operational efficiency. A larger deck cuts flat, open spaces faster; a smaller deck navigates narrow passages and uneven terrain more easily. These sizing guidelines can help:
- Less than 1 acre18- to 36-inch deck
- 1 to 3 acres36- to 48-inch deck
- 3 to 5 acres42- to 60-inch deck
- 5 or more acres54- to 72-inch deck
The most popular commercial zero-turn mower deck sizes range from 48 to 72 inches wide. Smaller decks are often found on commercial stand-on mowers and walk-behind mowers that provide a better vantage point for the operator. Bear in mind that deck width does not include the chute, which adds 8 to 12 inches to the overall width of the mower.
Engine Power and Speed
Engine power drives both the wheel hydraulics and the blades. Smaller, lighter zero-turn mowers with 48- to 60-inch decks and top speeds under 10 miles per hour (mph) are typically equipped with 24 horsepower (HP) engines. Larger, heavier commercial mowers with top speeds upward of 14 mph require heavy-duty 28 to 38 HP engines.
Fuel Capacity
Commercial mower fuel efficiency varies from 1 to 2 gallons of gas, or 0.9 to 1.6 gallons of diesel, per hour, depending on engine size, machine weight, terrain, grass height and thickness, and other variables. These machines are built with fuel tanks large enough to run a half day or even a full day without stopping to fill up. They typically hold at least 10 gallons, and most hold 12 gallons or more.
Weight
Commercial zero-turn mowers weigh between 750 and 2,000 pounds. Mower weight makes an impact on the bottom line while mowing and while the mower is being towed. Heavier mowers get more traction while working on slopes, but they may use more fuel and offer less speed than lighter-weight mowers that are similarly equipped. Towing a heavier mower from one work site to the next increases fuel usage in the towing vehicle and reduces the available payload capacity for tasks like debris removal and hauling other tools and equipment.
Safety and Comfort
To keep the operator and bystanders safe, commercial zero-turn mowers are built with numerous safety features. Some safety examples include belt guards, a rubber debris chute, and high-visibility or reflective surfaces. A seat safety switch cuts off the engine when there is no longer an operator in the seat. A rollover protection structure (ROPS), commonly called a roll bar, protects the operator in case the mower overturns. Many commercial zero-turn mowers also include a seatbelt for added protection.
Other features increase operator comfort. A well-padded, adjustable, high-back seat with armrests has become standard equipment. Larger rear tires help cushion the ride, as does a good suspension system. A larger foot pan area lets users stretch their legs, while a foot-operated deck lift makes adjusting the mowing height easier. The hand controls may be ergonomically designed, adjustable, and may include vibration-dampening features. A relatively quiet engine makes for a more pleasant experience as well.
Our Top Picks
We consulted turf care professionals and dug into scores of manufacturer listings to construct this list of the best commercial zero-turn mowers. Those looking for a new machine are likely to find a solid lead here.
Exmark Lazer Z X-Series
Exmark Lazer Z is one of the most commonly seen zero-turn mowers on all kinds of commercial landscape jobs. With a top speed of 11.5 mph and deck sizes of 60, 72, or 96 inches, the X-Series covers lots of acreage quickly. The mower is competently powered by a 25.5 HP, 852 cc Kawasaki V-twin engine, fueled by a 12-gallon gas tank to keep it running all day long.
Some of the features that set the Lazer Z X-Series apart include no-maintenance sealed spindles that never need to be greased; adjustable, hydraulically dampened levers for smooth operation; and a deluxe vibration-controlling seat with three-way motion isolation for superior comfort. Large 24-by-12 drive tires help cushion the ride and give excellent traction on sloped terrain. A foldable ROPS protects the operator on steep ground.
Those shopping for zero-turn mowers should be prepared for sticker shock, as this true commercial mower sells for about the same price as a good used automobile. But for a reliable all-day, everyday mower, this is one of the best.
- Engine: 852 cc, 25.5 HP Kawaski gas
- Deck: 10-gauge steel top; 7-gauge steel skirt; 60-, 72-, or 96-inch deck
- Weight: 1,302 pounds (with 60-inch deck)
- Highly functional and efficient
- Smooth and comfortable ride
- Extensive selection of sizes and engines
- Easy maintenance
Get the Exmark commercial zero-turn mower at your local Exmark dealer.
Bad Boy ZT Elite
Although it is technically a residential-grade mower, the Bad Boy ZT Elite zero-turn mower has the power and heavy-duty construction to tackle commercial projects, and it comes at a budget-friendly price. This mower features a stout 7-gauge steel deck, commercial-grade hydraulics, and a 26 HP, 747 cc Kohler engine, but it weighs in at just 841 pounds. It’s easy to use, easy to haul, and includes comfort features like an adjustable 18-inch high-back seat and a patented independent front suspension system.
A few residential-level features remain, like the smaller 6.5-gallon fuel tank (good for several hours of mowing per fill-up, but maybe not all day) and the moderately sized 22-inch tires, which may not get as much grip as truly commercial-grade equipment. But for those just getting a landscaping business off the ground—or folks with an extra-large property to maintain—the Bad Boy ZT Elite has what it takes to do the job while saving you money.
- Engine: 747 cc, 26 HP Kohler gas
- Deck: 7-gauge steel 60-inch deck
- Weight: 841 pounds
- Heavy-duty 7-gauge steel deck
- Upgraded hydraulics
- Suitable for flat or rolling terrain
- Commercial-grade components at a residential mower price
Get the Bad Boy commercial zero-turn mower at Tractor Supply Co., Rural King, or your local Bad Boy dealer.
Scag Turf Tiger II
Scag has been a leader in the commercial zero-turn mower industry for decades, and the Turf Tiger II builds on that legacy. This heavy-duty machine is available in an assortment of configurations with deck sizes ranging from 52 to 72 inches and a choice of commercial engines in 25 HP propane; 31, 37, or 40 HP gasoline; or a 25 HP diesel engine. It boasts a top speed of 12 mph and a 12-gallon fuel tank to minimize refueling stops. Easy maintenance features, like toolless belt covers and conveniently placed air and oil filters, eliminate unnecessary downtime.
In varied or hilly terrain, the Turf Tiger II excels because of its heavyweight construction, excellent power, and lower center of gravity. On sloping ground, the standard ROPS and seat belt help keep the operator safe. The drive system is made up of 16 cc Hydro-Gear pumps and Parker wheel motors for smooth, powerful performance. The suspension seat may be a weak point, since comfort ratings are not as high as for others in our lineup. Also, while the Velocity Plus deck excels at pulling grass blades upright for a crisp cut, it’s somewhat more likely than competitors to cause scalping in larger configurations and uneven terrain. For pro-grade speed, power, and overall performance, particularly in hilly terrain, Turf Tiger II would make an excellent choice.
- Engine: 25 HP Kohler propane; 31 HP Kawasaki gas; 31, 37, or 40 HP Briggs Vanguard gas; or 25 HP Kubota diesel
- Deck: 7-gauge steel 52-, 61-, or 72-inch deck
- Weight: 1,418 to 1,739 pounds, depending on the configuration
- Smooth, easy operation from heavy-duty hydraulics
- Heavy machine that’s well built for hilly terrain
- Velocity deck leaves an excellent finish
- Easy-access maintenance features
Get the Scag commercial zero-turn mower at your local Scag dealer.
Our Verdict
Quite honestly, we could have picked half of the mowers in this roundup as the top dog, but we had to go with one, so we chose the Exmark Lazer Z. While some commercial zero-turn mowers have more regional appeal, the Lazer Z X-Series is available and popular all over the country. It offers outstanding performance, durability, comfort, and value, but it does cost a premium. Homeowners and start-ups looking for power and performance at an affordable price would do well to take a hard look at the Bad Boy ZT Elite. It may be a bit slower and somewhat less comfortable than the top competitors, but it’s rugged and dependable, lays down a great cut, and costs thousands less.
Our first intention was to show what makes commercial zero-turn mowers different from, and significantly more expensive than, their residential counterparts. Then we wanted to provide a list of top models that both large-acreage homeowners and business owners would find helpful. To illustrate the full spectrum, we included a few top-end residential machines and highlighted the best true commercial mowers available.
We sourced these picks by consulting with commercial and residential landscapers, social media groups, and Google rankings. After compiling a starting list of 46 mower models, we lumped together models from the same brand and series to develop our final listing. Then we compared the manufacturer specifications for each series and/or model to determine the award winners.
Safety and Maintenance Tips for Commercial Zero-Turn Mowers
A commercial zero-turn mower can upgrade your yard-maintenance program. It will do the job much more quickly than either a riding mower or residential-grade zero-turn mower, possibly save on fuel costs, and produce a higher-quality finish. The increased power and precision will set you back as much as twice the price of standard homeowner equipment, but with regular maintenance, you should expect a satisfactory return on that investment. Protect yourself and your equipment by following these safety and maintenance guidelines:
- Protect yourself from flying debris by wearing eye and ear protection while mowing.
- Keep the ROPS, if equipped, in the upright position while mowing.
- Allow a safe zone of two mower widths around hazards, like water, retaining walls, and drop-offs.
- Avoid driving on steep slopes in excess of the mower’s capability. Consult the owner’s manual for details.
- Blow debris off the deck after every use.
- Sharpen the blades, grease the spindles, and inspect the belt after every 25 hours of mowing. Save time by keeping a second set of blades ready to go.
- Change the air filter every 50 hours.
- Change the motor oil every 100 hours.
FAQs
If you’re sold on buying a commercial zero-turn mower but still have lingering questions, you are not alone. We address some of the most frequently asked questions below.
Q. What is the best commercial zero-turn mower I can buy?
If you’re not sure what size mower to buy, determine your needs based on the mowing conditions and then find a mower that is built for the job. For an outstanding combination of performance, durability, comfort, and pricing, we like the Exmark Lazer Z X-Series.
Q. Who makes the toughest zero-turn mower?
Based on our research, it’s hard to beat Kubota for heavy-duty construction, simplified maintenance, and overall durability.
Q. What makes a zero-turn mower commercial?
Zero-turn mowers for commercial and large residential landscape maintenance, golf courses, sports fields, parks, and other professional applications are built to be tougher than residential-grade equipment. Commercial zero-turn mowers are constructed with thicker steel in the frame and deck, more powerful engines, heavy-duty spindles and wheel motors, larger fuel tanks, and other features designed for dependable daily use.
Q. What are the advantages of a zero-turn lawn mower?
Zero-turn mowers are faster and more efficient than lawn tractors. The operator of a zero-turn mower has a clearer vantage point for better precision. The mower itself is engineered with features like a deeper deck and shorter blades that improve the finished appearance of the grass compared to a lawn tractor. They are grass-cutting specialists, best for those who maintain large areas of grass.
Q. Why do commercial mowers cut better?
Commercial mower decks create a stronger vacuum to make the grass blades stand up straighter, which leads to a cleaner cut. These mowers also travel much faster than residential mowers, so they get the job done in half the time.
Q. How fast do commercial lawn mowers go?
Commercial zero-turn mower speeds vary, with some capable of mowing 14 mph or faster. Most commercial zero-turn mowers operate at speeds of 7 to 13 mph. To put that in perspective, push mowers typically operate at 3 mph or less, and lawn tractors mow at speeds around 3 to 5 mph.
Top Battery Powered Commercial Mowers
Last year, California Governor Gavin Newsom banned SORE (small off-road engines) emissions. The ban outlaws the use of gas-powered leaf blowers, lawn mowers, and other lawn care equipment.
The reason behind the change is to protect the environment. Small engines produce a large quantity of carbon pollution. In fact, using a gas-powered leaf blower for only one hour produces the same amount of pollution as driving in a car for 1,100 miles. That’s a lot of pollution.
Where does this leave landscaping and lawn care companies? In a newly battery-powered world with plenty of questions. Questions like how much will this cost me, is charging batteries time-consuming, and what are the best machines for my business?
Fortunately, Arborgold is constantly observing the landscaping industry. Our software is designed especially for businesses like yours. Staying on top of industry trends is one of the ways we support our clients.
Whether you’re in California or simply looking to reduce carbon emissions, here are the top battery-powered lawn mowers to consider.
A Bit About the Top Battery Powered Lawn Mowers
According to Protool reviews, there are a number of important factors to consider before ranking any battery powered lawn mower including:
Mow Time
Continuous mow time is an important feature for lawn mowers. In gas-powered machines, mow time lasts between the initial fuelling and eventual refuelling. In battery-powered machines, mow time is the duration of a battery charge. When the battery runs out, it must be recharged or replaced.
Electric mowers vary on mow time. Some brands, like Mean Green will run seven to eight hours before needing a charge. Brands like Gravely. feature a quick-swap battery system to let you mow all day. Some batteries only last 90-minutes and take half the time to charge. It depends on your machine.
Climbing Hills
Landscaping companies take on lawns of all shapes and sizes. Electric mowers work well on a variety of lawn types, but hills are not their specialty.
The problem with electric mowers on hills is that they generate less torque than their gas-powered counterparts. Torque powers lawn mower blades. Battery powers the lawn mower. When the mower diverts power to get up and down steep hills, power to the blade is reduced.
Changing and Charging
Some brands of battery-powered lawn mowers can have batteries swapped on a job site. This minimizes time wasted between charges if you’re stocked on fully charged batteries.
Some models need to be recharged between uses. Charge time depends on the size of the machine and battery. Your manufacturer can provide you with specific instructions based on the mower you purchase.
Cost to Charge
One of the most frequent questions we see about electric mowers is how much it costs to charge vs. fill up on gasoline. Charging cost depends on battery size. Smaller batteries might only take 45-minutes to charge and cost about
Our Choice for Top Battery Powered Lawn Mowers
Choosing the best battery-powered mower means exploring all your options. There are too many popular mowers to list them all. Here are our top battery-powered lawn mower choices of the year:
1. Gravely Pro-Turn EV
This mower features six unique models, ranging in deck size from 48” to 60”. All units host a 16 kWh Li-ion battery and electric transaxle drive system with a ground speed of 11/5.5 mph. At the smaller end of the spectrum, the Pro-Turn EV mows 4.8 acres in an hour, while the larger models mow up to 6.1 acres per hour.
This battery-powered mower uses proprietary spindles with blade slip to reduce potential damage during impact. They also offer large LCD displays to tell your crew when blades are engaged, batteries are low, and other important information.
2. Greenworks Commercial CZ 52R 82V 52” Commercial Ride on Zero Turn Mower
Every mower has its pros and cons. This Greenworks commercial mower has a deck size of 52” and a maximum speed of 10 mph. It’s built for durability with an 8-gauge steel deck. What’s truly spectacular about this model, however, is that it rides up to 14 acres on one battery charge. It also offers fleet app connectivity for real-time GPS reporting.
On the cons side of things, the CZ 52R 82V only includes a 1.7kW charger. A faster, 7.7kW charger is available but must be purchased separately.
3. Mean Green ZTR Riding Mower
The Mean Green battery powered riding mower has a 74” deck and an eight-hour maximum battery time per charge. The mower is powerful, with a high speed of 13 mph. Mean Green compares it to a diesel mower with 40-horsepower.
As far as batteries go, there are three to choose from. The ZTR can be purchased with 14.5 kWh, 22 kWh or 35 kWh batteries.
4. RYOBI 40V HP Brushless 21” Mower
This is a small push mower. While many landscaping companies rely on ride-on machines, push mowers are handy for small yards and small jobs. The RYOBI 40V HP is the master of push mowers in the battery-powered lineup.
A push button starts, and rear-wheel drive makes for convenient lawn care maintenance. The mower is self-propelled and has high-performance traction. It offers 70 minutes of straight run time.
RYOBI built this mower to tackle ¾-acre properties. It uses two 40V batteries and consists of a 21” deck built from polypropylene for lightweight work.
5. Greenworks Commercial 82-Volt 21″ Brushless Push Mower
Greenworks Commercial also offers a push mower with similar specs to the RYOBI model. A heavy-duty steel 21” deck is accompanied by a 5Ah battery. This machine rides 1.5 acres on one charge and uses a three-in-one cutting system. It has settings for mulch and leaf pickup.
A major benefit to this push mower is the commercial-grade brushless motor. A push start makes it simple to operate, while SmartCut technology ensures it doesn’t waste energy when there’s no grass to cut. Grass sensors keep it honest, and keep your team moving quickly to finish commercial jobs.
Hopefully, some of these top battery-powered mowers have what you’re looking for. As California weeds out SORE exhaust by 2024 and with New York following closely behind, it’s beneficial for landscaping companies to make the switch.
.04 in electricity. That said, some larger commercial mowers require four batteries to operate.
Still, the electricity to gas cost ratio is obviously a benefit. It may cost more as an initial investment to purchase a large battery-powered mower, but the ongoing costs are more affordable than gas mowers in many ways.
Noise Reduction
Gas-powered mowers are noisy. For landscaping companies, loud mowers mean annoyed staff, clients, and neighbors. It also limits the time when work can be done, so the peace isn’t disturbed.
The top battery-powered lawn mowers make very little noise. They also don’t vibrate the way gas mowers do. This makes for a more comfortable ride during long work hours.
Visit Arborgold Online to Learn
Arborgold designs business software for field-based businesses. We work with companies of all shapes and sizes, improving everything from invoicing to customer engagement. Less stress, less time wasted, and a more streamlined approach to field-based business.
If you’re making the switch from gas to battery, our software can help make the transition a breeze. From adding new tools and machines to inventory to ordering spare parts, chargers, and batteries. Arborgold software has your back.
Maximize crew capacity and schedule battery-powered lawn equipment using Arborgold. Learn more here.
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The Python, a commercial ride-on mower is the perfect fit for large properties. Powered by FX1000V Kawasaki engine, a Hydro-Gear ZT-5400 transmission with a suspension seat and isolated foot platform, the 72″ Python will be the most comfortable, powerful mower that can tackle any terrain.