Is your electric lawn mower completely silent when you try to turn it on? Don’t worry—most electric mower starting problems are easy to fix at home, whether your mower is corded or battery-powered. Here’s a clear, step-by-step guide to get your electric mower running again so you can get back to mowing.
Quick Picks: Most Common Reasons an Electric Lawn Mower Won’t Start
- Battery Not Charged or Faulty (Cordless Models): The battery might be dead, not holding a charge, or not properly seated.
- No Power from Outlet (Corded Models): The outlet or extension cord could be faulty, or the breaker might be tripped.
- Safety Key Missing or Not Engaged: Most electric mowers require a safety key to be fully inserted.
- Start Lever/Bar Not Fully Engaged: You must hold down the handle bar or push the start button firmly.
- Blade or Deck Obstruction: Sticks, grass, or other debris can jam the blade and prevent startup.
- Dirty or Corroded Contacts: Battery terminals or plug connections may be dirty, preventing power flow.
- Internal Fuse or Controller Fault: Some mowers have an internal fuse or circuit breaker that can blow after overload.
Buyer’s Guide: What You Might Need
- Fully charged battery (for cordless models)
- Extension cord and lamp/tool (for testing outlets, corded models)
- Soft cloth or brush (for cleaning contacts)
- Work gloves (for clearing obstructions safely)
- Owner’s manual (for fuse locations or reset steps)
Step-by-Step: How to Fix an Electric Mower That Won’t Start
1. For Cordless (Battery) Electric Mowers
- Remove the battery and charge it fully. Wait until the charger shows “fully charged.”
- Re-insert the battery firmly until it clicks into place.
- Try a second battery (if available) to rule out battery failure.
- Clean the battery contacts and mower terminals with a soft dry cloth.
- Make sure the safety key is inserted and the handle lever is pulled down fully when trying to start.
2. For Corded Electric Mowers
- Plug another device (lamp or drill) into the same outlet to check for power.
- Inspect your extension cord for cuts, kinks, or fraying—replace if damaged.
- Test a different outlet if the first doesn’t work.
- Check that the mower’s power switch and start lever are fully engaged.
3. Check the Safety Key and Handle Controls
- Locate the safety key (usually a plastic insert near the battery or handle) and make sure it’s fully installed.
- Hold the start lever/bar or press the button firmly; some models require both hands for safety.
- If the key is missing or damaged, get a replacement before operating.
4. Inspect Blade and Deck for Obstructions
- Remove the battery or unplug the mower before checking under the deck.
- Clear away any sticks, grass, or debris that could jam the blade.
- Spin the blade by hand (with gloves) to make sure it moves freely.
5. Check for Dirty or Corroded Contacts
- For cordless: Clean both the battery terminals and mower connectors with a soft cloth.
- For corded: Check the plug for dirt, corrosion, or bent prongs and clean or straighten as needed.
6. Inspect Internal Fuse or Controller
- Consult your manual for any internal fuses or resettable circuit breakers.
- If a fuse is blown, replace it with the exact same type and rating.
- If the mower is still dead, the internal controller or wiring may need professional repair.
Comparison Table: Electric Mower Starting Problems & Solutions
| Problem | Solution | Difficulty | Parts Needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dead/Faulty Battery | Charge or replace battery | Easy | Battery |
| No Power from Outlet | Check outlet, reset breaker | Easy | Extension cord |
| Missing/Damaged Safety Key | Insert or replace key | Easy | Safety key |
| Blade/Deck Obstruction | Clear debris, check blade | Easy | — |
| Dirty Contacts | Clean contacts | Easy | Cloth/brush |
| Blown Fuse/Controller Fault | Replace fuse/seek repair | Medium | Fuse |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why won’t my electric mower start even with a charged battery or live outlet?
Double-check the safety key, start lever/bar, and for any blade jams. If everything checks out, the internal fuse or controller may be at fault.
Do electric mowers have a reset button or fuse?
Some models do—consult your manual for the location and instructions on resetting or replacing fuses.
What if my mower is completely unresponsive after trying these steps?
If none of these fixes work, contact the manufacturer’s customer support or visit an authorized repair shop—internal wiring or control board issues may require professional help.
Conclusion
If your electric lawn mower won’t start, check the battery, cord, safety key, handle, contacts, and for obstructions first. Most problems are easy to diagnose and fix, so you’ll be back to mowing in no time!