Autumn is in full swing, the days are getting shorter, and the grass is growing slower. Now's the perfect time to prepare your robotic lawnmower for its well-deserved winter hibernation. But why is this so important, and how do you do it correctly? In this blog post, we share a few simple steps to ensure your robotic lawnmower makes it through the winter in top condition and can get back to work effortlessly in the spring.
Why is a winter break important for your robotic lawnmower?
Your robotic lawnmower has little to do during the winter because your lawn barely grows. By storing the mower in time, you protect it from the cold and moisture, which can damage the sensitive electronics. Snow, rain, and low temperatures can damage your robot, so it's important to properly protect both the mower and the charging station.
When do you put the mower away for the winter?
Once the temperature regularly drops below 10 degrees Celsius, it's time to mow the lawn for the last time and prepare the mower for winter hibernation. This usually happens around October or at the latest by the end of November. Mowing too long can damage both your grass and the mower itself.
Step-by-step plan: how to prepare your robotic lawnmower for the winter
Prepare your robotic lawnmower for winter in just a few easy steps.
Step 1: Charge the battery
Fully charge the mower's battery after the last mowing. This prevents the robotic mower from becoming deeply discharged during hibernation and extends the battery's lifespan.
Step 2: Turn off the automatic mowing schedule
Disable the robotic mower's automatic mowing schedule and check that the highest safety setting is set. Also activate the robotic mower's machine lock. This prevents the machine from accidentally starting on its own.
Step 3: Check the robotic lawnmower for wear and tear
Before storing the robotic lawnmower, thoroughly check for any wear or damage. This is the time to replace them. Also check the blade. Is it still sharp enough or does it need replacing? Never sharpen the blade; always replace it with a new one.
Step 4: Clean the robotic lawnmower
A robotic lawnmower also needs to be cleaned. Wipe the housing and the disassembled mowing deck with a cloth. Do not use harsh cleaning agents, as they can damage your robotic lawnmower. Do not clean your robotic lawnmower under running water or with a pressure washer.
Step 5: Store the charging station
The robotic lawnmower docking station can remain on the lawn during the winter. Cover it to protect the electronics. Disconnect the adapter from the power source and store it, for example, in a junction box. Place a suitable bucket over the station and secure the bucket so it stays securely in place throughout the winter.
Step 6: robotic lawnmower in the shed
Store the robotic lawnmower in a dry, lockable space, such as a garage or basement. The temperature in this space should not fall below 5°C.
Need help?
With these preparations, your robotic lawnmower will get through the winter clean and dry. In spring, it'll be ready for the new gardening season. Do you have questions or need help maintaining your robotic lawnmower or other garden equipment? Contact our experts. They're happy to help!
