The first time you take your mower out of the garage is often the first sign that your battery is dead. If you’re having difficulties starting your riding mower, it may be time to shop for a new battery. Learn how to test and change a battery before you compare lawn mower batteries for sale online.
How To Test Your Lawn Mower Battery
Don’t purchase a new battery until you’ve determined whether your current one needs to be changed or charged. What is a lawn mower battery? These tiny box-like units house lead plates, acid and enough electrical charge to power the starter on your riding mower. As they age, they slowly self discharge until they can no longer deliver enough electricity to turn over the engine.
Normal use recharges your lawn mower battery. The engine recharges the battery as you drive, making sure it’s ready to power the starter on your next trip around the yard.
Check to see if it’s time to replace or recharge your battery by using one of these devices:
- Multimeter
- Battery tester
A tester is convenient, because an easy-to-read display clearly shows whether the battery must be recharged or recycled. A multimeter is a versatile choice, because you can also use this tool to test other electrical components.
Follow the included instructions for these devices. In most cases, you need to attach clamps or touch probes to the positive and negative battery terminals to get a reading.
How To Charge or Change Your Lawn Mower Battery
A low charge can occur if your alternator is damaged or you left the mower headlights on. A damaged alternator needs to be repaired, but in both cases your battery can still power your mower.
Learn how to charge a lawn mower battery with a modern battery charger. Follow the included steps for safe use. Typically, a charger must be connected to the positive terminal, then the negative terminal before turning on. Check your battery by firing up your lawn mower and driving it for at least 30 minutes to recharge the battery.
A dead battery needs to be carefully removed, recycled and replaced. Start by putting on safety glasses and gloves to avoid contact with acid or corrosion. Inspect the battery for signs of a leak before attempting to remove it.
Most lawn mower batteries are stored under the driver’s seat, but some are also under the hood. Use a screwdriver, socket wrench or adjustable wrench to remove the negative terminal, marked with a negative sign and black or gray coating. Remove the positive terminal, marked with a positive sign and typically a red coating, before removing the battery clamp.
How To Order the Right Lawn Mower Battery
Take your old battery to a local auto parts store for safe recycling and convenient ordering. Pick up a replacement battery that matches the size and offers a generous warranty policy for your peace of mind.
Get ready to care for your lawn all summer long with a fully maintained lawn mower. Check out battery testers and chargers to prepare for any battery maintenance task.