QuantumFog

March 9, 2007

Robot lawnmowers trying to make the grade

My one acre lot takes a while to mow, so I'm always lookin' for alternatives. Larger mower, more horsepower, zero turn radius. For about the same amount of money I could go robotic. Here's the expectations based on actual use.

It may have trouble going up hills.
Sometimes misses a spot.
Doesn't do edging.
Can't mulch leaves.
Repairs are expensive.
Average price around $2,000.
It may leave ruts in wet soil.
Watch out for curious children of all ages.
Exposed tree roots may need to be covered.
Battery life is inconsistant, probably 2 to 3 years.
Needs enough sense to come in out of the rain.
Lots of trees or obstacles will greatly slow its progress.
Mowing time shortens if the grass is too tall.
Recharging station is limited to certain locations.
Repairs probably require shipping the unit.
Uneven terrain may cause it to stop if a wheel can't get traction.
All use a buried perimeter wire that may take a few days to configure.
Perimeter wire may need to cross driveway and sidewalk.
Lawn service for neighbor may cut your perimeter wire.

On the upside, ...

No gasoline can.
Coolness Factor - beyond measure.
Great for allergy sufferers.
Simple operation.
Some have enough sense to come in from the rain.
Keeps a nice trim on the grass.
Some can automatically dock, recharge, then finish mowing.
Many are quiet enough to work at night.
Saves time if you're doing something else in the yard.
No watching required if you can keep animals and people away.
Cutting in hot weather is not a problem for you or the machine.
Some have enough sense not to start in wet grass.

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