If you own an Automower or are thinking about getting one, you’ve probably wondered: how long do Automower blades actually last? It’s a great question because blade life plays a big role in how well your robotic mower maintains your lawn, and how often you’ll need to replace them.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Automower blade lifespan, the factors that influence it, how to spot when it’s time to change them, and tips for getting the most life out of your blades.
Let’s dive in!
Average Lifespan of Automower Blades
On average, Automower blades last between 200 to 400 hours of mowing.
This means that depending on how often and how long your Automower runs, you might need to change the blades every few weeks or every couple of months.
For example:
- If your Automower mows an hour a day, your blades could last anywhere from 6 to 13 weeks.
- If it mows 4 hours a day, you might need to replace the blades every 3 to 6 weeks.
Of course, these are just averages. In real life, the exact number of hours your blades last will depend on several important factors.
Factors That Affect Blade Lifespan
Not every lawn or mowing schedule is the same. Here are the main factors that impact how long Automower blades last:
1. Grass Type and Thickness
If your lawn has thick, coarse, or tough grass, blades will wear out faster compared to lawns with soft, fine grasses. Tougher grasses like Bermuda or St. Augustine put more strain on blades.
2. Debris on the Lawn
Small sticks, stones, pinecones, or even hard soil patches can dull blades very quickly. A clean lawn helps your Automower’s blades stay sharp longer.
3. Mowing Frequency
Automowers work best when they mow frequently and trim just a little grass at a time. If you let the grass grow too long and then the Automower has to cut a lot, the blades will wear out much faster.
4. Weather Conditions
Wet grass can be tougher to cut and might cause more wear and tear on blades. Similarly, dusty or sandy conditions can make blades dull quickly.
5. Blade Type and Quality
Automowers use small, razor-sharp pivoting blades, and their durability varies depending on the quality. Genuine Husqvarna blades typically last longer than cheaper, non-original replacements.
Signs That It’s Time to Replace Your Automower Blades
Even if you don’t track hours exactly, your Automower will usually tell you when the blades are wearing out—through the quality of the cut and the mower’s behavior.
Look for these signs:
- Uneven cutting: Some patches of grass are longer than others.
- Tearing rather than cutting: The grass tips look ragged or brown, instead of cleanly sliced.
- Increased mowing noise: Dull blades sometimes cause the mower to sound rougher or noisier than usual.
- More frequent clogging: If clippings seem to bunch up underneath, dull blades may be the culprit.
When you see one or more of these signs, it’s time for a blade change.
How to Change Automower Blades
Changing Automower blades is a quick and simple task you can do yourself. Here’s a general guide:
What You Need:
- New replacement blades (and screws if they come with them)
- A small screwdriver
- Gloves (the old blades can still be sharp)
Steps:
- Turn off your Automower and remove the battery (if possible) for safety.
- Flip the mower upside down carefully.
- Unscrew the old blades and remove them.
- Attach the new blades, making sure they are secure but not overtightened.
- Check blade mobility – they should pivot freely.
- Flip the mower back, turn it on, and you’re ready!
Tip: Always replace all blades at once to keep the mowing deck balanced and avoid vibrations.
How to Extend the Life of Your Automower Blades
While blades are designed to be replaced regularly, you can take a few steps to help them last longer:
1. Keep Your Lawn Clean
Walk your lawn regularly and remove any sticks, rocks, toys, or debris. This protects your mower’s blades and also the motor.
2. Set a Frequent Mowing Schedule
Frequent, light trims are easier on the blades compared to hacking down long grass. It also keeps your lawn healthier.
3. Avoid Mowing in Bad Conditions
Try to avoid scheduling mowing during wet, rainy days or when the lawn is muddy. If needed, adjust your Automower’s schedule during extreme weather.
4. Use High-Quality Blades
Stick with genuine blades designed for your Automower model. They are made from high-quality steel and are safer, sharper, and more durable.
5. Sharpen If Possible (Carefully)
Some users sharpen their blades to get a little more use before replacement. However, because Automower blades are thin and razor-like, sharpening them can be tricky and time-consuming. For most people, simply replacing them is safer and more efficient.
FAQs
Can I keep using dull Automower blades?
Technically yes, but it’s not a good idea. Dull blades tear grass instead of slicing it, leading to an unhealthy lawn that looks brown and scraggly.
How many hours do MoeBot Automower blades last?
Typically 200 to 400 hours, depending on conditions.
Can I sharpen Automower blades instead of replacing them?
It’s possible but not always recommended. Due to their small size and thinness, sharpening can be difficult and unsafe if not done properly.
Are all Automower blades the same?
No. Different Automower models may use different blades. Always check your mower’s manual for the correct blade type.