Lawn Mower Repair

Trade: Electrician

⭐ Introduction

A well-maintained lawn mower is essential for keeping your garden tidy and healthy. Over time, electric lawn mowers can develop faults or stop working altogether, which is where lawn mower repair comes in. Whether your mower won’t start, the blade isn’t spinning correctly, or there’s an electrical fault, getting it repaired can save you the cost and hassle of replacing the whole machine.

Repair is typically needed when the mower won’t power up, produces unusual noises or smells, or performs poorly. Given that electric mowers involve electrical components and moving parts, professional repairs ensure safety and reliable operation.

🔧 What the job involves

Lawn mower repair by an electrician covers a range of potential problems. Here’s a plain-English overview:

  • Diagnosis: Identifying the issue by checking the power supply (plug, cable, battery), motor, blades and electrical components.
  • Electrical checks: Testing for faulty wiring, switches, motor brushes, or connections.
  • Mechanical repairs: Replacing or sharpening blades, fixing the cutting deck, or addressing stuck parts.
  • Replacing parts: Changing worn components such as fuses, batteries (for cordless mowers), or motors.
  • Safety checks: Ensuring all safety switches and isolation devices are working correctly.
  • Testing: Confirming the mower runs smoothly after repairs.

Electricians specialising in small appliances or garden equipment typically handle these repairs safely.

📝 Step-by-step from booking to completion

  1. Enquiry: Contact a qualified electrician or garden equipment repair specialist with details of your mower and the problem.
  2. Initial advice: They may give basic troubleshooting tips or ask for photos/videos.
  3. Survey or collection: The engineer will either visit your home or arrange to collect the mower for detailed inspection.
  4. Diagnosis & quote: After assessment, they provide a written quote listing labour, parts, and timescale.
  5. Approval & scheduling: You agree to the work and arrange a convenient day for repair.
  6. Repairs: The engineer carries out the necessary work, often on-site unless parts are needed.
  7. Safety test & demonstration: They test the mower thoroughly and show you it’s working correctly.
  8. Payment & paperwork: You pay the agreed cost and receive any relevant documentation, including warranties or service records.
  9. Advice on use & maintenance: They may offer tips to keep your mower in good condition longer.

💷 Main costs to expect

  • Labour: Charged typically per hour, around £40–£70, depending on the engineer’s experience and location.
  • Materials/parts: Replacement blades (£10–£30), motor brushes (£10–£20), fuses or switches (£5–£15), batteries for cordless models (£40+).
  • Call-out fee: Some engineers charge £20–£40 for a home visit.
  • Disposal fees: If you want to dispose of irreparable parts, a small charge may apply.
  • Certification: There is generally no official certification required for repairs on lawn mowers unless part of a larger electrical installation.

Example itemisation:

  • Labour (2 hours): £100
  • Replacement blade: £20
  • Call-out fee: £30
    Total: £150 + VAT (if applicable)

📊 What affects the price

  • Condition and age of the mower.
  • Complexity of the fault (simple fuse change vs motor rewinding).
  • Accessibility (can the engineer work easily in your garden or garage?).
  • Availability and cost of replacement parts.
  • Whether the mower is corded electric or cordless battery powered.
  • Distance to your property and travel time for the engineer.
  • Urgency of the repair (emergency same-day call-outs tend to cost more).
  • Required safety or electrical tests if part of a larger electrical circuit.

⏱ How long does it take?

  • Simple repairs (fuse, replacing blade, battery swap): 30 minutes to 1 hour.
  • Moderate repairs (motor brushes, electrical connections): 1–2 hours.
  • Complex repairs (motor rewinding, electronic control board replacement): 2+ hours, possibly requiring off-site work.
  • Initial diagnosis: Usually completed within 30 minutes to an hour during a home visit.

🏠 Can you DIY it?

Some maintenance such as cleaning, blade sharpening, or battery charging is straightforward and safe to do at home. However, electrical repairs should be approached with caution:

  • Avoid DIY if the repair involves wiring, motor faults, or electrical switches.
  • Electric lawn mowers have safety mechanisms to prevent accidents; incorrect repairs can be dangerous.
  • Warranty terms often require professional repairs to remain valid.
  • If you are unsure or inexperienced, hiring a qualified electrician or garden equipment technician is advisable.

💰 Typical UK price range

Expect to pay between £60 and £180 for typical electric lawn mower repairs, excluding VAT. Simpler fixes will be at the lower end, more complicated or parts-heavy repairs at the higher end. Always ask for a clear written quote upfront to avoid surprises.

✅ Handy tips before you start

  • Keep your mower’s model and serial number handy when contacting repair specialists.
  • Regularly clean and check your mower to prevent faults.
  • Store it in a dry place to avoid electrical damage.
  • Ensure the area around your mower is clear to facilitate access during repair.
  • Request a service or repair report and keep it with the mower manual.
  • Ask if the parts used come with a warranty.
  • Consider regular servicing to avoid costly breakdowns.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure your lawn mower continues to serve your garden well and repairs go smoothly.