Often, when your electric lawnmower isn't working, the problem isn't with the mower itself but usually with the power supply or extension lead. This common issue can often be resolved with simple troubleshooting steps without the need for complex repairs.
The Most Common Culprit: Your Extension Lead
One of the primary reasons an electric lawnmower fails to start is a faulty extension lead. It's a common misconception that the mower itself is broken, but the extension cord—which frequently endures significant wear, tear, and exposure to outdoor elements—is very often the actual issue. An extension lead can develop internal breaks or have damaged connections that interrupt the crucial power supply to your mower.
Quick Checks for Power Issues
Before considering a professional repair or investing in a new mower, it's highly recommended to systematically check your power connections.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Here's a more detailed approach to diagnose why your electric lawnmower isn't starting:
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Bypass the Extension Lead:
- The first and most crucial step, as highlighted by experts, is to remove the extension lead from the equation.
- Plug your electric lawnmower directly into a functioning wall socket. If the mower starts up successfully, then you've pinpointed the extension lead as the source of the problem. At this point, you might need to inspect the lead for visible damage or simply replace it with a new one.
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Test an Alternative Power Socket:
- If the mower still doesn't work when plugged directly into the first wall socket, try connecting it to another different plug socket. This helps to rule out the possibility of a tripped circuit breaker or a faulty individual socket within your home's electrical system.
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Inspect the Fuse:
- If neither of the above steps resolves the issue, the next important step is to check the fuse. This applies to the fuse located within the plug of your lawnmower itself or, if you were using an extension lead, the fuse inside the extension lead's plug. Fuses are designed as safety devices to blow and protect the appliance from electrical surges; replacing a blown fuse is typically a straightforward and inexpensive repair.
By following these simple diagnostic steps, you can often pinpoint and resolve the reason your electric lawnmower isn't working, saving yourself time, effort, and potential repair costs.
