Preparing robotic lawnmowers for the off-season is a crucial maintenance procedure. This process involves a series of steps designed to protect the device from damage during periods of inactivity, ensuring optimal performance and longevity. Similar to preparing a vehicle for storage, this safeguard action prevents potential issues arising from prolonged exposure to harsh winter conditions.
Properly executing this preparation offers several key advantages. It mitigates the risk of battery degradation, safeguards internal components from moisture and freezing temperatures, and helps prevent corrosion. Historically, neglecting this task has resulted in costly repairs and reduced operational lifespan for these automated lawn care devices. Taking the time to prepare your robotic lawnmower benefits its operational lifespan and cost.
The following discussion will outline the recommended procedures for properly preparing your robotic lawnmower for winter storage. This includes cleaning, battery care, storage location selection, and optional protective measures to ensure it remains in optimal condition, ready for the next mowing season.
1. Cleaning Thoroughly
Cleaning thoroughly is an indispensable step in preparing a Husqvarna Automower for winter storage. Neglecting this process can lead to long-term damage and reduced operational efficiency when the mowing season resumes.
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Removal of Grass and Debris
Accumulated grass clippings, leaves, and other organic debris can retain moisture, promoting corrosion on metallic components. The undercarriage, cutting blades, and charging contacts are particularly susceptible. Thoroughly removing these materials minimizes the risk of such damage during the storage period.
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Inspection for Damage
Cleaning provides an opportunity to inspect the mower for any existing damage, such as cracks in the housing, worn blades, or loose connections. Identifying and addressing these issues before storage prevents them from worsening over the winter months and allows for timely repairs or replacements.
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Cleaning Charging Contacts
Clean charging contacts are essential for efficient charging. Corrosion or debris buildup on these contacts can impede electrical conductivity, potentially leading to charging problems when the mower is reactivated. Cleaning ensures a reliable connection for optimal charging performance.
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Prevention of Pest Infestation
Organic debris can attract pests, such as insects and rodents, which may seek shelter within the mower’s housing during the winter. These pests can cause damage to wiring and other internal components. Thorough cleaning eliminates a potential food source and reduces the likelihood of infestation.
By meticulously cleaning the Husqvarna Automower, one proactively protects the device from corrosion, identifies potential issues, ensures reliable charging, and deters pest infestations. This contributes significantly to the mower’s longevity and ensures optimal performance when it is brought back into service.
2. Battery Management
Battery management constitutes a critical aspect of preparing a Husqvarna Automower for winter storage. The lithium-ion batteries used in these devices are susceptible to degradation when exposed to extreme temperatures or left in a fully discharged state for extended periods. Failure to properly manage the battery during the winter months can result in reduced battery capacity, diminished performance, or even complete battery failure, necessitating costly replacement. Properly managing the battery is an essential element in preparing a Husqvarna Automower for winter storage.
The recommended procedure involves charging the battery to approximately 50-80% capacity before storage. This level balances the need to prevent over-discharge, which can damage the battery’s cells, with the risk of degradation associated with storing a fully charged battery for long periods. Disconnecting the battery from the mower is also advisable in some models to eliminate parasitic drain and further preserve battery life. Storing the battery in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and temperature extremes, is equally important. For example, storing in a garage or shed that experiences freezing conditions could negatively affect the battery’s lifespan. This proactive approach minimizes the risk of irreversible damage during the off-season.
In summary, effective battery management during the winter storage period is vital for maintaining the health and longevity of a Husqvarna Automower battery. By adhering to recommended charging levels, disconnecting the battery when appropriate, and storing it in a suitable environment, owners can significantly mitigate the risk of battery degradation and ensure optimal performance when the mower is reactivated in the spring. Neglecting these steps often leads to premature battery failure, underscoring the practical significance of proper battery management as an essential component of the overall winterization process.
Concluding Remarks on Winterizing Husqvarna Automowers
The preceding sections detailed the critical steps involved in preparing a Husqvarna Automower for winter storage. These include thorough cleaning to prevent corrosion and pest infestation, and meticulous battery management to avoid degradation and ensure optimal future performance. Adherence to these procedures directly impacts the long-term reliability and operational lifespan of the device.
Failing to properly winterize Husqvarna Automowers exposes the investment to unnecessary risk. Implementing these established protocols is not merely a suggestion, but a necessary measure to safeguard the device and guarantee its readiness for the subsequent mowing season. Prioritize these preventative actions to secure the continued functionality and value of the Husqvarna Automower.
