How do Robot Lawn Mowers Work?

Do Robot Mowers Work with Uneven Lawns?

Yes, but it depends on the model. Most garden mowers can handle small dips, bumps, and slopes. If your lawn has steep gradients or exposed roots, you’ll need to be more selective.

Look for the maximum slope rating in the product specs. Some RTK-enabled models can handle up to 75% inclines. Edge stability is usually where cheaper mowers struggle.

What to check for:

• Maximum slope – especially if the slope is near the boundary
• Wheel size and grip – smaller wheels struggle on loose soil or grass build-up
• Clearance height – raised tree roots or paving lips can cause grounding

If needed, you can fence off tricky areas using the app (for RTK models) or perimeter wire (for wired models). For persistent issues, adding a small physical border, like a low timber edge or raised bed, usually solves it.

Can I Install a Robot Mower Myself?

Yes. If you’re comfortable with basic tools and following instructions, installation is simple enough. The easiest models to set up are boundary-free. These use GPS and don’t need perimeter wire.

Wired mowers need a boundary wire laid around the edge of the mowing area. This can be pegged above ground or buried just below the surface.

Steps for a wired installation:

• Choose a flat, shaded spot for the base station near a power socket
• Lay the perimeter wire around the mowing area, avoiding sharp corners
• Connect the wire ends to the base station
• Test the boundary loop before starting the mower

For large or complex gardens, professional installation is worth it. Installers can use wire-laying machines, troubleshoot signal issues, and set up multi-zone mowing.

For boundary-free mowers, installation involves setting the base station, powering up the unit, and mapping the mowing area using the app.

How Do Robot Mowers Charge?

Every robot mower returns to a base station to recharge. This base is plugged into mains power and supplies a low voltage charge to the mower.

Once the battery runs low, the mower finds its way back automatically. Some return via perimeter wire, others follow a GPS route. After charging, it resumes mowing on its own.

What to plan for:

• Access to power – a standard outdoor socket is fine
• Shelter – some users install a small cover or garage to protect the base
• Cable length – keep the transformer dry and within reach of a socket

The mower only draws a small amount of electricity. Running costs are usually between £20–£40 per year.

How Do Robot Mowers Avoid Obstacles?

Robot mowers rely on sensors to detect objects in their path. When something is detected, the mower slows down, stops, and changes direction. Most use bump sensors as standard, while advanced models add ultrasonic or radar sensors.

Some GPS models can set virtual ‘no-mow zones’ around fixed objects like trees, flower beds, or ponds using the app—no physical barrier needed.

Obstacle types and how they’re handled:

• Solid objects – bump sensors trigger a turn when contact is made
• Pets or toys – lighter objects might not be seen without ultrasonic sensors
• Low hanging branches – check clearance height if mowing under trees

To reduce issues, keep the lawn clear of hoses, garden tools, and toys. For delicate areas, mark them with perimeter wire or set a virtual boundary.

Are Robot Mowers Safe Around Pets?

Robot mowers are built with safety in mind. The blades stop instantly if the unit is lifted or tilted. Most have sensors that detect contact and reverse direction to avoid injury.

Pets are usually curious at first but quickly lose interest. Dogs might bark or follow it, but they tend to ignore it after a few runs. Cats treat it like moving furniture.

Extra safety features to look for:

• Lift sensors – shut off blades immediately when lifted
• Collision sensors – stop or turn when meeting a pet or object
• Amico tag – some models offer tags that pause the mower if a pet gets close

The only consistent issue is pet waste. If not picked up, it can get smeared by the wheels. It won’t damage the machine, but it’s a cleanup job no one wants.

Can Robot Mowers Work in the Rain?

Most robot mowers can operate in light rain. The electronics are sealed, and the blades will keep turning. Some models include rain sensors that send the mower back to base when conditions get too wet.

Wet grass clumps more easily, so mowing in rain can leave streaks or uneven cuts. For best results, many users pause mowing during heavy rain and let the lawn dry before resuming.

Winter use:

• Store the mower indoors when grass stops growing
• Charge the battery to around 50% before long-term storage
• Disconnect or turn off the base station if not in use

Most users stop mowing around October or November and restart in spring, depending on weather and grass growth. Early mowing is possible since robot mowers are much lighter than traditional mowers.

How Do Robot Mowers Cut the Grass?

Robot mowers use small spinning blades to cut a few millimetres of grass at a time. They follow one of two patterns: random or mapped.

Wired mowers usually follow a random path, turning when they hit a boundary or obstacle. GPS-enabled models create a virtual map and mow in a planned pattern, often in straight lines.

Types of cutting:

• Random – ideal for simple lawns, ensures even coverage over time
• GPS-guided – faster, more precise, and less repetitive on larger areas
• Spiral mode – triggered when the mower detects taller grass in one spot

Most mowers don’t have rollers, so they won’t leave stripes. Some high-end GPS models can simulate them temporarily with parallel cutting lines, but the effect fades quickly.

Robot mowers don’t trim right up to walls or flower beds. You’ll still need to strim the edges occasionally, though some models are better than others at getting close.

Can One Robot Mower Handle Multiple Lawns?

Yes, but it depends on the model. Some mowers are built to manage more than one area, while others are designed for a single open lawn.

If you’ve got a front and back garden separated by a path, narrow gap, or strip of concrete, here’s what to consider.

For wired models:

• All zones must be connected by the same perimeter wire
• The mower needs a passable route between zones (not gravel or steep steps)
• Check if your model supports multi-zone setups – some allow up to 8

For boundary-free mowers:

• You can map each area separately using GPS
• The mower can be carried or drive itself between zones
• Virtual boundaries can be set in the app

Before buying, add up the total area across all lawns. Don’t assume a 600m² mower can handle two 600m² lawns—it needs to cover the full 1200m².

Can a Robot Mower Be Stolen?

It can, but it’s not easy. Most robot mowers have built-in security features that make them useless to anyone else.

Theft protection usually includes PIN codes, alarms, and GPS tracking. Some models won’t even start unless paired with their original base station.

Common security features:

• PIN protection – required to access settings or start the mower manually
• Lift alarms – sound an alert if the mower is picked up
• Geofencing – sends a warning if the mower leaves a set area
• GPS tracking – lets you locate the mower if stolen

If you’re concerned, add your mower to your home insurance policy. Some companies will ask for proof of security features before covering it.

What Happens if the Perimeter Wire Gets Damaged?

If the perimeter wire breaks, the mower stops working until the circuit is restored. Most mowers show an error or stop responding at the base station.

Breaks are often caused by animals, gardening tools, or bad joins. Rabbits aren’t usually the issue—it’s more likely a spade or a deer hoof.

Steps to fix a wire break:

• Walk the perimeter and look for damage, dig marks, or loose joins
• Use a good quality waterproof connector to rejoin the wire
• For tricky breaks, a wire break detector or AM radio can help pinpoint the fault

After installation, take a short video as you walk the perimeter. This makes future troubleshooting easier if the wire needs moving or repairing.

How Much Does a Robot Mower Cost?

Robot mowers vary in price. Small wired models start at a few hundred pounds. Larger GPS models or commercial units can run into the thousands.

Main cost areas:

• Initial purchase – price depends on coverage area, features, and brand
• Installation – DIY is free, but pro setup usually costs £200–£500
• Servicing – a yearly check is recommended, especially for warranty
• Electricity – costs around £20–£40 a year to run

Compared to hiring a gardener or using a petrol mower, robot mowers save money over time. They also save time—no need to push anything or empty clippings.

If you value your weekends, that alone might be worth the price.

Can I Install a Robot Mower Myself?

Yes. Most wired robot mowers come with everything you need to get started. You’ll be laying a perimeter wire, setting up the base station, and running a calibration.

DIY installation:

• Base needs a flat area near a power supply
• Perimeter wire can be pegged on the surface or buried
• Follow the guide to loop around obstacles and flower beds

If your garden is large or complex, or if you don’t fancy crawling around with wire, there are professional installers who can handle it for you.

No-wire mowers:

• Use GPS and RTK to set boundaries digitally
• Mapping is done through an app
• No digging or pegging—just drop, connect, and map

Boundary-free models cost more, but setup is quicker and easier, especially if your lawn layout changes often.