Looking for a reliable and affordable electric lawn mower? You’re in the right place. This Earthwise 1715 16EW review will give you the straight facts you need. We’ll look at its power, cutting performance, and whether it’s a good fit for your yard. By the end, you’ll know exactly what this mower can and cannot do.
The Earthwise 1715-16 is a 16-inch corded electric lawn mower. It’s designed for small to medium-sized lawns where a power cord isn’t a major hassle. It promises a lightweight, eco-friendly cut without the noise and maintenance of gas mowers. Let’s see if it lives up to that promise.
Earthwise 1715 16EW Review
We tested this mower on a typical suburban lawn with mixed grass types. We paid close attention to setup, ease of use, and the final cut quality. Here’s our comprehensive and unbiased analysis.
Key Features and Specifications
Before we get into performance, let’s cover the basic specs. This gives you a clear picture of what the mower offers right out of the box.
* Power Source: Corded Electric (120V)
* Cutting Width: 16 inches
* Motor: 12 Amp
* Cutting Height Adjustment: Single-lever, 6 positions (1.25″ to 3.25″)
* Weight: 35 pounds
* Grass Collection: 1.8 bushel rear bag
* Warranty: 2-year limited
Unboxing and Assembly: What to Expect
The mower comes mostly assembled. You won’t need many tools, which is a big plus. The process is straightforward, but there’s a few steps to follow.
Here’s the basic assembly process:
1. Carefully remove the mower and all parts from the box.
2. Attach the upper handle to the lower handle using the provided bolts and knobs. A screwdriver is usually needed to tighten the bolts initially.
3. Slide the grass collection bag onto its metal frame and then clip it onto the mower deck.
4. Check that all safety labels are in place and read the manual.
The whole things takes about 15-20 minutes. The instructions are generally clear, but the diagrams could be a bit better. Make sure you don’t over-tighten the plastic knobs on the handle.
Performance and Cutting Power
This is the most important part. The 12-amp motor provides plenty of power for most tasks. It handled thick St. Augustine grass reasonably well, though it required a slower pace.
* On Dry Grass: It performs excellently, leaving a clean, even cut.
* On Damp or Tall Grass: It can struggle and may require you to make two passes. The motor will sound strained if you try to cut to much at once.
* Mulching Capability: It does not have a dedicated mulching plug. It relies on the basic deck design to recut clippings, which is only moderately effective.
The single-lever height adjustment is convinient. You can change the setting for all four wheels at once without bending down. The range is suitable for most lawn care preferences.
Maneuverability and Ease of Use
At 35 pounds, the mower is relatively light. This makes it easy to push and turn, especially for smaller users. The 16-inch width is nimble, allowing you to navigate around garden beds and tight corners.
The cord, however, is the biggest consideration. You must constantly manage it to avoid cutting it. This can be frustrating on larger lawns with many obstacles. We recommend a heavy-duty outdoor extension cord, at least 14-gauge.
Noise Level and Environmental Impact
As expected, it’s much quieter than a gas mower. You can comfortably mow early on a weekend without disturbing your neighbors. It produces zero emissions, which is great for the air and your conscience.
Grass Collection and Disposal
The 1.8 bushel bag fills up fairly quickly, especially if your grass is thick. You’ll need to stop and empty it several times during a larger mowing session. The bag attaches securely but can be a bit tricky to remove when full.
On the plus side, the bag does a decent job of capturing clippings. There’s some blow-out from the sides if the grass is dry, but it’s not excessive. Emptying the bag is simple.
Maintenance and Long-Term Care
One of the biggest advantages of electric mowers is low maintenance. You’ll save a lot of time and money compared to gas models.
Here’s your basic maintenance checklist:
* After Each Use: Wipe down the mower deck to remove grass clippings and moisture.
* Blade Care: Periodically check the blade for dullness or damage. Sharpen or replace it as needed (always disconnect the power first!).
* Winter Storage: Store the mower in a dry place. It’s a good idea to give the deck a thorough cleaning before storing it for the season.
There’s no oil, spark plugs, or air filters to worry about. This simplicity is a major selling point for many homeowners.
Pros and Cons: A Quick Summary
To help you decide fast, here are the clear advantages and drawbacks.
Pros:
* Affordable upfront cost.
* Lightweight and easy to push.
* Very quiet operation.
* Zero emissions and no gas/oil smells.
* Easy height adjustment.
* Virtually no maintenance.
Cons:
* Cord management is a constant task and limits range.
* Bag capacity is on the smaller side.
* Can struggle with wet or very thick grass.
* Not ideal for lawns over 1/4 acre due to the cord.
Who Is This Mower Best For?
The Earthwise 1715-16EW is not for everyone. It’s a specialized tool for a specific type of yard.
You will likely be happy with this mower if:
* Your lawn is small to medium (under 1/4 acre).
* You have easy access to outdoor power outlets.
* You want a simple, low-maintenance machine.
* You prefer a lightweight and quiet mower.
You should consider other options if:
* Your lawn is large or has many obstacles far from an outlet.
* You frequently mow damp or overgrown grass.
* You despise dealing with a power cord.
* You want a mulching-focused mower.
Final Verdict
The Earthwise 1715 16EW is a solid, no-frills electric mower. It does its job well within its intended scope. For a small, flat lawn with regular maintenance, it offers fantastic value. It eliminates the hassles of gas and is a breeze to store.
However, the cord is a significant limitation. If your property is larger or has complex landscaping, the constant cord management will become a chore. In that case, a cordless model might be worth the extra investment. Overall, for the right user, it’s a reliable and eco-friendly choice that gets the job done without fuss.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How long is the power cord on the Earthwise mower?
A: The mower itself has a very short cord (a few feet). You must provide your own heavy-duty outdoor extension cord.
Q: Can you leave the bag off to side discharge?
A: Yes, you can remove the collection bag. The mower will then discharge clippings to the side, which is helpfull for longer grass.
Q: Is the Earthwise 1715-16 good for hills?
A: Its light weight helps, but cord management on a slope can be tricky and potentially hazardous. Use caution on inclines.
Q: Where can I get replacement blades for the Earthwise 1715?
A: Replacement blades are available online through retailers like Amazon or directly from Earthwise parts suppliers. Always use the correct part number.
Q: How does it compare to a similar cordless mower?
A: Cordless mowers offer total freedom of movement but are often more expensive and have limited runtime. The Earthwise provides continuous power but is tethered to an outlet.