If you’re looking for a powerful and quiet electric mower, you’ve likely come across the Greenworks 22262. This Greenworks 22262 review aims to give you a comprehensive and unbiased look at its performance in a real garden.
I’ve used this mower for an entire season, and I’m here to share the honest details. We’ll cover what it does well, where it might fall short, and if it’s the right tool for your lawn.
Greenworks 22262 Review
This 21-inch, 80V cordless mower is part of Greenworks’ premium line. It promises gas-like power without the noise, fuss, or fumes. Let’s break down how it actually handles.
What’s in the Box and First Impressions
Right out of the box, assembly is straightforward. You’ll mainly just attach the handle. The build quality feels solid, not cheap or flimsy. The mower comes with:
* The mower deck and motor unit
* A single 80V 4.0Ah battery
* The battery charger
* The grass collection bag
* The side-discharge chute
* A mulching plug
The battery takes a few hours to charge fully from empty, so it’s best to charge it overnight before your first mow. The controls are intuitive, with a big safety lever on the handle.
Performance on Different Grass Types
I tested this on a mix of Kentucky bluegrass and some rougher fescue. Here’s what I found:
* On Dry, Standard Grass: It performs flawlessly. The cut is clean and even.
* On Damp or Tall Grass: This is where you need strategy. If you let the grass get too tall or try to mow wet grass, it can struggle and leave clumps. The key is to mow more frequently.
* Mulching Capability: With the mulching plug installed, it chops clippings finely. This works great as long as you don’t let the grass get to tall.
The power is genuinely impressive for an electric mower. It feels comparable to a mid-range gas engine, especially on level ground.
Battery Life and Runtime
This is the most common question. With the included 4.0Ah battery, here are my real-world results:
* My Lawn (5,000 sq ft): On a standard cut, I can just finish on a single charge.
* Heavy/Long Grass: Runtime drops significantly, sometimes requiring a recharge for the same area.
* Pro Tip: If your lawn is over 1/3 acre, consider buying a second battery. It ensures you never run out of juice halfway through.
The battery gauge on the mower is helpful, but it’s not always perfectly precise. It tends to show full for a while, then drop more quickly toward the end.
Noise Level and Ease of Use
The quiet operation is a massive benefit. You can mow early on a weekend without feeling guilty. Starting is as simple as inserting the battery and pulling the safety lever. No pull cords, no choke, no gas smell on your hands.
The mower is also relatively lightweight, making it easy to maneuver around flower beds and trees. The single-lever height adjustment works, but changing all four wheels at once can be a bit stiff compared to individual adjustments.
Key Features and How They Work
Let’s look at the specific features that come with the Greenworks 22262.
1. 80V Battery Platform: This is the core. The 80V system provides the power. The battery also fits other tools in the Greenworks 80V lineup, which is a big plus if you want a trimmer or blower later.
2. 21-Inch Steel Deck: A good, standard size. The steel construction is durable and helps with a clean cut.
3. 7-Position Height Adjustment: Offers a cutting range from about 1.5 inches to 4 inches. This is suitable for most lawn preferences.
4. 3-in-1 Functionality: You can bag, mulch, or side-discharge. Swapping between these modes is quick and tool-free.
Maintenance and Long-Term Care
Electric mower maintenance is wonderfully simple. Here’s your annual checklist:
* After each use, clean off any stuck grass clippings from under the deck.
* Keep the battery terminals clean.
* Store the battery indoors, not in a freezing shed or hot garage.
* Sharpen or replace the blade once a season for the cleanest cut.
* Check the wheels and bolts for tightness occasionally.
There’s no oil to change, no air filter to clean, and no spark plug to replace. This saves you considerable time and money.
Who Should Buy the Greenworks 22262?
This mower is an excellent fit for:
* Homeowners with small to medium lawns (up to 1/3 acre comfortably).
* Anyone tired of maintaining a gas engine.
* People who value a quiet mowing experience.
* Gardeners already invested in the Greenworks 80V ecosystem.
You might want to look at other options if:
* Your lawn is over 1/2 acre and very hilly.
* You frequently mow very tall, wet, or dense grass.
* You prefer the absolute longest runtime without buying extra batteries.
Common Complaints and Solutions
No tool is perfect. Here are some noted issues and how to adress them.
* Bag Fills Quickly: The collection bag is a standard size but fills fast with lush grass. Simply empty it more often or use the mulching function.
* Struggles in Very Tall Grass: This is true for most mowers. The solution is to mow more regulary, or use the highest setting first, then lower it for a second pass.
* Battery Life Anxiety: For larger lawns, a second battery is a worthwhile investment. It doubles your runtime and extends the overall life of your batteries.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does the Greenworks 80V battery last?
With the included 4.0Ah battery, expect 45 to 60 minutes of runtime under normal mowing conditions. Thicker grass will reduce this time.
Can the Greenworks 22262 handle hills?
It handles moderate slopes well thanks to its power. On very steep hills, the weight distribution can feel a bit light in the front, but it’s manageable.
Is the mower self-propelled?
No, the Greenworks 22262 model is not self-propelled. You need to push it. This helps with battery conservation but might be a consideration for those with hilly terrain.
What is the warranty on this mower?
Greenworks typically offers a 4-year warranty on the mower tool and a 4-year warranty on the battery. Always check the specific warranty at the time of purchase, as policies can update.
Final Verdict
After a full season of use, the Greenworks 22262 stands as a reliable and powerful electric mower. It eliminates the headaches of gas while providing a clean, quiet cut. The main limitation is the runtime of the single battery for larger properties.
If your lawn size aligns with its battery life, this mower is a fantastic choice that will make lawn care simpler and more pleasant. It’s a strong step into the cordless future for any gardener looking to simplify their routine without sacrificing performance. Just remember to keep up with mowing frequency, especially during the peak growing season, and you’ll be very satisfied with the results.