If you’re looking for a powerful and reliable electric mower, you’ve likely come across the Redmax EBZ8550. This in-depth Redmax EBZ8550 review will give you a clear, unbiased look at its performance, features, and whether it’s the right fit for your lawn.
We’ll cover everything from battery life to cutting quality, leaving no stone unturned.
Redmax EBZ8550 Review
The Redmax EBZ8550 is a 56-volt, 21-inch cordless electric walk-behind mower. It’s part of a growing line of battery-powered outdoor tools designed to compete with gas models. It promises quiet operation, zero emissions, and less maintenance.
But does it live up to the hype? Let’s find out.
First Impressions and Build Quality
Right out of the box, the EBZ8550 feels sturdy. The deck is made from durable steel, and the overall construction inspires confidence. It doesn’t feel cheap or flimsy like some electric mowers can.
The handle is ergonomic and folds down easily for storage. Controls are simple and intuitive, with a clear battery indicator. The mower comes mostly assembled, so you’ll be ready to go in minutes.
One small note: the instruction manual could be a bit clearer in some sections, but most gardeners will figure it out quickly.
Key Features at a Glance
- 56V Lithium-Ion Battery: Provides the power needed for tough grass and longer runtime.
- 21-Inch Steel Deck: A standard width that balances maneuverability and coverage.
- Single Lever Height Adjustment: Lets you change cutting height for all wheels at once.
- Mulching, Bagging, and Side-Discharge: Offers all three modes for versatility.
- Brushless Motor: Ensures efficiency, longer life, and more power.
Performance on the Lawn
This is where the rubber meets the road. The EBZ8550 has plenty of power for most common lawn tasks. It starts with the push of a button—no pulling a cord.
The brushless motor spins the blade quickly, resulting in a clean, even cut. It handles both dry and damp grass reasonably well, though very wet grass can cause some clumping.
Battery Life and Runtime
Runtime is the biggest question for any cordless mower. With the included 5.0Ah battery, you can expect about 45-60 minutes of mowing on a single charge. This is enough for a typical suburban lawn up to half an acre.
If you have a larger area, purchasing a second battery is a smart investment. Charging the battery fully takes around 60 minutes, which is relatively fast.
Cutting Height and Adjustments
The single-lever adjustment is a fantastic feature. You can choose from six positions, ranging from about 1 inch to 4 inches. Moving between settings is smooth and doesn’t require bending down to adjust each wheel individually.
This makes it easy to adapt to different seasons or grass types.
Noise Level and Operation
One of the standout advantages is the noise level. It’s significantly quieter than any gas mower. You can comfortably mow early on a weekend without worrying about annoying your neighbors.
The operation is also very straightforward. The self-propel feature has variable speed control, which you operate via a lever on the handle. It’s not the fastest self-propel system, but it’s effective, especially on slopes.
Mulching and Bagging Performance
The mower comes with a mulching plug and a large 1.9-bushel collection bag. Switching between modes is tool-free and takes just a few seconds.
- Mulching: Does a good job of chopping clippings finely and returning them to the lawn. For best results, mow frequently and avoid cutting too much at once.
- Bagging: The bag has a high capacity and fills evenly. The indicator lets you know when it’s getting full, which is a helpful touch.
Pros and Cons: A Balanced View
After extensive testing, here’s a straightforward list of the strengths and weaknesses we found.
Pros
- Powerful cutting performance for an electric model.
- Excellent build quality and durable construction.
- Very quiet operation compared to gas mowers.
- Zero maintenance—no oil, gas, or spark plugs to worry about.
- Fast battery charging time.
Cons
- The price point is higher than some entry-level electric mowers.
- Battery runtime may be insufficient for very large lawns without a spare.
- The self-propel speed could be higher for some users.
- It’s a bit on the heavier side, which can matter on hills.
Maintenance and Long-Term Care
Caring for the EBZ8550 is simple. After each use, just clean off any grass clippings from the deck. Periodically, you should check the blade for sharpness and damage.
Here’s a basic maintenance checklist:
- Clean the underside of the deck after mowing.
- Check and tighten any loose bolts or nuts before the season.
- Sharpen or replace the blade at least once per mowing season.
- Store the mower and battery in a cool, dry place.
- Avoid hitting solid objects like rocks or roots to protect the blade.
There’s no need for annual tune-ups or winterization, which is a huge time and money saver.
Who Is the Redmax EBZ8550 Best For?
This mower is an excellent choice for homeowners with small to medium-sized lawns who want to move away from gas. It’s perfect if you value quiet operation, low maintenance, and a clean cut.
It might not be the best fit if you have over an acre of land and don’t want to buy multiple batteries. Also, if you need a very lightweight mower, you might want to consider some plastic-deck alternatives.
Final Verdict
The Redmax EBZ8550 is a top-tier cordless electric mower. It successfully bridges the gap between gas-powered performance and electric convenience. While the initial investment is significant, the savings on maintenance and fuel add up over time.
For most gardeners, its power, quality cut, and ease of use make it a compelling choice. It’s a robust, reliable machine that can handle the demands of a typical lawn with ease.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does the Redmax EBZ8550 battery last?
With the standard 5.0Ah battery, you can expect around 45 to 60 minutes of runtime, depending on grass thickness and the use of self-propel.
Can the Redmax mower handle tall or wet grass?
It performs well in moderately tall grass if you take it slow and use a higher setting first. Very wet grass is challenging for any mower and may lead to clumping with this one.
Is the Redmax EBZ8550 self-propelled?
Yes, it features a variable-speed self-propel system controlled by a lever on the handle. It provides good assistance, especially on inclines.
What is the warranty for this mower?
Redmax typically offers a 5-year warranty on the mower and a 3-year warranty on the battery. Always confirm the current warranty with your retailer at the time of purchase.
Does it come with the battery and charger?
Yes, the mower is sold as a kit that includes the 56V 5.0Ah battery and a rapid charger. You don’t need to buy anything seperately to start mowing.
How does it compare to a gas mower?
It offers similar cutting power to a mid-range gas mower but with much less noise, no fumes, and virtually no maintenance. The main limitation is the battery runtime versus a gas tank’s duration.