What are electric start petrol lawnmowers and do I need one?

If you've followed advice on the best time to lay new turf and your garden is now your pride and joy, you'll want the best tools to keep it in great condition. Electric start petrol lawnmowers are often favoured for their ease of start combined with the performance of a petrol lawnmower.

We asked gardening expert, Adam Woolcott , four times RHS gold medal winner to explain why he likes them so much and what he thinks are their pros and cons so you can decide if it's a purchase you might want to make.

Adam Woolcott

Adam Woolcott is Webb Garden Power's gardening expert. Adam has over 30 years of experience as a professional gardener and has many accolades, but is probably best known for his four Gold Medals at The Royal Horticultural Society’s Chelsea Flower Show and his three BBC/RHS People’s Choice Awards at the show (of which he is particularly proud) which he won as one half of Woolcott & Smith.

Where to buy electric start petrol lawnmowers

• B&Q - a good selection of sizes and models available to order
• ManoMano - a range of different brands, size and models available online
• Robert Dyas - a wide range available with many on offer at time of writing
• Amazon - plenty of choice with many available on Prime next day delivery
• Just Lawnmowers - lots of lawnmowers and other garden items

What is an electric start petrol lawnmower?

An electric start petrol lawnmower is essentially as the name suggests - a lawnmower that is electronically started, but then relies on petrol to fuel it for cutting the grass on your lawn ideas - however big or small your garden is.

"Electric start lawnmowers are my favourite," says Adam Woolcott. "They allow for effortless ignition with just the push of a button. This eliminates the need for pull cords and manual starting, making it easier and quicker to get your lawn mowing underway without the hassle."

Are there different types?

"Depending on the size of your lawn, there are a range of electric start lawnmower cutting widths available," says Adam. "With cutting blade sizes ranging from 41cm to 53cm, you can choose a lawnmower to suit your needs.

"Whether you have a medium-sized lawn or a more expansive lawn, you can choose an electric start petrol lawnmower to get the job done."

Wondering when you should be using it? Find out the best time to mow a lawn and how to cut long grass if you've left it a bit long in between cuts, or have been away and returned to extra growth.

What are the benefits of an electric start petrol lawnmower?

"Electric start petrol lawnmowers are very user-friendly, eliminating the need for a recoil cord," explains Adam. "This makes starting the mower effortless and saves you from the physical exertion typically associated with pull cords.

"This is especially beneficial for the elderly or those with physical conditions, ensuring that lawn care is accessible and easy for everyone."

If the thought of no cords appeals, take a look at some more options in our guide to the best cordless lawnmowers.

What are the disadvantages?

"Unfortunately, the electric start lawnmower requires a battery to power the electric start feature," says Adam. "This means you will need to remember to charge the battery before using the lawnmower."

Not keen on the thought of this? Take a look at the best petrol lawnmowers instead.

Are they best suited to a certain type or size of garden?

"Electric start petrol lawnmowers are robust and powerful, making them an excellent choice for medium to large gardens," says Adam. "Their sturdy build and high-performance engine ensures they can handle demanding mowing tasks with ease, providing a reliable and efficient solution for maintaining your lawn.

"With the added convenience of an electric start, these lawnmowers combine power and ease of use for a great gardening experience."

How do they compare cost-wise to other types of lawnmower?

"Due to the added convenience of the electric start feature, these lawnmowers tend to be slightly more expensive than traditional petrol lawnmowers," says Adam. "However, the ease of use and the time saved by avoiding manual starting make them a worthwhile investment.

"I think the extra cost is justified by the enhanced user experience and the reduction in physical effort however," says Adam, "which is particularly beneficial for those who may find pull cords challenging. In my opinion, this great feature is well worth the money, offering both efficiency and comfort in your lawn care routine."

Which one would you recommend?

I highly recommend the British-designed Webb WER460ES 'Classic Electric Start Petrol Lawnmower'. It offers reliability, ease of operation, and impressive versatility without breaking the bank.

Electric start petrol lawnmowers for gardens of all shapes and sizes

Wondering when you should put the mower away for winter? Find out when to stop cutting your grass each year for the best results.