So, picture this: It’s a sunny Australian Saturday morning, the birds are chirping, and you’ve just brewed a fresh pot of coffee. You step out onto your porch, ready to bask in the glory of your beautifully manicured lawn. But wait, something’s not right. Your trusty robotic lawn mower, the one you affectionately named “Mow-Bot,” is nowhere to be seen.
Protecting Your Robotic Lawn Mower: A How-To Guide
1. Invest in a GPS Tracker
One of the smartest moves you can make to safeguard your robotic lawn mower is to equip it with a GPS tracker. These nifty devices can be easily attached to your mower, allowing you to track its location in real-time using a smartphone app.
A GPS Could have quickly pinpointed its location and potentially even caught the thief in the act. Brands like TrackItNow offer reliable GPS tracking solutions specifically designed for robotic lawn mowers.
2. Secure Your Lawn with Boundary Wires
Many robotic lawn mowers operate within a predefined boundary established by buried or above-ground wires. Take advantage of this by securing your lawn with a boundary wire. If someone attempts to lift your mower out of your yard, it will trigger an alarm or shut down the mower, rendering it useless to thieves.
Some popular models like the Husqvarna Automower come equipped with boundary wire technology and anti-theft alarms, making them a robust choice for security-conscious homeowners.
3. Lock it Up
Consider investing in a dedicated storage shed or a secure storage box for your robotic lawn mower. When not in use, park your mower in this secure enclosure and lock it up. This not only protects your mower from theft but also shields it from the elements, extending its lifespan.
Several companies, like Keter, offer weather-resistant storage solutions specifically designed for robotic lawn mowers. These storage units are sturdy, easy to assemble, and provide a safe haven for your mower.
4. Use Smart Home Security Systems
Integrate your robotic lawn mower into your existing smart home security system. Many modern security systems, such as those from Ring, allow you to set up motion-activated cameras and sensors in your yard. If an intruder approaches your mower, you’ll receive an instant notification, allowing you to take action.
5. Engrave Your Mower
Engraving your name and contact information on your robotic lawn mower might seem like a small step, but it can deter thieves and aid in recovery if your mower is stolen. Most thieves prefer easy targets, and a visibly marked mower is less appealing to them.
You can easily purchase an engraving tool from your local hardware store and mark your details on a discreet part of your mower.
6. Regular Maintenance and Upkeep
Thieves are less likely to target a well-maintained robotic lawn mower. Regularly clean and service your mower to keep it in optimal working condition. Thieves are more likely to steal a neglected, malfunctioning mower than one that’s humming along smoothly.
Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance recommendations to ensure your mower stays in tip-top shape.
7. Check Your Home Insurance
Contact your home insurance provider to inquire about coverage for your robotic lawn mower. Some policies may cover theft or damage to outdoor equipment. If your mower is a significant investment, it’s wise to have it protected under your policy.
The Bottom Line: Keep Mow-Bot Safe!
Don’t let your beloved Mow-Bot fall victim to unscrupulous thieves. Invest in a GPS tracker, secure your lawn with boundary wires, lock it up in a storage shed, and integrate it into your smart home security system. Engrave your details, keep it well-maintained, and ensure it’s covered by your home insurance.
