Black & Decker Electric Lawn Mower, Corded, 13-Amp, 20-Inch

The Black & Decker MM2000 electric lawn mower offers a practical solution for lawn care, especially for those who prefer the convenience of a corded electric mower. After spending several weekends with this mower, I’ve gathered a comprehensive understanding of its strengths and weaknesses.

Initial Impressions and Setup

Straight out of the box, the MM2000 impresses with its straightforward assembly. The instructions are clear, and within minutes, I had the mower ready for action. The tool-free height adjustment is a notable feature, allowing for easy customization with seven different height settings. This is particularly useful for adjusting to different grass lengths and types. The mower's EDGEMAX deck design caught my attention right away, promising close cuts near edges, which is a considerable advantage for achieving a clean, manicured look.

Performance and Power

Equipped with a 13 Amp motor, the MM2000 doesn’t disappoint in terms of power. It effortlessly handles thick and damp grass, which is often a challenge for electric mowers. The cutting width of 20 inches provides a good balance between maneuverability and efficiency, allowing me to cover a significant area without feeling cumbersome.

One of the standout features of this mower is its versatility in mowing modes. It offers mulching, bagging, and side discharge options. During my use, I found the mulching mode particularly effective, reducing grass clippings to fine particles that easily blend back into the lawn. The bagging mode also works well, with a 13-gallon fabric grass collection bag that is easy to attach and detach. However, I did notice that the bag can sometimes dislodge when maneuvering the mower backward, which can be a bit frustrating.

Maneuverability and Ease of Use

Weighing in at 52.9 pounds, the MM2000 is relatively lightweight, making it easy to push and maneuver around the yard. The carry handles add to its portability, allowing for easy transport and storage. The compact storage feature is a bonus, especially for those with limited storage space. The mower folds down neatly, taking up minimal room in the garage or shed.

Using a corded mower does require some getting used to, particularly in managing the extension cord to avoid tangling or running over it. However, once you get the hang of it, the continuous power supply is a significant advantage over battery-powered alternatives, which can run out of juice mid-mow.

Build Quality and Durability

The build quality of the MM2000 is a mixed bag. While much of the mower is made of durable plastic, which helps keep the weight down, some components feel a bit flimsy. The handle height adjustment, for instance, doesn’t cater well to shorter users, and the plastic handles can feel less robust compared to metal alternatives. Over time, I have some concerns about the longevity of these plastic parts, especially with regular use.

Noise Level and Environmental Impact

One of the notable benefits of the MM2000 is its relatively quiet operation. Compared to gas-powered mowers, it produces significantly less noise, making it a more neighbor-friendly option. Additionally, being electric, it doesn’t emit harmful fumes, which is a plus for environmentally conscious users.

Maintenance and Longevity

Maintenance for the MM2000 is straightforward. The mower is easy to clean, with the ability to hose off grass clippings after each use. However, I recommend storing it indoors during the winter months to protect the plastic components from extreme temperatures, which can cause brittleness.

Longevity appears to be a concern for some users, with reports of the motor seizing after a couple of years. While my unit has performed reliably so far, this is something to keep in mind. Ensuring you use a proper extension cord (12 gauge recommended) can help reduce stress on the motor and potentially extend its lifespan.

Practical Considerations

For those with larger yards, the corded design might be a limitation. Investing in a long, high-quality extension cord is essential. Additionally, the mower’s performance in wet conditions is commendable, but be mindful of the bagging system, which can become less effective when dealing with damp grass.

Final Verdict

Overall, the Black & Decker MM2000 is a solid choice for homeowners with moderately sized lawns. Its powerful motor, ease of use, and versatile mowing modes make it a practical tool for maintaining a neat and tidy yard. However, the build quality and potential longevity issues are worth considering.

Would I recommend the MM2000? Yes, but with reservations. If you’re looking for an affordable, efficient, and eco-friendly mower and are willing to manage the cord and handle some minor inconveniences, it’s a great option. However, if durability and long-term reliability are your primary concerns, you might want to explore other options or be prepared for potential repairs down the line.