If you're thinking about getting a robotic lawn mower to keep your yard tidy with minimal effort, you've probably wondered, "Are lawn mower robots theft proof?" After all, these high-tech devices are a pretty big investment, and when they're out there mowing your lawn alone, they could be an easy target for thieves.
In this guide, we'll take a closer look at how common mower theft really is, whether you should be concerned, and most importantly, what you can do to protect your robotic mower from being snatched away.
Is Stealing a Robotic Mower Common?
So, do robotic lawn mowers get stolen? They do, but theft of robotic lawn mowers isn't as common as you might think. While it's natural to worry about someone walking off with such a valuable piece of equipment, these mowers are designed with theft prevention in mind. Most modern robotic mowers come equipped with advanced security features, such as GPS tracking, PIN code locks, and alarms, which make them far less attractive to thieves.
Moreover, these machines are specialized equipment aimed at a niche market, making them somehow difficult to resell without raising suspicion. Thus, the combination of advanced security measures and limited resale potential contributes to the low incidence of robotic mower theft.
Should I Worry About Vandalism or Theft of My Robotic Lawn Mower?
While it's natural to worry about theft when your robotic lawn mower is out doing its job unsupervised, you can rest a little easier knowing these smart machines often come with advanced security features, from PIN code locks and GPS tracking to alarms.
In many cases, stealing a robotic mower is more trouble than it's worth. For one, the mower becomes virtually useless to a thief without the PIN code or the companion app needed to control it. Additionally, GPS tracking allows you to locate and recover your mower if it's stolen, giving thieves a high chance of getting caught.
Take, for example, a real-life case in Denver. According to The Denver Post, an automatic lawn mower was stolen from a cemetery. At first, it seemed like a simple prank, but when the owners checked the GPS location, they discovered the mower had been moved across town. The GPS data led authorities straight to the thief, who, as it turned out, was hoarding a stash of other stolen goods as well. Not only was the mower recovered, but it also helped bring justice.
Vandalism, on the other hand, is a bit more unpredictable. While most people won't go out of their way to damage a lawn mower, accidents can happen. For instance, curious pets, kids playing in the yard, or even neighbors who may not appreciate the constant mowing could potentially interfere with your robotic mower. Thankfully, most models are built to be durable and weather-resistant, so they can handle bumps, scratches, and the occasional mischief without breaking down.
How to Protect My Robotic Mower from Theft?
While the risk of theft or vandalism to your robotic lawn mower is relatively low, taking proactive measures can provide peace of mind and ensure your device remains safe. Here's how to use built-in robot lawn mower anti-theft features and additional precautions to protect your investment:
1. Use the Built-in PIN Code Lock
Most robotic lawn mowers come equipped with a PIN code system. The PIN is required when installing the mower on a new charging station, stopping or lifting the mower, and changing settings. Without this code, the mower cannot be operated or accessed.
So, make sure to set a strong PIN and avoid sharing it with anyone outside your household. Even if a thief grabs your mower, it becomes useless without the PIN.
2. Activate the Alarm System
Many robotic mowers come with built-in theft alarms that work alongside lift and tilt sensors. These sensors detect if the mower is lifted or tipped over, triggering it to lock itself automatically. If someone attempts to lift or stop the robotic mower without entering the PIN within a set time (usually 10 seconds), a loud alarm will go off. This robot mower theft prevention feature alerts you to potential theft and can act as a strong deterrent for thieves.
3. Enable GPS Tracking
If your mower has GPS capabilities, enable tracking through the companion app. GPS lets you monitor the location of your mower in real time, making it easier to recover if it's stolen. You can then report the coordinates to the police to help them quickly track down the thief.
4. Use Geofencing
Geofencing is a great feature offered in higher-end GPS-enabled models. You can set a designated area for your mower to operate. If the mower leaves that area, you'll receive an instant alert, allowing you to take action quickly.
5. Anchor the Charging Station
Thieves often look for both the mower and its charging station. Secure the charging station to the ground using screws or bolts so that it's difficult to remove. You can also install it in a discreet, less-visible area of your yard.
6. Store Your Mower Securely
When your robotic mower isn't in use, store it in a locked garage, shed, or a dedicated docking station with security features. Bringing it indoors at night or during vacations adds an extra layer of protection.
7. Register Your Mower with the Manufacturer
Register your robotic lawn mower with the manufacturer after purchasing it. This allows them to blacklist the mower if it's reported stolen, making it unusable for the thief. Additionally, registered mowers are easier to trace and return to their rightful owner.
8. Invest in Theft Insurance
Consider adding your robotic mower to your homeowner's insurance policy or purchasing standalone theft insurance for it. This provides financial protection in case your mower is stolen and not recovered. Check the specific terms, deductible, and claim limits.
9. Keep Your Yard Fenced and Private
A well-maintained fence or hedge can make it harder for someone to spot your robotic mower from the street or easily enter your yard. Privacy and visibility barriers reduce the risk of opportunistic theft.
10. Install Security Cameras
A visible outdoor security camera can act as a strong deterrent for thieves. Pair it with motion-sensor lights for extra protection. Many modern cameras allow you to monitor your property in real time and receive alerts if suspicious activity is detected.
Conclusion
To wrap up, with built-in security features like GPS tracking, alarms, and PIN code locks, you can feel confident that your robotic lawn mower won't easily disappear without a trace. So, are lawn mower robots theft proof? Not exactly, but by using these anti-theft features along with proactive steps like anchoring the charging station and bringing the mower inside when not in use, you'll make your robotic lawn mower significantly harder to steal.
FAQ
Can robotic lawn mowers get stolen easily?
Robotic lawn mowers can be stolen, but they are generally designed with security features to make theft more difficult. Many models include GPS tracking, anti-theft alarms, and PIN codes that prevent unauthorized use. However, like any valuable item, it's a good idea to store the mower in a secure location when not in use or consider adding additional security measures like a shed or lock.
Are robot lawn mowers safe?
Robot lawn mowers are generally safe when used as directed. They are equipped with sensitive sensors and safety features that prevent them from operating when lifted or tilted, and many models have collision detection to avoid obstacles. However, it is essential to keep children and pets away from the mower while it is in operation.
How can I prevent my robotic lawn mower from being stolen?
To prevent your robotic lawn mower from being stolen, you can take several precautions, such as enabling the PIN code feature, using a GPS tracker, storing the mower in a secure location when not in use, and installing outdoor security cameras or motion-activated lights in your yard to deter thieves.
