What Does 'CCA' Mean On Your Lawn Mower Battery?

Since the 2010s, advances in lithium-ion technology have resulted in battery-powered lawn mowers becoming increasingly popular. Lithium-ion batteries work well for things like lawn mowers because they are light, powerful, long-lasting, and can be charged fairly quickly. But while these batteries are easy to use and simple to maintain, there are some things you need to understand about them in order to get the most out of your lawn mower battery. One of those things is the CCA rating, which is displayed alongside a number typically on the top or side of the battery. To put it simply, the letters CCA on your lawn mower battery stand for cold cranking amps. But what exactly does that mean, and why does it matter?

Although these letters and numbers may seem like something you don't need to pay attention to, that couldn't be any further from the truth. Understanding the CCA rating can help you get the most out of your battery and make your battery mower run longer. Keep reading to find out what CCA means on your lawn mower battery and why it's important.

The CCA isn't just a vague rating — it's a precise measurement. If you were to run your battery for 30 seconds in 0 degrees Fahrenheit, it will send a current equivalent to your CCA rating. While it's unlikely you'll be mowing your lawn while it's 32 degrees below freezing, the CCA rating will let you know how good the battery is at starting your lawn mower in cold weather. It's also a great gauge of its general power and how long it might last with regular use.

A battery with a higher CCA can start your mower in colder temperatures than a battery with a lower CCA. For most people, a lawn mower battery with a CCA between 150 and 250 will get the job done. However, if you live in a cooler climate or have a bigger lawn mower, you may want to get a battery with a higher CCA. Attempting to start your lawn mower in temperatures that are too cold isn't a big deal if it only happens every once in a while. However, over time, repeated attempts can put stress on your battery. Regardless of the CCA, when preparing your lawn mower for winter, it's important to charge the battery, remove it from the mower, and store it somewhere cool and dry.