Everyone wants a lush green lawn until they have to work for it!
Well, I’m not complaining- I have always been happy to put in the effort required for maintaining my pristine-looking lawn. But as age catches up on me, I try to find ways to cut down on manual labor. And after I strained my back last month while clearing thatch from my lawn, my husband insisted that I get an electric dethatcher for the purpose.
However, the problem was that neither he nor I knew anything about this equipment, which is why I sought help from a fellow lawn enthusiast and my neighbor John. As he told me all about it and the top options on the market, I decided to curate a guide to help my readers in the same predicament.
Howdy! I’m Stacy Smith, and today, I’ll assist you in finding the best electric dethatcher. Let’s start, then.
Top 5 Electric Dethatcher Reviews
1. Sun Joe AJ805E
I will start off the list with the Sun Joe AJ805E. Built for small to medium-sized lawns, it facilitates practically maintenance-free operation, which is ideal for lazy users like me. Plus, it comes in three sizes to cater to different user requirements.
Product Highlights
First and foremost, allow me to shower praise on its sleek yet attractive design, making it a great addition to any gardening equipment armory. At the same time, the brand has included a host of beneficial features that can cut down on your effort like nothing else.
It’s powered by a robust 13-amp motor, which provides just the right amount of power for residential use. I opted for the model with a 15-inch wide clearing path, but you may also choose between the 13-inch and 14-inch variants.
All of these models are equipped with a 5-position depth control knob mechanism that will allow you to adjust the raking depth from 0 to 0.4-inch. Moreover, the scarifying mechanism facilitates proper cutting of the roots to promote the growth of thick grass for a fuller-looking lawn.
Finally, Sun Joe offers a solid two-year warranty on this unit for better peace of mind among buyers.
What’s There To Like About It?
I’m not at all familiar with fancy technologies; all that matters to me is performance. And the AirBoost Technology on this unit didn’t disappoint me. Simply put, it features spring steel tines at the bottom, which contributes to optimum thatch pickup without getting dull, even after prolonged periods of use.
Moreover, a one push-start button engages the engine almost instantly, which is an absolute boon at my age! And the detachable thatch collector makes it easy to dispose of the grass clippings.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
If there’s one thing I can crib about, it’s the size of the collection bag. I couldn't even finish dethatching half my lawn and had to clean the bag twice. So, you may want to buy a bigger one, especially if you have a larger area to detach.
Pros and Cons of Sun Joe AJ805E
Pros
Cons
- [IDEAL]: For revitalizing small to mid-sized lawns.No Load Speed (rpm) 2990.Length of Cord (ft.) : 1, Deck Cleanout : No.
- [POWERFUL]: 13-amp motor rakes a 15" wide path to get your job done faster
- [SCARIFIER]: Function to cut grass roots for thicker growth, healthier lawns
2. Greenworks 27022
The next entrant is the Greenworks 27022. Honestly, I picked this unit because of the brand reputation, and it’s safe to say that the performance on offer justified every bit of the popularity enjoyed by Greenworks. So, let me take you through its key features.
Product Highlights
Despite sporting a slim profile, the Greenworks 27022 has a durable steel frame that can withstand rough use. However, I was glad that the metal body doesn’t interfere with its mobility, which is a huge plus for aged users like myself.
Talking about its performance, the first thing that I should mention is its powerful 10-amp motor, which is designed to save on your overall power consumption. All you have to do is plug the dethatcher into a nearby power outlet and push the easy-start button for uninterrupted detaching without racking up the electric bills.
I also liked that, unlike its predecessor, this one has an extension cord, meaning you need not spend money for the extra purchase. Moreover, the quiet operation allowed me to work on my yard at practically any time of the day. If you’re looking for a dethatcher that stays true to its purpose without requiring you to break the bank, then this may be it.
What’s There To Like About It?
This unit is designed to have a 14-inch wide dethatching path, which is backed by 18 stainless steel tines. As a result, I could complete the job much faster than I had initially anticipated. Furthermore, the handle can be adjusted according to user convenience as well as folded for easy storage.
I absolutely loved the padded grip on it, which saved me from the annoying hand fatigue while providing better operational control. Additionally, you can adjust the depth of the tines to achieve three positions according to the height of the grass.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
The knob for adjusting the cutting depth is located at the bottom, on the side of the wheel, and can only be turned manually. This may be difficult for some users, especially people with back or mobility issues, as they will have to bend to make the adjustment. Hence, it may be better to get some extra help for the purpose.
Pros and Cons of Greenworks 27022
Pros
Cons
- KEEP YOUR YARD HEALTHY : dethatch in early spring or early fall for cool-season grasses, and in late spring through early summer (after the 2nd mowing) for warm-season grasses.Speed : 3700 RPM, Motor : 120 V, AC only, 60 Hz, 10 Amps
- POWERFUL MOTOR : 10A motor provides the power you need to tackle the toughest jobs
- 14” DETHATCHING PATH : allows you to complete jobs faster and more efficiently
3. Earthwise DT71613
Powered by a familiar 14-amp motor, the Earthwise DT71613 has quickly become a hit for residential lawn maintenance needs. What’s more, it’s available in a low motor capacity version for smaller lawns.
Product Highlights
First things first, the 13-amp motor has a performance that renders a performance comparable to many heavy-duty gas-powered thatchers. It’s adequately powerful to help the tines pull out layers of dead and dried-up grass without producing any unnecessary noise.
Apart from that, the robust frame has a lightweight design that makes for easy portability. I can push it around on uneven terrains without employing too much force. The 16-inch wide dethatching path also helps aerate the soil, covering more ground with every pass.
It doesn’t miss out on the adjustable cutting depth feature either, as users can set the deck anywhere between -0.4 and 0.4-inch. This helped me detach several layers of matted grass on my lawn without any major issues. And in the absence of any curves or crevices on the body, cleaning it becomes a breeze.
Last but not least, there’s another variant that features a 12-amp motor and has a 12-inch wide dethatching path.
What’s There To Like About It?
What I liked the most is that the brand has paid attention to detail to every aspect of this dethatcher. For instance, the debris bag is designed to have sufficient capacity (10 gallons) and is made from a mesh-like fabric. Hence, I could always keep an eye on it from the above to see if it was time for disposing of the contents.
Other than that, it has as many as 45 spring pins made from zinc-plated piano wires for years of uninterrupted performance.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
I’m not particularly fond of the front wheels on this one, as they tend to get stuck while moving through the grass. That’s why I’d suggest decluttering the thick grass strands or removing any loose debris from the ground before dethatching. And this added effort might annoy some users.
Pros and Cons of Earthwise DT71613
Pros
Cons
- Powerful 13-Amp motor delivers power and performace similar to gas-powered dethatchers; Bail wire switch for safe start every time
- 16" working width for dethatching small to large yards; 40 gallon grass catcher for catching debris quickly and cleanly
- -0.4" to 0.4" working depth for either scratching the surface or reaching the roots of the grass for ultimate dethatching
4. WORX WG850
Before wrapping up this list, let me introduce you to the Worx WG850. Worx is a pretty reliable brand that has been serving the need for garden equipment, and this power tool only adds to that legacy. Sporting a rather simple design, it’s one of the best budget-friendly options on the market.
Product Highlights
Truth be told, I wasn’t totally convinced about the efficiency and longevity of this electric dethatcher at first glance, but I was happy to be proved wrong. At the helm of affairs is a 12-amp motor, which can help you thatch through your lawn without minimum effort.
Besides, the lightweight frame enhances its maneuverability by manifold. In fact, John’s granddaughter could push it around my lawn without any trouble, but of course, under adult supervision.
Similar to some of my other recommendations, this one also has a depth-adjustment mechanism, which lets you pick between three options, viz., -9mm, -3mm, and +3mm. So, be it for deep dethatching or just trimming the grass edges, this unit can take on both.
In addition, you can fold down the handle to make it completely compact for storage in cramped workshops or carrying around in utility trucks. Lastly, the 0.9-bushel collection bag holds enough grass clippings so that users don’t have to dispose of the clippings frequently.
What’s There To Like About It?
For its rather affordable price tag, I was surprised to find an effective safety feature in the form of the lock-off switch. Once pressed, it disengages the engine almost immediately to bring the dethatcher to a complete halt. This will come in especially handy during accidental startups.
Beyond that, the 14-inch wide dethatcher tines provide up to 3,500 RPM tine speed and support three cutting depths. Overall, it offers all the right features and is easy to operate, especially for first-timers.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
I’d have wanted the plastic wheels to be of better quality, as they don’t appear to be very durable for the long run. Moreover, the open design makes them susceptible to catching the grass clippings, which will invariably add to its maintenance time and efforts.
Pros and Cons of WORX WG850
Pros
Cons
- [3 DEPTH ADJUSTMENTS] Set the Dethatcher to minus 9mm, minus 3mm or plus 3mm. Some lawns need deeper dethatching, some just need to be managed
- [EASY TO STORE] The handle folds down so you can throw it in the corner of the garage or the trunk
- [LOCK-OFF SWITCH] Stop quickly when you need to. The lock-off switch also keeps things safe and power efficient
5. ApolloSmart 2-In-1 Walk-Behind Lawn Dethatcher
If you’re on the hunt for a 2-in-1 thatcher-cum scarifier, then this unit from ApolloSmart may fit the bill. Its lightweight yet ergonomic design facilitates professional-grade performance while providing optimum control and comfort for seamless lawn maintenance.
Product Highlights
Much like its predecessor, this unit has a 12-amp all-electric motor, whose output is comparable with the more powerful gas-powered thatchers. I liked how the placement of the motor makes for an overall balanced design, meaning users don’t have to worry about tipping it over.
In addition, the horizontal handlebar is fully padded, so users can hold it either on the sides or middle as convenient. The lever/control switch is located just after the handle to ensure optimum ease of operation. Besides, the low sound output does away with the need for ear mufflers, which I have lost anyway!
The 15-inch wide dethatching path did a good job at removing the dead grass piles from my lawn. Moreover, the removable bag (which collects the grass clippings) remains parallel to the ground throughout. Hence, users don’t have to adjust its position, even when it's full. Finished off with four durable wheels, this unit is especially suitable for first-timers.
What’s There To Like About It?
I was impressed with the 5-position depth adjustment, which lets me customize the cutting depth. Apart from that, the scarifier cylinder comprises spring steel tines, making it work like an aerator for the soil.
Weighing at about 25 pounds, this unit is one of the most lightweight options on the market now. And although I need a little help from my husband to take it in and out of the garage, young users won’t face any issues with its transportation.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
This dethatcher is one of the premium models by the brand, so you may have to spend more to get your hands on these. And for the price point, I’d have really appreciated it if the package came with the right-sized extension cord. Plus, the removable bag doesn't have much capacity.
Pros and Cons of ApolloSmart 2-In-1 Walk-Behind Lawn Dethatcher
Pros
Cons
- PERFORMANCE SPECS - This 2-In-1 Scarifing, Raking and Lawn Dethatcher is powered by a 120V 12-Amp All Electric Motor; Designed with a Adjustable Deck for tailored raking depth with the 5-position depth control mechanism and a rake path of 15" wide
- BUILT TO LAST - Lightweight, ergonomic and balanced design will help you move freely with professional quality and maximum control/comfort; Our Air boost technology with spring Steel tines for maximum thatch pickup and life the endurance
- ECO-FRIENDLY - (Green and Safe), unlike gasoline-powered devices, electric-powered units produce no smog/fumes/emissions and are both gas and exhaust free, while being quieter when compared to gas powered units; Included is a detachable thatch collection bag for easy disposal
Buyers Guide
When John introduced me to the top models out there, I thought it was enough to pick the right one. But after testing the options, I became all the more confused. Trust me- it’s not easy for first-time users to differentiate between similar-looking designs and operations.
That’s when my husband pitched in the idea of preparing a buyer’s guide, where I listed the key factors that eventually helped me pick the best unit. And in the following sections, I’ll share just those with you.
1. Handle And Weight
One of the first things you should consider before buying any hand-operated tool or equipment is its ergonomics. Likewise, in case of an electric dethatcher, you’d want to make sure that the handle provides you with a comfortable yet sturdy grip. Otherwise, maneuvering it will become a daunting task.
Additionally, going for a foldable or partially foldable handle will aid in storage.
Another thing to factor in is the overall weight of your preferred model. If it’s too heavy, you will strain your muscles pushing it around, and if it’s too light, then it may tip over even at the slightest push. In this regard, I’d suggest choosing a unit that weighs between 18 and 25 pounds.
2. Dethatching Path
The dethatching path is the area that the dethatcher can cover in one pass. Most units come with a dethatching path ranging from 12 to 16 inches, although you can find some models offering more or less width.
From what I’ve seen, a dethatcher offering 12 to 14-inch of width is ideal for small to mid-sized lawns. Likewise, the 16-inch models are better for dealing with bigger lawns, but there’s a catch.
If your lawn is narrow, then you’d want to go for a smaller width. Although you may have to conduct multiple rounds, you can rest assured that it will remove all the dead grass patches. So, make sure you do the calculation beforehand.
3. Tines
No matter the number of tines the dethatcher attachment has, they should be made from a solid material, like stainless steel. This will help the equipment cust grass with greater precision without rusting or becoming dull too quickly.
4. Functionality
As you may have already figured out from my recommendations, many electric dethatchers also double as aerators and scarifiers. Beyond that, some models may need a separate scarifier attachment to perform the said function. But in either case, the primary function of the equipment shouldn’t be compromised.
5. Cord Extensions And Locks
While some models come with long cord extensions, others may not provide one at all. But one basic feature that you should look out for is a cord lock, which will keep the cord from getting unplugged during sudden jerks.
If you plan to go for a model with a cord extension, then try to choose one that has a cord holder. This will prevent the cord from getting tangled during maneuvering or storage.
6. Deck/Cutting Depth Adjustments
Your lawn may not always need proper dethatching; sometimes, all you have to do is clip the grass or rake through the strands. And this is why most manufacturers offer a depth adjustment mechanism. Depending on the model you opt for, it may have either three or five adjustments, enabling you to choose one from the available depths.
7. Removal Collector
Most electric dethatchers come with a removal collection bag so that the grass clippings don’t blow into your face or elsewhere during dethatching. However, I have seen that some bags are way too small, thereby filling up quickly and requiring frequent emptying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dethatching should be conducted when there’s an excess buildup of dead grass strands on the lawn, which can hinder the absorption of nutrients and water by the fresh grass. On the other hand, aeration is required if the dead grass layer is too deep, making the soil underneath compact.
You will be able to see the density of the dead grass layer after dethatching, and you can decide on aerating the ground accordingly.
Many experts recommend dethatching the lawn at least once a year, preferably during the spring. This will give you a better chance of removing the unabsorbed nutrients and organic matter accumulated during the winters.
That being said, it’s important to understand the requirements of the type of grass on the lawn to determine the right frequency of dethatching.
The best way to go about the job is using a dry and soft cloth or brush to gently wipe away loose dust and debris from near the engine, wheels, or any other part. But you should go through the manufacturer’s instructions to see if the unit needs any special care. Aside from that, don’t expose it to moist areas.
My Final Recommendation
With that, it’s time for me to conclude this guide.
I hope that my efforts will help you pick the best electric dethatcher that fits your requirements and budget. But before you start with the job, remember to put on adequate protection accessories, like safety goggles, a mask, and gloves. Likewise, avoid wearing loose clothing, as it may get stuck in the moving parts.
Now, coming to my favorite, I went for the Sun Joe AJ805E, which has just the right power and dethatching width for my lawn. And the two-year warranty is a bonus. A close second from me is the Greenworks 27022, which is slightly more affordable and easier to operate for novices.
I’d love to hear about your top picks in the comment section below. See you next time!