That time of year is fast approaching.. It’s time to gather your equipment and get that garden into tip top shape for the Springtime. If you're dreading dusting off your dated lawnmower you might be swayed to upgrade to one of the Stihl iMow robotic lawnmowers after reading what we have to say.

The Stihl iMow effortlessly mows your lawn so you don't have to. This mower provides the ultimate gardening convenience as it consistently maintains a freshly cut lawn every day. The iMow’s quick mowing time completely eliminates manual mowing so you can spend less time maintaining and more time enjoying a fresh green lawn without having to lift a finger.

If that wasn't enough, unlike traditional mowers, the iMow has ZERO emissions, extremely low noise and does not kick up any dirt or dust into the air. The iMow is the future of garden maintenance.

Be the envy of all your neighbourhood with Stihl’s futuristic iMow technology.

Something to consider as a buyer

It is important to know your lawn size and lawn needs when considering a Stihl iMow. Be aware of the size of your garden and compare this to the mowers grass cutting capability. Our range of Stihl iMows are clearly defined on Mower.ie according to the lawn sizes the mower is suited to cut. Here at ISE Forest and Garden we stock three variations of the iMow RMI 422 and four variations of the iMow RMI 632 so you can be sure to find the perfect fit to suit your needs.

The iMow has an innovative perimeter setting which means you can rest assured that your mower will not stray from your garden.

How does the Stihl iMow robotic mower work?

1. Installation

The Stihl iMow is completely self-sufficient once it is installed so this is a crucial step and must be done correctly. The first step is layering or burying an extremely thin wire around the perimeter of your garden and around any obstructions which will block a smooth path for the iMow to follow.

These obstacles may include things like:

• Trees
• Flower beds
• Garden furniture
• Garden sheds
• Hedges
• Water features

If the iMow comes into contact with any of these obstacles the high performance sensors will automatically pick up this interaction and move away in another direction.

A Top Tip from our experts: When the guide wires are set in place you can then use the edge mowing option to perfect the robotic mowing process and get a clean cut in all areas.

2.Dynamic mowing plan

The iMow showcases Stihl’s innovative technology in it’s Dynamic mowing plan. This uses an algorithm-based mowing pattern to programme the mower to mow your garden at a time which best suits you. The Dynamic mowing plan feature allows the iMow to be set to maintain your lawn at a time when you are not using your garden.

The timing mechanism is also ideal for multitasking as the Stihl iMow can be programmed to begin mowing at a specific time, providing you with the flexibility to have your grass cut while you’re busy getting another job ticked off your list.

The Stihl iMow robotic mower can be completely tailored to your needs with just the click of a button.

3.Weatherproof docking station

A high quality lithium ion battery allows the iMow to self operate. The iMow is completely self sufficient as it even operates on an intelligent charging system. The mower can go out, mow the lawn perfectly and when the battery level is low the mower will automatically become aware and always have enough charge left to return itself to the weatherproof docking station where it will recharge without needing any assistance. This will also happen in the rain if your iMow is programmed to do so.

This intelligent charging system allows the iMow to decide whether to charge in quick charge mode or slow charge mode in accordance with the next mowing plan.

Differences between models

There are a number of Stihl iMow models available and an option for all types of gardens from smaller gardens to larger gardens of up to 5000m2. The Stihl iMow RMI 422 models are ideal for mowing of areas up to 1700m2 while the larger Stihl iMow RMI 632 range is suited to areas up to 5000m2.

Stihl have differentiated the cutting capabilities of the different models by the creation of different brushless motors. The batteries of these models also generate different amounts of power. These key differences take into account the size of the area to be mowed and the length of charge that will be needed to perform this task.

The RMI 632 has a removable keypad making the programming process much easier. The user can even remove the keypad and use the manual mowing mode on any spots that the mower hasn't quite hit to the user’s desire.

Safety

The Stihl iMow has many interesting safety features which protect both the mower and those who come into contact with the machine. Sensors inform the machine when it is coming into contact with anything other than a guide wire such as a person, animal or object. These sensors also alert the users to any operating issues such as loose wires, overheating or technical errors.

If someone attempts to pick up the mower, the mower blades will automatically shut off and the machine will attempt to drive 10-15ft away prior to the blades begining to turn once again. This safety feature also ensures the safety of any unexpected visitors.

A Top Tip from our experts: We often recommend that our customers programme their iMow mowers to operate while the garden is free. It is always best to ensure children and animals are not present and that everyone in the home KEEP OFF THE GRASS! Let your iMow work in peace.

Security

Some variations of the iMow have a built in GPS system such as the RMI PC 422, the RMI 632 C and the RMI 632 PC. Others operate on a PIN system which is integrated into the hardwear to help to prevent theft. This is a security lock which allows access to the keypad menu. If this feature is enabled there is no way around it so you must remember your iMow PIN.

The iMow can also be programmed in a way so that if the machine is physically removed from the mowing zone the iMow will lock itself and sound an alarm alerting the owner of a possible theft.

Mulching system

Stihl has designed this robotic mower as a mulching mower. As a result the user will never have to worry about emptying a grass box again.

As the iMow moves through the mowing zone it cuts the grass into small clippings and deposits it back onto the grass where it decomposes to act as a natural fertilizer full of rich nutrients to keep your lawn green and healthy.

The mulching blade is a high quality solid steel blade in comparison to the smaller razor blades in the Husqvarna. This allows the Stihl blades to stay extremely sharp and stand the test of time. Every time the iMow stops mowing, the blades reverse direction for a more even wear of the steel. When the blade eventually needs replacing it can be done quickly and without use of tools.

Incline & uneven surfaces

If you are apprehensive because you don't have a perfectly flat garden, do not worry because Stihl have developed features which allow the iMow to cater to every garden’s needs.

IMows are fitted with gradient sensors to help them adapt to slopes and adjust their speed accordingly. This Adaptive slope speed technology allows the iMow to handle up to 45% inclines and create an even cut across all areas of the mowing zone. The iMow will mow at a slower pace when moving across areas of rough terrain.

The App

The Stihl RMI 632 PC iMow and the Stihl RMI 422 PC iMow can be controlled remotely via the iMow app. This gives the user flexibility to change future mowing patterns from their mobile.

The Stihl iMow app is free to use and will even check future weather forecasts in order to adjust the upcoming mowing plan if it is likely to rain. The app allows the user to avoid mowing during the rain, however, your iMow will make up this time at a later date. That being said, the iMow is perfectly capable of cutting wet grass, this simply requires more power so the iMow will have to return to the docking station to recharge.

If you think your lawn is not being mowed as much as you would like in certain areas of your garden the iMow app will allow you to customise the mowing plan to care for one mowing zone more frequently than others.

A word from the ISE team

Here at ISE Forest and Garden we care about the safety of each and every one of our customers. We ask our customers to always be aware of the safety features of your Stihl iMow robotic mower. As always the team here at ISE Forest and Garden are here to help. We include a free set up pack which includes 250m of boundary cable and 200 cable fixing pegs and everything else you need to set up. Also, the iMow is extremely quiet and can be set to mow at night.

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