★ Independently researched & tier-ranked — no paid placements · Updated October 2026
Home › Lawn Mowers › How to Set Up and First-Time Use of the EGO LM2135SP: A Practical Guide
Lawn Mowers

How to Set Up and First-Time Use of the EGO LM2135SP: A Practical Guide

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. We may earn a commission if you buy through our links, at no extra cost to you.

The short answer: Setting up the EGO LM2135SP is straightforward: unpack, attach the handle, insert the battery, charge it fully, adjust the cutting height, and you’re ready to mow. For the best first experience, read the manual, check the battery charge, and start on a flat area to get a feel for the self-propelled drive.

Unboxing and Assembly: What to Expect

When your EGO LM2135SP arrives, the box contains the mower deck, the upper and lower handle sections, a grass bag (if included), and the battery and charger. Assembly is minimal. You’ll need a Phillips screwdriver and maybe a wrench, but most parts snap or bolt together quickly.

Start by attaching the lower handle to the mower deck. Align the holes and insert the bolts, then tighten with the provided knobs or screws. Next, attach the upper handle to the lower section, again using the quick-release knobs. Ensure the handle is firmly locked before moving on. If you have the self-propelled model, the drive cable is pre-attached, so you don’t need to fuss with cables.

Finally, attach the grass bag by hooking it onto the rear bracket. Make sure it clicks into place. If you plan to mulch, you can leave the bag off and insert the mulching plug (if included).

Battery First: Charge and Insert Correctly

The EGO LM2135SP runs on a 56V ARC lithium battery. Before first use, you must charge it fully. Plug the charger into a wall outlet, then slide the battery onto the charger until it clicks. The LED indicators will show charging progress. A full charge can take around 50 minutes for a 5.0Ah battery, but it varies. Do not use the mower until the battery is at 100% to ensure maximum runtime and battery health.

To insert the battery, locate the battery compartment at the rear of the mower. Push the battery down until it clicks. To remove, press the release button and lift. Always store the battery indoors, away from extreme temperatures.

Pro tip: For the first few charges, don’t let the battery completely drain. Charge it when it’s down to 20-30% to prolong its life.

Adjusting Cutting Height and Starting the Mower

The LM2135SP has a single lever to adjust cutting height, typically ranging from 1.5 to 4 inches. Before starting, set the height to your desired grass length. If you’re mowing a new lawn, start higher (around 3 inches) and lower gradually. To adjust, pull the lever outward and slide it to the number you want. Ensure it locks in place.

To start the mower, insert the safety key (if your model has one) and press and hold the start button. For self-propelled models, you’ll also see a drive lever. Squeeze it to engage the wheels. The mower will start instantly, no priming or pulling cords. If it doesn’t start, check that the battery is fully charged and the safety key is inserted properly.

When mowing, start on a flat, dry area. Push the mower at a comfortable pace. The self-propelled system reduces effort, but you can push it without engaging the drive if you prefer.

Self-Propelled Drive: Getting the Hang of It

The self-propelled feature on the LM2135SP is variable speed, controlled by how far you squeeze the drive lever. Squeeze gently for a slow walk, press harder for a faster pace. On your first use, practice on a flat surface to get a feel for the speed. Remember, the drive only engages when you squeeze the lever, so you can push it manually if you need to maneuver in tight spots.

If the mower seems to jerk or is too fast, ease off the lever. Also, note that the drive works best on level ground; on hills, you may need to push manually. Always be cautious when mowing slopes: go across slopes, not up and down, to avoid slipping.

Mowing Tips for a Great First Cut

For the first time, mow a small section to gauge the battery and cutting performance. Keep the grass dry (mow in the afternoon after dew has dried). Overlap each pass slightly to avoid stripes. If you’re bagging, empty the bag when it’s about three-quarters full to prevent clogging.

If you notice the mower leaving clumps, the grass may be too tall or wet. Raise the cutting height and slow down. Also, ensure the blade is sharp. The LM2135SP comes with a durable steel blade, but it will dull over time. Check the underside of the deck after each use and clean off grass clippings to prevent rust.

Battery runtime is typically 30-45 minutes depending on conditions. For a large lawn, you might need a second battery. Keep the battery out of the sun while charging, and store it indoors.

Maintenance and Safety for Longevity

After each use, wipe down the mower with a damp cloth. Remove the battery before any cleaning or maintenance. Check the blade periodically for damage and sharpen it once a season. You can also tilt the mower on its side to clean the deck, but never do this while the battery is installed.

Store the mower in a dry place, ideally with the battery removed. For winter storage, charge the battery to about 50% and store it in a cool, dry location. Avoid extreme cold, as it can damage the cells.

Safety-wise, always wear closed-toe shoes and eye protection. Keep hands and feet away from the blade when the mower is on. If you hit an object, stop the mower, remove the battery, and inspect for damage.

Frequently asked questions

How long does the battery last on a full charge?

On average, you can expect 30 to 45 minutes of mowing with a 5.0Ah battery, depending on grass thickness and speed. If you have a larger yard, consider purchasing a second battery or a higher capacity one (like 7.5Ah) for extended runtime.

Can I use the mower without the grass bag?

Yes, you can use the side discharge or mulching option. If your model includes a mulching plug, insert it into the rear chute and close the cover. For side discharge, attach the chute. Always use one of these options to prevent debris from flying.

Why does the self-propelled drive not engage?

First, check that the battery is fully charged and properly inserted. Also, ensure the drive lever is fully squeezed. If it still doesn’t work, the drive cable might be loose. Consult the manual for cable adjustment. In most cases, it’s a simple fix.

For more in-depth comparisons of lawn mowers, including the EGO LM2135SP, you can refer to our best lawn mowers buying guide for honest insights.

How we rank

We don't accept free units or payment for placement. Our rankings combine verified manufacturer specifications, real owner feedback and availability, compared on one transparent S to C rubric.

Honesty note: We have not hands-on tested every product mentioned on this page. Where we have not personally used a product, any ranking referenced here is based on verified specs, aggregated owner feedback, availability and editorial comparison rather than a hands-on review.

Research-based comparison
Manufacturer specs & owner feedback
One transparent S–C rubric
Independently researched, no paid placements

Keep readingContinue the research

Update log

  • - Editorial and on-page review.
  • - Guide first published.