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Which mower is right for me?
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Which mower is right for me?
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Robot lawn mowers have quickly become a staple in modern garden care. Offering a hands-free way to keep lawns perfectly trimmed, these smart machines save time, reduce manual labour, and deliver consistent, professional-looking results. With advanced navigation systems, wire-free setup, and app-based control, it’s no surprise they’re growing in popularity across the UK.
However, with rising demand comes a growing concern: theft. These sleek, high-value machines are often left unattended in gardens for hours at a time, making them an increasingly attractive target for opportunistic thieves. As their presence becomes more widespread, so too does the need to think seriously about security.
Protecting your investment means going beyond simply trusting your fence or hiding your mower in the shed. True peace of mind comes from a two-pronged approach: making full use of the built-in security features provided by manufacturers like Segway Navimow, and combining these with smart, everyday practices that discourage theft and increase your chances of recovery if the worst happens.
Robot mowers may look sleek and unassuming, but beneath the shell lies a sophisticated network of security features designed to deter theft and support recovery if stolen. Leading brands like Segway Navimow have developed layered, intelligent systems that combine prevention with traceability. Understanding these technologies not only helps you appreciate what your mower can do, but also ensures you’re making the most of its built-in protections.
Description: This is the most basic line of defence, but one of the most important. A unique PIN is required to start the mower, access key functions, or change critical settings.
How it works: If the wrong code is entered too many times, the mower locks down, rendering it inoperable. Without the correct PIN, even a stolen unit becomes nothing more than a high-tech paperweight.
Owner Action Callout: Remember your PIN! Never share it unnecessarily, and always change the default PIN after purchase.
Description: When someone attempts to lift, tilt, or move the mower without proper authorisation, a built-in alarm sounds.
How it works: This high-decibel alert draws immediate attention and acts as a strong deterrent to thieves attempting a quick grab-and-go.
Owner Action Callout: Double-check that your mower’s alarm system is enabled via the settings in your app or control panel.
Description: Real-time location tracking allows you to know where your mower is at any moment, all from your smartphone.
How it works: Integrated GPS chips send live coordinates to your mower’s companion app, which you can use to locate and report stolen equipment.
Owner Action Callout: Register your mower with the GPS tracking service provided by the manufacturer, and get comfortable using the app’s location features.
Description: Virtual perimeter zones that your mower should never leave.
How it works: If the mower exits your pre-set boundaries, you receive an immediate alert. In some cases, this may trigger a shutdown or increase tracking frequency.
Owner Action Callout: Set up geofences as part of your initial installation, and confirm your phone is receiving push notifications from the app.
Description: Mowers are tied to their registered owner through a unique serial number or product ID.
How it works: If a unit is reported stolen, it can be blacklisted—preventing updates, servicing, or resale through official channels. Some brands may also assist law enforcement in recovery.
Owner Action Callout: Always register your mower upon purchase, and keep a record of your serial number for future reference.
Description: Many robotic mowers are electronically linked to their specific charging base.
How it works: The mower cannot charge or function unless paired with its original docking station. This makes resale far less attractive to would-be thieves.
Owner Action Callout: Understand whether your model has this feature, especially if moving the mower between locations or upgrading parts.
Description: These sensors detect sudden changes in angle or height.
How it works: Any unauthorised lifting or significant tilting will activate the alarm system and, in many cases, lock the device until a PIN is entered.
Owner Action Callout: Know how these sensors work, so you can confidently leave the mower unattended without worry.
Description: Your mobile app isn’t just for mowing schedules—it’s a complete control hub for security too.
How it works: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or 4G connectivity allows the app to receive theft alerts, push software updates, adjust security settings, and monitor your mower remotely.
Owner Action Callout: Check your app regularly for notifications and software updates, and ensure your wireless connection is stable and secure.
Description: Some models, such as the Navimow X3 Series, offer dedicated compartments for Apple AirTags or similar devices.
How it works: These trackers use vast crowdsourced networks to provide location updates, even if the mower’s onboard systems are disabled.
Owner Action Callout: Consider adding a tracker if your mower supports it, particularly if you live in an area with higher theft risk or limited mobile signal.
While manufacturers have gone to great lengths to build robust security technology into robot mowers, no system is completely foolproof on its own. As the owner, there’s a lot you can do to reinforce those digital defences with real-world, proactive measures. Think of it as common sense meets smart prevention: small habits and adjustments that significantly reduce your mower’s risk of being targeted.
Position your charging station somewhere that’s not immediately visible from the street or public footpaths. Avoid placing it in open front gardens or near property boundaries.
This is one of the most important steps you can take. When your mower isn’t in active use—particularly overnight, while on holiday, or during the off-season—bring it indoors. A locked garage, shed, or a purpose-built secure storage box will protect it from both thieves and the elements.
While you want to keep your mower out of sight from potential thieves, you should always be able to see it when it’s working. A clear line of sight from your home allows you to monitor it casually throughout the day.
A well-fenced garden with lockable gates is your first physical line of defence. It doesn’t just keep intruders out—it also stops opportunists from quickly accessing and removing your mower.
Most thieves look for speed and ease. Bolting or screwing your charging base to the ground makes a quick getaway far more difficult and can act as a strong deterrent.
Where possible, use a heavy-duty chain or cable lock to secure your mower to a fixed object—especially overnight or during downtime. Some owners use ground anchors or wall-mounted brackets to reduce portability.
Invest in a purpose-built, lockable shelter. Not only do these protect your mower from weather damage, they also add a significant physical barrier for any would-be thief. Choose models with strong materials and concealed entry points.
Install visible CCTV cameras that cover your garden and mower area. Motion-activated recording with smartphone alerts ensures you’re notified instantly of any unusual activity—even when you’re not at home.
Thieves hate being seen. Bright, automatic lighting around your garden makes it much harder for someone to move unnoticed at night.
Extend your alarm coverage to include outdoor access points. If your garden gates or garage are opened unexpectedly, you’ll know about it right away.
Change the default PIN immediately after setup, and update it regularly. Avoid common or easily guessed numbers.
Some features, like alarms or geofencing, might not be enabled by default. Dive into your mower’s app and make sure every relevant setting is turned on.
Not all home insurance policies automatically cover garden machinery. Contact your provider and ensure your robot mower is explicitly listed as an insured item, especially if it’s a high-value model.
While robot mowers are a badge of smart-home pride, resist the temptation to showcase them from the street. Keep them out of obvious sight, and don’t leave product packaging or branded accessories visible outdoors.
Tell your neighbours about your robot mower—especially those with a clear view of your property. Neighbourhood watch groups can be surprisingly effective in spotting and reporting suspicious activity.
If your mower is stolen, report it to the police straight away, then notify the manufacturer and your insurance provider. Supply all relevant information: serial numbers, model, last known GPS location, and any photos you have. Prompt action greatly improves the chances of recovery.
Robot mowers like the Segway Navimow range are powerful, intelligent tools that transform the way we maintain our gardens—but they also represent a significant investment. With thefts on the rise, it’s never been more important to take action and secure your mower using both the technology at your fingertips and common-sense practices around your home.
Segway has equipped each Navimow series with thoughtful, model-specific security features to help you stay in control:
Navimow i Series: Designed for smaller gardens, the i Series supports real-time app alerts and offers an optional 4G Access+ module. This means you can receive instant notifications if your mower is moved or goes offline—even when you’re away from home.
Navimow H Series: Built with the robust EFLS positioning system, the H Series enables live tracking via the Navimow app, allowing you to pinpoint your mower’s location at any time. Combined with tamper detection and app alerts, it forms a strong first line of defence.
Navimow X3 Series: For large, complex gardens, the X3 goes even further. It includes an advanced theft alarm system, built-in GPS tracking, and even a dedicated item tracker slot so you can add an AirTag or other tracking device for enhanced recovery options.
But no technology is complete without your support. Simple actions—like bringing your mower indoors overnight, securing gates, anchoring the charging station, or enabling all app-based features—create multiple barriers that make your mower a far less appealing target.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Take the time now to review your mower’s security settings, implement physical protections, and build smart habits that safeguard your investment for years to come.
Ready to take control? Explore Segway Navimow’s full range of security-focused robotic mowers at UKNavimow.com, and make peace of mind part of your garden routine.