I have seen where a couple of people use it every spring and fall, and another lawn guy who uses it every month or so. Any suggestions on using it two to four times a year? I am purchasing the newer electric model this weekend and plan to use it on my zoysia lawn as soon as I get it. I have not dethatched my lawn in years because I always bag my grass, but I am starting to see where I still have thatch building up.
How about I offer facts vs recommendations? You ok with this? First, thatch is NOT dead grass clippings. If grass clippings are above 1/4” that is not “mulch” but rather just dead grass, that will hot be easy for your soil microbes to break down (if you can’t get the clippings smaller then 1/4” bagging is best, even tho your taking your nutrients to the trash). You hinted to this, and I wanted to help others who might think real mulch will make thatch, it simply doesn’t. Improper sided grass clippings will, but that’s not mulching. Now over to your question. How often? So, is a thatch layer bad? NO, it’s actually super healthy for grass, soil and soil microbes. Helps retain moisture, give your grass a nutrient layer and microbes a home to feed to feed your grass. Why so people remove thatch? One, they misunderstand what it is and what it does. Two, it’s above 1/2” and actually choking out your soil and grass, killing the grass. Couple more reasons but way more advanced lol. Times to dethatch? Spring or fall for cool season grasses, early summer for warm season grasses which as zoysia. What happens if you dethatch outside these times? A thatch rake or machine is very aggressive on your lawn, and stresses it out. Can you do it on lower settings, yes but your pulling less thatch as it’s higher up vs closer to the soil, where thatch resides. Can you do it any time, once again, yes, but you will stress the grass and if it’s slowed down due to heat or cold ( for warm season grasses), it will have a harder time recovering. Extra water and nutrients assist it rebound. Who minimizes their thatch layer or doesn’t want organic debris in their lawns? Golf course greens, this is why they sand or too dress their greens frequently during the year. They don’t want any thatch, as effect the balls reaction/roll/ or play. They compensate by weekly feedings, frequent mowings and nutrients to keep it fed and happy. Do you ever have to dethatch? Some lawns aren’t stressed and can break down grass blades that naturally die by them selfs, thus never getting above 1/2” of thatch. They can get away with never dethatching. If you have environmental stresses on your lawn like high foot traffic; excessive heat/cold, watering issues, over watering, over fertilization, etc. it could build above 1/2” and needs to be removed. So, why do I see so many recommendations on removal? Now we are back to your question; how often should you do it? Who do you want to be? Does it need it? Can you address the cause of the thatch layer, fixing that, thus making you not have to dethatch frequently? I’ll help you make a decision, by all means, but I think after giving you a little knowledge, it might help you as well! Let me know!
Absolutely a fabulous video. I have never seen anything like this doing a comparison of different models of SunJoe dethatching machines and have never seen anything so thorough for comparison testing for anything for that matter! I never buy mechanical products without reading reviews and looking at video presentations if available. I have been an avid flower and shrub gardener for over 60 years and also fuss with lawn perfection, leaving the usual weekly maintenance up to my landscapers. I have gotten my lawn to about 99% tall fescue ( which is beautiful) in the front of my house and KBG/ Perennial Rye in the back. The front lawn gets a lot of thatch which I clear with the Greenskeeper dethatching rake, but is getting very labor intensive. From what I have read about thatch, I think I've been giving it more water than it needs. The KBG lawn is no problem. I now probe areas of my lawns with a moisture gauge and there are differences. So I have reprogrammed my smart irrigation panel . Keep up the great work and thank you so much!
I'm not sure that the life of the battery is much of an issue. Because like you said, the bag doesn't hold a lot of thatch - which means that you're going to end up having to mow the thatched grass up anyway. So you might as well thatch until the battery runs out, put the batteries on the charger while you mow up the thatch up with the lawn mower and by the time you're finished, the batteries should have enough of a charge to thatch the remainder of the lawn (depending on the size of the lawn of course). So yeah....unless by some miracle Ego comes out with a dethatcher between now and the time Sun Joe has that battery-powered one back in stock, I could see myself choosing the Sun Joe battery powered one over the other 2. Thanks for taking the time to show us what's what!
When you over seed use a wear tolerant grass, I’d get a soil test and see what nutrients your lawn needs, and feed this… (potassium is awesome to assist with this). Can you rotate sides of use to give grass a break (I understand if this is no). These are a start, but if you need help feel free to reach out on dm on instagram @thegreenerlawn or email JeremyofTheGreenerLawn@gmail.com
The original models works wonderfully. I bought the aj-801e last summer, and have used it again this summer. It works wonderfully well, if u want to spend the extra money and get other models then go ahead but the difference is minor. There was a comparison done between sunjoe original dethatcher+scarifier compared to two other brands and this one and it outdid them in every aspect. So don’t get hung up on the minor differences. I am loving my aj801-e 2 years in a row and it did not disappoint at all.
So…. If I’m being completely honest, without any bias, recommended setting for recommended settings, it gets mopped up (the other two pull more, with out going against manufacturers recommendations, easily). No punches pulled here, it is what it is. Not discrediting you at all, especially the sunjoe vs the green works, OOOOOF NO CONTEST. 💯 agree with you here! I have that Dethatcher as well, and it’s not in the ballpark at all. But difference is minor, no, sorry, it isn’t. AJ805E pulled more on the 0 setting (files.snowjoe.com/product-manuals/AJ805E%20MANUAL-combined.pdf page 9) on one pass, and had a bigger swath, completing the task quicker. The battery can be set on -10 with the Dethatcher setting (files.snowjoe.com/product-manuals/24V-X2-DTS15_MANUAL_M_09032020_FINAL.pdf page 12) so it at recommended allowable settings would mop the floor with the other two on pull (with obvious other shortcomings). Minor differences, not if your using it on recommended settings. And the saving is $20 bucks or $90. $160= 801E snowjoe.com/products/sun-joe-13-inch-12-amp-electric-scarifier-lawn-dethatcher-w-collection-bag/ $180- 805E snowjoe.com/products/sun-joe-aj805e-electric-lawn-dethatcher-w-collection-bag-15-inch-13-amp-scarifier $250- Battery snowjoe.com/products/sun-joe-24v-x2-dts-scarifier-and-dethatcher-w-2-24v-batteries-and-dual-port-charger-5-depth-positions-14-inch-brushless-motor BUT with this all said, if you can find one for $120 (def not worth it at $150, only $20 cheaper IMO), and your willing to make multi passes on 0 OR go out side of recommended settings (as I do, and it’s in a previous video), the yea, this one isn’t bad at all, and will def hang with the others. Will this one work? YES, as you noted and I 100 agree. Does it compete with the other two, honestly no, the other two beat it ( I so badly wanted this one to win, cause I hate justifying “more money”.) This or another companies Dethatcher (greenworks etc) ohhh THE 801E ALL DAY LONG!! Thank you for your input!
@@TheGreenerLawn Thank you for your detailed reply. I was just saying how much i love my original dethatcher, however you are right the other 2 beat it. For me 801 e is working great. I agree with your research 100% 🔥 Thank you for your dedication to the lawn and great videos and appreciate the reply.
@@TheGreenerLawn i just got the original for $40....i had the 15"on order for 3 months before giving up and going to the Facebook marketplace where i managed to get a deal.
They finally have the battery one in stock. I just bought it and will give it a go in spring. I have this one area that kept growing moss and would take over the grass. I have pruned the tree there to try and open up some sunlight. I plan to use the scarifier there along with some top soil and will try a dense shade grass seed there. I'm hoping it works. I have another set of 24v batteries I can use.
That will def help your problem, those are solid steps. I would have a chemical means on standby or even jump start it something like: amzn.to/3AyAmZX Please let me know how it goes! I want to know!!
@@TheGreenerLawn Thanks, I normally put on the Scotts Turf builder in early spring and then over seed in late spring. I thought about maybe trying the Scotts turf builder with moss control instead as an idea. I'll take a look at the BioAdvanced 704710B Moss and Algae Killer as well.
@@t.j.schmidt9877 moss can be hit or miss with certain algae’s. That IS a better move then reg Scott’s for sure though, so your venturing down the correct path.
@@TheGreenerLawn Just an update, it's been almost three weeks since I started the back yard. I've been watering for 10 minutes three times a day using a four zone timer and the grass is coming in great, even in the areas that had shade and moss. Previously there were some places where puddles of water would form and now it drains really well.
@@t.j.schmidt9877 love it! Well done! Thank you for the update! I’d love to see your progress if you want to send pics to JeremyofTheGreenerLawn@gmail.com 😁
Are you the same guy that does the "you can beat video games videos?" The voice and inflection are identical.... Thank you for the lawn tips and helping me finally beat Castlevania 2!
Just a heads up, I’m sure you’ve seen it by now but people have used bungie cords and other various ways to keep the door propped while using the machine to improve performance and prevent clogging and buildup
I love my 15" Sun Joe, just ran it this last Sunday cleaning up the lawn for winter. One thing to remind people is make sure that they get an extension cord rated for a 15amp machine. Can't stand the battery tech. Too much of a pain in the ass and limiting. If you want environmentally friendly plug in is WAY better than battery. Plus, more power and consistent power.
Ideal is when temps are below 80. But if it’s going to cause other issues, do it lighter to solve some of the issues. Are you worried about debris and thatch (that can harbor fungus) , or it’s so thick it can’t adequately dry and breath (allowing for fungus)? That will be the difference between Scarifier and Dethatcher.
@@kbgking7921 Scarifier is your friend in this situation! And doing it when it’s cooler and giving a little extra water (so it doesn’t struggle right after wards) will help ya out to breath, and not have fungal issues.
Each grass type has recommends for height. Then it comes to your wants and dedication to your height you choose. For detaching (like this video), below 2” is ideal, less blades to get in the way off the machine, so less damage to good grass.
I have just under 40,000 square foot lawn, are these just too small to use on my lawn? Do you think after a couple of uses on that much square footage, will it kill one?
Honestly I think it would kill you. Oof that would be a lot of work with one of these. With that much land, if you didn’t break up it to chunks, it would take a long time. Ones with extension cords are only rated up to 100 ft, and the battery one only goes for around 2300 sqft. They really are too small for what you would be looking for IMO. If you want to break it up and have plugs around your property what would allow for you to hit everywhere with a cord, I’d go with the 15”. Just so you know, it took me 45 min to do 9600 sqft.
@@TheGreenerLawn Yeah, I figured I'd go with the chorded on (100 ft) and plug it into my Honda generator to get it to reach out to the back half. I wish they made a bigger one that was gas and wasn't so dang expensive! LOL
Ohh completely different uses. I’d you have the need to thin over grown healthy gras then you use the scarifier. If you need to remove thatch (dead material laying on top of the ground) you get a dethatcher. Finally if you want to get rid of dead grass from winter that is mixed upright with your good grass, a power rake is your go to. Now march the machines with your need.
It looked like the scarifier on the cordless unit had less teeth, probably to reduce the workload/runtime on the batteries. Would you have to double the number of passes with the cordless in scarifier mode to equal a single pass with a corded model?
Also, your which is better the scarifier or detaching b4 over seeding , and that answer is dethatching. It will remove way more material, if you are needing to scarify (removal of grass plant as it’s choking it’s self out), you don’t want to crowd the plant with more seed plants as it’s already over crowded.
@@TheGreenerLawn Are you trying to say that you should only use the scarifier for thinning out a lawn that is too thick? OK, I just thought that the scarifier would dig into the ground a bit more (like a slit seeder), which is said to be the best tool to use before overseeding, regardless of the lawn thickness. It would promote more seed-to-soil contact, no?
@@mellowjammer If you are choosing one, between dethatching and scarifying, getting material out is 💯 number one. If you don’t have much of a thatch layer, then loosening the soil is a good thing. This isn’t a slit seeder. It does semi function like one, your correct, but it will not dig as consistent and drop seed in those trails for you like a slitseeder. Your going to broadcast it, and if it lands on a thatch layer it will not grow. But if you pull that thatch layer, and toss it grows everywhere not just in 1.5” apart trenches, it Will kinda pull… reason I say that, slit seeders are wayyyy heavier and can get into the ground so much better and drop seed where it needs it. This would pull a semi trench, pulling g more grass vs a good over seed. Clearing the thatch layer will give seed to soil contact every where as their fines are 1/4-1/2 apart and meant to pull thatch vs dig roots of grass. Long explanation sorry, but do you get why?
I’m trying to decide between the battery and the 15 inch electric. I live in southern Arizona and only have about 1000 ft.² of Bermuda grass, if you were me which one would you choose?
Hands down for 1000 sqft, battery. If $ is at all the issue, I wouldn’t hesitate the 15” tho! But on your patch, for the ease and size, you will be more then pleased with the battery.
After watching this video, I have come to the conclusion that they all certainly beat the old school rake😂 If I had to pick though, I'd take the 15". Overall, you wouldn't have to worry about the battery running out, which 5,000 square feet double passed would drain it. But overall all good machines, and all do the job well
@@smallengines1018 I'd be ok with that as I'm looking at helping out some elderly neighbours with their lawns and could use a cordless version but I agree that the diy market would not likely support the price point ...my guess is that if they were to do it it'd be targeted at commerical use (similar to the new 60v commercial mower) which would likely raise the price even higher.
I'm not sure that the life of the battery is much of an issue. Since we most likely wouldn't use the bag, it would make sense to just thatch until the battery runs out, put the batteries on the charger while you mow up the thatched grass with the lawn mower and by the time you're finished doing that, the batteries should have enough of a charge to thatch the remainder of the lawn (depending on the size of the lawn of course). So that eliminates problem with the shorter battery life. You're good!
@@MakeWay4CJ Depends how big your lawn is I guess. I have a half acre and use a lawn tractor; when I used to use a push mower w/ bagger before I got the tractor it used to take me 2-3 hours to finish it all. Using a battery dethatcher that only lasts 20 min - will take me 5-10 min to pick it up with the tractor...seriously doubt the battery will charge much in that amount of time. Don't think it'd be realistic to dethatch that much using a battery.
@@TheGreenerLawn Sitting next to me is a new 805E 153.00 with IL 7.5 tax and a further reduction -5% cashback on Amazon store card 😀. I like the flexibility of the battery model but probably not well suited to this application. I have a few now Ego products which are serving me well. Just getting started with renovating my lawn. New to this but in time with help on the topic from channels like yours it should be simpler. I did use Pennington's lawn booster seed to repair areas in the front this spring, I'm going to tackle the backyard in the fall. Thanks for the reply.
@@curiosity2314love it! 805 is a solid machine. It def holds it own and is the one that is currently in my garage… still 🤣. Glad to assist any way in journey, feel free hit me up!
As an owner, my advice is to buy an extra belt with your order. I got 3 seasons out of mine before the belt broke. For the price i paid, i felt like i got 2 bonus years out of the thing.
I didn’t actually notice any power loss in any parts, it was able to tackle deep down thatch with ease. But directly do unknown if it’s a bigger motor, no I don’t. I’d assume they put something larger in there to compensate for weight and mass movement differences as in notice no power loss.
@The Greener Lawn I was just looking at these machines online and the original unit 12" has a 12amp motor and the 15" has a 13amp motor. I just purchased a brand new 15" unit online for $124.00 and free shipping. I couldn't believe I found one with that good of price. Home Depot is $149.00. Thanks for the video
@@JeffJohnson-1982 no problem! Thank you for the info on them! I knew it didn’t seem underpowered lol! When you get that steal of a machine let me know how you like it!
Apples and oranges comparison. They are not meant to be compared as such. Choose one and use whatever setting is appropriate. A larger platform will dethatch quicker. I.e. less passes.A battery powered one will be heavier and therefore be lower, all other things equal. So many other factors to consider. Battery is convenient and cord can get really heavy on a large lawn, especially if you are using proper gauge.
And thus, a video showing people how they are compared to each other so they can choose, right? So THEY can make their decision on what suits them? Not apples to orange, it’s a line of products and 42,000 folks have wanted to know what machines suits them.
@@TheGreenerLawn sure, OK. I was just saying it's more like comparing a e-LexusRX to a Corolla and a Landcruiser. They are completely different in so many ways yet ultimately are intended as a means of transportation. Can't really say one is better as it depends on your individual circumstances and requirements. I.e. off road vs highway, for example. Thanks for your time and effort putting this together. I love the passion in what you do.
Great comparison!! I'm looking at getting the 15 inch. I live in northern Minnesota and dethatch with an Arnold power rake on my mower every spring. I know that isn't as effective, but this fall should I dethatch or scarify or both?
Two different purposes here: Scarifier: gras has gotten so thick and you want to remove small rows at the root level to allow heathy regrowth of the grass, so it doesn’t choke it’s self out. Another good use is when someone over seeds as it breaks up the soil for better seed to soil contact. Dethatcher: build up of thatch above 1/2” that is comthing the soil not allowing the soil to breathe, nor the crowns of the grass plant. If you have both issues both are fine, but most people fall into th Dethatching at first, then hit the scarifying.
Lightweight is good and what did I use it for it’s a lawnmower th-cam.com/users/postUgkxTPN04aT-Qdjr_KS3ql7ng8wnU3wwsCqk also recommend Yes it is lightweight so hence not as robust as our old one. But if you take care it does the job really well.
Thank you Jeremy for the review! After many months being on back order, I'll be receiving my AJ805E today. My concerns have to do with the early fall timing as we go into winter...irrigation water has already been shut off here in Idaho for 1 week, so I'll have to rely on Mother Nature for moisture. Do you have an opinion on whether I should wait for rain in the forecast for my initial dethatch or just go ahead anyway when temps are closer to 70 since the lawn is going into winter dormancy anyway?? Also...I'm thinking of scarfiring now (fall) instead of waiting for spring where the ground might still be frozen (too hard) in March/April to use the scarfire effectively (mostly for aeration). Any feedback you might have on this would be highly appreciated! Thanks again!
Scarifying will not aerate. It’s main purpose is to thin grass plants out for regrowth. A bad areation is 2”, a good one is 4” tines…. So the 1/4” of earth scrape isn’t going to accomplish what your looking for. It also isn’t designed to pull up thatch well, that could allow better water penetration, not caught in the thatch layer… With all this said…. Water is what heals the lawn after a dethatch. You will want water to recover it before winter, if it goes to bed stressed, you could get winter die off. What’s your fertilizer plans? This could help as well.
@@TheGreenerLawn Thank you for your quick reply! Yes, "cultivate" would be better said than aerate due to the depth considerations. I plan on using a 3-18-18 liquid fertilizer from Simple Lawn Solutions and then letting the rain do the rest...timing being the key. Got the machine today and did a quick 12 inch strip with the tines to test the motor at the highest setting...bag on. UNBELIEVABLE at the amount of thatch collected with such a tiny area!
Striperman, Good Monday afternoon to you, another early ,starry, bird snoring Tuesday morning here , 16 degrees heading for 25 max today, how is it your way ? 😎
24k people see this video, one MISTER SNIFFLES sees it and has a tonality issue with it… bro… say you were joking. And I missed a good laugh. Say you were serious and I’m posting this on my Instagram story… so you are fairly warned. 😂🤣😂
@@TheGreenerLawn - Mr Sniffer may be a sniffer but def not a snuggling azz kisser!! Never said you were a "bad person", but, it is what it is bro. I HIGHLY doubt you talk to your buds that way, unless you offer them a bottle n blanky at nap time. Want to place some bets? Instagram, whats that, same garbage as Twitter, lol? Post away, always wanted to be famous!
I have seen where a couple of people use it every spring and fall, and another lawn guy who uses it every month or so. Any suggestions on using it two to four times a year? I am purchasing the newer electric model this weekend and plan to use it on my zoysia lawn as soon as I get it. I have not dethatched my lawn in years because I always bag my grass, but I am starting to see where I still have thatch building up.
How about I offer facts vs recommendations? You ok with this?
First, thatch is NOT dead grass clippings. If grass clippings are above 1/4” that is not “mulch” but rather just dead grass, that will hot be easy for your soil microbes to break down (if you can’t get the clippings smaller then 1/4” bagging is best, even tho your taking your nutrients to the trash). You hinted to this, and I wanted to help others who might think real mulch will make thatch, it simply doesn’t. Improper sided grass clippings will, but that’s not mulching.
Now over to your question. How often?
So, is a thatch layer bad? NO, it’s actually super healthy for grass, soil and soil microbes. Helps retain moisture, give your grass a nutrient layer and microbes a home to feed to feed your grass.
Why so people remove thatch? One, they misunderstand what it is and what it does. Two, it’s above 1/2” and actually choking out your soil and grass, killing the grass. Couple more reasons but way more advanced lol.
Times to dethatch? Spring or fall for cool season grasses, early summer for warm season grasses which as zoysia.
What happens if you dethatch outside these times? A thatch rake or machine is very aggressive on your lawn, and stresses it out. Can you do it on lower settings, yes but your pulling less thatch as it’s higher up vs closer to the soil, where thatch resides. Can you do it any time, once again, yes, but you will stress the grass and if it’s slowed down due to heat or cold ( for warm season grasses), it will have a harder time recovering. Extra water and nutrients assist it rebound.
Who minimizes their thatch layer or doesn’t want organic debris in their lawns? Golf course greens, this is why they sand or too dress their greens frequently during the year. They don’t want any thatch, as effect the balls reaction/roll/ or play. They compensate by weekly feedings, frequent mowings and nutrients to keep it fed and happy.
Do you ever have to dethatch? Some lawns aren’t stressed and can break down grass blades that naturally die by them selfs, thus never getting above 1/2” of thatch. They can get away with never dethatching. If you have environmental stresses on your lawn like high foot traffic; excessive heat/cold, watering issues, over watering, over fertilization, etc. it could build above 1/2” and needs to be removed.
So, why do I see so many recommendations on removal? Now we are back to your question; how often should you do it? Who do you want to be? Does it need it? Can you address the cause of the thatch layer, fixing that, thus making you not have to dethatch frequently?
I’ll help you make a decision, by all means, but I think after giving you a little knowledge, it might help you as well!
Let me know!
Absolutely a fabulous video. I have never seen anything like this doing a comparison of different models of SunJoe dethatching machines and have never seen anything so thorough for comparison testing for anything for that matter! I never buy mechanical products without reading reviews and looking at video presentations if available. I have been an avid flower and shrub gardener for over 60 years and also fuss with lawn perfection, leaving the usual weekly maintenance up to my landscapers. I have gotten my lawn to about 99% tall fescue ( which is beautiful) in the front of my house and KBG/ Perennial Rye in the back. The front lawn gets a lot of thatch which I clear with the Greenskeeper dethatching rake, but is getting very labor intensive. From what I have read about thatch, I think I've been giving it more water than it needs. The KBG lawn is no problem. I now probe areas of my lawns with a moisture gauge and there are differences. So I have reprogrammed my smart irrigation panel . Keep up the great work and thank you so much!
You’re welcome! Glad to help! This is an awesome post! Way to do your do diligence with all that you do.
I'm not sure that the life of the battery is much of an issue. Because like you said, the bag doesn't hold a lot of thatch - which means that you're going to end up having to mow the thatched grass up anyway. So you might as well thatch until the battery runs out, put the batteries on the charger while you mow up the thatch up with the lawn mower and by the time you're finished, the batteries should have enough of a charge to thatch the remainder of the lawn (depending on the size of the lawn of course).
So yeah....unless by some miracle Ego comes out with a dethatcher between now and the time Sun Joe has that battery-powered one back in stock, I could see myself choosing the Sun Joe battery powered one over the other 2. Thanks for taking the time to show us what's what!
I just got the 15 inch one; with the cord. Love it. VERY impressed.
💯 %
15" model heading my way soon, and looking forward to using it. Thanks for the video.
You will love it! Thing is a beast! Does a great job!
Have been awaiting this showdown...thanks for the video comparison and your feedback.
I knew it would be one that peeps would want to see… now… they need to be in stock!
Great review... I've got the AJ805E-RM
Thanks!
I had no idea they had all these models. Thanks for comparing them man!
Yea, they got all about popping dethatchers and Scarifier out to the public this spring! 😂 hope all is well on this Memorial Day Koven!
They make a decent product , will try the cordless once and if my corded dies , thanks for the review J.
Yea, no real need to replace one for another... just know for the future. As alwaysX thanks Vito, I appreciate you around here! 👍🏼👍🏼
@@TheGreenerLawn always my pleasure 💪🏻💪🏻
Suggestions on how to keep grass thick and healthy as our backyard is heavily used by kids and dogs and wears it thin
When you over seed use a wear tolerant grass, I’d get a soil test and see what nutrients your lawn needs, and feed this… (potassium is awesome to assist with this). Can you rotate sides of use to give grass a break (I understand if this is no).
These are a start, but if you need help feel free to reach out on dm on instagram @thegreenerlawn or email JeremyofTheGreenerLawn@gmail.com
Great review and very informative. That intro kills me with Connor saying welcome back to the greener lawn...😂😂😂
Doesn’t it tho! I love it!
As a person that I hate cables I am intrigued from the battery one. I have the 13” and I am not planning to change it for now at least!
The battery one would work well on your property I feel! And it gives good results for the times you use it!
The original models works wonderfully. I bought the aj-801e last summer, and have used it again this summer. It works wonderfully well, if u want to spend the extra money and get other models then go ahead but the difference is minor.
There was a comparison done between sunjoe original dethatcher+scarifier compared to two other brands and this one and it outdid them in every aspect. So don’t get hung up on the minor differences.
I am loving my aj801-e 2 years in a row and it did not disappoint at all.
So…. If I’m being completely honest, without any bias, recommended setting for recommended settings, it gets mopped up (the other two pull more, with out going against manufacturers recommendations, easily). No punches pulled here, it is what it is.
Not discrediting you at all, especially the sunjoe vs the green works, OOOOOF NO CONTEST. 💯 agree with you here! I have that Dethatcher as well, and it’s not in the ballpark at all.
But difference is minor, no, sorry, it isn’t. AJ805E pulled more on the 0 setting (files.snowjoe.com/product-manuals/AJ805E%20MANUAL-combined.pdf page 9) on one pass, and had a bigger swath, completing the task quicker. The battery can be set on -10 with the Dethatcher setting (files.snowjoe.com/product-manuals/24V-X2-DTS15_MANUAL_M_09032020_FINAL.pdf page 12) so it at recommended allowable settings would mop the floor with the other two on pull (with obvious other shortcomings). Minor differences, not if your using it on recommended settings.
And the saving is $20 bucks or $90.
$160= 801E snowjoe.com/products/sun-joe-13-inch-12-amp-electric-scarifier-lawn-dethatcher-w-collection-bag/
$180- 805E snowjoe.com/products/sun-joe-aj805e-electric-lawn-dethatcher-w-collection-bag-15-inch-13-amp-scarifier
$250- Battery snowjoe.com/products/sun-joe-24v-x2-dts-scarifier-and-dethatcher-w-2-24v-batteries-and-dual-port-charger-5-depth-positions-14-inch-brushless-motor
BUT with this all said, if you can find one for $120 (def not worth it at $150, only $20 cheaper IMO), and your willing to make multi passes on 0 OR go out side of recommended settings (as I do, and it’s in a previous video), the yea, this one isn’t bad at all, and will def hang with the others.
Will this one work? YES, as you noted and I 100 agree. Does it compete with the other two, honestly no, the other two beat it ( I so badly wanted this one to win, cause I hate justifying “more money”.)
This or another companies Dethatcher (greenworks etc) ohhh THE 801E ALL DAY LONG!!
Thank you for your input!
@@TheGreenerLawn Thank you for your detailed reply. I was just saying how much i love my original dethatcher, however you are right the other 2 beat it. For me 801 e is working great. I agree with your research 100% 🔥
Thank you for your dedication to the lawn and great videos and appreciate the reply.
@@TheGreenerLawn i just got the original for $40....i had the 15"on order for 3 months before giving up and going to the Facebook marketplace where i managed to get a deal.
@@HPDPRIEST absolutely loved this! Great pick up!
In a couple of years, I will be getting a battery powered one.. I'm sure by then the model will run itself.. Thank you for the comparison!
And maybe rocks wouldn’t go though the bag by then either, right 😁
@@TheGreenerLawn better not be any rocks then...
@@emmyhusfloen 😂
They finally have the battery one in stock. I just bought it and will give it a go in spring. I have this one area that kept growing moss and would take over the grass. I have pruned the tree there to try and open up some sunlight. I plan to use the scarifier there along with some top soil and will try a dense shade grass seed there. I'm hoping it works. I have another set of 24v batteries I can use.
That will def help your problem, those are solid steps. I would have a chemical means on standby or even jump start it something like: amzn.to/3AyAmZX
Please let me know how it goes! I want to know!!
@@TheGreenerLawn Thanks, I normally put on the Scotts Turf builder in early spring and then over seed in late spring. I thought about maybe trying the Scotts turf builder with moss control instead as an idea. I'll take a look at the BioAdvanced 704710B Moss and Algae Killer as well.
@@t.j.schmidt9877 moss can be hit or miss with certain algae’s. That IS a better move then reg Scott’s for sure though, so your venturing down the correct path.
@@TheGreenerLawn Just an update, it's been almost three weeks since I started the back yard. I've been watering for 10 minutes three times a day using a four zone timer and the grass is coming in great, even in the areas that had shade and moss. Previously there were some places where puddles of water would form and now it drains really well.
@@t.j.schmidt9877 love it! Well done! Thank you for the update! I’d love to see your progress if you want to send pics to JeremyofTheGreenerLawn@gmail.com 😁
Thanks Jeremy! As always great content. I came to know which dethatcher I should get and why, and you provided great insight.
Always glad to help John! Good machines regardless of which you go with.
Are you the same guy that does the "you can beat video games videos?" The voice and inflection are identical.... Thank you for the lawn tips and helping me finally beat Castlevania 2!
Well…. You got me 🤣
One of my favorite machines in the fleet. Hope to snag one of the newer models soon.
The newer ones are really good quality, and work well on lighter settings vs the original. Thanks jimmy, I appreciate it!
Just a heads up, I’m sure you’ve seen it by now but people have used bungie cords and other various ways to keep the door propped while using the machine to improve performance and prevent clogging and buildup
I have, but I’ve see peeps take rocks to the shins as well… I’m a little Leary lol but solid reco!! 🫶🏻
@@TheGreenerLawn haha didn’t even think about that, something I’ll keep in mind
@@The05nismoser shin protectors?
I love my 15" Sun Joe, just ran it this last Sunday cleaning up the lawn for winter. One thing to remind people is make sure that they get an extension cord rated for a 15amp machine. Can't stand the battery tech. Too much of a pain in the ass and limiting. If you want environmentally friendly plug in is WAY better than battery. Plus, more power and consistent power.
When should I do this? I’ve noticed since reel cutting the canopy is super thick and I’m getting concerned about having fungus issues.
Ideal is when temps are below 80. But if it’s going to cause other issues, do it lighter to solve some of the issues. Are you worried about debris and thatch (that can harbor fungus) , or it’s so thick it can’t adequately dry and breath (allowing for fungus)?
That will be the difference between Scarifier and Dethatcher.
Definitely because it so thick. I’ve noticed even at much lower hoc it feels damp even after periods of dry weather.
@@kbgking7921 Scarifier is your friend in this situation! And doing it when it’s cooler and giving a little extra water (so it doesn’t struggle right after wards) will help ya out to breath, and not have fungal issues.
What was the grass height.. is there an ideal grass height.
Each grass type has recommends for height. Then it comes to your wants and dedication to your height you choose.
For detaching (like this video), below 2” is ideal, less blades to get in the way off the machine, so less damage to good grass.
I have just under 40,000 square foot lawn, are these just too small to use on my lawn? Do you think after a couple of uses on that much square footage, will it kill one?
Honestly I think it would kill you. Oof that would be a lot of work with one of these. With that much land, if you didn’t break up it to chunks, it would take a long time. Ones with extension cords are only rated up to 100 ft, and the battery one only goes for around 2300 sqft.
They really are too small for what you would be looking for IMO. If you want to break it up and have plugs around your property what would allow for you to hit everywhere with a cord, I’d go with the 15”. Just so you know, it took me 45 min to do 9600 sqft.
@@TheGreenerLawn Yeah, I figured I'd go with the chorded on (100 ft) and plug it into my Honda generator to get it to reach out to the back half. I wish they made a bigger one that was gas and wasn't so dang expensive! LOL
@@sheriffbart616 100 agree with bigger and gas and wasn’t 1000’s.... that is smart tho, a generator, now you are on to something! Way smart!
Also note the 15” is a 13 amp motor as opposed to the 12 amp on the 13”.
💯
What setting for the scarfire? AJ805E
-5 or -10
Are there parts available and from whom?
Yes directly from sun joe them selfs. snowjoe.com
Great test comparisons Jeremy. Chevy, Buick and Cadillac are all GM's and work. It is all what you are willing to pay :)
And what results your willing to work with. 🔥 comment brother, thank you!
That looks a lot like work!
Only 12 hours to shoot edit and upload... 😂
The machines are super easy, and I just let the thatch dry up and then I mow it up.
Haven’t been able to find these for sale
So spring and fall are there big use times, so during the summer and winter they sale out. You will start seeing these again around august.
Would you recommend a scarifier if I already own a power rake?
Ohh completely different uses. I’d you have the need to thin over grown healthy gras then you use the scarifier. If you need to remove thatch (dead material laying on top of the ground) you get a dethatcher. Finally if you want to get rid of dead grass from winter that is mixed upright with your good grass, a power rake is your go to. Now march the machines with your need.
@@TheGreenerLawn Thanks for the response - love the channel.
@@darenlong7835 no problems here to assist!
How'd you get the battery one there all sold out
Had it for a month and a half, well before they sold out.
It looked like the scarifier on the cordless unit had less teeth, probably to reduce the workload/runtime on the batteries. Would you have to double the number of passes with the cordless in scarifier mode to equal a single pass with a corded model?
This is used for opening the soil up for growth, it wouldn’t hurt with more passes 💯 %.
Also, your which is better the scarifier or detaching b4 over seeding , and that answer is dethatching. It will remove way more material, if you are needing to scarify (removal of grass plant as it’s choking it’s self out), you don’t want to crowd the plant with more seed plants as it’s already over crowded.
@@TheGreenerLawn Are you trying to say that you should only use the scarifier for thinning out a lawn that is too thick? OK, I just thought that the scarifier would dig into the ground a bit more (like a slit seeder), which is said to be the best tool to use before overseeding, regardless of the lawn thickness. It would promote more seed-to-soil contact, no?
@@mellowjammer If you are choosing one, between dethatching and scarifying, getting material out is 💯 number one. If you don’t have much of a thatch layer, then loosening the soil is a good thing. This isn’t a slit seeder. It does semi function like one, your correct, but it will not dig as consistent and drop seed in those trails for you like a slitseeder. Your going to broadcast it, and if it lands on a thatch layer it will not grow. But if you pull that thatch layer, and toss it grows everywhere not just in 1.5” apart trenches, it Will kinda pull… reason I say that, slit seeders are wayyyy heavier and can get into the ground so much better and drop seed where it needs it. This would pull a semi trench, pulling g more grass vs a good over seed.
Clearing the thatch layer will give seed to soil contact every where as their fines are 1/4-1/2 apart and meant to pull thatch vs dig roots of grass.
Long explanation sorry, but do you get why?
are they self propelled?
While they do grab and pull them selfs, they are not inherently self propelled. It is very light as well tho.
Don't forget the cost of extension cord. Must be 12 AWG. I prefer the 15 inch because I think it will have the strongest motor at 13 amps.
100%
Would you recommend the 13inch for a person 6’4? And can I be used to take out dead weeds/grass for a renovation?
th-cam.com/video/aRoARQY2rKs/w-d-xo.html John Perry is 6’7”, here is a vid of him using it. Use the Scarifier attachment for that purpose. 💯
Sweet! Thanks for the quick response! New sub
@@TriniDB thanks Trini. Let me know if ya have any questions!
@@TheGreenerLawn will do! Thanks!
Why can’t these be found anywhere in stock?!?
Off season for them. They are a spring and fall item. You will start seeing stock in aug.
I’m trying to decide between the battery and the 15 inch electric. I live in southern Arizona and only have about 1000 ft.² of Bermuda grass, if you were me which one would you choose?
Hands down for 1000 sqft, battery. If $ is at all the issue, I wouldn’t hesitate the 15” tho! But on your patch, for the ease and size, you will be more then pleased with the battery.
After watching this video, I have come to the conclusion that they all certainly beat the old school rake😂
If I had to pick though, I'd take the 15". Overall, you wouldn't have to worry about the battery running out, which 5,000 square feet double passed would drain it. But overall all good machines, and all do the job well
Yea, the 15” is a solid option for sure! I love mine! It’s a great no dead batter option.
I wish Toro would come out with a 60v dethatcher ... Can we start a petition?
Would be nice, for sure! I’d be down for
It!
It's be like 500 bucks
@@smallengines1018 I'd be ok with that as I'm looking at helping out some elderly neighbours with their lawns and could use a cordless version but I agree that the diy market would not likely support the price point ...my guess is that if they were to do it it'd be targeted at commerical use (similar to the new 60v commercial mower) which would likely raise the price even higher.
The link the the battery powered one goes to their lawnmower
Looks like they switched up their Amazon listing as it was out of stock, thank you for the heads up.
I wish the battery one had longer run time. It would be a no brainer. Great comparison Jeremy 👏
I'm not sure that the life of the battery is much of an issue. Since we most likely wouldn't use the bag, it would make sense to just thatch until the battery runs out, put the batteries on the charger while you mow up the thatched grass with the lawn mower and by the time you're finished doing that, the batteries should have enough of a charge to thatch the remainder of the lawn (depending on the size of the lawn of course). So that eliminates problem with the shorter battery life. You're good!
@@MakeWay4CJ Depends how big your lawn is I guess. I have a half acre and use a lawn tractor; when I used to use a push mower w/ bagger before I got the tractor it used to take me 2-3 hours to finish it all. Using a battery dethatcher that only lasts 20 min - will take me 5-10 min to pick it up with the tractor...seriously doubt the battery will charge much in that amount of time. Don't think it'd be realistic to dethatch that much using a battery.
Anyone know where to find these now?. Out of stock everywhere
Originals are available in the links. Here are their results th-cam.com/video/MzVXg9J6PQY/w-d-xo.html
Nice review.
Thx! Which one did you choose?
@@TheGreenerLawn Sitting next to me is a new 805E 153.00 with IL 7.5 tax and a further reduction -5% cashback on Amazon store card 😀. I like the flexibility of the battery model but probably not well suited to this application. I have a few now Ego products which are serving me well. Just getting started with renovating my lawn. New to this but in time with help on the topic from channels like yours it should be simpler. I did use Pennington's lawn booster seed to repair areas in the front this spring, I'm going to tackle the backyard in the fall. Thanks for the reply.
@@curiosity2314love it! 805 is a solid machine. It def holds it own and is the one that is currently in my garage… still 🤣. Glad to assist any way in journey, feel free hit me up!
As an owner, my advice is to buy an extra belt with your order. I got 3 seasons out of mine before the belt broke. For the price i paid, i felt like i got 2 bonus years out of the thing.
Does the 15" one have a more powerful motor? Seems like it would for more money and 2" wider
I didn’t actually notice any power loss in any parts, it was able to tackle deep down thatch with ease. But directly do unknown if it’s a bigger motor, no I don’t. I’d assume they put something larger in there to compensate for weight and mass movement differences as in notice no power loss.
@The Greener Lawn I was just looking at these machines online and the original unit 12" has a 12amp motor and the 15" has a 13amp motor. I just purchased a brand new 15" unit online for $124.00 and free shipping. I couldn't believe I found one with that good of price. Home Depot is $149.00.
Thanks for the video
@@JeffJohnson-1982 no problem! Thank you for the info on them! I knew it didn’t seem underpowered lol! When you get that steal of a machine let me know how you like it!
@The Greener Lawn I sure will! I would've liked the battery operated detahcher but when the batteries go dead they are as much as the whole unit.
@@JeffJohnson-1982 I get it! I really do, hopes are battery’s come down in price over time with more production? We shall see.
Apples and oranges comparison. They are not meant to be compared as such. Choose one and use whatever setting is appropriate. A larger platform will dethatch quicker. I.e. less passes.A battery powered one will be heavier and therefore be lower, all other things equal. So many other factors to consider. Battery is convenient and cord can get really heavy on a large lawn, especially if you are using proper gauge.
And thus, a video showing people how they are compared to each other so they can choose, right? So THEY can make their decision on what suits them? Not apples to orange, it’s a line of products and 42,000 folks have wanted to know what machines suits them.
@@TheGreenerLawn sure, OK. I was just saying it's more like comparing a e-LexusRX to a Corolla and a Landcruiser. They are completely different in so many ways yet ultimately are intended as a means of transportation. Can't really say one is better as it depends on your individual circumstances and requirements. I.e. off road vs highway, for example.
Thanks for your time and effort putting this together. I love the passion in what you do.
@@delinquense respectable opinion 4 sure. Thank you none the less for sharing your opinion! 🙏🏼🙏🏼 and kind words as well.
Great comparison!! I'm looking at getting the 15 inch. I live in northern Minnesota and dethatch with an Arnold power rake on my mower every spring. I know that isn't as effective, but this fall should I dethatch or scarify or both?
Two different purposes here:
Scarifier: gras has gotten so thick and you want to remove small rows at the root level to allow heathy regrowth of the grass, so it doesn’t choke it’s self out. Another good use is when someone over seeds as it breaks up the soil for better seed to soil contact.
Dethatcher: build up of thatch above 1/2” that is comthing the soil not allowing the soil to breathe, nor the crowns of the grass plant.
If you have both issues both are fine, but most people fall into th Dethatching at first, then hit the scarifying.
First Aussie 😁. Déjà vu.
Yea I don’t know....
Lightweight is good and what did I use it for it’s a lawnmower th-cam.com/users/postUgkxTPN04aT-Qdjr_KS3ql7ng8wnU3wwsCqk also recommend Yes it is lightweight so hence not as robust as our old one. But if you take care it does the job really well.
Some lawns are tougher for sure 💯
Battery only. Cords blow 🤣🤘🏼
💯 %
I’m really liking my battery reel mower from Sun Joe. It is doing a nice job at 1”. Celebration Bermuda 🤘🏼
Their battery stuff is good stuff! Glad it can maintain a good 1” lawn.... but can good and Bermuda be used in the same sentence?
Maybe not in your lawn. 🤣🤘🏼
@@lawn2learn no... not in my lawn lol
Thank you Jeremy for the review! After many months being on back order, I'll be receiving my AJ805E today. My concerns have to do with the early fall timing as we go into winter...irrigation water has already been shut off here in Idaho for 1 week, so I'll have to rely on Mother Nature for moisture. Do you have an opinion on whether I should wait for rain in the forecast for my initial dethatch or just go ahead anyway when temps are closer to 70 since the lawn is going into winter dormancy anyway?? Also...I'm thinking of scarfiring now (fall) instead of waiting for spring where the ground might still be frozen (too hard) in March/April to use the scarfire effectively (mostly for aeration). Any feedback you might have on this would be highly appreciated! Thanks again!
Scarifying will not aerate. It’s main purpose is to thin grass plants out for regrowth. A bad areation is 2”, a good one is 4” tines…. So the 1/4” of earth scrape isn’t going to accomplish what your looking for. It also isn’t designed to pull up thatch well, that could allow better water penetration, not caught in the thatch layer…
With all this said…. Water is what heals the lawn after a dethatch. You will want water to recover it before winter, if it goes to bed stressed, you could get winter die off.
What’s your fertilizer plans? This could help as well.
@@TheGreenerLawn Thank you for your quick reply! Yes, "cultivate" would be better said than aerate due to the depth considerations. I plan on using a 3-18-18 liquid fertilizer from Simple Lawn Solutions and then letting the rain do the rest...timing being the key. Got the machine today and did a quick 12 inch strip with the tines to test the motor at the highest setting...bag on. UNBELIEVABLE at the amount of thatch collected with such a tiny area!
@@davebreslaw639 right?!? Thing is an absolute beast!
Third times a charm?
No clue 🤷♂️
@@TheGreenerLawn algorithms taking over the world
@@nedg3740 lol that it is! Doing funky things.
NEVER the battery!
@@15DurangoRT 3 1/2 years later, still going strong… multiple people have used it and it’s probably been used on about 150,000 ft.²… BUT why not?
First
Got it! Boom!
😎
😎😎😁
Striperman, Good Monday afternoon to you, another early ,starry, bird snoring Tuesday morning here , 16 degrees heading for 25 max today, how is it your way ? 😎
Can you NOT talk to me like I am a 3yo child thats getting a down tone lecture?
24k people see this video, one MISTER SNIFFLES sees it and has a tonality issue with it… bro… say you were joking. And I missed a good laugh. Say you were serious and I’m posting this on my Instagram story… so you are fairly warned. 😂🤣😂
@@TheGreenerLawn - Mr Sniffer may be a sniffer but def not a snuggling azz kisser!!
Never said you were a "bad person", but, it is what it is bro. I HIGHLY doubt you talk to your buds that way, unless you offer them a bottle n blanky at nap time. Want to place some bets?
Instagram, whats that, same garbage as Twitter, lol? Post away, always wanted to be famous!