Like all Batteries proper preventative maintenance is critical !

Very true. Some Toro's come complete with a charging system that helps maintain the battery and an auxiliary charger. Many will last 7+ years.

on a push mower?? Which models?? You must mean riding mower. Even with rider, the charging system is very crude being it doesn't electronics just simple voltage out to battery - at least every rider sold retail.

ssewalk1 as i said- anything special i need to do? charging when low, store in garage, etc. not enough? Guess just bad design-battery life at least.

Upup : Actually just the normal slow charge policy Bud . Never let a normal cranking amp battery repeatedly go lower than half charge If your mower has no charging circuit than an Rv style or Marine Grade is preferable . Always charge at a slow rate , with trickle charge (2amp) or max 5-10 amp on auto cycle shutoff . The smaller The battery the more critical to charge slow to avoid heat , which can warp plates and damage battery electrolytes . What model Toro , a few had a charging diode , most did not . You simply plug in you trickle charger to the mower when you not using it . Even the units with a charging unit could barely keep the battery fresh , and thus the discontinuance of this feature . P.S. Cold storage is best heat is what damages batteries !

I plugged in the charger when it sounded like it wasn't cranking as fast as fully charged. I used the charger that came with it so i assume they made it for slow charge but then again.....

Is your battery a maintenance free unit . If not check your cells for proper electrolyte levels . One weak cell is all it takes . Their not expensive Wal-Mart Deep Cycle would be your best bet , under $40.00 . Life Cycle normally 5-6 yrs .

both past and this one, do not use car acid batteries. They use the dry cell type used in computer UPSs. After a while my mom didn't cut grass any more so my dad didn't replace it. I just removed it from the mower i just found. (it runs like a charm, just sump was leaking oil)

Oh , same sealed Dry Cell style as on my Trolling motor . Yeah their inexpensive , but must be charged very slowly , small capacity units that can overcharge . Glad the mower is back in use !