WORX Nitro WG855E.9 Cordless Scarifier: features, specs and who it suits

The WORX Nitro WG855E.9 is a cordless lawn tool that works as both a scarifier and a lawn fan (a lawn aerator-style rake). It is made to clear dead grass and moss from the surface so water, air and nutrients can reach the roots. It is sold as a bare tool: the battery and charger are not included.

What scarifying does for a lawn

Over time, dead grass stems and moss build up in a layer called thatch. A thick layer can keep rain and fertiliser from reaching the soil. A scarifier uses blades or tines that cut into that layer and pull it up, so it can be collected and removed. WORX says the stainless steel blades of the Nitro lift the dead grass layer and bring new life to the lawn.

The lawn fan function is the other half of the job. WORX says you can switch to it quickly and without tools to pull out moss, weeds and fallen leaves from the surface.

Brushless motor, in plain terms

The WG855E.9 uses a brushless motor. In general, brushless motors have no carbon brushes to wear out, run more efficiently and are more compact than brushed designs. WORX states that its motor gives 50% longer run time per charge, 25% more power and 10 times longer motor life. Those are the brand's figures, and the comparison is against its own brushed motors as described in the listing.

Working width, coverage and height settings

The calculation width is 36 cm, and WORX rates the tool for lawns up to 400 m². That is a guide to the lawn size it is aimed at rather than a guarantee for any one battery charge. Larger lawns usually mean stopping to empty the bag or swap batteries.

A four-position height adjustment changes how deep the blades or tines reach, using a single lever. In general, a shallower setting suits a light surface clean, and deeper settings are used when there is a heavier layer of thatch. The manual explains which position to use and how often to scarify.

Collecting the debris

The 40-litre grass bag collects what the machine pulls up, so there is less raking afterwards and fewer trips to the bin. WORX also describes a curved underside that reduces drag, so the machine slides forward more easily over the lawn, like a sled over snow.

Batteries and the PowerShare system

The tool works with WORX PowerShare batteries. The brand says one battery fits all of its 20V, 40V and 80V tools and outdoor power products. If you already own a compatible battery and charger, this tool works with them. If not, you need to buy them separately. WORX also says a cordless machine is quieter and cleaner than a petrol-powered one.

Size and weight

The packed dimensions are about 24 x 18 x 15 inches (61 x 46 x 38 cm), and the weight is 22.9 lb (about 10.4 kg). It is a mid-sized machine, so think about where you will keep it.

Who it suits

It suits owners of small to medium lawns who want a cordless alternative to a petrol or corded scarifier, and people already using the PowerShare range.

What to check before you buy

• Battery and charger: these are not included, so confirm you have compatible ones or plan to add them.
• Lawn size: compare your lawn with the 400 m² figure, and think about battery capacity.
• Compatibility: check in the manual which battery sizes the tool accepts.
• Storage: allow space for the machine and the 40-litre bag.
• Upkeep: check the manual for blade cleaning and replacement parts.
• Timing: read the manual's advice on the best time of year to scarify.

The short version

• A cordless 2-in-1 scarifier and lawn fan from WORX with a brushless motor.
• 36 cm working width, rated by WORX for lawns up to 400 m².
• Four-position height adjustment and a 40-litre grass bag.
• Uses WORX PowerShare batteries, which are not included.
• Weighs 22.9 lb (about 10.4 kg).

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