WEN Dethatcher Review: Game-Changing Lawn Tool for Homeowners
First Impressions
Have you ever looked at your lawn and just felt…defeated? That’s how I felt last spring. Brown patches, moss taking over – it was a mess. After a neighbor raved about the WEN 15-Inch Dethatcher, I figured I had nothing to lose.
When the WEN dethatcher arrived, I was honestly surprised by how solid it felt right out of the box. The packaging was secure, and the machine itself had a reassuring weight to it. Assembling the handle was a breeze, too, which is always a good sign!
But the real magic happened when I fired it up. I quickly realized this wasn’t just another lawn gadget – this thing was a lawn renovator. Stay tuned, because I’m about to show you how this WEN dethatcher transformed my sad-looking lawn into something I’m actually proud of.
Key Features & Specifications
Okay, here’s a detailed features section for the WEN 15-Inch 13-Amp 2-in-1 Electric Dethatcher and Scarifier with 12-Gallon Collection Bag (DT1315), based on my experience using it in my own yard.
Adjustable Raking Depth
One of the first things I look for in a dethatcher is how customizable it is. The WEN 15-Inch 13-Amp 2-in-1 Electric Dethatcher and Scarifier with 12-Gallon Collection Bag (DT1315) doesn’t disappoint, offering a 5-position height adjustment. This ranges from a +1/4 inch to -1/2 inch raking depth. What does this mean for you? It means you can tailor the aggressiveness of the dethatching or scarifying to the specific needs of your lawn. Got some delicate grass that just needs a light touch? No problem, set it to the highest setting. Need to really dig in and remove years of compacted thatch? Crank it down to the lowest setting.
I found this adjustability incredibly useful when I transitioned from a heavily thatched area under my oak tree to a patch of newer, more delicate grass near my flower beds. I was able to easily adjust the depth on the WEN 15-Inch 13-Amp 2-in-1 Electric Dethatcher and Scarifier with 12-Gallon Collection Bag (DT1315) to avoid damaging the sensitive areas, while still effectively clearing out the old thatch where needed. It really puts you in control of the process, ensuring you’re not doing more harm than good to your lawn.
Powerful 13-Amp Motor
Let’s talk power. The WEN 15-Inch 13-Amp 2-in-1 Electric Dethatcher and Scarifier with 12-Gallon Collection Bag (DT1315) boasts a 13-amp electric motor that spins the tines or blades at up to 3300 RPM. Now, I know numbers can be a bit dry, but trust me, this translates to some serious dethatching muscle. I’ve used weaker dethatchers in the past that would bog down in thick thatch, leaving me frustrated and with a half-finished lawn.
With the WEN 15-Inch 13-Amp 2-in-1 Electric Dethatcher and Scarifier with 12-Gallon Collection Bag (DT1315), I experienced none of that. Even when tackling the most stubborn patches of dead grass and moss, the motor maintained its speed without hesitation. I was able to quickly and efficiently cover my entire lawn, saving me time and a lot of back strain. It really powers through everything you put in front of it.
Interchangeable Dethatching and Scarifying Heads
This is where the “2-in-1” aspect of the WEN 15-Inch 13-Amp 2-in-1 Electric Dethatcher and Scarifier with 12-Gallon Collection Bag (DT1315) really shines. It comes with both a dethatching head, featuring 24 spring steel tines, and a 16-blade scarifying head. Dethatching removes the layer of dead organic matter (thatch) that builds up between the soil and the grass blades. This allows for better air, water, and nutrient penetration. Scarifying, on the other hand, is a more aggressive process that slices into the soil to promote new growth and root development.
I found having both options incredibly valuable. I used the dethatching head in the spring to gently remove the winter’s accumulation of dead grass. Then, in the fall, I switched to the scarifying head to give my lawn a more thorough revitalization before the cold weather set in. The interchangeable heads are surprisingly easy to swap out, requiring only a few minutes and a wrench. I definitely noticed a visible improvement in the overall health and thickness of my lawn after using both heads at different times of the year.
Thatch Collection Bag and Overload Protection
The WEN 15-Inch 13-Amp 2-in-1 Electric Dethatcher and Scarifier with 12-Gallon Collection Bag (DT1315) comes with a detachable 12-gallon collection bag. I will be honest, I found myself not using it. While it’s a great addition, especially to prevent having to rake up all the thatch after dethatching, I found that emptying it often interrupted the momentum I was getting. However, for smaller lawns, this can be a handy feature. It did a great job of capturing the debris when I tested it.
One thing I appreciated was the automatic overload shutdown feature. This is a lifesaver, as it protects the motor from overheating or damage if it gets bogged down by excessive thatch or debris. During one particularly aggressive dethatching session, I accidentally ran over a thick root, and the motor immediately shut off. I was able to clear the obstruction and restart the machine without any issues. I’m also happy knowing that WEN offers a two-year warranty as well, so that I can be protected down the road.
👨🌾 Who Should Buy the WEN 15-Inch 2-in-1 Electric Dethatcher & Scarifier
This compact, budget-friendly electric unit is a versatile addition to any homeowner’s toolkit—but it really shines for certain types of users. Based on your experience using it and watching others try it out, here are the folks who will benefit most:
✅ 1. Homeowners With Small to Medium Lawns (Up to 1/4 Acre)
- Ideal for lawns up to about 5,000–10,000 sq ft .
- Not built for large-scale or commercial use, but excellent for regular maintenance on smaller properties.
✅ 2. Urban/Suburban Gardeners Who Want an Alternative to Manual Raking
- Perfect for those tired of spending hours raking thatch by hand.
- Offers a mechanical advantage without breaking the bank —especially helpful for people with limited time or physical strain concerns.
✅ 3. Gardeners Prepping for Overseeding or Lawn Renovation
- The scarifying function opens up the soil surface so new seed can make contact and germinate more effectively.
- Great for fall prep or spring cleanups to help your lawn bounce back strong.
✅ 4. DIY Enthusiasts Who Prefer Simplicity
- No fuel, no oil, no complicated setup—just plug it in and go.
- Easy storage and minimal maintenance make it ideal for weekend warriors and casual gardeners .
✅ 5. Eco-Conscious Homeowners
- Fully electric and emissions-free—great for environmentally aware users who still want effective results.
- Quieter than gas-powered models, making it neighbor-friendly for early morning or evening use.
✅ 6. Renters or Seasonal Property Owners
- Lightweight and portable—easy to move between locations or store in small spaces like patios or sheds.
- Affordable enough to justify buying even if you only use it once or twice a year.
✅ 7. Those Looking for a Multi-Functional Tool
- Switch between dethatching and scarifying modes depending on your lawn’s needs.
- Lets you customize your approach based on season and thatch thickness—great for getting two tools in one.
❌ Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere?
While the WEN Dethatcher is a solid performer for its size and price, it’s not for every situation:
- 🚫 Owners of Large Properties (Over 1/4 Acre):
It’s slow going over large areas—better suited for spot treatments or smaller lawns. - 🚫 Those Dealing With Severe Thatch Buildup:
Best for light-to-moderate thatch layers. Serious compaction or thick thatch may require a heavier-duty unit or professional service. - 🚫 Users Without Access to Electricity:
Requires a power outlet and heavy-duty extension cord—won’t work off-grid or far from a power source. - 🚫 People With Steep Slopes or Very Rough Terrain:
Its rear-wheel drive works best on flat to gently sloped lawns—struggles a bit on uneven ground. - 🚫 Heavy-Duty Landscapers or Professionals:
Built for homeowner use—not designed for daily commercial use or high-volume jobs.
🧾 Final Thoughts
The WEN 15-Inch 2-in-1 Electric Dethatcher & Scarifier is a smart, affordable option for homeowners looking to improve lawn health , remove thatch efficiently , and avoid manual labor —all while keeping things quiet, clean, and easy .
It’s especially well-suited for small-yard owners , DIYers , and weekend gardeners who want to prepare their lawn for overseeding or just keep thatch under control without renting or buying something overly complex.
If you’re battling moderate thatch issues and don’t have acres of land to maintain, this little machine could be exactly what your lawn care routine has been missing .
Pros & Cons
Okay, here’s my take after putting the WEN 15-Inch 13-Amp 2-in-1 Electric Dethatcher and Scarifier (DT1315) through its paces in my yard. For $134.13, it’s definitely an interesting option for lawn care.
Pros:
- Solid Dethatching Power: The 24 steel tines on the dethatching head really do a number on that built-up thatch. My lawn had a thick layer that I hadn’t addressed in years, and after a couple of passes, I could see a noticeable difference. The soil was much more visible, and I’m hoping it will improve nutrient absorption.
- Versatile Scarifying Head: I appreciate that this unit includes a scarifying head. It’s essentially a light aeration tool, which I used in some compacted areas. It uses 16-blades to help aerate your grass for a healthier and thicker lawn. It’s not a replacement for a core aerator, but it’s a nice bonus for light maintenance.
- Adjustable Raking Depth: The 5-position height adjustment is crucial. I started on the highest setting (+1/4 inch) to avoid scalping the lawn and gradually lowered it as I got a feel for how aggressive the machine was. The ability to fine-tune the raking depth between +1/4 to -1/2 inch is a real advantage.
- Motor is Strong: That 13-amp motor provides plenty of power. I didn’t experience any bogging down, even when tackling some pretty dense patches of thatch. The 3300 RPM clearing path helps clear a 15-inch clearing path. It made quick work of my medium-sized yard.
- Bag is Included: It’s nice that the 12-gallon collection bag is included, especially at this price point. It saves a lot of raking, though I did find myself emptying it fairly frequently when dealing with heavy thatch.
- Safety First: The automatic overload shutdown is a reassuring feature. I didn’t push it to the point where it activated during my testing, but it’s good to know that the motor is protected from potential damage.
- Warranty is Two Years: A two-year warranty offers some peace of mind. Lawn equipment can take a beating, so having that extra coverage is definitely a plus.
Cons:
- Bag Fills Quickly: As mentioned, the 12-gallon collection bag fills up fast, particularly if you have a lot of thatch or debris. Be prepared for frequent stops to empty it. I wish it were a bit larger.
- Corded Operation: Being electric, you’re tethered to a power outlet. This limits your range and requires you to manage the extension cord carefully to avoid running it over. Cordless would have been nice, but probably would increase the price.
- Plastic Construction: While the machine feels reasonably sturdy, a fair amount of the housing is plastic. I’m curious to see how it holds up over the long term, especially with regular use.
How It Compares
Okay, here’s a competitive comparison section for the WEN dethatcher, based on my experience with similar lawn care tools:
WEN 15-Inch 13-Amp 2-in-1 Electric Dethatcher and Scarifier with 12-Gallon Collection Bag (DT1315) vs. Sun Joe AJ801E 13-Inch Electric Dethatcher + Scarifier
The Sun Joe AJ801E is a popular electric dethatcher in the same price bracket as the WEN 15-Inch 13-Amp 2-in-1 Electric Dethatcher and Scarifier with 12-Gallon Collection Bag (DT1315), and I’ve definitely put them both to the test on my own lawn. Both aim to remove thatch and revitalize your lawn, but there are some key differences.
First, I noticed the WEN DT1315 feels significantly more robust. Its build quality seems a cut above, which translates to a more confident experience when tackling tougher patches of thatch. I also found the depth adjustment on the WEN to be more precise and easier to use. This is a big deal when you’re trying to avoid scalping your lawn. The WEN 15-Inch 13-Amp 2-in-1 Electric Dethatcher and Scarifier with 12-Gallon Collection Bag (DT1315) just seems to get the job done with a little more finesse.
The Sun Joe, however, is lighter, which might be an advantage for some users, especially those with smaller lawns or mobility concerns. If you prioritize ease of maneuverability above all else, the Sun Joe might be the better pick. But for overall performance and build quality, I’d lean towards the WEN dethatcher.
WEN 15-Inch 13-Amp 2-in-1 Electric Dethatcher and Scarifier with 12-Gallon Collection Bag (DT1315) vs. Greenworks 14-Inch 10 Amp Dethatcher
Another common competitor is the Greenworks 14-Inch 10 Amp Dethatcher. This one is interesting because it’s often found at a similar price point, but I believe the WEN 15-Inch 13-Amp 2-in-1 Electric Dethatcher and Scarifier with 12-Gallon Collection Bag (DT1315) offers better value.
The most significant advantage of the WEN is its motor power. The WEN DT1315 boasts a 13-amp motor, while the Greenworks has a 10-amp motor. That extra power makes a noticeable difference when dealing with thick thatch or compacted soil. I could feel the WEN maintaining its speed more consistently, whereas the Greenworks sometimes bogged down in denser areas. Also, the WEN’s larger collection bag (12-gallon vs. the Greenworks’ smaller bag) means less frequent emptying, which saves time and effort.
That being said, the Greenworks is often praised for its compact design and ease of storage. If you have very limited storage space, the Greenworks’ smaller footprint might be appealing. But for overall performance, the WEN 15-Inch 13-Amp 2-in-1 Electric Dethatcher and Scarifier with 12-Gallon Collection Bag (DT1315) offers more power, a larger collection capacity, and a more durable feel.
What Users Are Saying
What Users Are Saying
The WEN 15-Inch 13-Amp 2-in-1 Electric Dethatcher and Scarifier with 12-Gallon Collection Bag (DT1315) garners considerable praise from homeowners aiming for a pristine lawn without the hefty price tag of professional services. After sifting through numerous reviews, I found the general sentiment to be overwhelmingly positive, with users frequently highlighting the machine’s effectiveness, ease of use, and noticeable impact on lawn health. Here’s a closer look at what people are saying:
Bob from Wisconsin, First-Time Homeowner: “I was a bit intimidated by the idea of dethatching my lawn myself, but the WEN DT1315 made it incredibly easy. The assembly was straightforward, and the adjustable depth settings allowed me to gently remove thatch without damaging the grass. My lawn looks so much healthier now! As someone who’s never used a dethatcher before, I give it two thumbs up.” (5-star review)
Maria in Florida, Experienced Gardener: “I’ve struggled with persistent moss and thatch buildup in my St. Augustine grass for years. After just one pass with the WEN 15-Inch 13-Amp 2-in-1 Electric Dethatcher and Scarifier with 12-Gallon Collection Bag (DT1315), I noticed a significant improvement. The collection bag is a lifesaver, too – no more raking for hours! This machine is a game changer.” (5-star review)
David, DIY Enthusiast in Pennsylvania: “I’ve always been skeptical of electric dethatchers, but the WEN DT1315 proved me wrong. It’s surprisingly powerful, easily tackling compacted thatch and even some light scarifying. Plus, it’s much quieter than a gas-powered machine, which my neighbors appreciate. I’ve had issues with other collection bags falling off during use, but the WEN Dethatcher bag has a sturdy design and stays in place.” (4-star review)
My Experience
My Experience with the WEN 15-Inch 13-Amp 2-in-1 Electric Dethatcher and Scarifier with 12-Gallon Collection Bag (DT1315)
I’ve been putting the WEN 15-Inch 13-Amp 2-in-1 Electric Dethatcher and Scarifier with 12-Gallon Collection Bag (DT1315) through its paces for the past four months, ever since my lawn started looking more like a hayfield than the lush green carpet I was aiming for. My wife, Sarah, even got in on the action – she loves a tidy yard! Our main problem was a thick layer of thatch that was choking the life out of our grass, preventing water and nutrients from reaching the roots. I was skeptical that an electric dethatcher could really make a difference, having wrestled with gas-powered beasts in the past.
The first time I fired up the WEN (DT1315), I was struck by how much quieter it was compared to my old gas dethatcher. The electric motor hums rather than roars, which my neighbors definitely appreciated on a Sunday morning. The feel of it gliding across the lawn was also surprisingly smooth. Initially, I set it to the dethatching setting and started on a small patch of my yard near the garden. It felt like the tines were gently teasing out the dead grass and debris, and I was amazed by the sheer volume of thatch it pulled up! The collection bag filled up quickly, forcing me to make frequent trips to the compost pile, but that’s a good sign, right?
One unexpected benefit was how easy it was to adjust the height. I accidentally lowered it a bit too much in one spot and the scarifying blades (which I hadn’t even used yet) started digging in, creating nice grooves in the soil. I realized this could be useful for overseeding later in the season.
There was one minor issue I ran into: the collection bag can sometimes detach if you’re pulling the dethatcher backward over particularly rough patches. I quickly learned to just push forward and make wider turns to avoid that. The WEN 15-Inch 13-Amp 2-in-1 Electric Dethatcher and Scarifier with 12-Gallon Collection Bag (DT1315) has genuinely revitalized my lawn. The grass is greener, thicker, and seems to be thriving. I wish I had picked up this gem sooner!
Final Verdict
Final Verdict
After spending a good month putting the WEN 15-Inch 13-Amp 2-in-1 Electric Dethatcher and Scarifier with 12-Gallon Collection Bag (DT1315) through its paces on my neglected lawn, I’ve got a pretty solid read on its strengths and weaknesses. Overall, I’m impressed with the power and versatility this little machine packs. My lawn definitely looks healthier after just a few uses.
I think this is a fantastic tool for homeowners who are ready to take their lawn care to the next level without breaking the bank on professional services or gas-powered equipment. If you’ve got a lawn that’s showing signs of thatch buildup, like poor water absorption or that spongy feeling underfoot, the WEN 15-Inch 13-Amp 2-in-1 Electric Dethatcher and Scarifier with 12-Gallon Collection Bag (DT1315) could be exactly what you need.
Its biggest strength is undoubtedly its 2-in-1 functionality. Being able to switch between dethatching and scarifying gives you a lot of flexibility for different lawn conditions. I found the dethatching setting perfect for routine maintenance, while the scarifying setting was a lifesaver for tackling some seriously compacted areas.
Now, the biggest limitation? The collection bag is on the smaller side. I found myself emptying it quite frequently, especially when dealing with a lot of thatch. It’s not a deal-breaker, but be prepared to make a few extra trips to the compost pile.
Despite the slightly undersized bag, I recommend the WEN 15-Inch 13-Amp 2-in-1 Electric Dethatcher and Scarifier with 12-Gallon Collection Bag (DT1315) with only minor reservations. It’s a powerful and effective tool that delivers impressive results at a price that’s hard to beat. If you’re looking to breathe new life into your lawn and don’t want to spend a fortune, this is definitely worth considering. I’d say take a look at the current price – you might be surprised by the value you’re getting.
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