Say Goodbye to Gas this Summer
Electrification isn’t just for inside the home. Your garage is full of opportunities to “go electric.” Lawn equipment options run the gamut including mowers, leaf blowers, trimmers, and chainsaws. These days more and more homeowners are opting for electric models as opposed to gas powered. “Choosing a battery-powered tool means convenience, low maintenance, cleaner air, an easier start, and quieter operation,” shared Shannon Jerabek, Energy Management Specialist.
Lawn Mowers
When it comes to electric push mowers, they tend to weigh much less than their gas-powered counterparts, making them easier to transport and use. Another advantage is their push-button start. Not having to deal with a pull-cord, an engine that is reluctant to turn over, or gas that had simply gone bad are driving factors behind many first electric mower purchases. Electric lawn mowers are also quieter and do not pollute.
There are corded and battery-powered push models available. Corded mowers are suitable for smaller yards because you will need to use an extension cord to run the mower while battery powered models are more versatile. If you have a large yard or an incline, keeping two sets of batteries charged and ready is advised.
Need a riding lawn mower? Several new all electric riding mowers entered the market in the past few years. Benefits of these mowers include:
- Less yearly maintenance costs. You can forget about changing the oil, oil filter, spark plugs, belts, and air filters. Just change/sharpen the mower blades and check the tire pressure as needed.
- Less expensive to operate. Filling your tank with electricity versus gas or diesel will save you fuel costs. According to the Electric Mower Report, a half-acre lawn mowed with a gas-powered lawn mower will cost approximately $1.50 per half-acre mowed, while an electric lawn mower will cost $0.10 per half-acre mowed. Yearly costs, if you mow approximately 20 times, translate to $31.50 for gas and $2.10 for electric.
- Less expensive to own. An electric riding mower powered by Lithium-Ion batteries and brushless motors will pay for itself and save you money over the life of the mower compared to a gas-powered one.
- Quieter to operate. You can mow without the deafening roar of a lawn tractor engine. Mow your lawn in the early or late hours of the day with no worry of your neighbors complaining.
Other Lawn Care Equipment
Cordless electric trimmers, chainsaws, and leaf blowers also are great options to consider. In addition to being much quieter and easier to use, battery-operated models are often much lighter. Most batteries can last 30-45 minutes before the next charge. When looking to make a purchase, the main factors to consider are the battery’s life, charge time, and power. Do your homework online and look for reviews from trusted websites like ConsumerReports.org. With a little research, you’ll be ready to tackle your lawn chores with less maintenance, hassle, and noise.