When comparing electric lawns to gas models, you’ll need to have a better understanding of how each operates so that you have so that you can have an insight on the right model for your gardening style. Gas lawn mowers require gasoline for operation. Electric lawn mowers, on the other hand, either come in the corded versions or cordless mowers.
Corded mowers have an electric cable that supplies power to the unit while the latter uses an electric battery that you can recharge after use. This article seeks to compare electric mowers against the traditional gas-powered, and by the end of this write-up, you might change your opinion about the choice of your lawn mower.
Source of power
Electric lawn mowers are either powered by batteries (cordless mowers) or by a cord (corded) that is plugged in a typical power outlet. The battery is a convenient power source, but it requires some level of maintenance; they need to be charged regularly even when not in use, and they tend to be affected by extreme temperatures over time. Typically, battery-powered mowers have a runtime of about an hour while corded mowers have unlimited runtime as long as they are plugged in a power outlet.
Gas mowers, on the other hand, use a gas tank to power a traditional gas engine that drives the mower. If you are just considering runtime, a gas mower can run forever as long as it doesn’t run out of gas. The tank needs to be refilled when needed, and it can deteriorate if left for months without use. So, you’ll need to replace the old gas after some time.
Lawn Size Considerations
Gas mowers will keep on running as long as they are loaded with gasoline making them appropriate for mowing both small and large spaces. Often, gas mowers are self-propelled, which can make mowing large lawns much easier. Also, if you’ll be mowing long and thick grass, you may want to consider a mower with power to spare, and the best bet is a gas model.
Today’s cordless mowers run for an hour when on a full battery charge before the charge is depleted, and you need to recharge. Typically, they are sufficient for mowing small-sized lawns that can be mowed in an hour. However, most cordless mowers will allow you to switch to an additional battery to increase your run time.
Operation and maintenance
Well, electric mowers are easier to operate but can’t run quite as much as their gas counterparts. For cordless mowers, you only need to ensure that your battery is in place, engage the safety key, and push the start button. The only maintenance task is to ensure that the mower is clean and also you may need to buy a new battery after several years of operation. The same applies to corded models only that you have to worry about tripping over the cord or cutting into it.
By comparison, gas mowers are pretty much complex. Gas mowers require a lot of maintenance tasks, including changing fuel, oil, fuel filters, spark plugs, and other components. The start-up process is also complex as it involves prepping, priming, and pulling to start the engine. The process can take several repeated tries before you get it right.
When it comes to the cost of operation, electric mowers are far cheaper to operate. Even though electric mower will cost you more upfront, the cost of fuel and little maintenance costs that comes with gas mowers will add up over time, making them more expensive to run.
Noise and Environment Footprint
Any mower running above 85 dB is considered to be loud, especially when operating in a quiet neighborhood. Even with efficient engines, most gas mowers run at around 90- 95 dB, which is significantly loud. Electric mowers, both corded and cordless, produce very little noise when they operate, and they can be considered to be environmentally friendly.
Electric mowers run at approximately 75 dB, and earplugs may not be necessary, and you can even enjoy your music while working on your yard. Also, with electric mowers, there are no greenhouse gas emissions to worry about, keeping your environment cleaner.
Weight
Electric models weigh lighter than gas mowers for apparent reasons. One, the battery, and the extension cord weigh less than the gas tank. Also, most electric models feature more plastic components, while their gas counterparts have more metal parts. This also makes gas mowers more durable than electric mowers.
While a lighter mower is easier to maneuver, you’ll need a heavier mower to be able to cut through tall and thick grass. Also, a heavier mower will be more stable if you have a bumpy terrain or sloping ground (although this is going to be hard work unless your mower is self-propelled)
Level of performance over time
With proper maintenance, gas mowers will perform more or less the same over time; the motor will run the same speed, and the same amount of force will be used as long as there’s gas. Also, if you need a mower that will cope with your rough and overgrown grass, a gas mower will deliver better results.
With a cordless electric mower, their performance over time depends on battery life. When the battery begins to drain, the motor starts to slow, and this can make it harder to mow through tall or thick grass. Unless you have a spare battery, a cordless mower will restrict you on the length of time you can use the machine. Corded mowers, on the other hand, tend to have the edge here, but it doesn’t mean they are the better option; the cord will limit your mobility.
Safety Considerations
Both electric and gas-powered mowers will pose different health and safety issues. However, electric mowers are very safe to use unless they are not functioning correctly. A corded mower, for example, will have an automatic power breaker that kicks in in an event you run over the cord accidentally. However, always be mindful of the location of the cord to avoid injuries and electrical shock.
For cordless models, the battery should not cause any problems unless you crack it open deliberately. Gasoline, on the other hand, is flammable and toxic, and it is especially dangerous when refilling the tank. You should never refill the tank when the mower is operating or still hot as the gasoline can be ignited easily. However, gas mowers can still be used safely if you take proper care and follow the manufacturer’s instructions when refueling.
Electric lawn mowers or gas; which is one do choose?
Going by what we have learned so far, the environmental advantage of the electric mowers makes them seem like a great option. They are quiet, clean, lightweight, and cost-effective. Also, if you have a small garden and don’t like dealing with engines, going for an electric model might be a good option for you. However, gas models will give you a reliable go-to option if you have a more extensive lawn with harsher conditions, and you don’t mind doing a little maintenance. Remember, there is no wrong choice when choosing a lawnmower. Only that one model may suit you and your lawn more than others.
Related Product Reviews:
- Finish Nailer vs. Brad Nailer-Different or the Same
- How to Size a Welding Cap
- Can you Run a Stick Welder on a Generator? -What size Needed to Run Welder?
William Phillips was born and raised in Keller, Texas. He is a licensed general contractor, and he has been a home improvement specialist for two decades. His passion for the trade led him to freelance writing to share his life experiences with his readers. Phillips enjoys thoroughly researching DIY tools and writing guides at ToolsHaunt as a way of giving back to the community.