Has it been a while since you went lawnmower shopping? If you are looking to replace your old mower as summer approaches, it is worth examining the differences and features of today’s electric and gas-powered mowers.
Recent technological advances elevate electric mowers to a safer and more realistic alternative to gas mowers. The field is even, and the choice is now determined by your lawn’s layout and your personal mowing preferences.
Purchasing a new lawnmower is a significant investment in the care and maintenance of your lawn. Each lawn presents unique mowing needs that will help determine the type and size of your new mower. Taking the time to compare your options carefully will ensure you select the right kind of mower for your needs.
Gas Mower Vs. Electric Mower
As you search for a new mower that keeps your lawn looking its best throughout the summer months, it is essential to understand the three primary type of modern lawnmower models and how they are powered:
- Gas-Powered Mowers: Uses gasoline to power a two- or four-cylinder engine.
- Corded Electric Mowers: Your extension cord’s length limits the amount of lawn a traditional electric mower can cover.
- Battery-Powered Electric Mowers: Batteries are charged in a charging station or remotely through a wireless connection.
Each type of lawnmower comes with benefits, features, and drawbacks to be considered before making a final decision. One may give you a better mowing experience than the others based on the size of your yard and other lawncare factors.
Let’s take a closer look and break down the pros and cons of each type of mower to help you decide on the one that will work best for your lawn and your mowing habits.
Gas-Powered Mowers
For decades, the gas-powered lawnmower was the gold standard for larger yards and commercial landscaping companies. Before the introduction of cordless electric mowers, a gas lawnmower was the only way to reach areas beyond the length of extension cords. Gas-powered mowers are still more powerful and can cut longer grass faster and more efficiently than electric alternatives.
A gas-powered lawn mower is a noisy, expensive machine that can be difficult to operate and maneuver, needs regular maintenance, and is likely to disturb your neighbors. However, they remain the preferred choice for those with large, expansive yards that need a boost in power and performance.
Gas Mower Pros
- Best for large lawns with tall, tough grass;
- Mow larger areas quicker without charging or being tethered to a cord;
- Relatively inexpensive gas goes a long way;
- Durable design with long life expectancy.
Gas Mower Cons
- Noisy and messy to operate;
- Requires regular maintenance and repair;
- Carbon emissions not good for the environment;
- Heavy and can be difficult to maneuver.
Electric Mowers
Corded electric lawn mowers tethered to an outlet are not only awkward to use and restrict the amount of yard you can cover, but they can also be very dangerous. Reasonably-priced corded mowers are still available on the market and can be ideal for small yards, but battery-powered electric mowers offer more flexibility and safety.
Whether battery-powered or plugged into a socket, electric mowers do not create greenhouse gas emissions like gas-powered mowers, making them better for the environment and quieter to operate. An electric mower can be more expensive than a gas-powered one initially, but money is saved on parts and maintenance, making it a more cost-efficient investment over time.
Remote-controlled battery charging systems make it easier than ever to keep an electric lawnmower prepared for action at all times. There are also robot lawn mowers on the market that are powered by rechargeable battery packs. These modern technological marvels are pricey and come with elaborate features such as rain and anti-theft sensors, wireless connectivity, mobile access, and advanced scheduling abilities.
Electric Mowers Pros
- Little maintenance or part replacements;
- Less expensive to operate and maintain;
- More environmentally friendly;
- Quieter than traditional gas mowers.
Electric Mowers Cons
- Less mowing time with battery compared to gas;
- Poor performance on thicker grass and more challenging areas;
- Costlier initial investment;
- Less powerful than gas mowers.
Which Lawnmower Should You Choose?
So, is a gas-powered or electric mower best for you? That largely depends on your lawn care needs and budget. Incredibly small or exceptionally large yards are typically best-served by using a gas mower. Lawn sizes that are in between can generally benefit from an electric mower in the long run.
Avoid getting talked into more lawnmower than you need by a pushy sales clerk. Do your homework and take the time to find the right size and type of lawnmower that makes it easiest to keep your yard looking its best with the least amount of time and effort.
Contact All Green Pest Control and Lawn Care Today
All Green Pest Control and Lawn Care provide a wide range of professional lawn care and pest control services for residential and commercial properties. A team of certified technicians is dedicated to keeping your lawn lush, healthy, and looking great. Our lawn care specialists can answer any questions you have regarding the care and maintenance of your yard, including the advantages and drawbacks of gas-powered and electric lawnmowers.
For more information on the differences between gas-powered and electric lawnmowers or to schedule your next lawn service call, contact All Green Pest Control and Lawn Care for a free estimate today.