You may have relied on gas-powered outdoor power tools in the past to tackle your yardwork, but in some instances, battery-operated equipment is a solid option to help you maintain your property.
Battery technology has come a long way, and current batteries have enhanced charging capabilities and larger storage capacities that are light-years beyond their predecessors. The shape of batteries has evolved too, leading manufacturers to create more compact power tool designs that result in smaller, lighter devices with improved performance.
But like fabric caught in a zipper, there’s a catch. Equipment that runs on batteries may not suit the task on your to-do list. In some cases, outdoor power tools fueled by gasoline are preferred due to their run time and power output.
So how do you know which type of product you need to get the job done? It depends on your project.
In this blog, you’ll learn some key considerations for choosing between a gas-powered or a battery-operated tool. We will also share our top picks for battery outdoor power equipment to keep your property in tip-top shape.
Considerations for Choosing Battery- or Gas-Powered Tools
When you’re considering your options, the following factors can help you select what type of power equipment is best suited for your needs.
- Usage Duration: Determine how long you expect your project to take. A 2-hour task has different usage requirements than a 30-minute job.
- Frequency of Use: Will you use this tool regularly or just once in a while? Knowing whether you need something for ongoing maintenance or an just occasional quick cleanup project can guide your equipment choice.
- Tool Purpose: Are you keeping hedges in shape, clearing leaves, or trimming trees? Each uses a different tool, so let your project drive your equipment purchase.
Learn more about how to choose the right tool for your yard care needs.
Advantages of Battery Tools
Today’s batteries have several advantages over older options. Innovative technology means a battery’s power lasts longer and recharges more quickly. Another plus: current batteries don’t lose their “memory” — meaning they stay at full capacity regardless of how long or often you charge them.
When it comes to outdoor power equipment, consider the many benefits of battery tools. They are:
- Convenient. Battery-operated devices don’t require heavy gas tanks, making them lighter and easier to handle. They’re a breeze to start (forget yanking on a string) and quieter to run than their fuel-driven counterparts.
- Easy to maintain. Looking for easy-to-care-for power tools? Battery-run equipment requires no engine maintenance – oil changes and tune-ups are a thing of the past. There’s no need to worry about using a fuel additive in the tank or operating a machine with degraded gas that’s sat in the engine too long.
- Quick to set up and use. For quick tasks that take around 30 minutes or so, lightweight, battery-operated tools can complete a maintenance job on a single charge. And if the task takes a little longer than expected, battery advancements mean you can recharge more quickly and get back to the job or swap in a new battery without missing a beat.
Three Top Picks: Tool-Specific Recommendations
The number of outdoor power tool options available can make your head spin. The good news is that you don’t need to own that many.
When it comes to battery-operated outdoor power equipment, we recommend 3 main tools for quick and easy yard work.
Here’s where each one fits in your tool arsenal:
- Hedge Trimmer. For quick projects or occasional yard work, like shaping a small hedge in the spring, a battery hedge trimmer is ideal. It is lightweight, provides easy set-up, and runs quietly. Take a look at the STIHL HSA 60, and learn more about caring for battery-operated hedge trimmers.
- Blower. When you need to clear some leaves or clean up the tree debris that falls on your patio, forget about raking or sweeping—a battery-operated blower is your new best friend. This tool enables you to clear walkways with ease, including crevices and hard-to-reach areas. Give the STIHL BGA 60 a shot, or for the ultimate performance, consider a battery backpack blower!
- Chainsaw. For general cleanup tasks like removing branches or cutting up fallen tree limbs, you can’t go wrong with a battery-powered chainsaw. We don’t recommend this tool for tougher projects like cutting up large rounds of firewood, but it is perfect for quick and easy yard work. Check out this STIHL MSA 70 battery-operated chainsaw.
When Gas-Powered Tools are the Best Option
With all the reasons to consider battery-driven outdoor power tools, they do have their limitations.
A gasoline-fueled device is a smart bet when it comes to:
- Runtime. Gas-operated devices go the distance and should be used for intensive tasks that take several hours to complete. Gas equipment keeps pace with your gas supply – simply refill the tank and keep working.
- Power. If your project needs some serious power, use outdoor equipment that runs on gas. While technology advances have improved battery power output, rugged projects like slicing up firewood or cutting through thick tree limbs call for the muscle of gas-run devices.
The Bottom Line
When you’re choosing a power tool to tackle an outdoor project, let your task guide your decision.
Consider how often you’ll need a specific tool, what task you’ll need it for, and how long you’ll need it to run to complete the job you have in mind. You might just find that a mix of gas- and battery-powered equipment is the way to go, providing more options and flexibility when it comes to maintaining your outdoor space. And remember—always choose a product backed by a reliable service support network. Can you easily find parts and service, or is it designed to be a “throwaway” product? A tool is only as good as the support behind it.
While we’ve provided lots of information in this blog, you may still have questions regarding the tools that work best for your particular landscape needs. We are happy to help! Come see us at Carl’s Mower & Saw and let us help you find the best tool for your outdoor tasks.
About
Established in 1990 by Carl and Beth Levien, Carl’s Mower & Saw remains a family-owned and locally operated business to this day. We’re committed to providing an exceptional customer experience to both contractors and homeowners. Whether you’re looking for sales, service or rentals, you’ll find quality outdoor power equipment brands known for their durability and dependability, including Exmark, Gravely, Honda, Husqvarna, STIHL, and BCS America. For inquiries, feel free to reach out by calling 360-384-0799 or emailing info@carlsmower.com.
