There are a lot of choices to consider when you’re looking for outdoor power equipment. For the 31 years we’ve been in the industry we’ve seen our fair share of equipment brands and equipment models come and go. Because of this, we have a long list of considerations when it comes to carrying brands and introducing new models to our store. We’re a small family-owned business and our reputation is on the line. So, we do our due diligence to bring on the products that our team can stand behind.
Nick Vander Ploeg, a familiar face and part of the customer service team for Carl’s, knows his stuff when it comes to all things power equipment. We were discussing the best equipment to help with chores around the property in early spring and he laid out 3 of his favorites.
Honda Walk-Behind Mower. Yes, even though we’re in the shoulder of mowing season, your walk behind is an incredible tool to help you quickly bag and mulch wind blown debris. And Nick says, it’s not just for those with smaller property. Homeowners with acreage still need an efficient way to clean up wind blown debris around their homes and outside living areas. Honda makes an incredible push mower; affordable, durable, easy to operate and easy to maintain. All HRX and HRN models come with the ability to bag, mulch and leaf shred. Nick has been eyeing the Honda HRX 217HYA that comes with a 5 year residential warranty.
Stihl Kombi. How can anyone leave the Kombi off of their top 3?! “You just can’t, says Nick, It’s way too versatile of a tool.” Nick uses his Kombi, the KM131, year round. During the shoulder season before spring, he uses the hedger and pole saw attachments the most to keep limbs and branches trimmed back during Whatcom county’s windy season. And, it’s easy for him to snap on the blower and do a quick clean up after he’s finished. The Kombi saves you a ton of time. You have 1 engine to maintain and up to 14 different attachments that easily click on and off of the machine. So you get the job done more quickly, then you clean off the attachments and hang everything back up. According to Nick, “Every homeowner should have a Kombi system.” He points out the battery-powered kombi series is just as powerful as the gas powered. So, really it’s just about homeowner preference.
Husqvarna 320ib Blower. Nick admitted he usually leans towards Stihl products for himself, but says this Husqvarna blower is a must have for every homeowner. He’s impressed by this blower’s ability to move heavy, wet debris. The 10 second boost makes all the difference for a homeowner living in Whatcom county where it rains from October to July. When you have wet leaves and twigs blown into the corners of your walkways and patios you need something with enough power to dislodge the debris, and that’s why Nick chooses the 320ib. The best part? It’s battery powered. So it’s super easy to grab it from the shed, pop the battery in and get to work. Plus, Husqvarana made a genius move to create one battery that operates all of their battery powered equipment. Saves money and time!
Keep your eye on our YouTube, Instagram & Facebook feeds to learn more about our favorite equipment. As always, reach out with questions by emailing info@carlsmower.com.
Power Your Outdoors with Carl’s Mower & Saw, for over 30 years we’ve been Whatcom & Skagit County’s leading source for power equipment service, sales, rentals and parts. Give us a call 360-384-0799, or email us at info@carlsmower.com.