If you’re in the market for a new lawn mower, you have a big decision to make. Should you buy an electric or gasoline-powered lawn mower? The answer to that question comes down to your lawn care needs and personal preference. Electric and gasoline-powered lawn mowers each have their own advantages and shortcomings.
Why people choose electric lawn mowers
Electric lawn mowers are moving into the mainstream of outdoor power equipment and gaining market share every year. Electric mowers are lighter weight, quieter and require less maintenance overall. They don’t produce carbon emissions, which is an environmental bonus. Electric mowers are generally most suitable for homeowners mowing a smaller yard a couple times a week or so.
Drawbacks of electric lawn mowers
Electric mowers are powered through either an extension cord plugged into an outlet or a battery. An extension cord means you must have close-by access to an outlet and the person doing the mowing has to be mindful of the cord, continually adjusting it so as not to ride over and cut it. A battery means you have a limited time to complete the mowing before the battery need recharging or switching out to a new battery. It should also be noted that battery packs have a limited lifespan and are relatively expensive to replace.
Why people choose gasoline-powered lawn mower
Gasoline-powered lawn mowers are ideal for people with large yards and commercial lawn services that must keep the mower operating throughout the workday without any delays. Refueling a gas tank takes minutes as opposed to recharging a battery, which can take quite a while. Although electric mowers are getting better, gasoline-powered mowers tend to be more powerful and rugged. If you need more power to cut thick grass and weeds, gas-powered mowers generally can generate more power to maintain forceful and high blade speeds.
Some people prefer gasoline-powered mowers because they feel confident in knowing how to maintain them. Previous experience with gas-powered mowers gives them a degree of comfort in changing oil, belts, air filters, spark plugs and pull cords, and they prefer to keep using a familiar type of lawn mower.
Drawbacks of gasoline-powered mowers
Gasoline-powered mowers are heavier and noisier than their electric counterparts. Additionally, in a world in which carbon emissions are a concern, they admittedly do produce them.
Weigh the pros and cons of electric and gasoline-powered mowers
There is no one right choice for every person regarding which type of mower to buy. There are positives and negatives for both electric and gas mowers. You have to look at your own unique situation to decide which one is best.
