There is an ongoing debate about Gas vs Battery-powered equipment with both sides having valid points. Gas-powered equipment produces both noise and air pollution. Gas is smelly and hazardous. Not to mention the process of mixing 2 stroke oil with gas can become exasperating after time. Four stroke versions have a separate compartment for gas, but still needs to be topped off or you’ll end up with a seized engine.
On the other hand, battery powered equipment are marketed as being more environmentally conscious. However, how much depends on the consumer’s viewpoints. Battery equipment are produced in factories that use gas. The power used to recharge batteries comes from factories that require gas for production. Broken equipment and batteries get tossed in a landfill. Chemicals from such discarded waste end up seeping into the earth.
Here are some things to consider if you’re having a hard time deciding:
Power
- Gas equipment in many cases just have more power and can run even when overheated.
- Battery equipment on the other have can become overheated. Chips located inside automatically turn the unit in order to prevent this. Some manufactures now make a commercial version of their equipment; however, it is going to take the test of time to convince “Die Hard” gas users to make the switch.
Runtime
- Gas-powered equipment are only limited by the amount of fuel available. All you need is more gas to continue working.
- Battery equipment are limited to the amount of charge a battery holds. A spare battery is a good idea for bigger jobs. Keep in mind that batteries are very expensive, sometimes costing more than the tool itself. Another drawback is the life cycle. Batteries have a certain life cycle before they start losing full charge, however more recent models tend to last a very long time. There is also a warranty so it’s always best to buy new if you can afford it.
Maintenance
- You can swap out and rebuild gas equipment parts from scratch. Mentioned parts can be found online for bargain prices.
- Battery equipment have more complicated internal parts. As a result, maintenance requires you to have an electrical skill set. If there is an issue with an out of warranty battery/tool you may have to replace the whole unit
Noise
- Gas equipment tends to be on the noisy side requiring you to wear ear protection. Some cities even have restrictions on when and where you can operate gas-powered equipment.
- Battery-powered still produces noise, however, are not so noisy as their counterparts.
User fatigue
- Gas equipment requires a lot of upper body strength for pull starting. This can become cumbersome for those with physical disabilities. Some petrol engines come with a push start function. Gas equipment also tends to be more on the heavy side since most of the parts comprise metal.
- Manufacturers make battery equipment mostly from plastic and a smaller electrical motor. Hence, reducing weight.
In the end, what it comes down to is a matter of preference. Depending on your job it might make more sense to have a combination of both.