Whether you’re cutting grass, blowing leaves, or whacking weeds, yard work can be hard work. But choosing the right tool for the job doesn’t have to be. Electric lawn tools are becoming the go-to choice for weekend warriors, landscaping pros, and big box stores alike, and for good reason. We’re here to explain the buzz behind these tools and why you should consider snagging one yourself.
You’ll save money.
While electric lawn tools may cost a bit more on the front end than the gas-powered versions, they’ll save you money over time. It’s no secret that gas prices are volatile, and any opportunity to avoid pain at the pump helps. With a gas-powered lawn mower, you’ll spend $33 on gas for it in a year. But with an electric lawnmower, you’ll spend less than $1 on electricity for it in a year. Plus, you’ll avoid the maintenance fees that gas-powered appliances have, like oil changes and part replacements.
You’ll enjoy the peace and quiet.
Where gas-powered gadgets roar, electric ones purr, all without sacrificing power or precision. That softer sound makes yardwork less of a headache for you, your neighbors, and your pets. In fact, your pets might be so unfazed by the gentle whirr of your electric lawn tools that they decide to join you. Just ask Bob Soule, a graduate of our Electric Coaches program, who cuts his grass with his dog Annie supervising.
The relative quietness of electric lawn tools is also better for your health. The noise pollution associated with gas-powered lawn equipment can be detrimental: Besides hearing loss, excessive noise can cause high blood pressure, stress-related illnesses, and other health issues, according to the EPA.
You’ll breathe easier.
Besides excessive noise, gas-powered lawn mowers, string trimmers, leaf blowers, and other tools fill the air with particle pollution, which is around the same amount as all the private cars in the U.S. Electric simply doesn’t. With electric lawn tools, you help improve your local air quality, and in more ways than one. Not only will you be free of the pollution associated with gas, but you’ll also be free of the stench. For more insights into the relationship between appliance choices and national health, read our Breathe Easy report.
You’ll work smarter.
Electric lawn tools are all-around more efficient than their gas-powered counterparts. You won’t have to make last-minute runs to the gas station or worry about storing gas cans safely. Electric tools also need less maintenance, unless gas-powered machines that often need to be winterized or receive oil changes. And without massive motors, these tools are easier to move and to store. Tools with cords tend to be lighter than the ones with batteries, but neither match the bulk of the gas-powered versions. Your workload will literally be lighter.
Get charged up about the best tools for the job
Wondering what else is better electric? Sign up for our free online course Why Electrify to learn how other electric appliances can make life better for you, your family, and your community.