The Advantages of Gas-Powered Lawn Mowers
Gas-powered lawn mowers still hold a significant edge in overall power despite the growing popularity of battery-powered models. Unlike battery-operated mowers, gas mowers can handle varying conditions, including hot weather, longer grass, and challenging terrains. So while your neighbors struggle with their battery mowers at noon, you can confidently mow your lawn and enjoy the comfort of your air-conditioned home.
In tough cutting conditions, gas mowers also outlast most battery-operated mowers. If you run out of gas, you have the convenience of simply walking back to your garage or trailer to refill, instead of waiting for the battery to recharge, which can take anywhere from 45 minutes to over 3 hours. In the worst-case scenario, you can easily drive to the nearest gas station within 10 minutes.
Durability is another area where gas mowers excel. Cordless mowers typically require battery replacements every 3 to 5 years, and many don’t last beyond 5 years due to their complex electronics. On the other hand, a reasonably priced gas mower can easily last 5 years with minimal maintenance, while a high-quality gas mower can endure for 10 years or more with basic upkeep.
Price is a significant consideration as well. Gas-powered mowers offer excellent value, with options available for less than $200. Even a residential model with a Honda engine can be acquired for around $400. In contrast, battery mowers with comparable power, features, and runtime can cost hundreds of dollars more.
Service availability is not something to overlook. In most areas, finding a small engine mechanic for maintenance or repairs of gas mowers is relatively easy. However, there are significantly fewer service centers for battery-operated lawn care equipment, and you may face extended wait times of weeks or even months to get your mower back.
The Benefits of Battery-Powered Lawn Mowers
When considering noise, emissions, and convenience, battery-powered lawn mowers offer three compelling reasons to make the switch from gas-powered mowers.
Firstly, battery mowers are noticeably quieter than their gas counterparts. While the gas mower we tested registered a deafening 94 decibels (86 decibels being the lowest recorded), the battery-operated models ranged from 74 to 88 decibels. This substantial difference in sound pressure level makes a significant impact in terms of reducing noise pollution during mowing.
Noise reduction also has safety implications. Even as a homeowner, being able to hear your surroundings while mowing can help you stay aware of any approaching vehicles, cyclists, or even your children playing in the backyard.
Emissions are another major advantage of battery power. Although there are no direct emissions from battery mowers, it’s worth noting that emissions may come from the sources where you charge the batteries. Nevertheless, when compared to even the most environmentally-friendly gas mowers, the emissions from battery mowers are significantly lower.
Convenience is where battery-powered mowers truly shine. Simply grab the rechargeable batteries, insert them into the mower, and start mowing. There’s no need to worry about mixing oil and gas, using fuel stabilizer, dealing with carburetor issues, struggling with pull starts, or even considering antifreeze. Battery mowers are incredibly user-friendly, making them a breeze to use at the beginning and end of the mowing season.
Technological advancements have further enhanced the appeal of battery-powered mowers. High-end self-propelled models now offer torque that surpasses that of gas engines, and stacked blade systems deliver superior cutting results. There are even legal zero-turn mowers available that can handle tough cuts and longer runs, exceeding expectations from just a few years ago.
Lastly, it’s important to note that many communities, municipalities, businesses, campuses, cities, and even the state of California are imposing bans on the use of gas-powered outdoor appliances. As these regulations expand, gas mowers are becoming less and less viable.
The Final Decision is Yours
In the ongoing debate between gas and battery-powered lawn mowers, the ultimate choice depends on your unique circumstances. In our office alone, some people prefer battery mowers, while others stick with gasoline.
Do you have any thoughts to contribute to this discussion? Feel free to share your ideas in the comments!
