Quick Overview of This Article
Nothing completes the beauty of your backyard than well-trimmed hedges. However, trimming once is never enough. You need to maintain the hedges and trim regularly. In that case, you will need a trimmer. If you’ve ever used a manual hedge trimmer or shears to trim your hedges, you know how time-consuming and tiresome they are. So, to achieve the best results, what should you opt for?
Powered hedge trimmers are the best option for maintaining a large backyard. These trimmers run on engines, making them work more efficiently. There are two types of powered hedge trimmers; gas-powered and electric. Between the two hedge trimmers, which one is the best?
It’s hard to distinguish which trimmer will be best for you since they have different features, pros, and cons. If you are a first-time user of powered hedge trimmers, selecting which one is the best can be challenging. However, worry less! In this article, we are going to look at gas vs electric Hedge Trimmer. What are their advantages, drawbacks, functions, etc.? You will know about both hedge trimmers by the end of this article. From there, you can make an informed decision on which trimmer is best-suited for your needs.
Overview of Gas-powered Hedge Trimmers
If you own a large backyard with tall and big bushes and hedges, a gas hedge trimmer might be your best choice. They are also highly recommended to lawn care professionals who need a powerful machine to get the work done. Due to their high-power output and portability, many professionals and homeowners prefer them. These trimmers may be challenging to operate, especially for first-time users. Let’s see what gas-powered hedge trimmers have to offer.
Power and Performance
Gas-powered hedge trimmers have the highest power output and the best performance when it comes to hedge trimmers. They have higher strokes per minute, making them able to trim through thicker branches.
These trimmers also have longer blades, making them suitable for handling more challenging trimming work and working for long hours without breaking down. These features make large homeowners and professionals go for gas hedge trimmers rather than electric-powered trimmers. Most single-sided hedge trimmers, used commercially to trim taller hedges, are gas-powered.
Durability
With proper maintenance, gas-powered hedge trimmers can give you long-term durability. Averagely, gas hedge trimmers can run for two to six years before they become usable.
Maintenance
Just like any other machine, your gas hedge trimmer will require regular care and maintenance to run smoothly for more extended periods. To keep them at optimum performance levels, you will need to regularly clean, sharpen, and lubricate the trimmer blades.
Gas-powered hedge trimmers require more care and maintenance compared to electric trimmers. You will need to check and service the engine regularly. Some maintenance practices include cleaning the spark plug, changing the oil, replacing the filters, and performing other maintenance practices.
You will also have to winterize your gas hedge trimmer to perform smoothly during the cold seasons. Winterizing includes draining the fuel and using fuel additives that preserve the oil. To get the specific maintenance practices for your gas hedge trimmer model, ensure you go through the user’s manual.
Cost
You can expect gas hedge trimmers to cost more than the electric modes since they have higher power output and advanced performance. The cost to run them is also increased since they require regular maintenance and fuel to run the engines. Another major cost comes in because gas-powered hedge trimmers feature a 2-stroke engine, which means it needs oil and gas to run.
This 2-cycle oil will make you go an additional cost of $2-$6 per gallon of gas when using the standard mixture of 40:1. If you decide to use a 4-stroke engine, the price will be two times higher than running a 2-stroke engine.
Usability
Unlike electric models, gas hedge trimmers do not have cords, and thus they are portable and user-friendly. As far as the hedge trimmer has fuel, you can cut and trim for a prolonged period even in places an electric trimmer cannot reach. However, they have less usability than electric models due to various reasons.
First, due to their engine size and longer blades, they are heavier than electric models. This heavyweight makes it challenging to control them or use them for extended periods. Secondly, they are tricky to start, especially for beginners, since they require pulling the cord. You will also have to get your hands dirty while working with gas trimmers since they use oil and fuel.
Though the high-power output is beneficial, it can pose a risk and potential hazards when beginners or inexperienced users operate the gas-powered hedge trimmers. Lastly, these trimmers produce noise which can lead to hearing problems and toxic fumes, which can cause respiratory issues.
Price
The price of purchasing a gas hedge trimmer is usually higher due to high-performance levels and power output. Generally, gas hedge trimmers cost between $130 to $700. However, some powerful and high-end professional models can go for as much as $800 or more.
The cost depends on each specific gas hedge trimmer’s features, power, and capability. If you don’t need the professional models, you can find a good-performing gas hedge trimmer with a budget of $250 to $350.
Pros
- Produce high-power output and performance
- Highly durable
- They are not limited by cords or battery charges
- Best suited for tougher trimming tasks
Cons
- Costly to purchase, operate, and maintain
- Heavyweight
- Produce loud noise and toxic fumes
- Require regular care and maintenance
- It can be risky for beginners and inexperienced users
Overview of Electric Hedge Trimmers
If you decide to purchase an electric hedge trimmer, you will have two options; corded and cordless. Corded models require to be connected to a source of power to run while the cordless/battery-powered use battery to run and thus do not require cords.
Electric hedge trimmers are best suited for homeowners who do not require powerful high-end trimmers since the garden is small. They produce less power but have high usability features that make them easy to be used by almost anyone. They are environmental-friendly, but they also have a few drawbacks.
Power and Performance
Generally, electric hedge trimmers produce less power output compared to gas-powered hedge trimmers. The electric models are not recommended for prolonged use or trimming and cutting very dense hedges. These trimmers are usually fitted with shorter blades with fewer strokes and are best recommended to people with smaller gardens and borders.
Due to their reduced power output and performance are mainly used for non-commercial cutting and trimming tasks. Electric hedge trimmers are the most viable option if you have a small garden with no thick hedges.
Durability
Most people consider electric hedge trimmers as less durable than gas-powered trimmers. The statement is true since most electric hedge trimmers will last 2-3 years with proper care and maintenance.
Maintenance
When it comes to maintenance, electric models are better than gas trimmers since they require less maintenance. You will only have to regularly clean, sharpen, and lubricate the trimmers. Electric models do not have a 2-stroke engine, so you won’t stress with fuel, oil replacement, or winterizing processes. With that in mind, you are well assured that electric hedge trimmers are user-friendly.
Though they require fewer maintenance practices, electric hedge trimmers are costly to repair. More so, battery-powered/ cordless hedge trimmers will require you to change the battery after two to three years. Replacing the battery is expensive since a single battery costs $60-$100, depending on the model and the manufacturer.
Cost
An electric hedge trimmer is the most viable option if you need a pocket-friendly option for your trimming tasks. They are not expensive to buy, and their running cost is also very low since they do not require fuel or oil.
Averagely, when using an electric hedge trimmer, it will cost you approximately $0.05 to $0.08 per operational hour. It is hard to determine the operating costs of a cordless hedge trimmer since they use a battery, but they are also cheap to use.
Usability
Electric hedge trimmers are very user-friendly and environmental-friendly. The lack of a gas engine means not producing hazardous fumes, loud noise, and emissions. More so, they are lightweight and therefore can be operated easily without tiring. However, the major disadvantage of electric trimmers is their cable with limited length.
The corded electric models must be plugged into a source of power to run, and the length of the cord limits where one can trim. In some scenarios, this cord can prevent you from reaching certain lengths and areas unless you purchase an extension cord. Additionally, there is always a risk of cutting the power cord while using the trimmer, posing a serious health hazard.
On the contrary, battery-powered offers more freedom while trimming since they use battery rather than power cords. However, they are also disadvantaged since the battery does not last for many hours before depleting. You must ensure that you have charged it fully before embarking on any backyard tasks. Consequently, you can purchase several other batteries and carry them when going to trim so that you can replace them whenever one gets depleted.
Price
Electric hedge trimmers are generally cheap to purchase. The corded hedge trimmers go for about $30 to $130, while the battery-powered models are a little bit expensive, with their price ranging between $50 to $200. However, various professional and powerful electric hedge trimmer models can cost around $600 or more.
The price range will be determined by the power and the features of the electric hedge trimmer. Averagely, you can get a good-performing electric hedge trimmer from $100 to $200.
Pros
- Easy and cheap to maintain
- Very user-friendly
- Produce less noise and hazardous emissions
- Easy to switch on and off
Cons
- Less powerful
- Limited length while using power cords
- Limited power when using battery-powered models
- Expensive to replace parts
What Factors Should I Consider When Purchasing a Gas Hedge Trimmer?
Before settling on a specific model of gas hedge trimmer, there are a few considerations to make. You have to ensure that it produces the power you need and will accomplish its tasks successfully. Here are the factors to consider:
- Engine
Before purchasing a gas-powered hedge trimmer, you have to consider the engine, which is the primary determining factor in the amount of power the trimmer will produce. Most people buy gas trimmers because they are powerful. So, it is essential to consider the engine.
Most gas-powered hedge trimmers are equipped with a 2-stroke engine, but some powerful high-end models are fitted with a 4-stroke engine. A 4-stroke engine is powerful but requires more maintenance and is more expensive to buy, use, and maintain. Generally, gas trimmers with a 2-stroke engine are powerful enough to accomplish all your cutting and trimming needs.
If you are looking for a gas-powered hedge trimmer for domestic use around your home, you should purchase models which produce a power output of 22cc and above. However, if you are looking for a trimmer for commercial purposes, consider buying a trimmer with higher engine size and power output.
- Blade
The blade plays a vital role in hedge trimmers since it determines how long it takes you to trim and the power. Shorter blades are lightweight and easier to handle but consume more time while cutting. On the other hand, longer blades are heavyweight but cut faster.
Ensure that you purchase a blade with good speed and control. If you purchase a high-speed blade but difficult for you to handle, you will end up with hedges that look unprofessional and disorganized.
- Usability
Gas-powered trimmers have less user-friendliness than electric hedge trimmers. Therefore, you must consider the usability of the trimmer before making the final purchase decision. First, consider the weight of the trimmer. If the trimmer is heavyweight, it will be hard for you to use for an extended period since you will tire quickly. You should go for lightweight models that are easy to use and cause less fatigue.
You should also check the design and additional features that enhance usability. For instance, hedge trimmers with a power switch and two handles will be comfortable handling and operating. More so, the gas hedge trimmer will have higher usability if it has a clippings collector.
- Rotating Head
Consider purchasing a gas-powered hedge trimmer with a rotating head. The model doesn’t need to have a rotating head, but models with rotating heads take less time to trim and leave you with a better user experience.
The function of the rotating head is to ensure that the head is intact regardless of the cutting position, i.e., horizontally or vertically.
What Factors Should I Consider When Buying an Electric Hedge Trimmer?
Just like gas-powered hedge trimmers, you also need to consider the following factors before you purchase an electric hedge trimmer:
- Power Type
As you already know, electric trimmers are into two categories:
- Corded/Electric hedge trimmers
- Cordless/ battery-powered hedge trimmers
Therefore, before buying an electric model, you must decide if you will buy a corded or cordless hedge trimmer. The two models will help you accomplish your needs; however, they have several differences. Battery-powered hedge trimmers are more convenient due to the lack of power cords, producing less power than corded models.
Most people prefer battery-powered hedge trimmers since they are convenient and will reach all areas without restriction. More so, they are safe to use since you cannot accidentally cut the power cord.
- Weight
Most people consider buying an electric hedge trimmer due to the comfortability and high usability that they offer. When purchasing an electric model, select the lightest model which will be comfortable to use with less fatigue for a prolonged time.
- Length of the Blade
The length of the blade will affect the performance and power output of the hedge trimmer. Electric hedge trimmers are generally less powerful than gas-powered models. Therefore, you must consider buying an electric trimmer with features that enhance performance.
Longer blades cut through hedges and branches more efficiently and quickly than shorter blades. However, longer blades reduce the usability of the trimmer. Finding an electric trimmer with an appropriate blade length that enhances usability and performance is the trick.
Warranty
Electric hedge trimmers can be expensive yet less durable. Therefore, to maximize your investment’s worth, purchase a model that has a warranty. The warranty will help you increase the model’s lifespan and save you money in case of repairs.
Gas vs Electric Hedge Trimmer: Which one is Better?
Generally, both electric and gas-powered trimmers are handy tools to assist you in trimming your hedges and bushes. But, how do you choose between electric hedge trimmers vs. gas-powered trimmers? The decision depends on the size and the magnitude of the task you want the trimmer to accomplish. You will have to go for gas trimmers if you are trimming large areas with vast and thick branches since they are more powerful than electric models.
If you are a home user who requires a trimmer for light duties around the garden, the best option is an electric hedge trimmer which is still powerful and cost-effective. People who need a trimmer for commercial purposes like Outdoor Cleanup Companies will go for gas-powered hedge trimmers. The companies require trimmers that will run for extended periods, produce high power, and be portable to any location. Therefore, gas trimmers are their best option. More so, the commercial users do not want trimmers that are restricted by power cords or those with batteries that you have to keep recharging or replacing.
If you want to keep your yard looking good in all seasons, you should go for the electric models. These machines are easy to operate, cheap to run, and ideal for almost any user. Electric hedge trimmers are lightweight, so you won’t get fatigued while handling them. You can use an electric trimmer in all seasons since they do not require winterization processes like the gas-powered hedge trimmers.
There are numerous brands and models of trimmers around the globe, making it hard to settle for one particular brand. However, here are two of the best trimmers you can consider purchasing:
- Gas Hedge Trimmer: Poulan Pro PR2322
- Electric Hedge Trimmer: Black+Decker BEHT100 Hedge Trimmer
The Poulan Pro PR2322 is a powerful gas hedge trimmer with a 2-stroke engine with a 23cc power output. The engine type and size make the trimmer more robust and durable than other models. Additionally, it comes with teeth measuring 22 inches, a powerful and usable blade length. However, the Poulan Pro PR2322 does not have the SmartStart Technology, making it have lesser usability when switching it on and off.
The Black+Decker BEHT100 Hedge Trimmer is an affordable, powerful, and highly usable electric hedge trimmer. More so, it is convenient to use and lightweight, meaning that you can operate it without being fatigued. Though it isn’t the most powerful trimmer, it is powerful enough to cut and trim hedges around your home quickly and with less effort.
Final Remarks
If you are planning to trim your hedges and give them a professional look, you will need the help between a gas vs electric hedge trimmer. You will also need a powerful hedge trimmer if you plan to start offering outdoor cleaning services for a fee.
The hedge trimmer will assist you in trimming the hedges more precisely, with less time and without using a lot of energy. Before you settle on any model, whether electric or gas-powered, consider the trimmer’s features and design. If the features and design match your needs, you have the green light to purchase.
Always go for powerful and durable trimmers that are easy to operate. Lastly, consider hedge trimmers from reputable companies that offer warranty and after-sale services.
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