Choosing the Right Lawn Mower: Battery-Powered vs Gas Options
As a passionate owner of battery-powered yard equipment, I have accumulated quite the collection during my time. From a EGO lawn mower, a string trimmer, a leaf blower, to various snow blowers, battery-operated tools have been a staple in my maintenance routine. This experience has given me a unique perspective on what truly matters when considering a new lawn mower. In this article, I will explore the pros and cons of battery-powered and gas mowers, and share my personal experiences to help guide your decision-making process.
My Experience with Battery-Powered Mowers
My journey with battery-powered yard supplies began in 2016 when I replaced my Toro personal pace gas mower with an EGO mower. The Toro was a reliable machine, but I was drawn to the quieter and more eco-friendly option that the EGO provided. The EGO mower offers several benefits:
Quiet Operation: No need for hearing protectors, and the ability to listen to music or the radio while mowing enhances the experience. No Fumes: Clean and simple operation with no worries about gasoline. Sustainable: Battery-powered options are more environmentally friendly, reducing your carbon footprint. Reduced Maintenance: Much less maintenance compared to a gas mower, focusing on blade sharpening instead of engine care.While the EGO mower does not perform as well as the Toro in terms of mowing quality, it still does an adequate job. The 7.5ah battery is sufficient for most of my yard, despite being a 2-acre property. Swapping batteries is easy, and with a spare, I can extend the mowing time for larger areas.
Recent Updates: Two-Bit Blade Mower
After the EGO, I replaced it with a two-blade model, which has a noticeable difference in cutting performance. I prefer the speed control on the older mower, but the two-blade version provides a smoother and cleaner cut. Additionally, the two-blade accessory offers excellent performance for leaf vacuuming. My EGO two-blade lawn mower continues to be my preferred choice for mowing my 2 acres of land.
Battery-Powered Versus Gas Mowers
Now, let's delve into the specific comparisons between battery-powered and gas mowers, focusing on the Stihl 20-inch battery mower. This mower, which I have been using since July 2017, offers a compelling argument for battery-powered options:
Long Run Time: The battery allows for an hour of continuous use, which is perfect for my front and back lawns. Extended Use: With a spare battery, I can double the cutting time to 2 hours, making it ideal for fall cleanup. Environmental Friendly: No emissions, reducing the ecological impact of my lawn care routine. Ergonomic Design: The ease of use and ergonomic design make mowing a comfortable and enjoyable task.An added benefit of the Stihl battery mower is its mulching function. The machine can chop up grass finely for recycling back into the lawn. In the fall, I remove the grass discharge plug and attach the leaf catcher to clean up fallen leaves efficiently. The mower's design ensures that maintenance is minimal, focusing on blade sharpening and occasional battery replacement.
Conclusion
When choosing a new lawn mower, consider both battery-powered and gas options and weigh the pros and cons based on your specific needs. Battery-powered mowers offer convenience, reduced maintenance, and environmental benefits, while gas mowers provide powerful performance and a wider range of features. Based on my personal experiences, battery-powered mowers are a worthy investment, especially if you prioritize eco-friendliness and user-friendly features.