Gas Vs. Electric Lawn Edgers
"The right tool for the right job" may be an old saying, but it still holds true for any homeowner who takes pride in a sharp, clean-looking yard. There are a number of tools necessary for lawn and yard maintenance, but a quality lawn edger is just as important as any mower, trimmer or saw. So what about the merits of a gas vs. an electric edger? Each has advantages and disadvantages, and your choice will depend on your specific needs. Does this Spark an idea?
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Types of Edgers
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When considering gas versus electric edgers, it is important to understand that there are actually two types of each. Electric edgers offer battery-powered models as well as AC-powered edgers that require an extension cord. Gas edgers use one of two types of engines: two-cycle engines that run on a 40 to 1 mixture of gasoline to oil, and four-cycle engines that run on plain unleaded gasoline.
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Mechanical Proficiency
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Consider your level of mechanical proficiency and willingness to get dirty. Electric models, whether battery or AC powered, are a good choice for those who desire a simple, reliable piece of equipment that requires no maintenance other than routine blade safety. Gas-powered models require both gas and oil and may need to be serviced periodically to start and run properly.
Small Areas
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Consider the size of the area to be tended. Battery-powered models are suitable for small plots and yards that require relatively simple edging along walkways and curbs, while an AC-powered model will be more convenient for larger yards. As the size of the tended area grows, though, an extension cord may become cumbersome.
Larger Areas
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Gas-powered models have the advantage of being untethered by an extension cord and thus are more convenient for large lawns or gardens. Also consider that a gas-powered model gives the owner the freedom and flexibility to use the edger anywhere at all, regardless of the availability of AC power.
Power and Versatility
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As non-commercial gas-powered edgers use engines that range between 22cc and 150cc in size, they are more powerful than their electric counterparts. This, and the availability of blades that can be adjusted to different angles and depths on higher-end gas models, means that they can be used for heavier-duty jobs such as cutting shallow trenches and landscaping angled edges.
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