Electric Vs Gas Lawn Mowers: Which Is Right For You?

When it comes to lawn mowers, there are two main types: electric and gas. Both have their pros and cons, making it difficult to decide which one is right for you. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at both types of mowers and help you make an informed decision.

Pros of electric lawn mowers

Electric mowers have many positives that distinguish them from gas mowers. Let’s look into some most common advantages.

1. Cost-effective: You don’t have to worry about buying gas or oil for battery powered mowers. All you need is a power supply, and you’re good to go. In the long run, corded electric mowers are cheaper to operate than gas mowers.

2. Easy to maintain: Corded electric mowers are easier to maintain as compared to gas powered lawn mowers since there are fewer parts that can break. All you need to do is keep the blades sharp and clean the corded mower regularly.

3. Eco-friendly: Battery powered mowers don’t produce any fumes, which is great for people with allergies or asthma. This is also good for the environment as corded mowers don’t emit any carbon footprint.

4. No gas spills or leaks: Since there is no gas tank on electric mowers, you don’t have to worry about gas spills or leaks.

5. Quiet: Battery powered mowers are much quieter than gas mowers. This can be beneficial if you have noise-sensitive neighbors or you don’t want to wake up the entire neighborhood when you’re mowing early in the morning.

6. Easy to store: Electric mowers are typically smaller and lighter than gas mowers, making them easier to store.

7. Easy to operate: Battery powered lawn mowers are easy to start since you don’t have to pull a cord. They are also easier to maneuver than gas mowers.

Cons of electric lawn mowers

Although electric mowers have several advantages over gas mowers, they also have a few disadvantages that you should be aware of.

1. Limited range: Since electric lawnmowers need to be plugged into an outlet to operate, they are limited in terms of how far they can move. This might not be an issue if you only have a small lawn, but it can be a problem if you have a large lawn or live in a rural area.

2. Limited battery power: If you have a battery-powered mower, you might not have to worry about the power source and a cord. However, you still need to make sure the batteries are fully charged before you start mowing. Otherwise, you might not be able to finish your lawn. Additionally, battery-powered electric mowers tend to be more expensive than other types of electric mowers.

3. Extension cords can be a hassle: If you don’t have an outdoor outlet, you’ll need to use an extension cord. This can be a hassle, especially if the cord is too short or if there are a lot of obstacles in your yard.

4. Expensive: Battery powered mowers are more expensive than gas mowers. You can expect to pay anywhere around $500 for a new electric lawn mower.

5. Less power: Electric lawn mowers usually don’t have as much power as gas mowers. This can make it difficult to mow through thick grass or weeds.

6. Replacement batteries can be expensive: Battery-powered lawn mowers need battery replacements. This can be expensive, especially if you need to buy multiple batteries.

Pros of gas lawn mowers

Gas mowers have been around for much longer than electric mowers, and there’s a reason they’re still popular today. Here are some of the main advantages of gas mowers.

1. More power: Gas engines provide more power than electric ones, so they can handle tougher jobs.

2. Longer runtime: A gas powered mower can run for a longer time than an electric one before needing a recharge.

3. Large blades: Gas mowers typically have larger blades than electric ones, which means they can cover more ground in a shorter amount of time.

4. No cords to contend with: You don’t have to worry about getting tangled up in a cord while using a gas lawn mower. This can be beneficial if your lawn is large or you have a lot of trees and other obstacles in the way.

5. Wide variety of options: There are many different types of gas lawn mowers available, giving you more options to choose from.

6. Price: Gas mowers will cost you less than electric mowers, making them a more affordable option if you are budget-conscious.

Cons of gas lawn mowers

Gas lawn mowers can be loud and smelly, and they can also produce emissions that are harmful to the environment.

1. Maintainance costs: They’re also more expensive to maintain than electric mowers, and they require regular tune-ups.

2. Noise pollution: Gas mowers can be very loud, which can be annoying for your neighbors and anyone else who happens to be near you when you’re using it.

3. Carbon footprints: Another downside of gas mowers is that they produce emissions that are harmful to the environment. If you’re concerned about your carbon footprint, an electric mower may be a better option for you.

Gas vs Electric Lawn Movers: Which type is right for you?

Now that you know the pros and cons of electric and gas lawn mowers, it’s time to decide which type is right for you. If you’re looking for an environmentally-friendly option, electric lawn mowers are the way to go. However, if you’re looking for a powerful mower that can handle more challenging jobs, a gas mower is a good option.

While gas mowers have some clear advantages over electric ones, there are also some disadvantages to consider before making a decision. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what you’re looking for in a lawn mower.

Are electric lawn mowers powerful enough?

Electric lawn mowers have come a long way in recent years, and they now offer plenty of power for most homeowners. If you have a large lawn or tough terrain, you may want to opt for a gas mower, but an electric mower should be powerful enough for most people.

How long will an electric mower last?

A regular gas-powered lawn mower might last for around eight to ten years. An electric lawn mower, however, can last for up to fifteen years with proper care. Electric mowers typically last longer than gas mowers since there are no moving parts that can wear down.

Plus, there’s no need to worry about storing gasoline or changing the oil in an electric mower, both of which can be messy and time-consuming tasks.

How much do electric mowers cost?

An electric mower typically costs anywhere between $200 and $700, depending on the model and features. A gas lawn mower, on the other hand, can cost between $100 and $500. So, while electric mowers have a higher upfront cost, they often last longer than gas mowers, which means you’ll save money in the long run. In comparison, gas counterparts might cost less upfront, but their fuel costs and maintenance costs can add up over time.

Things to know before buying a lawn mower

When we talk about lawn mowers, there are dozens of models available. This makes selecting the best mower a bit difficult. There are a few things to consider before getting a new lawn mower.

Size of your Lawn

The size of your yard is the first thing to think about. If you have a small lawn, you won’t need a large mower for it. Conversely, if you have a large yard, you’ll want a mower that can cover more ground quickly.

Type of Yard

Another thing to consider is the terrain of your yard. If your yard is mostly flat, any type of mower will do. However, if your yard has hills, you’ll want a self-propelled mower to make the job easier.

Type of Grass

The next thing to consider is the type of grass in your yard. If you have a lawn with thick, coarse grass, you’ll need a powerful mower to cut through it. If you have a lawn with delicate, fine grass, you’ll need a mower that won’t damage the blades.

Read Also: Best Lawn Mower Blades

Budget

Finally, you’ll need to decide how much you want to spend on a lawn mower. Mowers can range in price from $100 to $800 and above. It’s important to find a mower that fits your budget and meets your needs.

By keeping these things in mind, you can find the perfect lawn mower for your yard.

Conclusion

When deciding between a gas or electric lawn mower, it is crucial to consider the pros and cons of each option. Gas lawn mowers are powerful and can handle serious jobs, while battery-powered models are easy to maneuver and environmentally friendly. Electric mowers also have less maintenance cost and the advantage of lasting longer than gas mowers. However, they may not be as powerful as some gas-powered counterparts.

By looking at the above comparisons, you can easily make an informed decision.

Electric vs gas lawn mower: FAQs

Are there any advantages of an electric lawn mower over a gas one?

Electric lawn mowers have several advantages over gas-powered ones. They are quieter, easier to start, and require less maintenance. Electric mowers also emit no fumes, making them more environmentally friendly.

Why are gas mowers more powerful?

Gasoline engines tend to be more powerful than electric ones, making them better suited for large lawns. Gas models also typically have a longer run time than electric mowers, so you can mow for a long time without having to stop and recharge.

What features do the modern gas mowers provide?

Modern gas-powered mowers come with a variety of features that make them easier and more enjoyable to use. Look for mowers with adjustable speed settings, air filters, increased motor power, lower engine maintenance, less air pollution, self-propulsion, and mulching capabilities. You should also consider the size of the mower deck, as this will determine how wide of a path you can mow in one pass.

Should I prefer gas mower models over corded models?

That depends on your needs. If you have a small lawn and don’t mind the hassle of having to unplug and move the cord every time you mow, then a corded electric model is a good option. If you have a huge lawn or live in an area with frequent power outages, then you’ll need to look at the gas-powered models.

What are the environmental benefits of electric mowers?

Corded electric mower emits no pollutants, making them much more environmentally friendly than gas-powered mowers. They also use less energy than power gas mowers, so you’ll be helping to reduce your carbon footprint.

Electric vs gas lawn mowers: which one is good for wet grass?

If you have a lawn that is regularly wet or damp, then a corded mower is a better option. Gasoline-powered mowers can emit harmful fumes when used in enclosed spaces, so it’s best to avoid using them in garages or sheds. Electric mowers are also less likely to spark, making them safer to use around flammable liquids.

Can lithium-ion batteries on corded models survive in the rain?

Yes, they can. The batteries on corded electric mowers are designed to withstand wet weather conditions. However, it’s still important to keep the mower and the extension cord dry when possible.

Can I use a gas lawn mower in an enclosed area?

No, you should not use a gas lawn mower in an enclosed area. Gasoline-powered engines emit harmful fumes that can be dangerous when inhaled, so it’s best to avoid using them indoors.

Electric vs gas lawn mower: Which is the better option for a small lawn?

For a small lawn, an electric powered mower is the better option. They are quieter and easier to maneuver than gas-powered models, and they require no maintenance. Electric powered mowers are also more environmentally friendly, as they emit no pollutants.

How often should I change the oil in my gas mower?

It’s typically recommended that you change the oil in your gas mower every 50 hours of use. However, this may vary depending on the make and model of your mower. Consult your mower’s manual for specific instructions.

Is electric mowers safe to use around children and pets?

Yes, it is. Electric lawnmower is much quieter than gas models, so it won’t startle small children or pets. Additionally, electric lawnmower is less likely to spark, making it safe to use around flammable liquids.