Three ways to electrify your lawn care

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Posted on Feb 26 2020 in Decatur County REMC
Photo of young man with leaf blower

Spring is just around the corner, and you can practically smell the freshly cut grass. If you’re considering new lawn care equipment, think electric (or battery-powered) options. 

Gas-powered lawn mowers and trimmers may be your go-to, but times are a changin’. Electric lawn care equipment options are becoming more popular than ever, offering faster charging times, longer battery life and quieter, greener products compared to their gas-powered counterparts. Here are three ways to electrify your lawn care this spring. 

  • Electric Lawn Mowers Electric lawn mowers have come a long way over the last few years. Early models required corded connections, but the cord has been cut. Newer cordless electric mowers are more expensive than gas-powered mowers, but much of the upfront cost can be recovered since electricity is a less expensive fuel than gas, and electric engines generally require less maintenance than gas engines. Cordless electric mowers typically range from $200 to $500. 
    • Electric mowers are suitable for smaller lawn care needs, with batteries requiring one to two hours to fully charge, and most batteries can run for a full hour. However, if you have a large yard (half an acre or larger), a gas-powered option may best meet your needs. 
  • Electric Trimmers Cordless electric string trimmers are a great option for most lawns. New versions are improving and are considered worthy competitors of gas-powered models. 
    • Cordless electric trimmers are much quieter and easier to use, with batteries lasting about 30 to 45 minutes. So, if you have a lot of space to trim, you may consider a back-up battery or plan to work in short bursts. If you’re interested in purchasing an electric trimmer, the main factors to consider are the battery’s life, charge time and power. Costs can vary depending on your needs, but quality versions are available for about $100. 
  • Electric Leaf Blowers After cutting and trimming your lawn, you’ll need to clear those walkways and patios for the finishing touch. A cordless electric version is a great option. Decatur County REMC recently made the switch to a cordless electric leaf blower and we are very satisfied. Costs for a cordless electric blower vary depending on power and battery quality, but you can purchase a dependable model for $150 and up. 

If you’re looking to electrify your lawn care equipment, be sure to do your homework. Search online for the latest reviews, and check trusted websites like ConsumerReports.org. With a little research, you’ll be well on your way to Lawn of the Month!