Gas vs Electric Lawn Mowers

When equating gas and electric lawn mowers, there are some important details of each to be aware of. The electric lawn mowers available today have more power than ever before to be able to manage a normal lawn. Lithium ion batteries are available with more power and longer run times to drive your mower. And thanks to shorter charging times, you can be ready to finish the job in just a short time if needed. 

While battery-powered mowers can be easy and efficient to use, sometimes the task at hand requires more power and torque to cut through heavy overgrown grass. In this situation a gas-powered mower is going to be the best option.

The traditional choice for lawn mowers has been a gas powered model. With the combination of power and maneuverability, these mowers can manage just about any yard that is an acre or less. Gas mowers will crank with a pull-start, but some newer models also have an added key or push-button method to start the mower. A longer lifespan compared to electric mowers is another added feature of these mowers. It is important to use the proper fuel as described in the owner’s manual. Check out our article Small Engine Fuel and Gasoline Guide for tips on how to keep your machine running properly.

Pros:

• Offer more overall power for work
• No need for batteries or cords
• Offer longer runtimes (simple refueling required)
• Have more affordable replacement parts, comparatively

Cons:

• Require more maintenance
• Are heavier and more bulky than electrics
• Are louder than electric motors
• Are more expensive (upfront and operation costs)

Electric lawn mowers are much quieter than gas mowers. They also do not produce the engine emissions that gas mowers do. Electric mowers don’t require the routine maintenance that fueled models do, making them a popular choice for those not mechanically inclined to do repairs.

The power supply for electric lawn mowers has improved greatly over the last few years, thanks to advances in lithium ion battery technology. Batteries for mowers now have shorter charging times and stabilized power supply throughout the charge life, meaning you get the same power at a 25% charge as you do at 90% charge. The higher the battery voltage, the more power that is available for mowing. Cordless mowers are also catching up to gas with similar features and capabilities like push button start and self-propelled drive.

Corded electric mowers don’t require recharging and offer unlimited runtime. However, the power cord restricts the operating area, making it a challenge to mow large lawns and those with trees or other obstacles. Corded mowers require a suitable extension cord.

Pros:

• Produce less noise
• Require less maintenance (no oil or air filter changes, no refueling, etc.)
• Are lighter in weight
• Are easier to start (simply press the Start button)

Cons:

• Offer shorter runtimes
• Require a power source for corded models
• Typically offer less power than gas-fueled models
• Require added expense if you want a replacement battery

Regular maintenance, cleaning and blade care are essential to the life of any mower. Cordless mowers and some gas models with electric start require battery care. Gas models need gas, oil, air filters and spark plug changes at regular periods. Blade sharpening is necessary for both types when needed. 

There are several important thing to consider when making your mower decision and what type of power to choose:

• How large is your lawn? A larger yard might be better served with a gas mower.
• Is your yard hilly or have a lot of slope? Again a gas powered mower may be the choice.
• Smaller, flatter yards can be kept well-groomed with an electric mower.
• Electrics are also quieter and cleaner for the environment than gas models.
• Electrics may be overall less expensive to use.
• Thicker and more dense grasses may need the extra power that a gas mower will provide.

Your lawnmower will probably be the most used piece of outdoor power equipment that you will have. Taking the time to compare different models and power supplies with what your particular lawn care need is will help you decide on the best choice.