The attempt to make landscape sustenance well-situated and more effective has a long chronicle . Green spaces were originally maintained by grazing animals and with scythes and shears . exert a scythe takes a considerable amount of skill and produce mismatched results .
In 1830 Englishman Edwin Beard Budding ( 1796 - 1846 ) manufacture the handlawn lawn mower . It was first patented in England . An applied scientist by profession , Budding get the idea after check a contract piston chamber ( a bladed Virginia reel ) trim down cloth . His invention was a triumph of appurtenance technology . For many , lawn were and stay a symbol of status and their closeness to a unvarying grain is vital . By the late 19thcentury , urban and suburban landscape featured lawn , and the need for their effective maintenance created a market for founding . For large orbit , sawhorse - drawn models of Budding ’s innovation were developed . In the 20thcentury , gas - powered lawn mower became predominant , and in the latter part of the one C , electrical energy was introduce , first through corduroys and then barrage fire . Today all variants – in general minus the horses – manicure the American landscape painting .
The effort ’s most recent innovation is the development of thelithium - ion bombardment . electrical energy is not new to garden peter , but until the advent of the Li - ion battery ( with some other exceptions ) , current was supplied by a cord . In some applications , a corded peter remains a well solution , but if the area to be maintained is large or complex — characterize by numerous twists and turns — a twilled cock can quickly become bothersome . Well - designed tools powered by good sometime human muscularity should not be underestimated either . However , they may not be appropriate under time constraint nor friendly to age muscle .
Today there are fashion model of battery - powered railyard and lawn tools that are wholly comparable to or even higher-ranking to gas - powered tools . Differences in the performance of project or aspects of operation are note in the article referenced below . Consumer Reportsreviewers intimate that “ cutting evenness ” suffers slightly with electric mowers but handling is good . For leaf blowers , Consumer Reportsranks the good electric models adequate to the best gas - powered model , actually yield electrics the boundary . And it gives a slight advantageto stamp battery - powered string trimmers and advises that it is easy to get an electric good example that matches or is comparable to gas exemplar . Should you switch , if you have n’t already ? Among countless others , the editors ofConsumer Reportsthink you should earnestly consider it ! See Consumer Reports ’ excellentShould You trade to Electric Lawn Equipment?(June 8 , 2024 ) .
Now for the grounds for switch — they are not curtail to contrivance !
Earlier , in 2015 , Jamie L. Banks and Robert McConnell publish a paper entitledNational Emissions from Lawn and Garden Equipment . As of 2015 , Banks was the founding father and president ofQuiet Communitiesand McConnell was an environmental locomotive engineer hire by theEnvironmental Protection Agency . Their conclusion and recommendation ( p. 13 ): “ GLGE [ gasoline - powered lawn and garden equipment ] is an important source of toxic and carcinogenic fumes and fine particulate topic . . . Medical and scientific organizations should increase public sentience of GLGE and GLME [ commercial-grade landscape maintenance equipment ] and identify GLGE as an significant local source of dangerous zephyr pollutants . ”
The worst petrol wrongdoer are two stroke engines . Four fortuity alternatives are more fuel - efficient but even they lack the discharge check present in automobile . Two - stroke engine tower , however , because they are lighter , more powerful for their size of it , and less expensive . Chainsaws , usually power by two - throw engines , bring out a prodigious measure offine particulate matter emanation . Harvard ’s T.H. Chan School of Public Healthadvises that fine particulate contamination ( “ PM2.5 ” ) “ is made up of lilliputian mote that are 30 times smaller than the width of a human hair’s-breadth . These subatomic particle can get through deeply into the lungs . In addition to being linked to early death , PM2.5 exposure has also been show to run to decline asthma attack , tenderness attacks , separatrix , and other diseases . ” In fact , Lawn Care conk Electric(p . 14 ) credits chainsaws with about a third of all fine particulate matter emissions across the lawn and garden equipment sphere .
commercial-grade lawn and garden equipment is by far the prevailing contributor to harmful expelling . The Environmental Protection Agency ’s ( EPA)National Emissions Inventory ( NEI ) — used inLawn Care lead Electric(page 14 ) — illustrate the problem . For example , in 2020 , 82 % of all ok particulate emissions came from commercially - operated lawn equipment . ANPR storyin 2022 explains the roots of commercial-grade indisposition to switch ( but also notes some stratum of acceptance and considers the mixed social wallop of bans).Commercial operatorssay barrage life is not yet long enough for their applications , thatcommercial mowers are expensive , that battery power may not be full-bodied enough , and that battery - powered equipment would demand blame station and extra assault and battery . The reportLawn Care Goes Electric(see page 18 ) total more clarity and makes some good points . It sees next change in the visual aspect of roving charging trailers , the maturation of rapid chargers , the advent of electric plectrum - up trucks , trucks equip with solar control board convey to caper site , and the continual improvement in barrage technology . Lower sustainment costs link with battery - powered equipment are also noted . All of this evoke that change will descend to the industry — if not quickly , finally ! Some state are forcing alteration . The California general assembly passed a law which take result in January that demand new landscaping equipment sold in California be complimentary of emission . For reasons why a commercial service should consider switching , seeBattery - Powered Equipment vs Gas - Powered Tools . Not to be blank out is the fact that galvanizing equipment would be healthy for the men and women who maintain our landscapes , as they are the ones most unwrap to toxin as well as the dissonance and vibrations produced by the equipment they use . Of course , the concern of landscape gardener have lilliputian relevance for those of us caring for comparatively small properties . For today ’s homeowner , battery - power creature are more than adequate .
Along with air pollution , petrol - engines emit enormous amounts of noise pollution . Until recentlynoise pollutionhas not find sufficient attention . Even the quietest gas - power lawn mowers and other equipment are not as still as their galvanising counterparts , saysConsumer Reports . And while leaf - cetacean mammal are the most serious wrongdoer , the entire suite of gas - powered tools are noisy .
It is not that we have n’t know for a foresightful - time thatnoise can be dangerous . David Owen explores the issue in his book , Volume Control : Hearing in a Deafening World(Riverhead Books , 2019 ) . In topographic point where there is very little background noise , Owen explain in aNPR interview , the elderly “ tend to hear as well as infant do . ” Scientists have assort a diverseness of health challenges beyond hearing departure with overweening and extended noise exposure , include high stemma air pressure and coronary disease . TheNoise Control Act(1972 ) and theQuiet Communities Act(1978 ) established Union noise regulations . In 1982,regulatory obligation were moved to local and state governments . To learn what state and local government have done to control the noise bring forth by gaseous state - powered lawn equipment , see the clickable mapping maintain byNoise Free America : A coalescence to Promote Quiet . See also the wealth of fabric maintained byQuiet fresh PDX(Quiet Clean Alliance ) . And , of course , consultLawn Care croak Electric . clear , some government have made the switch to galvanizing - powered tool an imperative . The Albemarle County stochasticity ordination is accessible at the Code of Albemarle County VirginiaSec 4.18 Noise . By itself — and in illumination of what has been done in more densely populated expanse elsewhere — it is lenient . In the comparatively tightly - compact residential area circularise across the county , it is not unusual to hear the holla of gasoline - powered equipment wielded by householder and lawn services .
Whether supply by a shelling or a corduroy , electricity offers some obvious advantages over gasolene . If you ’re try out the electric alternative for the first time , keep in mind that you do n’t have to switch across all your pecker at once . you could transition . But if you intend immediately or over time to grease one’s palms more than one battery - powered peter , you will want to keep it in the same brand category to guarantee shelling compatibility . This will allow you to trade your batteries across your various prick . This will be both commodious and a price savings .
The current hero to our evolutionary history is thelithium - ion battery — at least until something dependable appears ! While new residential equipment typically uses this battery , some prominent equipment and sure-enough model use lead - acid barrage . Today most electric office is brought to yard tools by the lithium - ion battery . AConsumer Reportspiece by Paul Hope ( Should you switch . . . , updated June 8 , 2024 ) explains theadvantages and disadvantages of lithium - ion batteries in galvanic outside tools .
A lithium - ion battery oeuvre by transfer lithium ionsbetween the anode and cathode through an electrolyte .
As the battery emission , ion move from the anode to the cathode . This stream of negatron produces electricity . During the charging , ions move back to the anode , storing electricity . This ion movement give up the shelling to be recharged many times . For an explanation of the process see the videoHow Lithium Ion Battery Worksand , for an even deeper dive , see Chris Woodford ’s patch inExplain That Stuff . Li - ion batteries are lighter than lead - dot batteries and perform at consistent index until the battery is fully - discharged and they have a recollective life span .
Typical lithium - ion residential lawn lawn mower batteries have anoperating voltageof 40 – 80 volts . electric potential is the force that drive electric current through a electric circuit . The higher the voltage the more power the battery can allow . My battery has a high voltage — 82 volts — which is quite in high spirits and suited for mow and trimming . high voltage mean more effective operation and more torsion . Another number that ’s important is “ Ah ” — Ampere - Hour(amp - hr ) — which indicate the continuance over which a battery can corroborate a stipulate current draw . It is a measure of capacity . Ah does not bespeak overall power but how long the battery can be draw on . Thus , a 2Ah stamp battery can ( theoretically ) supplying 2 amps of current for 1 minute at the stamp battery ’s stated voltage . The high the Ah figure , the longer the prison term between recharges because the higher number means the battery can store more free energy . However , it does not needfully mean it can supply more power ( measure in watts ) at any given fourth dimension . atomic number 3 - ion batteries provide stable functioning until they are nearly fully acquit .
Safety : Lithium - ion batteries are safe if used correctly ! We are surrounded by them . Legitimate batteries display the Underwriters LaboratoryUL certificationor state certification in associated support . This is your authority of quality mental synthesis and safe operation . To make things safe and easy , apply the battery sell by the manufacturing business of your equipment and set up it as directed .
Basicsafety warningsinclude ( a ) prevent overheat , ( b ) use the correct charger to prevent overheating , and ( c ) never open or attempt to enter the barrage . The electrolyte it house can severely damage skin and eyes and always keep it aside from ardor . It can explode ! Never use a damage battery ! The dangers far outmatch those associated with alkaline batteries . Unless your manual advises otherwise , always use the battery stigma and potential difference recommended for your tool and charger . Ah military rating can vary , but not electric potential . battery with a higher Ah will generally be orotund and big than those with a lower Ah , so there is potentially the issue of gimmick set . Your manual of arms and the battery will also have warnings .
To complement these warnings , reviewSafety Measures for Lithium - ion Batteriesprepared by the University of Washington ( 2024 ) . See also the FAQs of the National Fire Protection Association ’s ( NFPA)Lithium - Ion Battery Safety .
Finally , recycle or dispose of batteriesthat can no longer hold a charge or which are damaged at a certified recycling readiness . Call theIvy Solid Waste & Recycling Center , a nearby government - operated facility in Albemarle County . Never fling of them in the chicken feed .
So what should you buy?Below is a quick summary of overall factor to consider , most of which have been explored above . It ’s important to regard the take of terms from the top . When purchasing a prick , you are buy dependableness and convenience . Paying more than what an alternative may be in this light may be acceptable . You ’re corrupt something that may make you smile — or grimace with discomfort — for years !
The capacities of batteries are increasing , andConsumer Reportsadvises that at least one manufacturer is set up to make its current peter compatible with the more forward-looking batteries under developing . Consumer Reportsbelieves that stamp battery for older twist will stay promptly available for years . ultimately , brushless motors – whether they are power - cord or battery - powered equipment — are good . They wear well over time , are efficient , ply more power and torsion , and – with fewer move parting – require less alimony .
Environmentally Friendly . Obviously , the most environmentally friendly mogul is human power . The haphazardness and pollution make by gas - power tools are – to various degree – disturbing and dangerous . Accidents bechance . Gas fall also can make gas - power prick harmful in style that may not be immediately apparent , such as when spill gas make its way into our body of water .
Cost Effective . For the user of an electric tool , there is no gas , crude oil , or tune - up toll . At some compass point batteries do wear out — and they are expensive — so ensure their wellness by following the advice associated with them . Do this by obviate extreme temperature storage , following the manufacture ’s charging guidelines , and save the battery clean . It is also adept recitation not to allow the stamp battery to amply muster out . This can shorten its lifespan and compromise its ability to hold a charge . Also , salt away it at 50 % accusation . A well cared for shelling will last 3 to 5 years or about 500 charging cycle . Some seed indicate a life span of about seven twelvemonth under the honest conditions . Depending on battery specifications , costs can currently range from about $ 85 to $ 330 ( as perLawn Love).Consumer Reportsresearch showsthat over a five year period , an galvanic lawn mower will keep open money over a likewise priced accelerator pedal - power mower . SeeLawn Care Goes Electricpages 16 - 17 .
mark also that our electrified world does not amount without electricity monetary value , and as more and more lawn and yard equipment becomes electric the motivation for electricity will increase . Of course , over clock time , the equipment will grow in efficiency . There will , however , be what are termed “ upstream ” discharge . Studies have shown , however , that negative environmental and health consequences will be less from the by - ware of king industrial plant than from gas - powered equipment . Further , ineffective plants will themselves be phased out over prison term , also decrease damaging environmental and pecuniary shock . SeeLawn Care go Electric , page 14 .
Convenience . This is a no - brainer . Human powered creature are surely the most convenient to employ , but they often do not take enough power to a task . Electric tools do and they can be turned on by the push of a clit or pull up of a lever . insert a battery is a low-down level skill !
upkeep . All tools need to be maintained . All cut tools need leaf blade switch and , as appropriate , replacement spools of cutting telegram or electric cord . Gas powered creature though expect regular maintenance of their ignition system and fluids to ascertain reliability . possess a small engine — not to bring up a big one — can be a giving hassle and — at fourth dimension — a bit of a mystery .
DisposalA Li - ion stamp battery that ’s gain the end of its life can not but be thrown into a trash or recycling bin . It must ultimately go to a limited recycling or hazardous waste facility . For EPA guidance on recycling , seeUsed Lithium - Ion Batteriesand the discussion above .
Noise . We did not evolve to live in a world of constant or even intermittent or episodic loud noise . Wear ear security as appropriate . There ’s a ground why the phrase “ Quiet , I ’m trying to think ! ” is conversant to all of us . As a source of power , electrical energy is simply far quieter than gasolene .
If you have made the decision to go electric , consider the adopt factors before settling on a particular product :
QualityFor guidance in selecting power garden tool — using elaborated reviews and comparative paygrade — checkConsumer ReportsandPopular Mechanics . The former often provides especially useful overviews . For this article I consulted5 Green Reasons to Choose Battery - Powered Lawn ToolsandShould You trade to Electric Lawn Equipment?Consumer Reportsis pronto available at your local public library , often in both paper data formatting and online . take reviews will give you confidence . Visiting the display at storage may be helpful , too . Be sure to also arrest warranties . last , be dollar conscious , but do n’t be cheap!Don’t bribe a tool that feels flimsy in any way . It will be working hard and needs structural integrity for length of service . Some creature may be designed better than others .
Power Source . Select the appropriate power author for the occupation . Moving to barrage - powered puppet will be more of import for some task than for others , and , of course , you may be ineffectual to transition to the same power beginning for all pecker immediately . Having a shelling - power lawn lawn mower and a corded edger and leaf cetacean mammal may work well for some yards .
Battery Performance . Not all shelling are create equal ! Generally , you will want to have two assault and battery or acquire more powerful batteries than those supplied with your tool . This has already been see above . Be mindful of voltage and Ah rating and do nothing without consulting your manuals or the support web page . There may also be a assistance crease you may call .
While write this clause I key out that an upgraded battery , which is perfectly compatible with my dick and courser , is available . The young battery is rated at 3.5Ah . The manufacturer states that it will offer 3 times longer runtime and stiff power than the original battery . Whatever brand you use , take a instant to view potential battery upgrades and read the Web support varlet or manual of arms . you’re able to run numerous recharges by purchase a electric battery with a high Ah rating , although the lower rating is what is commonly provided when a puppet and stamp battery are buy together . If you have two lower - rated batteries , in second-stringer you should always be sure to have one battery fully load or charging .
One more thing : away from toxic fumes and picture to possibly irritating and wellness - damaging noise , gas - power tools and electric - power toolscan both be dangerousto the user in even more obvious ways . My review of Cornell University Cooperative Extension’sTips for Working Safely with Electric Garden Toolsalerted me to some unwise things I have done occasionally . I suspect you too will get a line some things if you review this resource . While not about safety , I appreciated the reminder to use the short elongation cord possible . The longer the corduroy the more vigor is lose in transmission as heat . Be sure to also consider Virginia Cooperative Extension’sPowered Hand Tools Safety : Lawn Care Training Guide . patently , electricity has its own unique dangers but vulgar to both classes of tools is the cutting boundary of a blade or the cord of a pruner .
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Featured Image : Lawn maintenance the old fashioned way!“Ecological Lawn Mower Squad . ”A flock of white sheep in Gaseberg , Lysekil Municipality , Sweden , November 2 , 2017 . Photo : W. Carter . CCO 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication .
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Professional landscapers are reluctant to plug into electrical mower due to price . By Matthew Schuerman . NPR ( Houston Public Media ) , July 30 , 2022 .
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Take footmark to specify Air Emissions When Using Garden Equipment . New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services . 2020 .
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Why scientists who study noise pollution are calling for more regulating . By Joanne Silberner . NPR , July 1 , 2024 .
