If you are in the market for a new lawn mower, you might be wondering which type is better for you: petrol or electric. Each type of mower has advantages and disadvantages, and choosing the right one depends on your specific needs and preferences. This article will compare petrol and electric lawn mowers and help you determine the best fit for your lawn care needs.
Introduction
Lawn mowers are essential tools for maintaining a healthy and attractive lawn. There are two main types of lawn mowers: petrol and electric. Petrol lawn mowers are powered by petrol (gasoline) and have been the traditional choice for many homeowners for decades. Electric lawn mowers, on the other hand, are powered by electricity and have gained popularity in recent years due to their ease of use and environmental friendliness.
Modern battery technology has revolutionized the electric lawn mower market, no longer restricted by the length of a cord. Battery-powered electric mowers offer convenience and portability, allowing users to work without worry of running out of cable or struggling with tangled cords. Furthermore, modern batteries are powerful and long-lasting, allowing for more time spent working in the yard instead of worrying about charging up their mower. This makes electric mowers an ideal choice for small yards and gardens, where manual mowers may have previously been too cumbersome to use.
How petrol lawn mowers work
A gasoline engine powers petrol lawn mowers. The engine drives the blades of the mower, which cut the grass. Petrol mowers are typically more powerful than electric mowers and can handle more extensive lawns and tougher grasses. However, petrol mowers are also louder and emit more pollution than electric mowers.
How electric lawn mowers work
Electric lawn mowers are powered by electricity from a cord or battery. Electric mowers are generally quieter and more environmentally friendly than petrol mowers, making them a popular choice for many homeowners. However, electric mowers are typically less powerful than petrol mowers and may struggle with tall or thick grasses.
Pros and cons of petrol lawn mowers
Petrol Lawn Mower Pros
Petrol Lawn Mower Cons
Pros and cons of electric lawn mowers
Electric Lawn Mower Pros
Electric Lawn Mower Cons
Environmental impact
Electric mowers are the clear winner when it comes to the environmental impact of petrol and electric lawn mowers. Petrol mowers emit pollutants such as carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and hydrocarbons, contributing to air pollution and climate change. On the other hand, electric mowers emit no harmful pollutants and are much more eco-friendly.
Cost Comparison
When it comes to the initial cost of the mower, electric mowers are generally more expensive than petrol mowers. Electric mowers can range anywhere from £100 to £800, while petrol mowers can range from £150 to £1000 or more. However, petrol mowers are generally more expensive to operate in the long run due to the cost of petrol. The cost of petrol can add up quickly, especially if you have a large lawn that requires frequent mowing.
In contrast, electric mowers are much cheaper to operate since they don’t require petrol. The main cost associated with electric mowers is the cost of electricity to charge the battery or run the cord. According to Consumer Reports, the average cost of electricity to charge an electric mower for a full season is about £5, while the average cost for a petrol mower is around £15 per season.
In addition to the cost of operation, maintenance costs should also be considered. As mentioned earlier, petrol mowers require more maintenance than electric mowers, which can add up over time. The cost of properly maintaining a petrol mower can range from £50 to £100 per year, depending on the type and frequency of maintenance required. On the other hand, electric mowers require less maintenance overall and may only require occasional blade sharpening, which can cost around £20 per year.
Overall, while the initial cost of an electric mower may be higher than a petrol mower, the long-term cost savings in terms of operation and maintenance make electric mowers a more cost-effective choice in the long run. However, if you have a large lawn and require a more powerful mower, a petrol mower may still be the better choice despite the higher operating costs.
Maintenance
When it comes to maintenance, petrol mowers require more attention than electric mowers. Petrol mowers need oil changes, spark plug replacements, and air filter cleanings to ensure optimal performance. In contrast, electric mowers have fewer moving parts and require less maintenance overall. The main maintenance task for electric mowers is to keep the blade sharp.
Noise level
Petrol mowers are generally louder than electric mowers due to the gasoline engine. This can be a concern for homeowners who live in neighbourhoods with noise restrictions or who want to minimize noise pollution. Electric mowers, on the other hand, are much quieter and produce less noise pollution.
Safety
Both petrol and electric mowers can be dangerous if not used properly. There is no absolutely safe lawn mower. However, petrol mowers tend to have more safety concerns due to the petrol engine. For example, petrol mowers have a hot exhaust that can cause burns, and the petrol itself is flammable. You should be extremely careful not to splash petrol onto the hot exhaust whilst refilling. Electric mowers are generally safer to use since they don’t have these same safety concerns.
Which one is right for you?
Deciding between a petrol or electric lawn mower depends on your specific needs and preferences. A petrol mower may be better if you have a large lawn with tough grasses, since they are more powerful and can handle larger lawns. However, an electric mower may be the better choice if you prioritize environmental friendliness and ease of use. Electric mowers are generally quieter, cheaper to operate, and require less maintenance than petrol mowers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing between a petrol or electric lawn mower depends on a variety of factors, including lawn size, grass type, environmental concerns, and personal preferences. Petrol mowers are generally more powerful and can handle larger lawns, but they are louder, emit more pollution, and require more maintenance. Electric mowers are quieter, more environmentally friendly, and require less maintenance, but they may struggle with tough grasses and have limited battery life or cord length. Ultimately, the choice between a petrol or electric lawn mower comes down to your specific needs and preferences.
FAQs
Are petrol mowers more expensive than electric mowers?
The initial cost of petrol mowers may be cheaper than electric mowers, but petrol mowers are generally more expensive to operate due to the cost of petrol.
Can electric mowers handle large lawns?
It depends on the model and battery life of the electric mower. Some electric mowers are capable of handling large lawns, but others may struggle with battery life or cord length.
Are petrol mowers louder than electric mowers?
Yes, petrol mowers are generally louder than electric mowers due to the engine.
Do electric mowers require less maintenance than petrol mowers?
Yes, electric mowers require less maintenance than petrol mowers since they have fewer moving parts and don’t require oil changes, spark plug, air filter, etc replacements.
Are electric mowers better for the environment?
Yes, electric mowers are generally better for the environment since they emit no harmful pollutants and are more eco-friendly than petrol mowers.
