Electric wood chippers provide a cleaner, quieter, and often more powerful alternative to gas-powered models. As battery and electric motor technology continues to improve, electric chippers have become serious competitors in the chipper market in recent years. But are they really worth the typically higher purchase price compared to gas models? There are pros and cons to consider.
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How do electric wood chippers work?
Electric wood chippers work by using a powerful electric motor, rather than a gas engine, to drive the blade or drum that chips up branches and logs. Most electric models today use a brushless motor that is optimized for maximum torque and efficiency. Power is supplied either by a cord plugged into an outlet, or increasingly commonly, a removable battery pack. Batteries allow for cordless convenience and are often lithium-ion packs that hold a charge well.
Pros of electric wood chippers
Here are some of the main benefits that electric chipper models offer compared to gas-powered units:
Quieter operation
Electric motors run very quietly, especially compared to the roar of a gas engine. This makes electric chippers much better suited for residential areas where noise can be an issue. You’ll be able to chip branches early in the morning or late evening without disturbing neighbors.
No engine maintenance
Gas engines require regular maintenance like oil changes and spark plug replacements. They also need refueling. Electric motors are almost maintenance free aside from occasional cleaning and lubrication. With battery-powered models, you just charge up the battery pack as needed.
Instant start
Electric chipper motors start up instantly with the flick of a switch. No pulling a starter cord repeatedly as with gas engines. They also don’t produce any emissions or fumes.
Powerful performance
The latest electric chippers often outperform comparably sized gas models when it comes to chipping capacity. High-torque electric motors can rip through branches with ease. Feed rate is often faster too.
Longer overall life
Without all the vibrations, heating cycles, and combustion byproducts internally, electric motors last much longer than gas engines. The overall machine life is extended as there are less moving parts too. This makes electric wood chippers a better long-term investment.
Lower operating costs
Electricity is a less expensive fuel source than gasoline or diesel over the life of the machine. There are also almost no maintenance costs with an electric motor compared to the tune-ups and part replacements gas engines require.
Cons of electric wood chippers
While they offer some clear advantages, electric chippers also come with a few limitations to keep in mind:
Higher initial cost
Upfront purchase prices for electric wood chippers are typically $100 to $800 higher than comparable gas-powered models. The electric motors and batteries add cost. But lower lifetime running costs can make up for this over time.
Corded models less portable
Corded electric chippers restrict how far you can work from a power source. Though extension cords help, models with removable batteries offer the most flexibility and freedom to move around.
Limitations on very large branches
Heavy-duty gas chippers with large engines may be better suited for chipping really thick branches over 4-6 inches in diameter. Though high-torque electric models are catching up here.
Possible power limitations
In areas with older wiring or generators with limited wattage output, available power may restrict being able to run larger electric chipper models. But lower powered chippers are available.
Battery capacity
With battery-powered units, you’re limited by the capacity of the included batteries. Higher capacity battery packs add cost. Extra batteries can allow for extended runtime.
Key factors to consider
When deciding between electric and gas wood chippers, here are some of the key factors to take into account:
Intended use
How often and for what size branches will you use the chipper? Occasional small residential pruning favors electric. Frequent large branches may require a gas engine.
Noise
If low noise is essential, electric is by far the best option. Gas engine chippers can be 10-20 decibels louder.
Portability needs
For moving around a property freely, a battery-powered model is ideal. Corded electric is least portable.
Available power
Make sure your electric supply can handle the chipper motor’s starting and running power demands, especially on 15 amp circuits.
Cost considerations
Higher upfront cost of electric balances out over time from lower operating costs. Consider total lifetime cost.
Maintenance preferences
If you don’t want gas engine maintenance, electric is virtually hassle-free beyond basic care.
Expandability
Some brands offer batteries and chargers that are compatible across multiple tool systems for future flexibility.
Best electric wood chipper models
Based on power, performance, features and overall value, here are 5 top electric wood chipper models to consider:
| Model | Motor | Maximum Branch Diameter | Feed Type | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Greenworks Pro 80V Cordless Chipper | Brushless DC | 3.5 inches | Auto-feed | – Up to 104 x 4-inch diameter branches per charge – Automatic feed senses branches – Low noise |
| Sun Joe CJ601E Electric Wood Chipper | 15 Amp electric | 1.5 inches | Manual push | – Lightweight only 43 lbs – Shreds up to 7.5 cu ft per minute – Safety switch stops blades when hopper open |
| Patriot CSV-3100B Electric Chipper | 10 Amp electric | 3 inches | Auto feed | – Easy start button – Large chip bag – Foldable handle for storage |
| Ego Power+ 56V Cordless Chipper | Brushless DC | 3 inch capacity | Dual side auto-feed | – Charges most Ego batteries – Low noise at 69 dBA – Variable feed speed |
| WEN 40417 40V Max Electric Chipper | Brushless DC | 1.625 inches | Manual feed | – Lightweight at 26 lbs – 40V 4Ah battery included – Safety hopper and switch |
Electric vs gas chipper comparison
To summarize the key differences between electric and gas chippers:
| Electric | Gas | |
|---|---|---|
| Noise level | Low | High |
| Start | Push button | Pull cord |
| Maintenance | Minimal | Tune-ups required |
| Emissions | None | Gas fumes |
| Ongoing costs | Low electricity | Gasoline fuel costs |
| Lifespan | Often longer | Shorter with combustion engine |
| Portability | Good with battery models | Usually portable on wheels |
As you can see, both options have their tradeoffs. For most homeowners doing occasional residential tree trimming, the benefits of electric chippers like their quiet operation and minimal maintenance make them very appealing. Their improved performance and power compared to older electric models also make them suitable for chipping decent sized branches up to 3-4 inches thick.
Conclusion
Electric wood chippers have come a long way in capabilities while retaining their advantages of being quiet, low maintenance, and cost effective to operate over time. For most homeowners, they are definitely worth considering over gas models.
The right choice comes down to your specific needs and preferences. But improved battery technology and motors make electric chippers fully capable alternatives for residential yard work. They require little maintenance while avoiding the noise, emissions and engine maintenance of gas chippers.
While gas models still hold some advantages for large branches and high volumes, recent electric chipper models can handle decent sized wood chunks while running much more cleanly and quietly. For most homeowners doing periodic trimming, the convenience and usability of electric chippers often makes them the better choice.