Have the shrubs in your garden overgrown and need pruning? Do you need to log down some trees for commercial purposes? There is no denying that the pole saw will play a crucial part in these activities. All you need to do is grab it and get ready for work! There has, however, been a heated debate among gardening enthusiasts for a long time on which pole saw type is superior: the electric pole saw, or gas pole saw? Gardening experts have varied views on this topic with either side declaring that their favorite is the best when it comes to pole saws. Well, each type comes along with its pros and cons.
This article weighs up both of the pole saw types to try and give users a clear guide of what they’re dealing with. If you are a newbie seeking to purchase your first pole saw, then this guide will point you in the right direction.
Gas Pole Saw
As the name suggests, gas pole saws are powered by gas and have been used since traditional times when all saws were powered in this manner. They are the preferred choice of many arborists due to their power, a feature that got them the ‘kings of castle’ title. They are available in a number of sizes and normally come with two engines. Both oil and gas are used to power this saw, but at a ratio of either 40:1 or 50:1. They are well designed with the right balance and thus are able to cut through thick limbs. The trade-up to this, however, is that they are a little heavy.
Electric Pole Saw
Electric pole saws on the other hand are powered by electricity and therefore need to be connected to a power outlet when in use. They are popular among home users who require their services occasionally. Unlike the gas pole saws, they are light and easy to start. They come with an extension code to give users more room to move. Their blades measure between 6-10” and are driven by an approximately 7-ampere motor.
What Factors Should I Consider When Choosing The Right Pole Saw For My Garden?
Safety
One of the problems that gives pole saw users headaches is the kickback. The guide bar could come into contact with foreign objects causing them to jerk up. This could be really hard to control with powerful pole saws. They could easily twist out especially when handled with inexperienced users. When it comes to safety, I give it to the electric saw. Their less power makes them less of a danger. However, precautions must be taken at all times; armor yourself with the recommended safety equipment: a hard hat, sturdy gloves, and safety glasses. Also, avoid loose clothes that could snag the chain, and regularly inspect your cables for damage.
Environmental Friendly
As much as you would love to complete your work on time and attend to other commitments, you must also consider the environment. Work with tools that have minimum side effects on the ecosystem. Gas pole saws are unarguably damaging environment-wise. They emit a lot of pollutants that harm the environment, just like most gas-powered tools. When it comes to being conversant and friendly to the environment, the electric pole saw is the clear winner.
Cost
This is something that every buyer would definitely want to know; which chainsaw type would they have to dig deeper into their pockets to own? Well, costs of pole saws vary widely and are dependent on a number of factors: type, brand, size, and motor. You should also check on the warranty being offered to determine the worthiness.
At that note, there is no denying that you will have to pay a little more for the electric saw than the gas ones. The costs, however, tend to be at par eventually considering you will need to purchase fuel and the regular maintenance costs with the gas pole saw.
Power
There is no debate at this level, and we must give a thumbs-up to the ‘king of castle’ gas pole saws in terms of power. The saws are more powerful and are used to cut through thick trunks. They are the preference of many experts. Although they come with an added weight making them a little difficult to handle, manufacturers have been careful to distribute their weight all through evenly. Their weights aren’t a hindrance to those with experience working with these tools. Their performance is incredibly higher than the electric pole saw.
Users’ preference, however, differs and not everyone is in need to cut huge tree trunks. For those homeowners who simply need pruning, you are better off with an electric pole saw.
Ease of Use
If you are in search of something lightweight and easy to use with little noise and less vibrations when working, then look no further-the electric pole saw is for you. The machine barely weighs 10 pounds, and will not present many challenges. Gas pole saws is the opposite of this. They are heavy with lots of noise and friction. Moreover, you are regularly required to oil them for the best performance. They could also cause strain on your back if you are not that fit.
Flexibility
If you have an extensive working area to cover, with lots of trees stretched out, well the gas pole saw is the best alternative for you. Why? Simply because there are no cords attached to it. Moreover, you don’t need to stay connected to electricity, and so you will have more options when working with it. However, this doesn’t imply that you don’t require a sufficient supply of fuel and other equipment to keep to the motor in good condition. The gas pole saw is more flexible and covers a wide area as compared to the electric pole saw.
Conclusion
Before purchasing a tool that is as essential and crucial as the pole saw, you must table in many factors. Users’ preference and nature of work highly determine the type of pole saw you would be using. If you are in search of a powerful tool that will cut through thick trunks and work over a large area without restrictions, the gas pole saw will do it for you. Gas powered pole saws have sufficient power to tackle anything that comes their way. If you prefer to work without much noise and vibrations and are working in a garden with a less coverage area, the electric pole saw is the right tool for you. This lightweight tool is simple to use and eco-friendly to the environment.