There are many reasons why you might need to split logs. If you use or sell wood, then it’s crucial that the logs be the same size so they can be easily stored and sold. In order for your fireplaces to burn efficiently, the logs on top should not be too long as this will cause them to smolder rather than burning. There are many ways of splitting logs, but we’re going to focus on electric log splitters vs gas log splitters in this article.
How Does an Electric Log Splitter Work?
An electric log splitter is best suited for people with limited yard size or storage, as well as those looking to save money over time because you won’t need fuel like gasoline or oil.An electric log splitter is typically powered by an extension cord or a generator. This means that it can be used anywhere, as long as there’s power! The motor turns the blade which forces the wedge into the logs and splits them cleanly in two.
Advantages of Electric Log Splitter
The blade is powered by electricity so it’s less likely to jam.
It doesn’t need fuel or oil, making it easier for those who don’t know how to fix machinery in case of a problem.
Electric log splitters are great for those who don’t have a lot of space on their property, as they’re much smaller than gas-powered models and can even be run from an extension cord if need be! They use the power supplied by a standard household outlet (120 volts) which means that there’s less risk of malfunctioning though it takes longer for logs to break down into firewood due to the lower voltage used in electric log splitters.
Power Source and Maintenance
An electric log splitter operates by plugging into a standard 120-volt household outlet and is therefore very convenient. It doesn’t require any fuel, which makes it easier to maintain as well; there’s no need for gas or oil changes!One downside of an electric log splitter is that the motor may be more likely to jam than in a gas-powered unit because the logs are fed at a slower pace.
In addition, these units can only operate if they’re plugged in so you may have difficulty using them during blackouts–though many models also include power adapters that allow you to use their motors even after losing electricity from your home outlets. The convenience factor should outweigh this drawback though since an extension cord could help with running errands outside while an electric log splitter is still plugged in.
The cost of gas can be expensive especially if you’re splitting logs frequently; this may make an electric log splitter more economical in the long run. However, people who purchase a high-end model designed for heavy use will find that they’ll spend much more on electricity over time than those with a lower-end unit priced at about $250 or less.
Environmentally Friendly Option
An electric log splitter has no emissions and can be used in all but the most extreme climates due to its ability to run on electricity from your home outlets or extension cords outside. If you’re concerned about the environmental impact, an electric log splitter may not only be more economical, it could also help protect our air quality as well!
Easier to Assemble and Start
If you’re looking for a more convenient option, an electric log splitter may be the best choice as they are easier to assemble and start than gas units. Plus, there is no need to worry about buying gasoline or storing it since you don’t have any emissions!
Relatively Easier to Move Around
Since they are powered by electricity, electric log splitters require far less storage space than gas units. They’re also easier to move around which makes them a great choice for people who want the convenience of being able to place it almost anywhere on their property.
Produce Less Noise
Electric Log Splitters make less noise when splitting logs because they have no engine or exhaust system like there is on a Gas Log Splitter. This means it’s perfect for homeowners with young children and pets! Some models even have optional rubber feet so as not to transfer vibration into your flooring which makes them quieter yet again (though these are usually pricier).
Drawbacks of Electric Log Splitter
As great as an electric log splitter is, it does have some drawbacks. For one thing, they’re usually more expensive than a gas-powered unit and the cost of running them can be higher depending on your region’s electricity rates. They also need to be plugged in which means that if you lose power or forget to unplug before leaving for work then there goes your splitting session!
Limited to Specific Log Sizes
The electric log splitter is more limited in the size of logs that can be split. If you have extra-large logs then gas is your best option.
Less Adjustable
A gas log splitter is more adjustable than an electric log splitter. A gas one will allow you to set the force and power with which it splits logs, while most electric ones are preset for a certain level of energy output.
Power surges
One thing we should mention about using electricity on outdoor projects is that they’re prone to power surges which could fry your equipment in seconds! If you have surge protection installed around the exterior outlets this risk will decrease greatly but just make sure not to use extension cords outside without taking safety precautions first!
What to Watch For
Watch out for any sparks! Sparks can cause a grass fire very quickly so be sure to clear the area of combustibles before you start up your log splitter.
Make sure that there is an opening in the ground where logs will fall and no one or thing (like cars) are underneath when they do. This will reduce the risk of injury as well as damage to property from heavy objects being dropped from high heights onto hard surfaces. Make sure there’s access to water too, in case something does catch on fire nearby.
If your electric log splitter has an auto-return detent valve, make sure it is functioning properly to avoid jamming up or tipping over logs.
How Does a Gas Log Splitter Work?
A gas log splitter works much like an old-fashioned jackhammer. It works by compressing air and then directing the pressure into the system with an engine running at about 3000rpm on average. The power from this process crushes through logs up to 15 inches long without too much effort!They’re quite loud but if you have one on your property then you’ll know they are always ready when needed!
Gas log splitters are more powerful than electric ones because they use an internal combustion engine which means that there’s always some risk of malfunctioning when using them. Though they’re very convenient due to their mobility, as you need to be very careful while using them.
Advantages of Gas Splitters
Gas log splitters are much more powerful than electric ones because they use an internal combustion engine. This is both their advantage and disadvantage, as it can cause problems with the machine but also ensures that you will always have a lot of power to get your logs cut quickly.
Gas splitter manufacturers generally offer a three-year warranty on all parts and labor which may not be offered for electric machines. However, some gas engines do require annual maintenance so there are still potential costs associated with these models over time. With this in mind, we recommend taking into account how often you’ll need to replace additional components before committing to one type or another of log splitter! They can split logs up to 16 inches in diameter.
A gas log splitter has its own set of pros and cons too so we recommend taking both into consideration when making this decision–especially since each machine might suit different people better. Going with the right kind should allow you to get optimal performance from your logs throughout the year without breakage AND give a more convenient experience overall.
Power and Drive Force
All of the power is coming from a gas engine so gas splitters are much more powerful than electric ones which are not as easy on your arm muscles when operating them.
They use less energy, making it cheaper to operate one at home and abroad.
Horizontal and Vertical positions
Gas splitters are powerful enough to be used in a vertical position, but splitting logs horizontally is easier.Electric splitters can also be used for both horizontal and vertical fracturing of wood with an angle-adjustment feature that allows you to choose which direction the log will break into pieces after being cut by the blades.
They have a much smaller range so they’re not as convenient when compared to gas-powered models.
Portability
If convenience is your priority then this might be the right option for you after all! Gas models are portable so they won’t need to be installed and are easy to use. If you’re working in a tight space, gas models will make it easier for you to work with minimal hassle but they do come at the price of having more noise than an electric model (which depending on what type of environment you need them for might not matter or could even become a potential safety hazard).
Drawbacks of Gas Log Splitters
Gas-powered models are louder and more expensive than their electric counterparts. Depending on your needs, these drawbacks might be a deal-breaker for you but they are still one of the best options out there if portability is your priority!
Largest Impact on Environment
These units can emit harmful greenhouse gases like carbon monoxide which means that if you live in a colder climate then it’s not safe for use indoors as well!
Requires Frequent Maintenance
Gas Splitters require constant maintenance with oil changes/filters. They need fuel (usually gas) which makes them expensive to operate over time. You’ll also have to make sure not to mix up your fuels – never try running a diesel-fueled machine on gasoline as this could cause irreparable damage!
Quite Loud
The noise level of gas-powered models are much louder than their electrical counterparts; this makes them difficult for homes with small children or babies who have a limited understanding of what’s happening around them. A gas-powered model that runs quietly will cost significantly more money so the budget should play into your decision if total silence is your top priority.
Bulky and Heavy
Gas-powered models are typically larger and heavier than their electric counterparts, which will make them harder to store if they’re an item that you won’t use on a regular basis. In addition, the parts for gas-powered log splitters have many more moving pieces so know that it could be difficult or time-consuming to find replacement parts when needed.
A gas-powered model that runs quietly will cost significantly more money. The price tag might start at $2500 and go up from there depending on size and features like horsepower etc.
Splitter with Auto Return Detent Valve
The gas log splitter has Auto Return Detent Valve which means that the valve will close automatically after every cycle.
The electric log splitter has no Auto Return Detent Valve so it could have some problems with pressure build-up, resulting in logs tipping over or jamming up the splitters chute.
What to Watch For
If you have a gas log splitter that is not used all the time, check for leaks and replace any rubber seals as needed.
A gas-powered log splitter is easier for larger hardwoods, but an electric model can handle logs up to 18 inches in diameter. Gas models need at least 20″ logs or they will jam.
Lastly, it might be recommended that you spend some money on ear protection when using either type of machine because both types produce significant levels of noise.
Electric VS Gas Log Splitter Comparisons
Gas log splitters are the most common type of log splitter in use today. They’re more powerful than electric models and less likely to break down because they don’t require electricity or extension cords. But gas log splitters emit a lot of carbon monoxide which is harmful to the environment.Although gas log splitters are more powerful, an electric model may be better for smaller jobs such as splitting kindling or a few logs at once before sitting down to enjoy the fire. Gas models can’t handle small loads; it’s either all-or-nothing so if your goal is to warm up with a couple of logs and some fireside conversation you’ll need an electrical splitter instead. You may find yourself needing repairs on an electric model sooner than the gas-powered logs.
The noise level of both types of splitters may be bothersome if you are in close proximity to either machine. A gas-powered model that runs quietly will cost significantly more money than less expensive models. Electric ones can be quite loud when they start up; typically on average around 90 decibels (dB). Gas-operated machines usually range from 75-90 dBs depending on size and horsepower etcetera.
Gas log splitters are a newer technology and tend to be more cost-effective, but there are also some downsides to this type of machine too so it can’t necessarily cover all bases either–especially if you need larger logs that won’t fit! With both the pros and cons in mind though, we hope our comparison guide helps make for an easier decision on which one might work better for you.
Wrap Up
Now that we’ve addressed some of the advantages of having an electric log splitter instead of a gas one, let’s talk about which type will work best in your specific situation. In general, terms, if you only occasionally split wood (less than once per month) then a cheaper model with less power should suffice. On the other hand, if splitting logs is something that you do often (at least once per week), then moving up from a lower-end model to a more powerful one will be worth it.
If you’re looking for the best of both worlds, then consider an electric and gas combo log splitter which allows you to easily switch between each type depending on your needs.
Or if you have gas available near your home, then a log splitter with an appropriate engine is what we recommend. It’s also not too difficult to find places that can refill tanks for reasonable rates so it eliminates some of the hassles associated with electric models. And if none of these applies and/or if money isn’t really a concern then go ahead and get whichever one suits your needs best!
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