Use an Electric ChainsawThere are many advantages to owning an electric chain saw, with the proper size motor, for consumers who have an occasional need for a chain saw. This post will look at the uses of a chainsaw, whether you should rent or purchase a chainsaw and whether an electric chain saw is a better deal for the average consumer. Having your own chainsaw can save you a great deal of money as well vs. hiring someone to come in and cut down trees and shrubs.

This is another savings opportunity for the average homeowner. However there are safety issues to be considered and if you are uncomfortable with using one of these powerful tools, then you are better off to hire someone to do the work for you, rather than take a chance with your safety. Chainsaws come in all sizes, the larger they are the more powerful they are and capable of doing some serious damage if they get out of control.

Electric chainsaws are quite inexpensive, with some of the smaller ones under $100, while gas-powered chainsaws will cost much more depending on the size. If you only need a chainsaw for occasional use, you may want to consider renting one or purchasing an electric chainsaw provided that you have a power outlet close by.  For consumers dealing with trees in the yard, this is quite doable, while consumers with treed lots further away from a power source really need to consider a gas-powered chain saw.

Some guidelines for Deciding to Rent or Purchase an Electric Chain Saw

If you need a chain saw for cleaning up trees in your yard every year, buy an electric chain saw, provided you have a power source nearby.

If you only need a chainsaw once every few years, renting a chain saw may be the right way to go. Do not buy a gas-powered chainsaw for this application since the engine and the carburetor will require cleaning all the time due to stale gas in the system.

If you are cutting up trees a long way from a power source, either purchase a gas-powered chainsaw or rent one from a local tool rental place.

Most electric chainsaws can perform as well as a gas-powered chainsaw, however there are pros and cons to each.

Maintenance

  • Chain saw sharpeners are needed to keep the chain sharp.
  • Gas-powered chainsaws need regular engine maintenance
  • Electric chainsaws are pretty much maintenance-free
  • All chain saws need the chain to be adjusted on a regular basis
  • Keep the chainsaw teeth in perfect condition
  • Don’t cut close to the ground
  • Always keep sufficient oil in the reservoir to oil the chain properly

Comparison

The weight of a gas-powered chainsaw vs. an electric chainsaw is comparable. They look nearly identical. Both saws have almost the same controls as far as operating the blade and shutting it down in an emergency.

The cutting action of the chainsaw is all about the weight of the saw. Also the speed of the chain and the sharpness of the chain saw teeth.  A powerful electric chainsaw will cut just as well as an equally powered gas chainsaw. Many people forget to sharpen their chainsaws teeth. They become frustrated as a result of the cutting action. This applies to both gas and electric-powered saws.

A big advantage of an electric chain saw is that it does not need gasoline. No need to be stored around the home. It is always ready to go and there is little maintenance to do with the exception of keeping the chain properly tensioned and sharp. There is no engine maintenance to worry about. Gas chainsaws that are not used very often. They tend to have more problems with dirty gas and clogging up the carburetors. Electric chainsaws are better for occasional use.

Electric Chain Saw Safety

  • Read the Owners Manual.
  • Read and understand all the safety warnings.
  • Don’t cut logs or trees that are wedged or in a bind.
  • Wear all the recommended protective clothing, gloves, helmet, face shield, etc. when using a chain saw.

Safety while using a chainsaw cannot be stressed enough. Follow all of the safety recommendations that come with the chainsaw and if in doubt about any situation, back off and take a different approach. Powerful chainsaws can jump and cut into the flesh in a fraction of a second causing serious injury and even death. Treat them with the greatest respect!

Save