Maintaining your yard, garden, or property is much easier with a wood chipper. Whether you’re dealing with branches, twigs, or other debris, a chipper turns it into mulch, wood chips, or compost. But with so many options available, how do you choose the best one? Don’ t worry—we’ ve got you covered! This guide will help you pick the perfect chipper for your needs.
Types of Chippers
When it comes to wood chippers, there are two main types you should consider: Gas-Powered Chippers and Electric Chippers. Each has its own set of advantages, depending on what kind of work you’ll be doing.
Gas-Powered Chippers: These are the heavyweights of the chipper world. They’re typically more powerful and can handle larger branches and tougher jobs. If you have a lot of land or need to chip large amounts of material, a gas-powered model is likely your best bet. However, keep in mind that they tend to be louder, require more maintenance, and produce emissions.
Electric Chippers: For lighter, residential tasks, an electric chipper might be more your speed. These models are typically smaller, quieter, and require less upkeep. They’re ideal if you only need to chip small branches or leaves and don’t mind being near an electrical outlet. However, they have limitations in terms of power, and you may find yourself needing to recharge or find a longer extension cord.
Key Features to Look for in a Chipper
Once you've decided between a gas-powered or electric chipper, it’s important to consider a few additional features to ensure you’re getting the best tool for the job.
Capacity
Chippers vary in the size of branches they can handle. If you need to chip larger branches, you’ll need a machine with a bigger capacity. Gas-powered chippers typically handle branches up to 6 inches in diameter, while electric models are generally limited to 1.5-3 inches. It's important to choose a chipper that suits the type of wood you work with most often.
Portability and Size
How easy is the chipper to move around? Do you need it to be easy to store? Some chippers come with wheels, making them easy to roll around your yard. Others are more compact, which makes them great for smaller spaces or easy storage. If you’re going to be transporting the chipper across your property, you’ll want to choose a model with wheels or even a towable chipper if you have a larger property.
Noise Level
Some chippers are loud, while others are quieter. If you’re using a chipper in a neighborhood with houses nearby, you may want to opt for a quieter model to avoid disturbing your neighbors. Electric chippers tend to be quieter than gas-powered models, but they may not have as much power. If noise is a concern, look for models with noise reduction features.
Choosing the Right Size Chipper
The size of the chipper you need depends on how much work you expect to do. For small jobs with light debris, an electric chipper should be enough. However, if you have larger trees or need to deal with frequent, heavy-duty tasks, a gas-powered chipper would be more appropriate.
Here’s a simple breakdown:
Small Tasks: Electric chippers are ideal for light, occasional yard work or small branches up to 3 inches.
Medium Tasks: Gas-powered chippers can handle branches up to 4 inches and are great for larger yards with regular trimming.
Heavy-Duty Tasks: For thick branches and frequent large-scale yard work, a heavy-duty gas-powered chipper that handles branches over 4 inches is your best bet.
Safety Features
Regardless of which type of chipper you choose, look for important safety features to ensure you can operate it safely. A safety switch prevents the chipper from running when the cover is open, while an emergency shutoff feature allows you to stop the machine immediately in case of an issue. A feed guard can also prevent your hands from being accidentally pulled into the machine.
Conclusion
Choosing the right wood chipper is simpler than it seems. By considering your yard size and the branches you need to trim, you can easily find the perfect chipper. If you prefer a gas-powered option, check out Bilthard’s 7.5HP wood chipper — it’s perfect for your needs. Enjoy a cleaner, more manageable yard!
