Handy Tips

Who doesn’t love curling up in front of the fire in the middle of winter, perhaps with a hot chocolate and a good book. No one loves splitting wood though – it’s back breaking work that you’ll need to do in the warmer months to prepare in for winter, or you’ll have to split wood as you’re using it. We all know it’s important to have access to a reliable supply of wood, but if you’ve grown tired of spending hours splitting wood with an axe, then it might be time to consider a log splitter. We’ve rounded up everything you need to know before you buy a splitter, so you can be sure you’re getting the right one for your needs.

What you need to ask
Before you head to the store to purchase a splitter, there are some questions you should ask yourself to give you a clearer idea of what you’re looking for.

1. How big are the logs?
   This is the most important question that you’ll need to know the answer to. Both electric and petrol log splitters use sheer power to do their work, and as a result are rated in terms of the amount of pressure they can apply while in operation. For instance, a 5 tonne ram can split a log up to approximately 50 centimetres long, and 25 centimetres in diameter. The type of wood and its condition can also effect the ease of splitting.
    
2. Horizontal or vertical?
   While most domestic splitters are horizontal models, you’ll need to decide which is right for your needs.

   Smaller horizontal log splitters are perfect for lower volumes and smaller size logs. These models can be used easily at floor level and are ideal for domestic use.

   Most vertical log splitters can be used in either the horizontal or vertical position. Vertical log splitters are much larger in size and weight. Vertical log splitters are better suited to larger volumes and for splitting larger logs. Large logs can be rolled onto the vertical beam, to ease the workload. These log splitters are well suited to larger properties or commercial use.

Electric or petrol log splitters?
Like many other types of power equipment, log splitters are available in both petrol and electric powered options.

1. Petrol: Petrol powered log splitters use powerful engines, meaning they can apply between 8 and 36 tonnes of pressure. Their price varies with their splitting capacity, engine size and features.

   While they are more powerful, they are also often louder, and are less environmentally friendly. If you plan on using your machine in a smaller area or shed, you may be limited to a smaller petrol log splitter. Petrol powered equipment should always be operated in a well-ventilated area.

2. Electric: Electric log splitters come in a range of sizes, and their splitting capability is generally between 5 to 8 tonnes. There are also options on the market for just over $500 which makes them an economical choice. Because they are powered by electricity, they’re also the more eco-friendly option, are more compact in size – and the quieter choice.

   Electric log splitters typically aren’t as capable as their petrol-powered counterpart, and they need to be operated with close proximity to a power source.

It can be confusing trying to decide which machine is perfect for you and your family. If you need help deciding between electric and petrol log splitters, then get in touch with our team today – we’d be happy to give you our expert opinion.