Autumn in Southern California is a symphony of sounds, and unfortunately, the drone of petrol-powered gardening equipment is one of the loudest. As cities across the U.S. become increasingly fed up with the noise, many are opting to ban gas-powered landscaping tools, pushing for electric alternatives instead. This shift isn’t just about silencing the racket; it’s also about reducing carbon emissions, vibrations, and the toxic exposure that landscapers face daily. Moreover, electric tools offer a unique advantage—they can be used at times when residents crave tranquility, extending the working hours for landscapers.
Andrew Terajewicz, the director of air management at Whisper Aero, emphasizes that their technology is not only quieter but also cleaner and more efficient than the traditional air-moving technologies out there today. “The leaf blower is the perfect mix of this,” he says, highlighting their new handheld leaf blower that debuted this year. It’s so quiet yet powerful that it makes it hard for the brain to comprehend what’s happening! This innovation, based on electric propulsion technology initially designed for aircraft, is a game-changer. But let’s be real—despite these advancements, petrol-powered machines are still hanging around, especially in the hands of professional landscapers. Why? Well, for starters, petrol machines pack a punch. They’re much more powerful, allowing for quicker work without the hassle of lugging around heavy gear.
Terajewicz points out that those hefty petrol backpack blowers can reach a blowing force of about 50 newtons. In contrast, the Whisper Aero handheld blower operates at roughly half that force—though it can ramp up higher if needed. But wait, there’s more! Runtime is another significant hurdle. Professional gardeners prefer to use their blowers at full throttle, and that’s where electric tools stumble a bit. One landscaper estimates that switching all their equipment to electric could set them back around $10,000 (£7,540). Ouch! The subsidies and rebates from local governments may not be enough to cushion that blow.
For sole proprietors, who often work with just one vehicle and limited space for charging and storing equipment, the transition becomes even trickier. Plus, consider the weight of multiple batteries—and let’s not forget the cost of accessories to hold them all! Yet, big players in the power tool market aren’t sitting on their hands. Stihl, a major German power tool manufacturer, aims for battery-powered equipment to account for 35% of its sales next year and 80% by 2035. “We like to say that we are dual-technology leaders,” a representative shared, assuring customers that in certain cases, petrol tools might still be the better option. But in most instances, the benefits of battery-powered tools start to shine through, especially when you factor in the cost of fuel.
So, what does this mean for the landscape gardening industry? There are significant rewards waiting if they can make this electric transition work. “We don’t contaminate the air,” adds Terajewicz, emphasizing the environmental benefits. As the pressure to go green continues, will the shift to electric equipment become the norm? Only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure: the landscape gardening industry is on the brink of a significant transformation.
Kaynak: Orijinal Haber