Consider these power tools to complement your lawn machine

For anyone considering more environmentally friendly lawn and farming equipment, electric options are on the horizon.

From electric chainsaws to weed eaters and mowers, a “quiet” revolution in electric powered equipment is gaining traction, according to Nick Wessel, product manager of turf and commercial equipment sales at AKRS Equipment in Nebraska.

“Electric tools and mowers are the biggest innovation we’re seeing in the space,” Wessel said.

According to an April 2023 USA Today.com report, U.S. states and cities that have banned or outlawed some gasoline-fired equipment include California; Burlington, Vermont; and Washington, D.C. Others may follow suit.

“Even in states where gas is still allowed, many consumers and farmers are coming around to electric equipment,” Wessel said.

On the horizon and in development are two John Deere electric tractor prototypes. In response to consumer demand and market trends, the company is committed to making an electric tractor available to consumers by 2026, according to deere.com.

“If you’re an average person and property owner on a compact tractor, and you are using it a few hours at a time, the transition makes a lot of sense,” Wessel said.

Electric units can be charged from ordinary household outlets, and they require little to no maintenance.

One electric mower has been released, and an electric gator and compact tractor are on schedule to release next year, Wessel said.

These units are much quieter to use, reducing risk of hearing damage. The National Ag Safety Database website reports that earplugs and earmuffs are the only significant way to reduce the risk of hearing damage from operating traditional tractors and farm equipment. Electric equipment could change the risk of hearing loss for farm workers in the near future.

Tools and attachments for electric machines and small and compact tractors are the same as their gas-fired counterparts. Attachments for electric tractors can include:

In addition to electric machines, transitioning rotary cutters — single stage and twin cutters and tillers — are becoming more popular, as people leave cities and urban centers and buy land they plan to tend and cultivate.

“A lot of people are moving out of the city and buying acreage. They may not farm, but they own 4 or 5 acres and we are starting to see that [sector] grow,” Wessel said.

With updated farm equipment requiring less maintenance, an increase in small owner/operator fruit and vegetable stands is poised to expand in the region, too, he noted.

Organic farming is on the rise, and Wessel expects the organic farming trend to become even more popular among hobby and serious gardeners, those with “farmettes” and even standard farming operations. Organic farming and gardening enthusiasts are likely to buy more field attachments to manage and remove weeds, rather than using cultivators or sprays.

Meanwhile, large farm operations with combines, harvesters and larger tractors still need the right attachments, including disks and planters.

Wessel said Deere equipment is built to be flexible and expandable — including the company’s newer electric options.

“You can add tools down the road if the needs change or if an operation expands or diversifies,” he said.

STIHL battery-powered equipment and electric lawn mowers are currently available at AKRS Equipment locations.

From earth augers to make mass flower plantings easy to drills, edgers, blowers and more, the units offer faster charging times and less downtime during use. Because they are quiet to run, they’re easier on your ears. Consider price-comparable walk behind electric mowers available from STIHL at AKRS Equipment locations. Same great performance, environmentally friendly and easier to charge and use than their gas-fired counterparts. Think about making your next mower purchase a STIHL zero-turn electric model.

John Deere’s newest electric residential mowing option offers zero turn ease with a quiet ride and less vibration, making it a great option for property owners interested in the next generation of Deere lawn care products.

AKRS Equipment has lots of the tools and equipment on display at its locations, so customers can see and compare them to traditional gas-powered options. The company also ships outside Nebraska, including internationally.

John Deere warranties and guarantees are honored regardless of where the equipment was purchased.

“No matter where you buy it, every Deere dealer will cover it,” he said.

For more information about AKRS Equipment, visit akrs.com.

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