Is it time to switch to cordless power?
There are of course, pros and cons of owning and operating a battery operated garden machine. But do the pros outweigh the cons, or vice versa? If you’re used to a traditional petrol engine then the idea of a cordless machine can be quite daunting. Will it offer enough power? Will the batteries last long enough? Will it be robust enough? Actually, the answer to these questions is a resounding YES! And consider this; you won’t need to buy fuel EVER AGAIN – that’s right, no last minute trips to the petrol station – which wastes energy, fuel and time and can be quite frustrating when you get your lawn mower or your hedge trimmer (for example) out of your shed, only to discover you haven’t got quite enough fuel to last you the day.
With attitudes changing and our focus being drawn to subjects such as climate change, saving the planet and trying to reduce our carbon footprint, owning a cordless garden machine rather than a petrol one is definitely a giant step in the right direction. We’ll be the first to admit these lithium-ion batteries are not 100% perfect. They don’t last forever and they are going to be thrown away at some point in the future. But they are still considered a fantastic alternative to working with petrol or electric. They don’t produce any harmful or toxic fumes as you work, which is most certainly better for the planet. Cordless machines are also much quieter, so this is far better for the wildlife (and your neighbours!) too. The modern lithium-ion batteries have been produced to be incredibly energy efficient and very long lasting, so you can use them with a much clearer conscience!
With a battery operated machine it’s quite likely you’ll have two batteries, one in your machine and one on charge so you’ll never have to interrupt your work or take any unnecessary breaks. This depends of course on how big your garden is. For smaller gardens you may only want one. The good news is that today’s big brands usually offer an entire range of garden machinery that can all be operated with the same battery, which means you may only need one battery and one charger, but you can add as many different types of machine as you need to your collection.
Cordless machinery is of course, lighter to work with as the battery itself is in no way as heavy or bulky as a petrol engine and it’s going to be quieter too. You’ll enjoy reduced vibrations and of course, there will be no petrol fumes. Battery operated machinery gives you the ultimate taste of freedom compared with electric garden tools, as you won’t need to worry about working within range of a power supply and there’ll be no electric cables trailing after you. Cordless power is at the very least, a much safer, more convenient option.
So we’ve listed the pros, but are there any cons? Not really, (in our opinion) but you’ll definitely have to consider the size of your garden and the conditions you are working in, before choosing your machine. I suppose what we are saying is, you need to choose your machine more carefully as cordless machines tend to have very specific features. But this is simple enough to do, especially if you take a look through our website where we give you all the details on every single product to allow you to make an informed choice. And of course our knowledgeable team are always on hand to offer honest and reliable advice.
Some battery-operated models that have really caught our eye very recently are the brand new Honda DC cordless range. You can choose from two cordless lawn mowers (the Honda Izy HRG 466 and the Honda Izy HRG 416), a cordless blower (the Honda HHB 36 AXB 36v), a hedge trimmer (the Honda HHH 36 AXB) and a cordless brush cutter (the Honda HHT 36 AXB). Their battery power delivers an exceptional performance and easily rivals comparable petrol models. There are three sizes of battery (4Ah, 6Ah and 9Ah) and they can all be interchanged between each product. They all use clever thermo-smart technology to continuously monitor the voltage and thermal performance of every cell to ensure the longest-possible running time and lifetime. And of course, each product is covered by Honda’s rock solid warranty.
The Honda Izy HRG 416 XB Cordless Lawn Mower
This model features a 16”/41cm cutting width, ideal for smaller gardens up to 350m2. It is hand-pushed and features a pressed steel lightweight deck for easy manoeuvrability whilst still being hard-wearing and resistant to corrosion and UV rays. Completely waterproof, the Honda Izy can be used in all weathers in complete safety. Perfect for the good old British climate! With 6 cutting heights that start at 20mm for a super low cut, right up to 70mm so you’ll be spoiled for choice and the generously sized grass bag takes care of the grass cuttings and can hold up to 50 litres.
ONLY £399.00 – RRP £450.00 | SAVE £51
Honda Izy HRG 466 XB Self-Propelled Cordless Lawn Mower
This model features a 18”/46cm cutting width, and is ideal for medium gardens up to 450m2. It is self-propelled so you won’t need to push. It features Versamow for selective mulching at the touch of a button. When you choose to mulch the grass, you are basically fertilizing your lawn as you mow as the mulched grass is full of vital nutrients that your grass needs for healthy growth. The pressed steel lightweight deck is extremely hard-wearing and resistant to corrosion and UV rays. The Honda Izy can be used in all weathers in complete safety, so there’ll be no excuses to stop during a shower of rain, sorry about that!
£519.00 – RRP £570.00 | SAVE £51
Honda HHB 36 AXB 36v Cordless Blower
This model is aimed at busy professionals and is the perfect tool for clearing wet or dry debris with the minimum of fuss; it is perfectly balanced and therefore you will find it to be easy to use whether you’re left or right handed. It is quiet and compact and features a reliable EC brushless motor. With variable blowing speeds and 2 nozzles (round and flat) it allows you to take a no-nonsense approach to a messy outdoor area. It has been designed to last you a long time and gives a great performance, even in more challenging situations.
£329.00 RRP £380.00 | SAVE £51
Honda HHH 36 AXB Cordless Hedge Trimmer
This modern and high tech hedge trimmer, with its 60cm dual reciprocating blade is the perfect tool to keep all types of areas well maintained. With a handlebar that swivels 180 degrees this hedge trimmer could not be easier or more convenient to operate. Even if your hedge has become seriously overgrown and rugged, this robust hedge trimmer will get it looking neat and tidy with the minimum of fuss. With reduced vibrations, lower sound and no fumes it will make hedge trimming your favorite job to do in the garden!
£449.00 – RRP £519.00 | SAVE £70
Honda HHT 36 AXB Cordless Brush Cutter
This hard working brush cutter comes with a dual line nylon head and a metal cutting head and is perfect for domestic gardeners and professionals alike. The straight shaft with cow-horn handles are an absolute pleasure to work with and the powerful brushless Honda motor will allow you to make great progress in your garden, even in tougher conditions. It gives an outstanding performance in all weathers, and gives an incredibly precise finish.
£559.00 – RRP £580.00 | SAVE £21
Of course all these products come with a rock solid warranty from Honda, to give you the ultimate peace of mind.
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