Using a log splitter can significantly reduce the amount of time and effort that you need to put into chopping wood for your fireplace. You no longer need to do hours of backbreaking labor with an axe or chopping maul. However, some log splitters are simply not convenient for regular use. Many gasoline-powered splitters are large and bulky, making them difficult to move around with some kind of vehicle. Similarly, most screw-type splitters require a hookup to a truck or tractor’s PTO drive. Not everyone has access to these sort of things, and furthermore many people just need a small-scale splitter for use in their basement.

This is where electric log splitters can come in handy. Compared to the models that run on gas or diesel fuel, electric log splitters are generally smaller and more portable. They are still pretty heavy, but unlike the other types, a single person can usually move them. In addition, electric models are cheaper, both in terms of initial investment and energy costs. In addition, just like a hybrid car, electric wood splitters are friendlier to the environment than their counterparts.

When deciding on an electric log splitter, a couple of things need to be taken into consideration. The first is the power of the unit. Generally, an electric splitter will exert somewhere between 4 and 20 tons of force on the log you’re trying to split. Some splitters allow you to set this force on the fly, though different versions have different minimums and maximums. While most splitters can get the basic jobs done, you may want to consider a more powerful model if you regularly work with especially tough, thick, or knotty wood. The smaller splitters might not be able to handle the heftier logs, and trying to force it can cause damage to the machine or even personal injury.

You’ll also want to keep in mind where you’re going to be using the splitter. You have to be certain that it’s within reach of a regular outlet. While a few extension cords can usually close the gap if need be, if you have to run too much cable it just becomes a hassle. In those cases you may want to consider a gas-powered or manual model.

You should also consider exactly how much wood you go about splitting on a day-to-day basis. Those who only chop a few logs each day to keep their house heated will have the best luck with electric splitters, as they are not build to split cord after cord of wood every day – that’s a job for the more powerful and durable gas-powered splitters. In addition, sticking to softer woods will help ensure that an electric splitter keeps working properly.

Electric splitters are priced competitively with the alternatives; though in many cases they will pay for themselves in energy cost savings over the course of a couple of years. So long as you keep their strengths and limitations in mind, they make a great investment.