So, you’ve got a yard full of fallen branches, yard waste, maybe some pine cones, and you’re wondering how to handle it all. That’s where a wood chipper comes in. But with so many types out there, you might be asking yourself, “Which one is right for me?” Well, if you’re new to wood chipping, no worries—we’ve been in the rental game long enough to help you figure it all out. 

Wood Chipper Basics

A wood chipper is designed to break down branches and other yard waste into smaller, more manageable wood chips or mulch. You’ll come across two main types: electric and gas-powered chippers. For small tasks around the yard, residential wood chippers—often electric—do the job well. But if you’re dealing with larger branches and need something with real muscle, that’s where gas chippers step in.

Gas wood chippers are built for bigger jobs where you need to chip branches several inches in diameter. A large (4″) chipper/shredder, for example, can handle everything from chipping freshly cut wood to handling more significant amounts of yard waste. They don’t need to be plugged in, which means you’ve got more flexibility when it comes to moving around the yard.

What Are the Best Wood Chippers?

The answer to this one depends on your project. Let’s break it down:

Size of the Job

For lighter jobs like clearing garden waste, small branches, and other yard waste, a residential wood chipper will likely do the trick. But if you’re dealing with heavy-duty work—branches 5 to 6 inches in diameter—then you’ll want something more robust, like a large capacity (5-6″) chipper/shredder. 

Power Source

Most wood chippers can be broken down into electric models and gas machines. For sheer power and versatility, gas-powered chippers are unbeatable, especially for larger tasks. The Eliet Prof 6 Chipper/Shredder is a beast when it comes to wood chipping thicker branches. It’s designed for professional-grade work, making it perfect for more substantial jobs. While electric models work for small debris, gas wood chippers like this one are better for bigger jobs where you need both mobility and power.

Key Features

Some wood chippers come with handy extras like a discharge chute, allowing you to control where the wood chips go, and others offer different blade types. Look for chipper knives designed to handle heavy loads, along with good safety guards. Don’t forget about the reduction ratio, either. It tells you how well the machine will reduce yard debris into smaller pieces. The higher the ratio, the finer the mulch you’ll get.

Are Electric Wood Chippers Any Good?

Now, let’s answer the big question: Are electric wood chippers any good? Yes, they’re great for small, simple jobs—like small debris cleanup, garden waste, or light yard debris. They’re quieter, cheaper, and great for homeowners who don’t need to tackle large branches or large-scale wood chipping tasks.

But, if you’re facing a bigger job or want more flexibility in moving around without a cord holding you back, a gas wood chipper is what you need. They can handle chipping branches up to 6 inches in diameter with ease, making them perfect for both residential and commercial tasks. Electric chipper shredders are more limited in terms of wood chipper’s ability to manage large materials.

Are Wood Chippers Dangerous?

Alright, let’s be honest—wood chippers can be dangerous if not handled properly. These machines are powerful; serious, and even fatal, accidents occur from time to time when people are using chippers and shredders, so it’s important to follow all safety guidelines. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

1. Wear PPE: Always use personal protective equipment—gloves, eye protection, and earplugs. Gas-powered machines are loud, and debris can fly unpredictably.
2. Feed Branches Carefully: When you’re feeding branches into the machine, take it slow and steady. Never force branches into the gas chipper, especially if they’re thick or wet. If the machine jams, turn it off before trying to fix it.
3. Stay Focused: Don’t let your guard down. Stay aware of what you’re doing, and always keep your hands clear of the chipper knives.

Renting Your Wood Chipper from Rentco

Wondering if you should go with an equipment rental or buy your own chipper? Well, if you’ve only got one big cleanup project in mind, it doesn’t make sense to invest in a commercial wood chipper that’ll sit idle most of the year. Renting is more practical—you get the job done without worrying about maintenance, storage, or hefty upfront costs.

At Rentco, we offer well-maintained gas-powered wood chippers perfect for both residential and commercial tasks. Whether you’re tackling yard waste or clearing out larger branches, we’ve got the equipment to make your job easier.

Don’t forget, we’re more than just about renting. We’ve got experts who can guide you through the entire process, ensuring you have the right gas chipper for your specific needs. Not sure if the Eliet Prof 6 is the right fit? Talk to us, and we’ll help you decide—whether it’s for clearing other yard waste or chipping branches. And with locations across the Peace Region, getting your hands on the right equipment is as simple as stopping by.

In the end, choosing the right wood chipper boils down to the size of your project, the kind of debris you’re dealing with, and whether you need the heavy-duty power of a gas machine. For most bigger jobs, gas-powered chippers are the way to go. Sure, electric models are fine for light work, but when you’re staring down piles of yard debris, larger branches, or need to chip branches up to 6 inches, gas machines like the Eliet Prof 6 can save you time and energy.

Ready to get started? Contact Rentco for expert advice or to check out our chipper shredder rentals, and let’s get that yard in shape!