More and more landscaping professionals are considering the switch from gas-powered to battery-powered equipment—but making the transition is a big decision. For some, it’s about cutting fuel costs and reducing maintenance. For others, it’s about staying ahead of local regulations or meeting customer demand for quieter, more environmentally friendly tools. 

Battery-powered equipment has come a long way, offering performance levels that can rival gas, all while running with less noise and fewer moving parts to maintain. That said, replacing an entire fleet overnight isn’t realistic for most businesses. Whether you’re an independent contractor or leading a larger crew, a phased approach allows for a gradual, cost-effective transition that fits your budget and business needs without disrupting daily operations.

Keep It Simple to Start

You don’t need to overhaul your entire fleet at once. A more practical first step is to swap out smaller, lower-cost tools that provide immediate benefits without requiring major workflow changes. Think: string trimmers, hedge trimmers, and blowers to start. These tools see frequent use, and their battery-powered counterparts offer the same functionality with lower noise levels and reduced maintenance.

Starting small allows for cost management. Battery-powered equipment typically carries a higher upfront cost than gas models, but the long-term savings on fuel and maintenance help offset that investment. By introducing battery-powered tools gradually, you can test performance and assess battery life in real-world conditions before committing to larger purchases.

Another important factor is battery compatibility. When purchasing initial battery-powered tools, it’s worth selecting a brand or platform that offers interchangeable batteries across multiple tools. That way, you won’t need to spend extra on different chargers or as many battery types down the line.

Expand Strategically 

Once smaller handheld tools are part of your daily operations, the next step is expanding to larger battery-powered equipment. Walk-behind mowers, backpack blowers, and chainsaws are solid choices at this stage, offering increased power without requiring an immediate overhaul of charging and storage logistics. These tools are also among the most maintenance-heavy in gas models, making the shift to battery particularly beneficial.

For heavier-use tools, one of the biggest factors to consider is battery life. Unlike handheld equipment, which can often run for an hour or more on a single charge, larger machines demand more power and may require more frequent battery swaps. Some manufacturers offer extended-life batteries or backpack battery systems for longer running time. Consider whether investing in higher-capacity batteries is a better long-term strategy compared to carrying multiple spares.

If you're transitioning to a battery-powered mower, there are now options that can handle both residential and light commercial work. While battery-powered ride-on mowers still come at a premium, walk-behind and stand-on models have become viable for many businesses. They not only eliminate fuel costs but also significantly cut down on maintenance—no oil changes, air filters, or carburetor issues to deal with. For those working in noise-sensitive areas, such as condos or commercial properties, the near-silent operation of battery-powered mowers can also be a selling point when bidding for jobs.

Train for Success

If you work with a team, training is key to making sure the transition is smooth and that everyone understands how to operate, charge, and maintain the new tools properly. Start with hands-on demonstrations, especially for workers accustomed to gas-powered equipment. While battery tools eliminate many traditional maintenance tasks, crews still need to know how to handle batteries correctly, store them safely, and recognize when batteries need to be replaced. Remember, unlike gas equipment, which can run continuously as long as there’s fuel, battery-powered tools require a charging strategy to avoid downtime.

It’s also worth discussing performance differences. While many battery-powered tools now match gas in power, the way they operate can feel different. For example, electric chainsaws provide instant torque with no warm-up time, and battery-powered blowers often work best at sustained power levels rather than quick bursts. Understanding these nuances helps workers make the most of their equipment and improves efficiency on the job.

Make the Transition on Your Timeline

Every business moves at its own pace, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to transitioning equipment. What matters most is finding a strategy that aligns with your workflow, budget, and long-term goals. Whether you’re testing the waters with a few handheld tools or ready to upgrade your mowers, each step brings you closer to lower fuel costs, reduced maintenance, and a quieter, more efficient operation.

At SiteOne® Landscape Supply, we have a wide selection of battery-powered tools from trusted brands, as well as the expertise to help you find the right solutions for your business. Visit your nearest SiteOne today or request support online.