How Do I Choose a Wood Chipper? A Complete Guide

Selecting one of the best wood chipper can be quite a challenge especially if you are new in landscaping or you have not operated one before. It can be rather confusing by just thinking about the number of models and features available. However, if you divide the selection in a few stages, it will be very easy to comprehend which wood chipper is suitable for you.

A wood chipper is an immensely effective cutting implement that is used primarily to shred branches, leaves and any other form of garden waste into more manageable sizes. This makes it easier to compost, throw away or use for purposes like filling the land for landscaping. Here we will outline all the information that you must consider to select the best wood chipper for your requirements.

1. Determine Your Needs

The first step in choosing a wood chipper is determining what you plan to use it for. Ask yourself the following questions:

• What size branches will you be chipping? Are you dealing with small twigs or larger, thicker branches?
• How much yard debris do you have? Is your yard small with a few trees, or do you live on a large property with regular clean-up needs?
• What will you do with the wood chips? Will you be using them for mulch, compost, or simply disposing of them?

Understanding your specific requirements will help narrow down the type of wood chipper you need. For example, if you only have a few small branches and twigs to deal with, a smaller electric chipper might suffice. However, if you need to handle large, thick branches or clear substantial amounts of debris, you may need a larger, more powerful gas-powered chipper.

2. Types of Wood Chippers

Wood chippers come in a few different types, each designed to handle different tasks and yard sizes. Here are the three main categories:

• Electric Wood Chippers: Electric chippers are typically smaller, lighter, and more affordable. They are perfect for homeowners with small to medium-sized yards who need to chip smaller branches, twigs, and leaves. They are quiet, easy to maintain, and best suited for branches up to 1.5 inches in diameter. However, they rely on a power cord, which can limit mobility.
• Gas-Powered Wood Chippers: If you have a larger property or need to handle thicker branches (over 2-3 inches in diameter), a gas-powered chipper is the better option. These machines are more powerful and can handle larger debris, making them ideal for heavy-duty yard work. Gas chippers are more mobile, as they don’t require a power cord, but they tend to be louder, heavier, and require more maintenance.
• PTO Wood Chippers: These are designed to be attached to the power take-off (PTO) of a tractor. PTO wood chippers are typically used by farmers, landscapers, or anyone with large, heavily wooded properties. They are extremely powerful and can handle large branches and high volumes of debris. However, they are also more expensive and require a tractor to operate.

3. Engine Power and Capacity

The engine power and capacity of a wood chipper are two of the most important factors to consider. The engine power determines how efficiently the chipper can handle different sizes of branches and how fast it can process debris. It is typically measured in horsepower (HP) for gas-powered chippers and amps for electric models.

• Electric Wood Chippers: Most electric models range between 14 to 15 amps. This level of power is sufficient for smaller yards and light-duty chipping tasks. These machines can typically handle branches up to 1.5 inches in diameter.
• Gas-Powered Wood Chippers: Gas chippers usually range from 4 HP to 10 HP. The more powerful the engine, the larger the branches it can chip. Smaller models with 4 HP to 6 HP can handle branches up to 3 inches in diameter, while models with 8 HP to 10 HP can handle thicker branches over 3 inches.

Another important factor is the chipper's capacity, which refers to the maximum diameter of branches it can handle. Always choose a chipper with a slightly larger capacity than the size of branches you typically deal with, as this ensures it won’t get overwhelmed by thicker material.

4. Reduction Ratio

The reduction ratio tells you how small the chipper will reduce your yard waste. For example, a reduction ratio of 10:1 means that the chipper will reduce 10 bags of leaves or branches into 1 bag of wood chips. This is important if you plan to use the chips for mulch or compost, or if you need to minimize the amount of waste for disposal.

A higher reduction ratio is generally better, as it means the chipper will produce finer chips that can be used for mulching or composting. However, some people prefer larger chips for ground cover or other landscaping uses, so consider what size you need for your specific purposes.

5. Hopper Size and Feed Mechanism

The hopper is the part of the chipper where you load the branches and debris. The size of the hopper will determine how much material you can feed into the chipper at one time.

• Smaller Hoppers: Electric wood chippers tend to have smaller hoppers, which means you’ll need to spend more time cutting branches into smaller pieces before feeding them into the machine. This can be more time-consuming but is fine for smaller yards and lighter tasks.
• Larger Hoppers: Gas-powered chippers often have larger hoppers that can accommodate bigger branches and debris. Some models even have self-feeding mechanisms that pull the branches into the chipper, reducing the amount of manual work required.

6. Portability and Storage

When choosing a wood chipper, think about how you’ll be moving it around your property and where you’ll store it when it’s not in use.

• Portability: Smaller electric chippers are lightweight and easy to maneuver around your yard, but they may be limited by the length of the power cord. Gas-powered chippers are heavier, but most come with wheels for easier transport. If you have a large yard or plan to use the chipper in different locations, look for a model with sturdy wheels and a handle for easier movement.
• Storage: If space is limited, consider the size and weight of the chipper when it’s not in use. Some models have foldable components that make them easier to store in a shed or garage. Make sure you have enough space to store the machine safely and securely when not in use.

7. Safety Features

Safety is critical when operating a wood chipper. These machines have sharp blades and powerful engines, so it's important to choose a model with proper safety features to protect yourself and others.

• Emergency Stop: Many chippers have an emergency stop button or shut-off mechanism that allows you to quickly stop the machine if something goes wrong.
• Safety Shields: Some models include safety shields around the blades and feeding mechanism to prevent debris from flying out and causing injury.
• Ear and Eye Protection: Even though many chippers include noise-reducing technology, you should still wear ear protection. Safety goggles are also essential to protect your eyes from flying debris.

8. Maintenance and Durability

Wood chippers require regular maintenance to keep them running smoothly. Gas-powered models, in particular, need oil changes, air filter replacements, and regular cleaning of the blades and engine. Make sure the chipper you choose is easy to maintain and that replacement parts are readily available.

Durability is also key. Look for models made with high-quality materials like steel, which can withstand heavy use and resist wear and tear. Check customer reviews to see how long the chipper typically lasts and if there are any common problems with certain models.

Conclusion

Choosing the right wood chipper comes down to understanding your needs and selecting a machine that offers the right balance of power, capacity, and features. Whether you're a homeowner with a small yard or a professional landscaper dealing with heavy-duty tasks, there's a wood chipper out there to meet your needs.

Electric chippers are ideal for smaller yards and lighter tasks, while gas-powered chippers are better for larger properties and more demanding jobs. PTO chippers are the ultimate choice for those who need industrial-grade power and already own a tractor.

Take the time to research your options, compare features, and consider the size of your yard and the type of debris you'll be dealing with. By doing so, you’ll be able to invest in a wood chipper that will make your yard work easier and more efficient for years to come.