Heating With Wood Stove – Find Your Best Electric Log Splitter
Last updated on May 25th, 2023 at 08:34 pm
Already know what you’re looking for? Jump straight to the Coolest 5 Electric Log Splitter List
Are Electric Log Splitters Worth It?
Is an electric log splitter worth it? Yes. They do just as good of a job as comparably sized and powered gas log splitters. And if you are heating with wood stove in your home, you’ll most likely want to split your own wood.
Electric log splitters are an affordable, dependable, and convenient option for splitting the wood you’ll need to heat your home or other indoor spaces.
One thing to remember is that virtually all log splitters are driven by hydraulics. The hydraulic system uses a cylinder that extends and drives the wood into the splitting wedge.
The electric motor, or the gas powered engine is what provides the power to the hydraulics. Electric log splitters come in many different models that are used by professional foresters and by home owners who heat with wood as well.
Let’s take a look at some of the advantages:
Advantages Of Electric Log Splitter
- Convenience – Just plug it into a standard 120V power outlet, and you’re ready to go.
- No Odors – They don’t have the smell of gasoline and oil that a gas powered log splitter does. They can be used in a garage, or even inside.
- Less Noise – They are quieter. This also makes them ideal for suburban areas. the noise won’t bother your neighbors.
- Less Expensive To Operate – Because they just plug-in and use electricity to operate, electric log splitters can be less expensive. This will Depend on the price of fuel and oil, as well as how much you use it.
- Less Maintenance – Electric motors generally require less maintenance than a gas powered engine.
Disadvantages Of Electric Log Splitters
The main disadvantage of an electric log splitter is that you have to have access to power. You must be within reasonable distance of an electric outlet.
If you need to split wood in remote areas or out in the woods, a gas powered log splitter will probably work best for you.
What Size Log Can An Electric Log Splitter Split
The residential size electric log splitters featured here can split logs with a maximum diameter of 10 inches to 14 inches. The splitting capability and recommended log size is given in each review.
Splitting force is calculated by tonnage. This is the amount of force the unit is capable of. I am only featuring the best splitters for residential use in this article.
There are also other factors to consider when splitting wood. First, is the wood green (wet), or seasoned (dried)? Green or freshly cut wood takes more splitting force that seasoned wood.
Second, is the wood straight or does it contain knots? Logs with a straight grain are easier to split than logs that have knots.
It is always better to choose a log splitter with more force than you will need. You will be sure that you can split all of your logs, and not have some un-split because it was under-powered.
If you are going to be splitting smaller to medium size logs at your home, you will definitely find what you are looking for in this article.
Now let’s take a look at the Coolest 5 Best Electric Log Splitters.
Your Coolest 5 List
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The Coolest 5 Electric Log Splitters
Small But Powerful
We’ll start out on the smaller end of the scale with this Earthquake 5 ton splitter. It capable of splitting logs up to 10 inches (254 mm) in diameter, and 20 inches (508 mm) long.
This unit comes with the work-ready stand and tray included. The stand raise the unit off the ground to a height of 39 inches (1 meter). The tray keeps the split wood from falling to the ground. Making it easier on your back by letting you remain in a more comfortable work position.
The Earthquake 32220 can als be assembled without the stand. It is made to be used sitting on the ground or on a workbench. The included wheels make it easy to move from site to site, and easy to stow away.
Materials And Construction
This splitter is well constructed with a 120 volt, 15 amp motor. The motor is made with solid copper wire windings with a power capability of 1,500 watts.
It contains a gear pump driving the hydraulic system. Max motor speed is 3,500 RPM and the cycle time is 22 seconds.
This unit plugs into an standard 120 volt outlet, and it comes with a 72 inch (1.8 meter) length cord. The included stand a log catching tray are constructed of high quality steel.
Take a look at the manufacturer’s product video.
Manufacturer And Product Info
Earthquake Outdoor Power equipment was founded in 1960, in the state of Wisconsin, USA. There are still located there today. The make a full line of quality durable outdoor power tools.
The 32229 4 ton electric log splitter comes with a 5 year limited manufacturer’s warranty.
They have a very helpful, well-built website. Features and specs can be found on the product page. The Operator’s Manual is available for download as well.
Customer Support is available online through their Contact Page and by email. They can also be reached by the phone number provided.
COOLS
- Excellent value
- Included stand and log tray
- 5 Year Warranty
- Manufacturer reputation
UN-COOLS
- Only for splitting smaller logs
Boss Industrial 5 Ton Splitter
The Boss Industrial 5 ton splitter has a rugged build and will get you up and running in a hurry. You’ll be able to split all the logs you need to keep warm.
It features a high powered 1.8 horse electric motor. It has a 5 inch steel wedge and can split logs up to 10 inches (254 mm) in diameter and up to 20.5 inches (0.52 meters) long.
One hand operation is offered on this one providing extra convenience and safety. Engage the handle to move the ram block forward, and when release it auto-returns.
Boss Industrial features a patented hydraulic system with the hydraulic cylinder and ram mounted on the bottom. The 6 inch wheels have metal hubs, no plastic here, and solid rubber wheels.
Materials And Construction
Technical specs include a 115v, 60Hz motor with 1300 watts of power output. The rated current is 12 amps and a motor speed of 3,400 RPM.
It contains an industrial grade complete gear pump that drives the hydraulic cylinder. The hydraulic pressure is 2,700 PSI. Cycle time is 9 seconds for the feed (extend), and 5 seconds for retract (return).
Boss lists the hydraulic cylinder bore and stroke as 2.17 in (55 mm) x 17.5 in (444.5 mm). The total weight is 107 lbs (46.5 kg). Assembly is required.
Here is the manufacturer’s product video.
Manufacturer And Product Info
Boss Industrial is located in Madison, Wisconsin, USA. Their website is informative, helpful, and easy to navigate. Specs and technical info are available on all of their products.
The EC5T20 Electric Log Splitter Owner’s Manual is available on their product page, and is downlaodable. This model comes with a 2 year Limited Warranty for residential use.
Users can register their product online for more info and product updates from the manufacturer. Boss Industrial offers 24/7 Customer Support via the phone. As well as through email and their Contact page.
COOLS
- Manufacturer reputation
- Portable design
- 2 year warranty
- 24/7 support
UN-COOLS
- Some assembly is required
Power Horse 8 Ton Log Splitter
For the next step up in power we’re taking a look at the Powerhorse 66716 model. Offering 8 tons of maximum splitting force, this one has a couple extras thrown in too.
It features a biult-in log cradle that keeps the split wood from falling to the ground. This make it easier to reach without having to stoop or bend down to the ground.
The Powerhorse electric log splitter can be easily switched from horizontal to vertical position. because of the larger end plate, this unit can quickly be raised to the upright position and used for larger heavier logs.
It has the capability of splitting logs up to 12 inches (305 mm) in diameter, and 20.5 inches (0.52 Meter) in length. The vertical splitting capability means you won’t have to lift the large, heavier logs up and onto the splitter.
Materials And Construction
The Powerhorse comes with a smooth 15 amp, 120 Volt motor. 2,300 watt, 60 Hz, 3 HP with copper wire provides extended service life.
The hydraulic system drives a 2.75 inch diameter piston in the hydraulic cylinder. This connects to a 3.2 in x 2.7 in x 6 in wedge.
The log cradle and vertical splitting capability are nice options to help with a big pile of wood and larger size logs.
The weight of this unit is 156 pounds (168 kg). Get a better look at this electric wood splitter from the Powerhorse product video.
Manufacturer And Product Info
Powerhorse products are manufactured by Northern Tool. They are located in the state of Minnesota in the United States. The Powerhorse 66716 comes with a manufacurers limited warranty for 2 years.
They have been in business for over 40 years, and have a reputation for building rugged, depenable tools and power equipment. other products that Northern Tool manufacture are NorthStar, Bannon, Klutch, and others.
Northern Tools have 127 physical locations in 22 states. Customer service is available through their website as well as by phone and online chat during regulat business hours.
More information, specs, and recommendations are available on their website as well. The Owner’s Manual is accessible and downloadable as a PDF file.
COOLS
- Vertical splitting capability
- Built-in log cradle
- Reputation for quality
UN-COOLS
- Recommended fluids can be hard to find
9 Tons Of Electric Log Splitting Force
If you’ll be splitting some larger logs, or just want to make sure you’ve got a little extra power in reserve, the Yardmax YS0952 is definitely a best choice.
Yardmax has included some interesting features to help set this model apart, and make your log splitting job easier. Let me tell you about them.
Adjustable Splitting Speed
First is their adjustable splitting speed. Slower uses more force, and faster uses less force. You can use the faster speed for all of the smaller sized pieces you’ll be splitting to speed up the process.
But you’ll come across those larges pieces, or one that is not as straight and contains some knots. The slower speed gives you that extra force you’ll need to split those stubborn logs.
Short Cycle Time
It also has a shorter cycle time of 14 seconds to 23 seconds. This cycle time will depend on the splitting speed that you are using. But the cycle time on this unit is pretty good for any any speed you choose.
Their is also a stroke limiter that can be set for shorter logs. If you save your smaller logs to be split together, the shorter stroke length will decrease your work time even more.
Materials And Construction
We have a heavy-duty 15 amp motor here, solidly built to provide long service life. The hydraulic cylinder bore is 2.75 inches (70 mm). The hydraulic fluid capacity is 1.72 gallons (6.5 litre).
The wedge size is 6 inches (152 mm), and splitting force is 9 tons. It is capable of splitting log up to 12.6 inches (320 mm) in diameter, and 20.5 inches (0.52 meter) in length.
It uses a little large wheels, 8 inches (203 mm) in diameter, to make it more portable and easier to move aroung. Total weight is 165 pounds (74.8 kg), and no assembly is required.
Two Handed Operation
As an added safety feature, Yardmax has designed this unit to be operated with two hands. Here is their description:
TWO HANDS OPERATION
For your safety, your log splitter is equipped with a “ZHB” control system that requires both hands of the operator. The left hand controls the hydraulic controls lever while the right hand controls the push button switch. The log splitter will stop if the lever or push button is released. Only after the lever and pushbutton are released will the log ram return to its starting position
So it acts as a “dead switch” so you can’t reach a hand up to the log while it is in the process of being split. This may be an important consideration for some users.
Manufacturer And Product Info
Yardmax is an American company that was established in 2015. They are located in the state of Illinois, USA. They are partnered with a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in China.
They have bulit a reputation for being a leader in the Outdoore Power Equipment (OPE) industry. They maintian full oversight of all their products.
They have an easy to use, and helpful website. Their Customer Support is easily reachable via the website form, or creating a support ticket. They can also be reached by phone during normal business hours.
You can register your product online for extended support and updates. There is also an informative spec sheet available for download.
Yardmax provides a 2 year manufacturer’s warranty for residential use.
COOLS
- Sturdy construction
- Adjustable speed
- No assembly required
- Stroke limiter helps shorten work time
UN-COOLS
- Two-handed operation may be an inconvenience
- Manufactured in China – a negative for some
14 Tons Of Splitting Power
The most powerful of the splitters I am featuring is the SuperHandy GUO084 14 Ton with rapid return. This one will handle just about any size log you will have for residential wood stoves.
The horizontal beam is strong but lightweight. The eight inch wheels make it easy to move around. It can be used on the ground or a up on a flat surface.
It easily fits in the bed of a truck or small trailer so you can get it to whenever you need to split your wood. The solid rubber wheels are axle mounted for durability. Not just attached to a hole in the frame.
This unit is equipped with a heavy duty electric motor and the 2-stage Bucher gear pump. It provides reliable and constant splitting power.
You also get a very quick 16 second cycle time, with auto-return. Letting you split logs almost as fast as you put them on.
Materials And Construction
SuerHandy constructs their products with high-quality and dense steel. They are finished with a 2 stage powder coating that protects against corrosion and rust, as well as scratches and dings.
The Bucher Precision gear pump is high quality and industrial grade. The electric motor is 2.5eHP, 15 amp, 1,800 watts that provides a smooth linear motion. No clunky unreliable performance from this splitter.
The unit runs off standard 120V power. Just plug it into any standard power outlet with the included 71 inch (21.6 M) power cord.
Take a quick look at the SuperHandy video for this unit:
Manufacturer And Product Info
SuperHandy Outdoor Power Tools are a brand of Great Circle US company. They are located in the state of California, USA and have been in business since 2017.
Their website contains a lot of helpful information. You can register your product online for warranty verification, and enhanced customer support.
You can download the Operator’s Manual for more details and secs.
Technical Support is available vie the website. Great Circle also offers a live chat feature to communicate with them directly.
The GUO084 electric log splitter comes with a one year limited manufactureres warranty, and replacement parts can be ordered directly from Great Circle US.
COOLS
- Lots of splitting force
- Solid construction
- Quick cycle time
- Replacement parts included under warranty
UN-COOLS
- Only 1 year warranty
- Hydraulic fluid not included
BEST VALUE
The Earthquake 5 ton splitter comes out on top for value. It’s a great pick for small to medium logs. The included stand and log trays take a load off your back and make the job easier.
FEATURES
Yardmax comes out on top for the features category. Making the job easier, a unique safety feature, and it has the power and durability to go along with it. A solid choice all the way around.
POWER
SuperHandy 14 Ton is the obvious choice for power. And it good on value too. Plenty of splitting force for any logs you will have. And It’s never a bad idea to have more power than you need.
Are Electric Log Splitters Safe?
Electric log splitters are safe to use as long as you are careful and take some precautions. When you get your splitter you will see a section in the Operator’s Manual with all of the safety information, warnings, and precautions.
There will be safety warning stickers on the log splitter itself as well. These machines use multiple tons of force so there can be a lot to learn. You’ll be using and outdoor power tool and there are several things to consider and know to use it safely.
Always wear safety goggles and a good pair of work gloves. do not put your hands near the logs when the machine is in operation. Keep children away from the work area. There are a lot of common sense things you can do to stay safe while splitting your wood.
Be sure to thoroughly read the Operator’s Manual that comes with your unit. it will let you know all the things you need to consider when using your particular unit.
Final Thoughts of Electric Log Splitters
That’s where an electric log splitter comes in. You’ll need something efficient and reliable. The advantages of an electric log splitter over a gasoline log splitter can really make a big difference.
No fumes, less maintenance, the ability to work inside, and other factors make an electric log splitter a best choice for a lot of people.
I hope you found this article helpful and you find a police car laptop mount that meets your needs and helps you get more work done. Let me know if you have any questions or comments along the way. You can drop me an email at info (@) coolest5.com.