Battery power is in all aspects of our lives—cell phones, computers, cars, vacuums, speakers, flashlights, etc. The list goes on and on. But what about the handheld equipment used at our golf courses?
Here are some common questions to ask when considering making the switch from gas-powered to battery-powered equipment:
Run time and power are the top questions asked by those considering transitioning to battery-powered equipment. There will be preferences from manufacturer to manufacturer. Current battery-powered equipment continues to improve in performance and power. In most cases, it equals the performance of gas-powered equipment.
Just like gas-powered equipment has different engines and different ratings, batteries have different run time ratings based on total watt hours available. (See chart below)
You will need to consider different battery sizes to match the run times needed to get all tasks completed without running out of power. With a little bit of information, answers can be provided for the number and sizes of batteries required to get through the day.
EGO has an app that allows you to input the type of tools, quantities, and hours of daily operation to determine what tools you need and the number of watt hours required. Fulfilling the required watt hours can be achieved with varying battery sizes and quantities based on factors like weight, run time, and charging capability. Learn more about the app here.
Battery-powered equipment is an investment up front, but it eliminates the need for fuel, oil changes, spark plugs, filters, carburetors, engines, time to maintain, down time and more, which cost more in the long run than you think. Maintenance required on battery-powered equipment includes lubing gears, sharpening and lubing blades, and not much more than that.
In general, most manufacturers provide a 1- to 3-year warranty on their equipment and batteries. Both are designed to far outlast the warranty period.
One common question potential users ask is, “Do I need to increase my 120 volt power supply to handle the charging capabilities of my new battery-operated equipment?” Just like you would need to answer that question before bringing an electric vehicle home, the answer could be yes and it could require a costly upgrade to your electrical panel.
There are creative solutions available, however. For example, EGO’s PGX™ Commercial Charging system provides a flexible, scalable option to handle increased charging needs without having to upgrade or add costly electrical panels.
Another feature of battery over gas equipment is that you have visibility over your entire fleet of equipment and get warnings on maintenance and battery health based on run time and usage.
This information can be found on manufacturers’ apps or software, which can be accessed remotely via smart phone, computer, or tablet.
Your location will determine whether you’re required to switch to battery-operated equipment. Some state and local laws prohibit the use and/or purchase of gas-powered equipment, so check with your state and local governments.
If you’re in an area that allows gas-powered equipment, then the decision to transition is up to you. Some things to consider—battery-powered equipment is better for the environment, safer for the operator, it’s quieter, and more efficient.
It’s best to do a demo to make sure you can meet all of your golf course equipment and battery needs. Compare different manufacturers’ products and charging systems to see what works best for you.
Making the switch means a change in habits and a learning curve for your maintenance crew to adapt to battery-powered equipment and technology. It’s just like everything else in life. If you’re of a certain age, you remember using a pager and a calling card to communicate, and now everything is done on your smart phone.
If you have any questions or would like more information on making the switch, click here. We’re happy to help!
Ray Gonzalez, EGO’s Territory Sales Manager for Southern California, contributed to this article. He has worked in the green industry since 1997. Learn more about EGO at https://egopowerplus.com/.