Related Sponsors

What is the difference between commercial and residential grade power equipment?

Home » Lawn & Garden » Outdoor Power Equipment » What is the difference between commercial and residential grade power equipment?

There are many differences between commercial and residential grade power equipment. The first and most obvious difference is the price. Take a zero-turn (for a definition of zero-turn lawnmower look up lawnmowers on this site) lawn mower for example. It is possible for a homeowner to pick up a decent zero-turn mower for around $3,500.00 - 6500.00. However, a lawn-mowing contractor is going to pay between $7-15,000.00 on a commercial grade mower.

Another difference will generally be engine output. The more horsepower a piece of equipment generates the more work output it will generate. Let’s stick with the same example of zero-turn lawn mowers. The average contractor is going to be looking for a machine that will put out about 18-25 horsepower. A contractor not only needs the blades to spin faster but he needs to get done quicker than a homeowner because time is money. A homeowner can get away with 12-16 horsepower because the homeowner is not using the machine everyday and is too concerned with how many lawns he can do in an hour.

Some commercial mowers come with attachments to perform specialized services, like leaf clean up, curb sweeping, de-thatcher, and the like. Though these same “extras” are available to homeowners they are not as necessary.

Finally, commercial power equipment is typically built to last longer than power equipment used at a residence. This is not to say that residential equipment is always going to be inferior in quality. As stated earlier a zero-turn riding mower owned and operated by a contractor must be able to withstand extreme conditions, daily use and varied terrains. The homeowner typically uses power equipment around the house, or property when needed. A contractor needs to use his equipment almost daily. In regards to mowing, a contractor may have to mow fields, banks, or wooded lots. This kind of use demands a sturdy piece of equipment that will endure.

Next Page: How do I store my outdoor power equipment?

Related Outdoor Power Equipment Articles