When it comes to managing your yard, property or landscaping project, two common options are - using a wood chipper or a wood mulcher. While both machines are design to break down wood, there are some important differences to consider. In this blog, we'll discuss the main differences between a wood chipper and a wood mulcher and help you decide which one is right for your needs.
What is a wood chipper?
A wood chipper is a machine that is design to break down larger pieces of wood into smaller, more manageable chips. The machine works by feeding branches or logs through a hopper, which then feeds them into a spinning blade that chops the wood into smaller pieces. The resulting chips can be used for mulch, compost, or fuel.
What is a wood mulcher?
A wood mulcher, also known as a shredder, is design to break down smaller pieces of wood and other organic material into a fine, uniform mulch. The machine uses multiple blades or hammers to shred the material into small pieces, which are then forced through a screen to create a consistent size.
Differences between a wood chipper and a wood mulcher
While both machines are design to break down wood, there are several differences between a wood chipper and a wood mulcher.
Size of material
One of the biggest differences between the two machines is the size of the material they can handle. Wood chippers are design to handle larger branches and logs, while wood mulchers are better suited for smaller material like leaves and twigs.
Final Product
Another important difference between the two machines is the final product they create. Wood chippers produce larger, irregularly shaped chips that are ideal for mulch, compost, or fuel. Wood mulchers, on the other hand, produce a more uniform, fine mulch that is ideal for landscaping and gardening.
Cost
The cost of a wood chipper and a wood mulcher can vary significantly. Wood chippers tend to be more expensive, as they are larger and more powerful machines. Wood mulchers, on the other hand, tend to be smaller and less expensive.
Which is one is right for you?
Deciding which machine is right for you will depend on your specific needs. If you have larger branches and logs to break down, a wood chipper may be the better option. However, if you're looking to create a uniform, fine mulch for your landscaping or garden, a wood mulcher may be the better choice. Ultimately, it's important to consider the size of the material you need to break down, the final product you're looking to create, and your budget before making a decision.
Power source
Wood chippers can be powered by petrol or diesel engines , electricity or PTO Engine driven chippers are generally more powerful but also louder and emit fumes. Electric chippers are quieter and cleaner but may not be as powerful.
Call the experts Chipstar
Want to know more? Contact our friendly team at Chipstar Australia, we supply and distribute a range of world-class equipment, including wood chippers and mulchers. You can call us on 03 9761 4486 and we’d be happy to answer all your questions. See our range.