For yards over one-half of an acre, cleaning up after a large storm, or clearing areas for replanting, a large, gas-powered chipper shredder is recommended. Yard Sizeįor small urban yards, an electric chipper shredder is usually needed to take care of small branches and leaves. A higher reduction ratio equals a finer textured bag of mulch. This is highly dependent on whether you are shredding leaves or chipping branches. The reduction ratio of a chipper/shredder is based on how many bags of debris it takes to create one bag of mulch. However, if you want to chip thick branches, you’ll need to spend more on a more professional model. If you’re looking for a chipper to clean up twigs, a low-capacity machine is perfectly fine. Gas machines, on the other hand, are usually more powerful and not limited by a cord, but they may require more maintenance.Īs you shop, you’ll notice chipper shredders have a “capacity,” which signifies the largest branch diameter the machine can handle. Electric chippers are low-maintenance machines that are perfect for light cleanup-and they’re more environmentally friendly, to boot. What to Look for in a Chipper Shredder Power sourceĬhipper shredders are typically powered by gas or electricity. For an easy-to-use electric model, we love the Sun Joe 15-amp Silent Wood Chipper/Shredder ( view at Amazon) for its quiet operation and small footprint.

However, the best chipper shredder for you depends on the size of your yard, the type of waste you would like to reduce, and your budget. Our top chipper shredder pick is the Great Circle USA 3-in-1 Wood Chipper Shredder ( view at Amazon) for its ability to turn 15 bags of yard waste into one, as well as its limb-size capacity and price point. The vibration of any chipper during operation can cause bolts to loosen. Dry leaves are shredded into very small pieces ideal for compost or leaving on lawns.Īfter every use or midway during a day of use, take the time to carefully check all bolts and tighten them as needed. However, it does an excellent job reducing dry yard water to mulch with a 20 to 1 compression ratio. However, almost all chippers have this disadvantage. Reviewers report the chipper shredder has a difficult time handling wet leaves and green plant material. The vacuum is removable with just three bolts.

Sold with a vacuum attachment to gather leaves and a tow bar, you can make quick work of leaf removal by attaching it to a lawnmower or ATV.

The chipper has a large capacity feeder shoot and chips branches up to 3 inches in diameter.

The Spruce Home Improvement Review Boardīilled as a commercial, heavy-duty chipper, the DK2 Chipper Shredder & Vacuum has all the features you need to care for a large yard or garden.

Craftsman 5hp shredder industrial plus