If you are shopping for an effective commercial floor scraper to add to your surface preparation equipment inventory lineup, you’ve probably narrowed down things like your budget or whether you want a ride-on scraper or a walk-behind floor scraper. These are definitely important factors, but have you considered if you want a propane powered option or an electric floor scraper?
If you’re not sure which one is right for you, we’re going to share everything you need to know about having an electric floor stripper.
How an Electric Floor Scraper Works
Electric floor scrapers can refer to the types that plug into the wall or those that are powered by a rechargeable battery. Typically, only walk-behind or “stand-up” floor scrapers rely on the corded option while the larger ride-on scrapers are equipped with a battery.
Benefits of Electric Floor Scrapers
Whether you choose to purchase a walk-behind scraper that plugs into the wall or a battery-powered ride-on floor scraper, both options offer the following benefits:
Minimal Noise
The electric motor is much quieter than the propane-powered option. You can run a floor scraper in the same building where people are working in an office or you can operate it outdoors near homes and the noise pollution is minimal, especially compared to the high decibel output of a propane powered motor.
Zero Emissions
Using a battery-powered scraper or one that plugs into the wall emits no pollution, creating a safer, healthier environment for people around you. You can use it in an enclosed space with no danger of emissions (though you’ll still want to protect yourself against dust). Additionally, you may see indoor projects that have “no propane machines” in the job specs, so if you want to be available for as many jobs as possible, it’s something to consider.
Lower Operating Costs
Plugging a machine into the wall, whether to operate it or to charge the battery may use power, but won’t have a large effect on the electric bill. In fact, the cost of running an electric machine is much lower than having to purchase propane regularly to fill the tank.
The Drawbacks to Electric Floor Scrapers
While electric floor scrapers offer several benefits, we would be remiss if we didn’t discuss the concerns associated with electric floor scrapers.
Walk Behind Floor Scrapers
Because stand-up floor scrapers require a plug, they are limited in where they can be used. You’re either tethered to a wall outlet inside a building or will have to plug into a generator (which comes with the downsides of propane) if you need to work outdoors.
Battery Powered Floor Scrapers
While battery powered floor scrapers can be used indoors or outdoors, you do have to factor in whether or not you’ll be able to charge the battery at the end of each day, or if your battery will last the full day. While a propane tank can be filled quickly, charging a battery may cause downtime.
Contact Us for Your Commercial Floor Scraper
If you determine that an electric floor scraper is right for you, we can connect you with the right one for your business. Whether you need a ride-on scraper that can tackle massive projects in no time or a walk-behind model that can fit into smaller spaces and is easy to transport, we have a wide selection of options. Contact a product expert today for more information or get a free quote by calling (815) 472-9754 or by filling out our contact form to get started!