An electric auger is a multipurpose gardening tool for drilling through materials or even soil. It can be used for drilling, digging and coring soils. As the name confirms, the electric auger must be supplied with an electric current to operate because there are other auger systems that differ with this one.
How to choose an electric auger?
If you need to dig holes in your garden quite regularly, for example, a device like this meets your needs. Different factors come into play when choosing an electric auger . This first concerns the quality of the machine itself, a good electric auger allows you to dig the most compact soils in an adequate time.
The power
This is the first element to take into account because it has a considerable impact on the use of the device. A powerful electric auger is essential to avoid putting a lot of effort into drilling. The question is of capital interest, especially if you have to use the machine quite often for a long enough period. A powerful machine means easy handling, less fatigue and good results. A good electric auger should have a minimum power of 1200W.
The weight
When buying, you must also inquire about the weight of the machine, since its handling depends on its heaviness. It is quite normal to choose those that are lighter. In practice, a heavy auger is difficult to transport, move and handle when drilling. At least two people are needed to handle a large auger, which can hamper small personal jobs because you can’t have assistance every time. On the other hand, during the actual drilling, they are more stable. So the weight of the machine should depend on the physical ability of the user.
The start
The starting system is simplified on electric models because of their power supply. The model must have at least one start and one stop system. The auger should be up and running in no time, you won’t have to waste time getting started.
The security system
The safety of an auger is essential since blockage problems can occur at any time. One of the reassuring systems in terms of safety is the disengagement of the machine on contact with stones. It is necessary to opt for machines that have an automatic disengagement system.
The comfort of use
Everyone can have their opinion on what is comfortable for their tastes but three things are unanimous about the comfort of an auger. The comfort of an electric model is judged on your ease of handling the machine, removing it and moving it.
Value for money
Electric augers have good value for money, in fact you only spend on average between 150 and 200 dollars, and if the range is really high level, you will pay double. But that price is nothing compared to the time savings you’re going to have, the longevity of hardware life that you can use for years.
How to use an electric auger?
The use of an electric auger requires a lot of precautions because it is a very dangerous device that can puncture your skin at the slightest inattention.. Checking certain parts of the device is the first thing to do for efficient use. The drill must have the points well sharpened before each use of the material. Starting the engine is the first step while taking precautions to control the slightest movements of the machine. The operation of this auger is like that of a corkscrew, you have to turn the auger with the electric motor so that the bit sinks deeper and deeper into the ground without having to exert much effort . When drilling, the hourly force of the auger must be countered. Each time you progress in the drilling, it is necessary to frequently remove the dirt in the hole. When using the machine, you must wear safety equipment such as gloves,
It is necessary to avoid at all costs that the drill is in contact with rocks and roots. The choice of auger setting should match your physical condition. The correct length of an auger should be around 1 meter for normal people of 1m70…You must have some accessories when using this device such as a tamper, a shovel and a digger.
How to maintain an electric auger?
The first observation that can be made of an electric auger is that compared to other thermal augers or manual augers , it does not need a lot of maintenance because there are few mechanical parts. But you have to know the right gestures to be able to keep this machine for a very long time. It starts with cleaning the device, first after each use, you have to clean the wick of any residue that may stick to it. Then, it is necessary to check if the helical shape is preserved because the contact with the ground can deform it.
Then lubricate the bit with a cloth soaked in suitable oil. Cleaning and oiling keeps the part clean and helps fight rust. Proper use of this device requires knowledge of the quality of the ground to be drilled, in fact it must be used for softer soils and avoid, if possible, digging concrete and rocks with it.
Criteria to be determined for proper use of the electric auger
The use of an electric auger depends on several criteria to have good performance and keep the device in good condition. To do this, you must answer the 4 questions below.
How many holes do you have to drill?
You need to know the technical characteristics of your auger to be able to combine optimal performance with the number of holes. Compared to other augers, electric models are more cost effective for heavy duty drilling than others. Beyond 5 holes, the electric model is recommended to avoid physical effort. This does not prevent taking precautions for its handling. Prolonged use of these electrical devices can lead to technical problems, so if you only have to dig a few holes, there is no problem. On the other hand, if you have to drill a whole garden, you have to take breaks after digging a few holes. It is best to postpone drilling operations even by one day to keep the equipment in good condition.
How much time do you have?
The time saving is very visible when drilling with motorized augers rather than manual models. Acquiring a hydraulic or thermal auger can help you have more time for other tasks.
As the auger is like all other electrical devices, you have to master the time factor to have good performance. Regardless of the number of hours and days you have to do the drilling, you have to get started by giving the machine as much downtime as possible.
Is your floor hard to drill?
The quality of the soil is very important for each model of electric auger . Some augers can dig hard ground while others can only drill soft ground. Refer to the advice and instructions for use issued by the manufacturer. But we all know that thermal augers are suitable for harder soils.
Do you have a large garden?
The size of the drill garden is essential because a small space does not require a high quality auger in terms of output and power unless the ground is really hard. Mastering the handling of the device is enough to have the expected results. On the other hand, if the garden is large enough, it is necessary to provide a good auger and an extension cord that can reach the furthest place.
The advantages and disadvantages of an electric auger
Several benefits can be gained from using an electric auger . First, the facilitation of drilling work, especially for people who use it regularly, such as to make holes in a garden. Gardeners are relieved to have this device on hand for their daily task. Installing fences is also simplified using this machine. The use of this electrical device also exempts expenses in terms of fuel as for thermal devices. You also no longer need to do oil changes, one of the drawbacks of gas-powered augers.
There are no more start-up problems for electric models and the noise the machine can make is kept to a minimum. The power of these devices makes it possible to drill the ground without having to exert much effort. There is also no risk of burns on the exhaust. When we look from another angle, we see that this auger is more environmentally friendly because of its electric motor.
The power cords of an electric auger are bulky for users of these devices , they are not very practical for good handling. Some of these devices are not made for regular but occasional use. Another more frequent problem for these models also is the autonomy of the machine which does not last long enough because it needs an electrical connection.
Precautions to take before using an electric auger
Several precautionary measures must be taken for the proper use of an electric auger in order to prolong its life . The most important of these is screwing the drill bit tight enough to avoid disconnection while drilling. It is necessary to guard against humidity during its use and storage because it is an electrical device, it is necessary to provide a kind of shelter for the equipment in case the unexpected happens like rain.
To survive the winter, the device must be protected from frost in order to use it easily when the time comes. And after each use, it is necessary to think of cleaning it to make disappear the pieces of ground which stick to the various parts of the apparatus. Cleaning must be done immediately after use to prevent stains from being difficult to remove.
Our opinion on electric augers
It requires little maintenance
Our lifestyle today is influenced by faster and less hassle fads like fast foods. This device does not require much time spent on cleaning and repair. Indeed, the electrical system is easy to use and the materials used are of an effective resistance to maintain the state of the device as long as possible. Choosing one of these models allows you to be exempted from certain maintenance that we are obliged to do for other types of augers. Another advantage in terms of maintenance, there are few mechanical parts in their design, so there is little chance that leaks, wear and tear will occur frequently. During the winter, it should only be found in a dry place.
Easy drilling
The procedures to be done are less complex and do not require a lot of preparation time. Starting is easy by simply engaging the running device. If you don’t want to be burdened with technical issues, it’s better to spend a little fortune to have this device. Plus, you don’t need to go to gas stations to get gas.
Their use is quiet and discreet
The noise generally depends on the type of engine used, these machines do not make much noise even if the power of their engine is very high. This is an undeniable advantage since we know that noise can be a source of stress and can therefore be a factor of fatigue for the user of the device. Not only for you but for others too, your neighbors are not likely to be disturbed by the noise of your machine, so you can work quietly. The vibration level of electric models is also very low, so they don’t make too much noise.
Questions to ask about electric augers
Which bit to choose for your electric auger?
Normally the choice of an electric drill depends on the size of the hole you want, that is to say according to the use you want to make of it as for a stake, a fence or a plantation. A stake does not require too large a wick, an 8 cm wick model is sufficient. On the other hand, if you want to use the auger to plant trees, it is best to opt for large diameters such as 15 cm or 20 cm diameter bits to have more room for maneuver in the hole.
Is it advisable to add a wick extension for an electric auger?
The use of a wick extension is not a problem and very useful in some cases. If your need requires its use, it must be put on while following the instructions.
On what soil can the electric auger be used?
The electric auger is ideal for all types of terrain, but like other types of augers, it is best used on slightly soft ground than on hard ground with rocks or pebbles. Indeed, the hardness of these materials can lead to technical problems such as the deformation of parts or the very blocking of the device.
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