Outdoor Power Equipment Glossary Terms

What Is the Difference Between 2-Stroke and 4-Stroke Garden Machinery?

2-stroke petrol engines run on a mixed fuel-and-oil blend, are lighter and can be used in any orientation, making them common in chainsaws and strimmers, but they are typically louder and produce more emissions per hour of use. 4-stroke engines use separate fuel and oil, run cleaner and quieter with better fuel efficiency, but are heavier — a trade-off that shapes which engine type dominates a given category of garden power tool.

What Does Ah (Amp-Hour) Mean for Power Tool Batteries?

Amp-hour (Ah) rating indicates how much charge a power tool battery holds — roughly, how long it can run before needing a recharge — separately from voltage, which affects raw power output. A higher-Ah battery of the same voltage runs longer between charges but is heavier and pricier, so buyers often choose a smaller Ah battery for light, occasional jobs and a larger one for extended use.

What is Corded Electric?

"Corded Electric" refers to power sources that utilise mains electricity delivered through a cable connected directly to the device. This means the product operates solely while plugged into a standard UK three-pin socket. Practical considerations for buyers include weight – corded appliances are generally heavier than battery-powered alternatives due to the added cable and motor; upkeep involves keeping the cable in good condition, avoiding strain or kinking, and ensuring safe storage when not in use. The length of the cable is also important - shorter cables offer greater portability but may restrict movement.

What is Cordless (18V)?

"Cordless (18V)" refers to the voltage of the battery powering the tool. In home and garden applications, particularly with items like leaf blowers and chainsaws, it indicates that the device runs without a mains electricity cable. The '18V' signifies the system voltage used by the battery – higher voltages generally mean more power, but also potentially larger and heavier batteries. A 18V cordless tool will typically require multiple batteries for extended use; consider this when assessing runtime and whether you’ll need to purchase additional batteries to suit your needs. Battery life impacts performance and longevity.