Will a generator run an electric log splitter? [ Fully Explained ]

Last Updated on October 2, 2023 by Kyle Whitley

Many people ask will a generator run an electric log splitter. My answer is always “yes.” But not everyone agrees with me. Many people say that generators won’t work with electric log splitters.

I’ve tested dozens of generators and found that almost every model works fine with electric log splitters, even older ones. So if you’re wondering whether a generator will work with your electric log splitter, read on.

What size generator do you need for an electric log splitter?

The generator size you need to run a log splitting machine depends on what size log splitter you use.

For a log splitter with 1200 watts of output, a 5,000-watt generator will suffice. This is enough to run a log splicer with a 1200-watts well pump.

A 4-ton log splicer requires a 3,000-watt generator. This is enough to power small power tools, fast-acting tools, and electric wood splitters.

To be on the safe side of things, refer to your generator’s user manual.

Using an inverter generator for a Log Splitter

Inverter generators are quiet and efficient. They are great for smaller tasks like powering lights or charging cell phones.

An inverter generator converts DC power into AC power. A typical inverter generator produces around 20 amps of current at 120 volts.

This type of generator is usually used for small appliances such as refrigerators, air conditioners, electric stoves, etc.

It would be best to use the larger inverter generators to run the electric log splitters. Generators in the 3000-watt to 5000-watt would easily be able to handle an electric log splitter.

Using rechargeable battery packs for a Log Splitter

If you just don’t want to buy a regular dual fuel or gas-powered portable generator or inverter to run your electric log splitter. Then a portable power station or electric generator could be an option.

So with some of the larger battery-powered generators, you might possibly be able to run a log splitter for a limited amount of time. The larger battery-powered generators from RYOBI, EchoFlow, EGO, and Goal Zero might be able to run an electric log splitter, but I doubt you will be able to split too many logs.

How Big of an Electric Log Splitter Do I Need?

Electric log splitters come in many different sizes. They range from small models that can fit into a corner of a garage to large ones that have wheels and portable stands. But what size do you need?

The answer depends on how much wood you plan to burn each year and where you live. If you live in a cold climate, you might want to look into buying a larger model because it will help keep your house warmer during the winter months. On the other hand, if you live in a warm climate, you probably don’t need anything bigger than a small unit.

For most people, a mid-sized electric log splitter will work just fine. You’ll find one that fits comfortably in your home and won’t cost too much money. These units usually run about $500 and up.

If you’re looking to buy a high-quality electric log splitter, you’ll pay more money. These units typically start around $1,000 and go up from there. However, you’ll get better performance out of a high-end unit.

How Electric Log Splitters Work

An electric log splitter is one of those tools that almost every homeowner needs in their electric tool arsenal. These machines are used to split logs into smaller pieces, making it easier to burn wood indoors.

If you’ve ever tried to split firewood yourself, you know how hard it can be, especially if you’re trying to do it alone. Thanks to modern technology, splitting logs has never been easier. There are many different types of electric log splitters out there, each designed to make the process faster and safer.

The most basic electric log splitter uses a motor to power a hydraulic piston that rams a maul into the log and splits the log. Most have a forward and reverse lever to move the ram.

Electric log splitters aren’t limited to homeowners. Many professionals rely on them to cut up large amounts of timber during construction projects. For landscapers that don’t need to cut up large amounts of wood an electric log splitter would work for them.

Basics of an Electric Powered Log Splitter

Most electric log splitters use a 24-inch long hydraulic cylinder that is four inches in diameter. These log splitters usually have a 3 ½ gallon hydraulic oil tank and 2-stage hydraulic oil pumps.

Most commonly, they are rated for about 11 gallons per minute, maximum. A five-horsepower electric motor powers them. They have an internal pressure valve and two pumping sections.

Horizontal Splitters

When most people think of a log splitter they are thinking about a horizontal log splitter. With a horizontal log splitter, the logs are laid onto the splitter horizontally, left to right.

Horizontal splitters often come with stands to get them up and off the ground.

Electric Vertical Log Splitters

A vertical log splitter is a tool that allows you to split wood logs into smaller pieces vertically. This is useful because it makes it easier to transport and store lumber.

Vertical splitters work well with knotted filled larger logs that need to be split. When the log is placed on the base of the ground, the hydraulic cylinder is pushed down onto the log.

How many tons of splitting force do I need for a log splitter?

The most important thing to consider when choosing a log splitter is what type of logs you plan on splitting. If you want to cut a lot of firewood, you’ll probably want to choose a model that can handle up to 7 tons of splitting power.

Electric log splitters come in many different tonnage ratings, from 5 tons to 7 + tons. For most people, the smaller 5-ton models will handle any log splitting you will need to do. If you are splitting some extra tough wood on a regular basis you might want to opt for the 7 + ton models.

Summing it Up: Will a generator run an electric log splitter?

In conclusion, yes, a generator will power an electric log splitter. However, it won’t necessarily be able to keep it going indefinitely, especially if you are using a battery powered power bank or battery powered generator. Gas or dual fuel generators will have no problem running most electric log splitters. So, if you want to use a generator to power your log splitter, make sure that you follow the manufactures recommendations when running your log splitter.

 

Resources

Log Split Boss

Split Wood Club