How to Choose the Right Log Splitter: Your Buying Guide

September 20, 2024 | Nate Cord

Splitting logs by hand can be labour-intensive, time-consuming and in some cases, dangerous. With the right log splitter, however, this task can become much more manageable.

Choosing the right log splitter can be a game-changer for anyone who regularly works with firewood or needs to handle large quantities of wood, but with a variety of models and features out there, finding the perfect splitter for your needs can be overwhelming.

This is why it’s important that you understand the different types of splitter available and to know what factors to consider before you make an informed decision. And this is where we can help!

So, first things first…

What Is a Log Splitter?

To put it simply, a log splitter is a piece of machinery designed to split firewood from larger logs into smaller, more manageable pieces.

Traditionally, splitting logs was done by hand using an axe, requiring considerable physical effort and skill. A log splitter, however, automates this process by applying force to the log until it splits, typically for use in wood-burning stoves, fireplaces, or for other wood-related activities.

The Different Types of Log Splitter

There are several different types of log splitter available, all powered by different methods. The two most common types include:

Electric Log Splitter

Electric log splitters use an electric motor to drive a hydraulic or mechanical system that applies pressure to a log until it splits. These are one of the most popular choices of log splitter for homeowners with small-medium splitting needs, as they’re ideal for splitting logs for firewood or other small DIY projects.

They are compact and lightweight, compared to hydraulic models mentioned below, making them easy to move around and store.

Another great thing about an electric log splitter is that they are a quieter and more environmentally friendly option, compared to petrol-powered models.

Browse our range of quality Hyundai electric log splitters at Generators Direct, all available with 3 years warranty.

Petrol Log Splitter

As you can guess from the name, a petrol log splitter is a log splitting machine powered by a petrol engine. In comparison to the above type, it is better designed for heavy-duty wood splitting, making it suitable for handling larger logs or high-volume tasks.

Also, as they don’t rely on an electrical outlet, petrol log splitters can be used in remote locations with continuous operation, such as forests or farms.

To work, the petrol engine powers a hydraulic system that applies significant force to the log, which then splits it.

Once you’ve decided on a power source, you will also need to decide whether you want a vertical log splitter or a horizontal log splitter.

Vertical Log Splitter

A vertical log splitter works by positioning the log upright, allowing the machine to split it from top to bottom. This setup is particularly useful for handling large, heavy logs because the user doesn’t need to manually lift the log onto the splitter. Instead, the log can be rolled or placed into position on the splitter’s base.

This type of splitter is therefore best suited for bigger tasks like for splitting large logs or where there are higher volumes of logs to be split.

The Hyundai HYLS8000VE 8 Tonne Vertical Electric Log Splitter is a robust, electric 8 tonne vertical log splitter, designed to easily split seasoned or greenwood logs into manageable sizes, and also equipped to process tougher pieces of wood such as hard and knotty logs.

Horizontal Log Splitter

This type of log splitter lays the log flat on a platform, and the wedge moves horizontally to split the log. They can easily be operated at floor level or even on a bench or table, making it the ideal choice for domestic use.

To operate, the user is required to lift the log onto the splitter and hold it in place as the machine operates.

This type of splitter is therefore most suitable if you’re splitting small to medium-sized logs that are easy to lift.

A great example of a quality horizontal log splitter is the Hyundai HYLS7000HE 7 Tonne Horizontal Electric Log Splitter. Designed to easily split seasoned or greenwood logs into manageable sizes for firewood or kindling, this is the perfect solution for use in your log burner, fire, firepit, or even an outdoor pizza oven!

To work, the reliable Hyundai 2300w electric motor powers a hydraulic ram producing 7 tonnes of splitting force, and can split logs up to 250 mm in diameter and 520mm in length.

Other Key Things To Consider When Choosing a Log Splitter

Power source, log size and horizontal vs. vertical operation are, as we’ve mentioned above, important things to consider when choosing the right log splitter. But that’s not all!

Here are 4 additional things you should think about when you’re shopping around…

1. Safety Features

Some splitters require two hands to operate (one hand on the lever and the other holding the log), reducing the risk of injury.

At Generators Direct, all our log splitters are designed for 2 handed operation, preventing you from splitting wood unless both hands are out of harm’s way.

2. Portability

Another factor that might be important to you is portability.

Consider whether the splitter you’ve chosen has wheels for easy transport, especially if you’ll be moving it around your property or to different locations.

It’s also important to think about the weight of the log splitter, as heavier models are more stable, but also harder to move without assistance.

3. Brand Quality and Durability

As with any piece of machinery or tool, it’s crucial that you consider the quality and durability of the brand.

You want to ensure you choose a splitter with a sturdy, high-quality steel frame and a reliable motor/engine that can handle frequent use without breaking down.

Another thing worth considering is the maintenance. For example, electric models have typically lower maintenance needs than petrol-powered models, which require regular engine upkeep.

Our Hyundai log splitters here at Generators Direct come with a solid warranty of 3 years, giving you complete peace of mind when it comes to quality and longevity.

4. Intended Usage

Finally, ask yourself: how often will I be using it?

For occasional, domestic use, a small electric splitter will suffice. However for more frequent more professional use, a higher-powered electric or petrol splitter with faster cycle times and greater tonnage is better for regular wood splitting tasks.

We hope this article has provided you with valuable insights and practical tips for choosing the right log splitter to meet your personal or professional needs.

At Generators Direct, we offer a range of premium garden machinery, from log splitters to lawn mowers and grass trimmers.

All of our products are manufactured, tested and certified to industry standards, and come with a price promise – you won’t find prices cheaper anywhere on the web, but if you do, we’ll match them. In addition to this, all orders come with free mainland UK shipping and after sales support from our experts.

If you require additional advice or have a question for our team, don’t hesitate to get in contact with us using this form or via phone at +441639849847.