Skid steers are versatile machines with multiple uses on a construction site: excavation, digging, trenching, lifting, snow removal, materials handling, land clearing, and more. When it comes to skid steers, there are two primary options for how these machines are powered: electric and diesel. In this article, we’ll break down the pros and cons of both electric & diesel skid steers to help you make the right decision on which type of skid steer to get for your application! If you have any additional questions about construction equipment selection or if you are looking to buy or rent a skid steer in New England, please contact our team at Pro Tool & Supply and Pro Equipment Rental today!
Power & Performance
Diesel skid steers are powerful and can provide high power output even when performing heavy-duty tasks like digging, lifting, or moving heavy things. For this reason, diesel skid steers are suitable for harsher terrains or larger construction sites.
Electric skid steers are perfect for light to medium work like landscaping, interior work, or material handling. They are best suited for smaller job sites or places where noise and fumes may become an issue.
Environmental Effect
Diesel skid steers generate fumes and exhaust, and they contribute to air pollution. For this reason, diesel skid steers are not best suited for indoor jobsites or environmentally sensitive places.
Electric skid steers are completely emission-free, so they are perfect for indoor use, in urban settings, or in green projects.
Noise Levels
Diesel skid steers can be loud and may be too noisy for residential areas, while electric skid steers perform well in noise-sensitive locations, such as hospitals, schools, or residential neighborhoods.
Operating Costs
Diesel skid steers typically cost a bit more to operate and maintain due to the cost of fuel (diesel). Electric skid steers have less operational costs because they run on electricity, which is typically cheaper than diesel fuel.
Buy & Rent Skid Steers in New England from Pro Tool & Supply!
Pro Tool & Supply and Pro Equipment Rental provides contractors and construction companies in New England with sales and rentals of construction equipment, tools, and supplies, including electric & diesel skid steers! If you are a contractor in New England that is interested in purchasing or renting a skid steer or other type of equipment for your business, please contact Pro Tool & Supply by calling us at (857) 706-2980 or by filling out the contact form on our website! To get a free estimate on a purchase or rental from Pro Tool & Supply, please fill out the “Request a Quote” form on our website!
