Ever tried splitting wood with just an axe? Your back hurts, your arms feel like jelly, and you’re barely halfway through the pile. There’s got to be a better way, right? Well, there is: hire a wood splitter.
These machines do the hard work for you. Instead of swinging an axe all day, you just place the log and let the machine split it. Much easier on your body and way faster, too.
Why Rent One Instead of Buying?
Unless you’re splitting wood every week, buying doesn’t make sense. These machines cost a lot of money and take up space in your garage. Then they fix them when they break down.
Renting is smarter. You get the machine when you need it, use it for your project, then give it back. No storage headaches, no repair bills, and you always get equipment that actually works.
What Kind Should You Get?
Rental places have different wood splitter types. Here are some options:
Electric Ones
These types plug into the wall like any other tool. They’re quiet and work great for smaller jobs. Perfect if you live close to neighbours or need to work near your house. The downside? You need to be near an outlet, and they’re not as strong as gas models.
Gas-Powered Ones
A gas-powered wood splitter runs on regular gas like your lawnmower. These types are stronger than electric models, and you can use them anywhere on your property. They’re louder and smell a bit, but they get the job done faster.
Heavy-Duty Hydraulic Models
These are the muscle cars of wood splitters. They use fluid pressure to create tons of force. If you’ve got really big, tough logs that laugh at smaller machines, this is what you want. Most come on wheels, so you can move them around.
Fast-Action Types
Instead of slow, steady pressure, these use a heavy weight that moves fast to split the wood. They work quickly but aren’t quite as powerful. Good choice if you’ve got a lot of softer wood to split.
How Big Should It Be?
Wood splitters get rated by how much force they create, measured in tons. Check out this simple breakdown:
- Small (4–7 tonnes): Handles logs up to about 12 inches wide. Great for making kindling or splitting softer woods like pine.
- Medium (8–15 tonnes): Takes care of logs up to 18 inches across. This size works for most people’s firewood needs.
- Large (16–25 tonnes): Can split logs up to 24 inches wide. These tackle the tough stuff like oak and hickory without breaking a sweat.
- Extra Large (25+ tonnes): For the really big jobs. Only needed if you’re dealing with huge trees or super-hard wood.
What to Consider Before Hiring
Before choosing a wood splitter, it helps to look at your own setup and needs. The right machine for one person might be completely different for another. Keep these points in mind to make sure you pick the splitter that suits your logs, workload and experience.
- What Size Are Your Logs?
Measure your largest pieces and consider the type of wood. Hardwoods like oak and maple are tougher to split than softer woods, such as pine or poplar.
- How Much Wood Do You Have?
A small pile may be handled easily with an electric splitter, while a larger volume might require a more robust machine to get the job done efficiently.
- Where Will You Work?
Electric models need access to a power outlet or a long extension cord. Gas models can be used anywhere, but always operate them outdoors due to exhaust fumes.
- Have You Used a Splitter Before?
If this is your first time, choose a smaller, simpler model. Larger machines are stronger but require more careful handling and experience.
How to Stay Safe While Using a Hired Wood Splitter
Wood splitters are safe to use, but they’re still powerful. Here’s how to avoid getting hurt:
- Wear safety glasses; wood chips fly everywhere.
- Use work gloves for a better grip.
- Keep your hands away from where the wood splits.
- Only split one piece at a time.
- Make sure the log sits properly before you start.
- Don’t rush. Let the machine work at its own speed.
- Keep kids and pets far away.
- Read the instructions before you start.
Read Also: What Should You Know Before Turf Cutter Hire?
Getting the Most Out of Your Wood Splitter Hire
Hiring a wood splitter can save time and effort, but it pays to plan ahead and work safely. Combining a few smart practices with awareness of common mistakes ensures you make the most of your rental period.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don’t try to split logs that are too big for your machine. It won’t work and can damage the splitter.
- Avoid splitting green (fresh) wood if you can. Let it dry for a few months, so it splits more easily and safely.
- Never ignore safety rules in a hurry. Rushing can lead to accidents that could derail your project.
Tips to Maximise Your Hire
- Get Ready Ahead of Time: Most hire periods last at least 24 hours, but time can disappear quickly if you’re not organised. Gather all your wood in advance and sort it by size so the splitter can work continuously.
- Set Up a Good Work Area: Choose a flat, stable surface to prevent wobbling. Use buckets, crates or tarps for stacking split wood, and arrange your area to minimise bending, stretching or unnecessary movement.
- Learn the Machine: Ask rental staff to walk you through your splitter’s controls, safety switches and fuel or power requirements. Knowing your machine thoroughly improves efficiency and keeps you safe.
- Work Smart, Not Hard: Let the splitter do the heavy lifting. Place logs securely, avoid rushing, keep your hands clear of moving parts and take regular breaks to stay alert.
- Plan Your Attack: Start with smaller, easier logs to build confidence before tackling the bigger, knottier pieces.
- Pick the Right Day: Avoid wet, rainy conditions. Slippery logs, unstable ground and electrical hazards make splitting unsafe. Choose a dry day with good light.
- Bring a Mate: Even though the splitter does the work, having someone to move logs and stack split wood makes the process faster, safer and more enjoyable.
How Much Does Wood Splitter Hire Cost?
Prices change depending on where you live and what size you need. Small electric ones might cost $30-50 for a day. Bigger gas models can run $60-100 per day. Some places give you a better deal if you rent for a whole week.
You’ll need a credit card and might have to leave a deposit. The rental place will make sure you know how to use it safely. Some shops will deliver bigger garden equipment to your house for extra money; this is worth it if you don’t have a truck.
Takeaway
Splitting wood doesn’t have to be back-breaking or take up your entire weekend. Renting a wood splitter lets you get professional results without investing in expensive power tools you might rarely use.
The key is choosing the right size for your logs and the scope of your job. If you’re unsure which size to choose, start with a smaller model. You can always scale up later if needed.
With proper planning and the right machine, a tough chore can become a manageable weekend project. You’ll save your back and end up with perfectly split firewood ready for winter.
Need to get your wood-splitting project done right? Choose Quick Hire Group for all your tool hiring needs and get the perfect wood splitter for your job.