Gas or Electric Scissor Lift? How To Choose the Right One for Summer Projects

When summer hits, aerial work ramps up—whether you’re upgrading lighting, painting exteriors, or managing facility maintenance. But when it comes to choosing between a gas-powered or electric scissor lift, the right decision depends on your project type, location, and jobsite conditions. Here’s how to make the best choice for your summer work.

Consider Your Worksite Environment

One of the first things to think about is where the scissor lift will be used. The surface type, ventilation, and space constraints all influence whether a gas or electric model is best. Choose an electric scissor lift if:

• You’re working on smooth, flat surfaces like concrete or asphalt.
• Your project takes place near public spaces, shopping centers, or campuses where low noise is a must.
• Emissions are a concern, such as in courtyards, near fresh landscaping, or near ventilation intakes.

Go with a gas-powered scissor lift if:

• Your jobsite includes rough terrain like gravel, dirt, or grass.
• You need more power and torque to handle sloped or uneven ground.
• You’re working in open outdoor areas where noise and exhaust aren’t an issue.

Pro Tip: Always check local regulations—some municipalities restrict the use of gas-powered lifts in populated or high-foot-traffic areas during business hours.

Evaluate Power Needs and Runtime

Summer workdays are long, and depending on your job’s schedule, you may need equipment that lasts all day without interruption. That’s where the power source becomes a critical factor. Benefits of electric scissor lifts:

• They are quieter and produce no emissions, making them great for extended use in populated spaces.
• They typically cost less to operate long-term since they don’t require fuel.
• Battery-powered models are ideal for jobs with predictable, moderate daily runtime.

Advantages of gas-powered scissor lifts:

• They can run all day with simple refueling—no waiting for a recharge.
• They’re better for high-demand, heavy-duty projects with multiple shifts.
• They typically offer higher weight capacity and stronger hydraulic power.

Pro Tip: If your job spans several days and you’re using an electric scissor lift, plan overnight charging or bring a backup battery station to avoid downtime.

Match the Lift to Your Project Type

Different summer projects call for different lift capabilities. Think about how much vertical reach you need, how mobile the lift needs to be, and how much weight you’ll be carrying. Best summer jobs for electric scissor lifts:

• Painting or cleaning commercial storefronts on paved walkways.
• Installing lights or signage on smooth parking lot surfaces.
• Maintaining HVAC systems or gutters on flat-roofed buildings.

Best summer jobs for gas-powered scissor lifts:

• Building decks, siding, or roofing in open construction zones.
• Tree trimming or signage installs in parks or large outdoor venues.
• Moving heavy tools and materials across rugged job sites.

Pro Tip: Don’t just match the lift to your current task—think ahead to future phases of the project that may require a different terrain or reach.

 need a scissor lift? contact discount lift rentals

Whether you’re working on a commercial build, retail refresh, or landscaping upgrade, choosing the right scissor lift—gas or electric—makes a huge difference in efficiency and safety. Each option has its strengths, and the best choice comes down to your specific environment and workload.

At Discount Lift Rentals, we have experts that will help you assess the job site and pick the perfect lift—fast, affordable, and hassle-free.