The Best Log Splitters for Home Use: Top Picks and Buying Tips

Why Choosing the Right Log Splitter Matters at Home

Owning the right log splitter can save your back, your time, and a whole lot of frustration. Whether you're prepping for firewood season or just want to split a few rounds for the backyard pit, using the wrong machine slows you down-or worse, doesn't split at all.

Some folks buy based on "higher tonnage" alone. But that's not the full story. You need to match the machine to the job, the type of wood, and your yard setup. That's where most people go wrong.

Let's break down the real-world factors that matter before you pick a splitter.

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Common Firewood Challenges for Homeowners

Splitting logs manually might feel rewarding-until you're knee-deep in twisted oak or frozen maple. Here's what most homeowners face:

• Dense hardwoods like oak that dull axes and resist splitting wedges.
• Inconsistent log sizes that make it hard to split efficiently.
• Time-consuming manual labor when you're doing more than a few rounds.
• Back strain and fatigue from lifting and swinging.
• Wet or knotted logs that stall under low-grade electric models.

And the real kicker? Most of this can be avoided with the right splitter.

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Electric vs Gas Log Splitters: What You Need to Know

Should you go electric or gas? It depends on your property size, volume of wood, and noise tolerance.

🔌 Electric Log Splitters

• Plug-and-play simplicity for personal use.
• Ideal for suburban areas-quiet operation, no fumes.
• Lower splitting force (4-7 tons), best for logs under 10" in diameter.
• Low maintenance, no fuel tank, no engine oil.
• Require a power outlet, so yard access matters.

⛽ Gas Powered Log Splitters

• More powerful (16-25+ tons) with faster cycle time.
• Handles hardwoods and large diameter logs like a champ.
• Portable across acreage-no cords, no limits.
• Louder and heavier, often requiring log lift or tow setup.
• Needs regular checks: engine oil, fuel, and hoses.

💡 Most people splitting logs regularly in rural areas lean gas. But for light tasks near the house? An electric wood splitter makes sense.

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Key Factors to Consider Before Buying

Here's how to make sure your next unit doesn't end up collecting dust.

✅ Splitting Force

• 4-7 tons: Light-duty, electric for smaller logs.
• 16+ tons: Gas-powered beasts, good for firewood processor setups.
• Go higher only if you split tough hardwoods like oak or maple regularly.

✅ Log Capacity

• Check both length and diameter.
• 20.5" x 10" is standard for most residential splitters.
• Some can take 24"+ logs-but that comes with more cost and size.

✅ Cycle Time

• Faster cycle time = less waiting between splits.
• Electric units average 15-20 seconds.
• Gas models can hit 6-9 seconds with dual-action cylinders.

✅ Portability

• Look for wheels, tow hitches, and foldable stands.
• If you're moving across a big yard or multiple sites, don't skip this.

✅ Safety

• Two-hand operation is essential.
• Look for auto-return features and sturdy locking mechanisms.

✅ Warranty

• Don't overlook it.
• A solid 2-year warranty like what Boss Industrial offers adds peace of mind.
• Especially with more expensive units, you want support that lasts.

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Coming up next: The best log splitters for home use, broken down by category-from budget-friendly electric models to heavy-duty gas splitters with serious muscle.

Best Log Splitters for Home Use by Category

Not every homeowner needs the same kind of power or features when it comes to splitting logs. Some just want a compact electric log splitter for weekend firewood. Others need a gas powered log splitter that can tear through twisted oak every fall.

So instead of giving you one vague "best log splitter," we've broken it down into clear categories based on real-life use cases. Each one includes the best unit for the job - whether you're in the suburbs or managing five wooded acres.

Let's start with the most balanced option for most homeowners.

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Best Overall Log Splitter for Homeowners

🏆 Boss Industrial ES7T20 Electric Log Splitter

If you want one splitter that works for 90% of homeowner needs - this is it. The Boss Industrial ES7T20 strikes the perfect balance of splitting force, portability, and durability.

It delivers 7 tons of splitting force, easily handling logs up to 20.5 inches long and 10 inches in diameter. It's electric, so there's no engine oil, no gas, no fumes. Just plug it in and go.

Why We Love It

• Designed for residential firewood splitting - it's powerful, compact, and quiet.
• One-handed operation speeds up the job, which most electric splitters don't offer.
• Solid steel frame and full-beam build feel sturdy, not flimsy.
• Automatic ram return cuts cycle time and boosts efficiency.
• Great support, with a 2-year warranty covering both parts and labor.

🔧 Key Features

• 7-ton splitting force with a reliable electric motor
• Splits logs up to 20.5" long, 10" diameter
• 9-second forward stroke, 6-second return cycle time
• Weighs 128 lbs with built-in wheels for easy movement
• Comes fully assembled, so you can start splitting in minutes

👤 Who It's For

• Homeowners who split firewood regularly but don't need commercial firewood processors
• Suburban families who want quiet, electric power without fumes or noise complaints
• Anyone who values a good deal with long-term reliability

This model checks all the boxes - enough power for serious jobs, electric convenience, and built to last. It's the kind of unit most people should buy first, because it works for almost everything.

🪵 Ready to split smarter? This is your best bet.

Best Budget Electric Log Splitter

🏆 SuperHandy GUO035 6-Ton Electric Log Splitter

If you're just getting started or only splitting logs a few times per season, you don't need the most expensive unit out there. What you need is something affordable, reliable, and capable of handling the job without a fuss.

That's exactly what the SuperHandy GUO035 delivers - a no-frills electric log splitter that punches above its price.

With 6 tons of splitting force, it'll handle most softwoods and even some seasoned oak, as long as you keep the log diameter under 10 inches. For residential use, this splitter makes sense - it's small, quiet, clean, and gets the job done.

Why We Love It

• One of the best log splitters under $400 that doesn't feel like a toy.
• Compact, lightweight frame makes it easy to move and store.
• Perfect for first-time buyers, suburban homes, or weekend firewood prep.
• Very low maintenance - no gas, no fuel tank, no oil changes.
• Quiet enough to run without disturbing the neighbors.

🔧 5 Key Features

• 6-ton splitting force powered by a durable 15A electric motor
• Splits logs up to 20 inches long, 10 inches in diameter
• Lightweight design (~100 lbs) with transport wheels and handle
• Low cycle time ideal for small-to-medium splitting jobs
• Plug-and-play setup - no assembly required

👤 Who It's For

• Budget-conscious homeowners who want a dependable splitter for light jobs
• People living in tight spaces (small yards, sheds, or garages)
• Anyone new to log splitting who wants something easy to use and store

💡 Pro Tip: If you're splitting mostly pine, fir, poplar, or dry wood under 10", this unit is more than enough. Save your money - no need to jump straight to a gas powered log splitter unless you're doing heavy firewood prep every weekend.

This splitter won't replace a firewood processor, but it's not trying to. It's built for personal use, seasonal prep, and weekend work - and in that category, it's one of the best deals you can find.

🪓 Bottom line: if you want to split wood without spending a fortune, this is your go-to tool.

Best Gas-Powered Log Splitter for Large Logs

🏆 SuperHandy GUO040 20-Ton Gas Log Splitter

When you're splitting large logs, especially hardwood like oak or hickory, smaller electric splitters just won't cut it. That's where a gas powered log splitter like the SuperHandy GUO040 comes in.

With a powerful 20-ton splitting force, this unit is built for real work - the kind that fills your firewood rack for the entire winter. Whether you're prepping wood for your stove, bonfire pit, or heating an off-grid cabin, this wood splitter gives you the muscle you need.

It's not just about force - it's about consistency. A gas engine gives you full independence from electrical outlets, making this the ideal tool for rural properties, acreage, or anyone who wants to split logs wherever the pile is.

Why We Love It

• One of the best splitters for handling logs up to 24 inches without bogging down.
• Strong, reliable engine built for heavy-duty use.
• Towable design - bring the unit to the logs, not the other way around.
• Faster cycle time than most electric models in this tonnage range.
• Built for repeated use, not just one weekend a year.

🔧 5 Key Features

• 20-ton hydraulic system with serious log cracking power
• Handles logs up to 24 inches long, 16+ inches in diameter
• Gas engine (7HP, 209cc) with robust steel frame construction
• Heavy-duty tow bar and wheels for easy mobility
• Efficient cycle time to keep the job moving

👤 Who It's For

• Homeowners on rural land who need independence from power cords
• People splitting greenwood, large-diameter hardwood, or big firewood piles
• Anyone prepping several cords of wood before winter sets in
• DIYers who want the ability to split on-site, fast and efficiently

💡 Pro Tip: Pair this gas powered log splitter with a small log lift table or sawhorse to reduce strain when loading heavy pieces of wood. It'll speed up your workflow and protect your back.

🧠 Also keep in mind:

• Always check your engine oil before use.
• Store with treated fuel or drain the fuel tank during off-season.
• Keep hoses and hydraulic cylinder clean and free from sap or bark debris.

This unit might be more expensive than smaller models, but when you factor in the time saved, the power, and the log size it can handle - it's a good deal for anyone doing real work.

And unlike some expensive units sold by big box stores, this one sells directly from Pro Tree Supplies, which means better support and better value.

Best Log Splitter for Small Yards & Tight Spaces

🏆 WEN 56207 6.5-Ton Electric Log Splitter

If you're working in a suburban backyard, a tight garden space, or even a garage or shed, you don't need a massive gas-powered beast. You need something compact, quiet, and efficient - and that's where the WEN 56207 electric log splitter shines.

This 6.5-ton electric log splitter hits the sweet spot: powerful enough to split tough logs up to 10 inches in diameter, but small enough to store upright, roll out with one hand, and operate without fumes or noise complaints.

It even comes with a removable stand, lifting it to waist height - saving your back while keeping the splitter stable and comfortable to use.

Why We Love It

• Compact but capable - ideal for most backyard splitting needs
• Plug-and-play design: just roll it out, plug it in, and start splitting
• Quiet operation, great for neighborhoods and tight spaces
• Minimal maintenance: no fuel, no carburetor, no fumes
• Comes with a stand, so you're not constantly bending to split wood

🔧 5 Key Features

• 6.5 tons of splitting force, perfect for logs under 10" diameter
• Handles logs up to 20.5 inches long
• Removable ergonomic stand for elevated splitting
• Never-flat wheels and carry handle for easy maneuvering
• Uses standard 15A household outlet - no special circuit needed

👤 Who It's For

• Suburban homeowners with limited outdoor storage
• Anyone splitting logs near the house, shed, or driveway
• First-time splitter buyers looking for a low-maintenance unit
• Seniors or users who want a lightweight, user-friendly machine

💡 Pro Tip: Always position this electric log splitter on flat ground and close to a power outlet. Use a heavy-duty extension cord rated for outdoor use to avoid voltage drops that can damage the motor.

Also worth noting:

• It's great for softwood and seasoned hardwood like oak, but may struggle with green, knotted logs over 10".
• The cycle time is about 20 seconds - not the fastest, but perfect for occasional use.
• Keep the splitting wedge clean and greased - it makes a big difference in performance.

🧠 This unit is a solid choice if you're limited on space but still want to tackle your own firewood needs. It deserves a place on this list because most people in small residential settings don't need more than this - and it just works.

It may not be the best for volume, but for tight areas and occasional wood splitting, the WEN 56207 offers unbeatable practicality, comfort, and quiet power in a clean electric package.

Best Portable Log Splitter for On-the-Go Use

🏆 Boss Industrial GD16T21 16-Ton Gas Log Splitter

When your logs are scattered across acres - not stacked neatly in your driveway - you need a splitter that moves with you. The Boss Industrial GD16T21 is built for just that. It's a gas powered log splitter that combines serious power (16 tons) with a rugged, towable design and dual-action splitting - making it a workhorse for landowners, homesteaders, or anyone who needs to split wood far from an outlet.

This isn't just a log splitter - it's a mobile firewood processor. The dual-direction cylinder cuts the cycle time in half by splitting in both directions, meaning you can split more logs in less time - without repositioning the ram every stroke.

Why We Love It

• Towable with off-road wheels for field access, even over uneven terrain
• Dual-action hydraulic cylinder splits both ways - huge time-saver
• 16 tons of splitting force crushes most hardwoods, including oak and maple
• Kohler engine offers reliable starts and strong power delivery
• Perfect for rural properties or multiple log piles across large spaces

🔧 5 Key Features

• 16-ton splitting force ideal for tough or knotty logs
• Dual-direction splitting cuts cycle time nearly in half
• 6.5 HP Kohler 196cc engine - dependable and powerful
• Towable frame with a hitch pin and 16" off-road wheels
• 3-position control lever for forward, reverse, and neutral with ease

👤 Who It's For

• Landowners and rural homeowners who split wood in multiple locations
• Anyone prepping firewood seasonally across wide properties
• Users looking for a splitter that travels to the job, not the other way around
• Those tired of dragging logs to a fixed machine - this follows you

💡 Pro Tips:

• Keep the fuel tank full before heading to the field - no cords, no limits.
• Always check the engine oil before starting - critical for long engine life.
• For safety and performance, place it on level ground before use.
• Attach it to an ATV, garden tractor, or trailer hitch to move between job sites with ease.

🧠 One big reason this is the best portable splitter is its split-in-both-directions system. Most splitters only push forward - then waste time resetting. This model saves minutes per cord, and over time, that adds up to hours.

It's also a great option for commercial firewood producers working light-duty or mobile jobs. The splitter's frame is tough, the engine is Kohler reliable, and the welded beam means years of use without warping.

If you want a go-anywhere wood splitter that's fast, strong, and smartly designed for real-world use - this is it.

Best Entry-Level Log Splitter for First-Time Buyers

🏆 Southland SELS60 6-Ton Electric Log Splitter

If you're just getting started with firewood or tired of swinging an axe on cold weekends, the Southland SELS60 electric log splitter is your ideal first machine. It's designed for ease of use, safety, and efficiency - without overwhelming you with controls, maintenance, or unnecessary bulk.

This is the kind of entry-level splitter that helps homeowners split smarter - not harder - without breaking the bank.

With 6 tons of splitting force, this electric log splitter handles most softwoods and seasoned hardwood logs up to 10" in diameter and 20.5" long - plenty for occasional firewood prep or backyard use.

Why We Love It

• Easy to use, even for beginners - intuitive controls and minimal setup
• Compact and lightweight, perfect for garage or shed storage
• Includes a stroke limiter - speeds up cycles for shorter logs
• Designed with safety in mind: two-hand operation and automatic reset
• Solid power for the price - a good deal for residential use

🔧 5 Key Features

• 6-ton hydraulic splitting force handles standard firewood sizes
• Accepts logs up to 20.5 inches long and 10 inches in diameter
• Stroke limiter reduces return time on smaller logs
• Resettable circuit breaker protects against electrical overload
• Built-in wheels and handle for simple transport

👤 Who It's For

• First-time buyers who want a no-nonsense electric log splitter
• Homeowners with modest splitting needs - fire pits, fireplaces, wood stoves
• Anyone looking for an affordable, reliable splitter under $400
• Urban/suburban users with limited space and access to electricity

💡 Pro Tips:

• For smaller logs (under 15"), use the stroke limiter to speed up each cycle time.
• Always place your logs flat-end down - this splitter prefers clean cuts, not twisted grain.
• Store it in a dry area - moisture and electric components don't mix well.
• Use a heavy-duty extension cord to maintain consistent power from your outlet.

🧠 The Southland SELS60 is perfect if you're tired of renting or relying on neighbors. It turns log splitting into a simple backyard task - not a weekend chore. The two-hand safety control ensures you're never reaching near the splitting wedge, while the portable frame makes it easy to tuck into a garage or shed.

And while it's not built for commercial firewood producers, it's more than enough for someone who burns through a few cords of wood each season.

For your first log splitter, this model just makes sense. It's easy, affordable, safe - and gets the job done without overkill.

Best Heavy-Duty Splitter for Firewood Season Prep

🏆 Boss Industrial GD20T24 Gas Log Splitter (20-Ton)

If you're gearing up to split cords of firewood for the winter or prepping a large property, the Boss Industrial GD20T24 is the kind of heavy-duty gas-powered log splitter that gets the job done - fast, reliably, and without drama.

This 20-ton beast is built for serious wood splitting. Whether you're working with oak, hickory, or other tough hardwoods, this machine cuts through them like butter thanks to its dual-action hydraulic system and Kohler 6.5 HP engine.

When you're processing loads of large logs - day after day - this is the wood splitter that delivers the power, speed, and durability to keep up. It's not overkill. It's just what you need when splitting is no longer a weekend chore but part of your seasonal routine.

Why We Love It

• Dual-direction splitting cuts cycle time in half - splits in both directions
• A true commercial-grade machine built for long-term use
• Towable frame for moving around large properties
• Powered by a reliable Kohler engine, ideal for rugged jobs
• Handles logs up to 24 inches long - no need to cut everything down to size

🔧 5 Key Features

• 20-ton splitting force handles thick hardwood logs without stalling
• Fast cycle time: ~6 seconds forward, 6 seconds return - no downtime
• Towable design with large off-road wheels for easy movement
• Full-beam frame construction ensures long-term structural durability
• One-hand operation + 3-position control = faster, easier log handling

👤 Who It's For

• Homeowners heating with firewood all winter - this splitter keeps up with high demand
• Rural property owners dealing with large-diameter or knotty logs
• Anyone splitting several cords of wood per season - this machine pays off over time
• DIYers who want commercial-level performance without the expensive unit price tag

💡 Expert Tips:

• Use it in horizontal mode for faster cycles, or flip to vertical when logs are too heavy to lift.
• Keep the hydraulic fluid topped off and check the hoses for leaks every 10 hours of use.
• This unit pairs well with a log lift if you're handling big rounds - saves your back.
• Use high-quality fuel and engine oil to extend the life of the Kohler engine.

🧠 This is the best log splitter when "enough" isn't good enough. It's made for volume. You're not just splitting a piece of wood here and there - you're processing real firewood loads that'll keep your home warm through winter.

And that's where the GD20T24 really shines: its power-to-effort ratio. With its dual-action wedge and short cycle time, it doesn't just split wood - it crushes your to-do list.

If you're tired of slow, underpowered machines or pushing a basic electric log splitter to the edge, this gas powered log splitter is your upgrade. It'll cost more up front, but if you split regularly, it's a good deal long term.

This is the wood splitter for people who don't just want to get through firewood season - they want to own it.

Side-by-Side Comparison of Top Picks

When you're staring at a half-cord of oak and wondering which log splitter will save your back - this section has your answer. We've lined up the best log splitters for home use, side by side, so you can compare key specs and choose the right machine without second-guessing.

Quick Table: Specs, Force, Log Size, Power Type, Portability

🛠 Pro Tip: Don't just compare splitting force. Look at cycle time, log size, and whether it can be moved easily across your yard or property. The best log splitter is the one that fits your actual job - not just the specs.

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What Splitting Force Do You Actually Need?

Not sure if you need 7 tons or 20 tons? Here's a quick guide based on log diameter, wood type, and usage:

Light Duty (4-7 tons)

• For softwood (like pine or fir) under 10" in diameter
• Perfect for electric log splitters in small yards or suburban use
• Works best for seasonal splitting, 1-2 cords per year

Medium Duty (10-16 tons)

• Handles most hardwood logs (like ash or maple) up to 16"
• A solid fit for rural properties, medium usage, and tougher logs
• Choose gas or dual-action splitters for faster cycle time

Heavy Duty (20+ tons)

• For dense hardwoods (like oak) and large-diameter logs
• Built for firewood processor workloads or heavy seasonal prep
• Great for those splitting more than 3 cords per year

💡 If your logs are knotted, wet, or frozen - always go for higher tonnage. Tough wood needs serious splitting force to get clean breaks without bending or jamming the splitting wedge.

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When to Go Electric and When to Choose Gas

You'll see this debate everywhere. So let's break it down clearly:

✅ Choose an Electric Log Splitter When…

• You split 1-2 cords a year, mostly under 10" in diameter
• You want a quiet, low-maintenance unit for your backyard
• You have access to electricity and don't need to move it far
• You're looking for something affordable and lightweight

Great options:

• Boss ES7T20
• Southland SELS60
• WEN 56207

✅ Choose a Gas Powered Log Splitter When…

• You need to split larger logs or hardwoods like oak, hickory, or elm
• You work on remote land with no electrical hookup
• You split 3+ cords per year or prep wood for winter
• You want faster cycle times, stronger force, and versatility

Great options:

• Boss GD16T21
• SuperHandy GUO040
• Boss GD20T24

🎯 Bottom Line? Electric splitters are perfect for small jobs and quiet neighborhoods. Gas models bring more power, speed, and mobility - but require more maintenance and storage care.

Buying Tips: How to Choose the Right Log Splitter

You don't need the biggest, most expensive unit on the market. What you need is the right tool for your job. Whether you're splitting oak in the woods or prepping a half-cord on your patio, this section gives you clear, expert guidance to avoid overbuying-or underestimating what it takes.

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Match the Tool to Your Logs and Use Case

Before buying a log splitter, ask yourself a few key questions:

1. What type of wood do you split?

• Softwoods like pine or fir? → A 6-7 ton electric log splitter is usually plenty.
• Dense hardwoods like oak, hickory, or elm? → You'll want a 16-20+ ton gas powered log splitter.

2. How big are the logs?

• Under 10" in diameter? → Most electric splitters work fine.
• Over 12-16"? → You'll need more splitting force, typically gas-powered.

3. How often do you split wood?

• 1-2 times per year? → Choose a reliable electric splitter for personal use.
• Weekly or year-round? → A higher tonnage gas model or even kinetic splitters make more sense.

4. Where will you be splitting?

• Near a garage or outlet? → An electric log splitter keeps things quiet and clean.
• Off-grid or across acreage? → You'll need a towable gas unit with a sturdy frame and log lift.

5. Do you split wood alone?

• Consider auto-return cylinders, easy controls, and one-hand operation to cut down effort and strain.

💡 Don't just buy a unit based on force or price. Think about your logs, lifestyle, and layout. The best log splitter is the one that fits your situation - not the one with the biggest number on the box.

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Safety Features to Prioritize

Splitting logs may seem simple, but a poor design can turn a chore into a bad thing. Look for these must-have safety features before buying:

• Two-hand operation: Prevents accidents by requiring both hands to activate the ram.
• Automatic return: Keeps your hands away from the log during reset.
• Sturdy frame construction: A welded steel frame reduces vibration and prevents wobble.
• Clear control handle: Ideally with a locking mechanism to prevent accidental operation.
• Proper wedge design: A high-quality splitting wedge (ideally iron or hardened steel) ensures clean, consistent cuts and reduces bounce-back.

Bonus: Always wear gloves, safety glasses, and steel-toe boots - even with the safest splitters.

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Portability and Storage Tips

Your log splitter is only helpful if you can actually use it where the logs are. Here's how to think through portability:

• Need to move it across the yard? → Choose a unit with never-flat wheels, a pull handle, or a built-in lift system.
• Splitting logs in multiple locations? → A towable gas powered log splitter with a trailer hitch and large wheels is your best bet.
• Limited on space? → Go for compact electric models with vertical storage capabilities or folding stands.
• Need to store it through winter? → Drain engine oil and fuel tank, clean the hoses, and cover the unit with a tarp in a dry shed or garage.

Tip: Store splitters vertically (if possible) to reduce your footprint and protect the hydraulic cylinder.

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Warranty and Support Matter More Than You Think

This is where most people cut corners-and regret it later.

Even the best wood splitters take a beating over time. You'll want a manufacturer that backs their gear. Here's what to look for:

• ✅ 2-Year residential warranty minimum
• ✅ Coverage on engine, hydraulic system, and frame
• ✅ Access to real support (email, phone, or live chat)
• ✅ Parts availability - especially for wedges, hoses, and cylinder seals
• ✅ Optional add-ons like extended protection (if you split often)

📞 Brands like Boss Industrial and SuperHandy offer strong warranties and support. Some tractor supply retailers also offer local service if your unit ever needs attention.

💬 Pro Tip: Don't fall for a "good deal" on an off-brand with no support. Saving $100 today might cost you your entire splitter next season.