If you’re looking for a handy tool to tackle those piles of branches, leaves, and yard debris, the Earthwise GS70015 Electric Garden Chipper Shredder with Collection Bin might just catch your eye. This electric chipper is designed for small to medium-sized yards, turning your garden waste into mulch or compost with ease. No fussing with gas or oil, just plug it in and get shredding! Based on what folks are saying on sites like Amazon, Home Depot, and even YouTube reviews, this machine has its fans, but there are a few quirks to keep in mind. In this laid-back review, I’ll walk you through what real buyers are saying, the pros and cons, some handy tips, a Q&A section, and the nitty-gritty specs—all without diving into pricing or star ratings (since Amazon’s got rules about that). My goal is to give you a full picture so you can decide if this chipper is the right fit for your yard. Let’s dive in.
What’s the Earthwise GS70015 All About?
The Earthwise GS70015 is a corded electric chipper shredder, meaning you plug it into an outlet, and it’s ready to go—no gas cans or battery charging needed. It’s built for homeowners who want a straightforward way to clean up their yard and turn clippings into something useful, like mulch for flower beds or material for your compost pile. With a 15-amp motor, it’s got enough juice to handle branches up to 1.75 inches in diameter, plus leaves, twigs, and other soft debris. The included collection bin makes cleanup a breeze, catching most of the shredded bits so you’re not left sweeping up a mess.
Buyers love how lightweight it is (around 31 pounds) and easy to move around, thanks to its wheels. It’s not a beast like those heavy-duty gas-powered models, so if you’ve got a small to medium yard, this could be a great match. But, like any tool, it’s got its strengths and limitations. Let’s break it down based on what users are saying.
Earthwise GS70015 15-Amp Garden Corded Electric Chipper, Collection Bin
Check latest price and reviews on AmazonTechnical Specs
Here’s the lowdown on the Earthwise GS70015’s specs, straight from the product details:
- Motor: 15-amp electric motor
- Max Cutting Diameter: 1.75 inches (for branches)
- Cutting Blades: Two reversible steel blades
- Collection Bin: 1.2-bushel capacity (detachable)
- Weight: Approximately 31 pounds
- Dimensions: 24.4 x 19.8 x 42.1 inches
- Power Source: Corded electric (requires standard 120V outlet)
- Wheels: 7-inch wheels for easy mobility
- Safety Features: Overload protection, safety lock on the hopper
- Warranty: Typically comes with a 2-year limited warranty (check with the seller for specifics)
What People Love About It (The Pros)
- Super Easy to Use Plug it in, flip the switch, and you’re good to go. Many users say the setup is a no-brainer—assemble it in about 15-20 minutes, and you’re ready to shred. The push-button start is a big hit for folks who don’t want to mess with pull cords or fuel mixtures. One reviewer on Amazon mentioned, “I had it up and running in no time, and it chewed through my pile of branches like a champ.”
- Lightweight and Portable At just 31 pounds, this chipper is easy to wheel around your yard. People with smaller properties or those who don’t want to lug around a heavy machine appreciate this. A user on a gardening forum noted, “I can move it from my backyard to the front without breaking a sweat, which is perfect for me.”
- Great for Small to Medium Jobs If your yard produces branches up to 1.75 inches thick or you’ve got piles of leaves, this machine handles them well. Users say it’s ideal for pruning leftovers, small twigs, and even hedge trimmings. One YouTube reviewer showed it shredding a mix of green and dry branches, turning them into fine mulch in minutes.
- Collection Bin is a Game-Changer The included 1.2-bushel collection bin catches most of the shredded material, which means less cleanup afterward. Buyers love that it hooks right onto the machine, saving them from raking up debris. One user shared, “The bin catches about 80% of the output, so I’m not chasing bits all over my lawn.”
- Eco-Friendly and Low Maintenance Since it’s electric, there’s no gas or oil to deal with, which means no fumes and less upkeep. Users who prefer greener tools appreciate this, with one saying, “I love that it’s quiet and doesn’t stink up my garage like a gas model would.”
What’s Not So Great (The Cons)
- Not Built for Big Branches The 1.75-inch max diameter is a hard limit. If you try to feed in thicker branches, the machine can jam or struggle. Several users mentioned this, with one saying, “I tried a 2-inch branch, and it just stalled out. Stick to smaller stuff, or you’ll be frustrated.” If you’ve got a lot of hefty limbs, you might need a beefier chipper.
- Corded Design Limits Range Since it’s not cordless, you’ll need an extension cord for larger yards. Some users found this annoying, especially if their outlet is far from their work area. One reviewer advised, “Get a heavy-duty, 100-foot extension cord, or you’ll be stuck working in a small radius.”
- Can Jam with Wet or Green Material While it handles dry branches and leaves like a pro, wet or freshly cut material can clog the blades. A few users reported having to stop and clear jams when shredding green twigs or soggy leaves. One said, “It’s best to let your branches dry out a bit before feeding them in.”
- Collection Bin Could Be Bigger The 1.2-bushel bin is handy, but it fills up fast, especially with leafy material. Some users wished it was larger, with one noting, “I had to empty it every 10 minutes when shredding a big pile of leaves.” Be ready to pause and empty it frequently for bigger jobs.
- Not the Quietest Machine While it’s quieter than gas models, it’s still a chipper, so expect some noise. A few users mentioned it’s loud enough to need ear protection, especially during long sessions. “It’s not a dealbreaker, but don’t expect a whisper-quiet machine,” one buyer said.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Earthwise GS70015
To make sure you’re getting the best performance from this chipper, here are some tips based on user experiences:
- Stick to the Right Size Material: Keep branches under 1.75 inches in diameter to avoid jams. If you’re unsure, use a pruning saw to cut thicker branches down to size before feeding them in.
- Let Wet Material Dry Out: If you’ve got freshly cut branches or damp leaves, let them sit for a day or two. Dry material shreds more smoothly and reduces clogs.
- Use a Heavy-Duty Extension Cord: For corded machines like this, a 12- or 14-gauge extension cord (50-100 feet) is your best bet to avoid power drops. Make sure it’s rated for outdoor use.
- Feed Material Gradually: Don’t shove a huge bundle of branches or leaves in at once. Feed them slowly to keep the motor happy and prevent jams.
- Clean the Blades Regularly: After each use, check the blades for debris buildup. A quick wipe-down keeps the machine running smoothly. Some users suggest using a wire brush for stuck-on sap.
- Empty the Bin Often: The collection bin fills up fast with leafy stuff, so check it frequently to avoid overflow and mess.
- Wear Safety Gear: Safety glasses, gloves, and ear protection are a must. Flying chips and noise can be a hassle, so gear up.
Common Questions Buyers Ask (Q&A)
Based on what people are asking online, here are some common questions about the Earthwise GS70015, with answers drawn from user feedback and product details:
Q: Can it handle pine needles or palm fronds? A: Yes, it can handle pine needles and palm fronds, but you’ll want to feed them in small batches to avoid clogging. Users say dry pine needles work better than wet ones, and palm fronds should be cut into smaller pieces first.
Q: How fine is the mulch it produces? A: The mulch is fairly fine, great for compost or as a top layer for flower beds. However, it’s not super uniform—expect a mix of small chips and finer bits, depending on the material.
Q: Is it hard to assemble? A: Not at all! Most users say assembly takes 15-20 minutes with basic tools (usually just a screwdriver and wrench). The instructions are clear, but a few folks mentioned double-checking that all bolts are tight before use.
Q: Can I use it without the collection bin? A: Yep, you can remove the bin and let the shredded material fall to the ground or into a tarp. Just be ready for more cleanup if you go this route.
Q: How durable is it for frequent use? A: For occasional use (a few times a month), users report it holds up well. For heavy, frequent jobs, some say the motor can overheat if you push it too hard. Let it cool down every 20-30 minutes for bigger projects.
Q: Does it come with replacement blades? A: No, it doesn’t include spare blades, but replacements are available online. Some users recommend keeping an extra set on hand for when the originals dull.
Who’s This Chipper For?
The Earthwise GS70015 is a solid pick for homeowners with small to medium yards who want a low-maintenance, eco-friendly way to handle garden waste. It’s perfect for pruning cleanup, shredding leaves for compost, or making mulch for your garden beds. If you’ve got a big property with lots of thick branches or you need something for commercial use, you might want to look at a heavier-duty model. But for the average gardener looking to keep things tidy without breaking the bank or dealing with gas-powered hassles, this chipper gets the job done.
Earthwise GS70015 15-Amp Garden Corded Electric Chipper, Collection Bin
Check latest price and reviews on AmazonFinal Thoughts
The Earthwise GS70015 Electric Garden Chipper Shredder with Collection Bin is a reliable, user-friendly tool that’s won over plenty of homeowners for its simplicity and effectiveness. It’s lightweight, easy to set up, and does a great job on small to medium yard debris. That said, it’s not perfect—stick to smaller branches, be ready to manage the cord, and don’t expect it to power through wet material like a pro. With the right approach (and a good extension cord), it can be a trusty sidekick for your gardening adventures. If you’re curious to see it in action, check out some user videos on YouTube or head to the product page on Amazon to read more reviews from folks who’ve put it to the test.
Got a pile of yard waste waiting? This chipper might just be your new best friend. Happy shredding!
More Gardening Tools at TWC Gardening
Looking for another great chipper? Check out our review of the LawnMaster FD1503 Electric Chipper Shredder for a powerful option with a 14:1 reduction ratio to tackle your yard waste.
