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Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/43789
McCoy's has provided new propane-fueled mowers to Clean Scapes, and also converted conventionally fueled models for propane use. McCoy's also offers a propane cylinder exchange program for its customers through a partnership with propane provider Ferrellgas. Clean Scapes President Ivan Giraldo and McCoy's Lawn Equipment SuperStore President Jay Godfrey recently shared their perspectives on how propane-fueled mowers have positively af- fected their respective businesses and working relationship. Ivan Giraldo, president, Clean Scapes, Austin, Texas Q: What should lawn and landscape contractors consider when transitioning to a propane-fueled mower fleet? A:You have to think of the financial impact. When we first started talking with McCoy's Lawn Equipment SuperStore about the advantages of propane-fueled mowers, we asked a lot of ques- tions about cost efficiencies. We were able to pay for conversion of some mowers with available rebates from the Texas Propane Gas Association. Another consideration was that converting to propane-fueled mowers was a good thing for the environment. Q: How does a lawn and landscape contractor select a propane provider? A:We were very fortunate that we had a representative from Encore Propane come to our headquarters to discuss what we were doing, and it was simple to set up a credit account and a propane cylinder exchange program. He is very familiar with our needs, and all it takes is an e-mail or phone call. For instance, if we set up a new work site where we have on-site crews, we'll tell him, "We need a 12-rack or 24-rack of propane cylinders at this location," and within a few days, we're ready to go. Q: What recommendations do you have regarding working with an equipment dealer to acquire and service propane-fueled equipment? A: When we decided to convert our mowers from gasoline to propane, McCoy's Lawn Equipment SuperStore told us it was able to do that, and introduced us to available rebates from the Texas Propane Gas Association. When we needed new mowers, we bought new models already running on propane. McCoy's has worked with us on warranties, conversions and maintenance. Re- garding warranties and maintenance, McCoy's works directly with our head mechanic because the company knows and trusts him. Q: How did you approach safety and training for your crews that would be operating and refueling the new propane-fueled mowers? Clean Scapes has a propane cylinder exchange program for its propane-fueled mowers through Encore Propane that delivers 36 to 42 cylinders to the company per week. Photo courtesy of Clean Scapes A:When we purchased our propane-fueled mowers, we ex- plained to the crews and crew leaders how they needed to safely handle the cylinders and transport them. Each cylinder is in its own rack when not in use. We make sure they are familiar with each mower, including how to get them running and refueled. Q: Has your business realized cost savings since adopting its propane-fueled mowers? A:Yes. We're paying half of what we would be paying for gasoline, but using propane also reduces our mower maintenance costs because we can go longer without changing our oil. We're very fortunate in that we have veteran crews, and the first thing they do is check that oil. Warranty specifications from Exmark and Scag Power Equipment are very detailed, and we follow them. Q: What advice would you give to a contractor considering adopting propane-fueled commercial mowers? A: There are so many factors to consider. Are your crews going to be able to embrace this new form of fuel, and can they sustain its use if your company is going to expand? We've been very for- tunate; we've expanded every year with mowers, vehicles and per- sonnel. For us, propane-fueled mowers were an excellent choice. As we've grown, it has allowed us to gain larger market share, be- cause we're using this green technology. When we needed new mowers, we bought new models already running on propane. McCoy's has worked with us on warranties, conversions and maintenance. — Ivan Giraldo, Clean Scapes www.landscapeirrigation.com Landscape and Irrigation 13