If you’re new to cutting hedges, it’s important that you learn how to use a hedge trimmer before getting down to the job. While they are relatively simple to use, they can also be dangerous if used incorrectly. Luckily, articles like this one exist to help give you some starting pointers so that you know what to keep in mind when it comes to using your new hedge trimmer. Videos can also be found on the internet that are bound to be helpful. When it comes to these tools, you can never be too informed! Some key pointers that this article will go through will be the setup process, some key safety points, what to keep in mind during trimming, and how to go about cleaning up.
Setting Up
When setting up your new hedge trimmer, the first thing you’ll want to do is make sure you have whatever power source available that the model requires. For a gas-powered hedge trimmer, this may be a mixture of gasoline and oil. Make sure to refer to information specific to your model when creating or using the mixture. If you have an electric hedge trimmer, make sure you either have access to an outlet readily available or an extension cord that is more than long enough to reach the area where you will be working. You’ll want to make sure there is a little bit of extra cord available so that you don’t have to worry about accidentally unplugging it as you work, or it becoming a hindrance. Finally, if you have a battery-powered hedge trimmer, make sure that the battery is fully charged before putting it in.
Safety
There are a few key pointers you’ll want to keep in mind when using your trimmer. These things will help you stay safe and comfortable as you work. First, make sure you have all the extra equipment you need for using the trimmer. This might include ear protection if you are using a gas-powered or one of the louder electric trimmers. Eye protection is also a good idea, just in case any pieces of wood or other debris manage to fly in your eyes as you work. Another good idea is to wear gloves; this isn’t as pressing of an issue as protecting your eyes and ears, but it can help to absorb some of the vibration coming from the trimmer.
Secondly, make sure to keep the blades of the trimmer pointed away from your body. These blades were made to cut, sometimes through very tough things, so it’s incredibly important to make sure the only thing in reach of the blades is whatever plant you are intending to trim. Also make sure to use two hands when holding the machine; that way you are always in full control of the direction it is going in.
Also, keep an eye on the weather as you work. This is especially important for electric and battery-powered trimmers. Using either type of trimmer in damp weather is not a good idea, as it can short out the device and potentially cause an electric shock. At best, this can leave the tool in a nonworking condition, at worst it has the potential to cause serious damage to the user.
During trimming
It’s always good to make sure you have a solid idea of the shape you are going for before you get started. Otherwise you can end up trimming some branches shorter than others, and winding up with an unevenly shaped bush or hedge. It’s important that you only trim what is easy for you to reach.
Using a ladder or other platform to stand on while you work can be dangerous. If you slip and lose your grip on the trimmer, it can cause some major problems. If you have tall hedges in your garden, a long reach hedge trimmer might be a good investment to make.
You’ll want to keep the blades at the front of the trimmer, pointed up. Move the trimmer carefully up and down, and side to side, making sure to keep a solid grip and cut everything evenly.
After trimming
Once you have finished your trimming, make sure to cut off the power supply by turning it off and unplugging it if necessary. Many models have a lock-off feature that keeps you from accidentally starting up the machine, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. Next, you should make sure to clean out and debris that might have lodged itself in the trimmer. The sooner you do this, the better. If the debris sits too long, it can become harder to get out.
Once that is completed, make sure to finish your job by tidying up the area. You can use a rake or blower to gather up all the leaves and branches that fell from your work space as you trimmed. This will keep your lawn looking clean.
Conclusion
In conclusion, safety is the most important thing to keep in mind while using a hedge trimmer. While it can make your job easier and faster, it can also lead to disaster if you don’t handle it properly. Firstly, make sure the power source you need for your trimmer is readily available. Whether it be a mixture of gasoline and oil, a plugin or extension cord, or a fully charged battery. Next, make sure your eyes, ears and hands are fully protected.
Make sure to keep the blade away from your body as you work. Hold it firmly by the handles with both hands. Finally, turn off the trimmer once you are finished and clean out any debris that it may have accumulated; that way you won’t have to worry about having to stop to clean it before the next use. Tidy up your lawn with a rake or blower for the finishing touches and leave everything looking great!
