How to Maintain Your Hedge Trimmer?

If you want your tools to last, you need to maintain them. This means regular maintenance, cleaning, repairs, and proper storage.

This is no exception when it comes to your hedge trimmer. Hedge trimmer spare parts such as blades, motors, air filters, and handles all require regular attention. Let's take a look at seven super easy ways you can maintain the performance and reliability of your hedge trimmer for years to come.

Why? – Every time your hedge trimmer trims leaves and twigs, tiny amounts of sap start to build up on the blades. Over time, this can cause the blades to tangle up, reducing cutting efficiency. Dirty blades not only reduce cutting performance, but the increased friction can cause the motor to start overheating.

How? - Cleaning the hedge trimmer blades is as simple as wiping with soapy water and a cloth after each use. It is also recommended to apply lubricant to the blade after cleaning it. Try not to leave it on for too long between cleanings, ideally after each use. Finally, make sure the blade is completely dry before storing the tool.

Why? - For your gasoline hedge trimmer motor to work properly, it needs a constant flow of clean, cool air. When you use your hedge trimmer, debris and dust particles start to build up in the filter and reduce airflow, resulting in underpowered, poor performance, and overheating of the engine.

How? - Typically, the air filter is released with a snap or button. See your owner's manual for more instructions. After removing the filter, blow lightly through it and tap it on a firm surface. If it is dirty, it is best to replace it with a new one. Unless your owner's manual specifically says so, never wash or submerge the filter, as this can cause the fibers to swell, making it more difficult for air to pass through.

Why? - As with any cutting tool, each time your blades start working on the leaves, they will gradually dull over time. A sharp blade equals a sharp cut, just what you'd expect from a hedge trimmer.

How? - Sharpening your hedge trimmer blades can be the most time-consuming part of maintenance. But this doesn't have to be a difficult task, a drill with a small tapered file will do. If you don't have a drill handy, a flat file will work too. Sharpen the blade every 50 cumulative hours of use and lightly so as not to wear too much metal. If you're not confident with this step, take it to your local service center.

Why? - Loose parts can easily come off, get lost or damage the rest of the tool. This can be especially intimidating if you're not sure what you've fallen and whether continuing to trim the hedge poses a danger. Vibration from hedge trimmers can cause screws, bolts and connectors to loosen over time. These are great examples of why all tools require regular maintenance.

How? - Inspect your hedge trimmer thoroughly. Using a suitable screwdriver and wrench, tighten all visible parts and fasteners firmly but lightly. However, do not overtighten them, as this may damage the threads and surrounding components. Always check your owner's manual before unscrewing anything, and don't swap one size screw for another.

Why? - The more you use your hedge trimmer, the more moisture and contaminants your blades will be exposed to. It's amazing how quickly erosion can happen, and good lubrication each month will help provide a protective barrier. Lubrication also helps the blades slide smoothly over each other, reducing friction and increasing cutting force.

How? - Of all the maintenance tasks to be performed, this is the easiest. It is best to lubricate the blade after it has been thoroughly wiped and dried. A little goes a long way, so don't overdo it.

Why? - If your hedge trimmer is not kept clean, the buttons, springs, switches, screws and adjusters can all suffer from poor maintenance. Not to mention, a poorly maintained trimmer can run hot due to the cold air not being able to flow freely over the motor.

How? - Simply wipe with a slightly damp cloth or sponge. If you have access, use gentle compressed air to blow off any accumulated dust. Avoid abrasive chemicals and cleaning solutions, and keep rubbing motions gentle. After wiping down all exterior surfaces, dry them properly for storage until the next use.

Why? - If you store your garden tools in a carport or toolbox that is too wet or prone to leaks, it will almost certainly shorten its lifespan. Moisture can cause corrosion of metal parts. The fuel system may be contaminated. If your hedge trimmer is battery operated, it can cause electrical shorts and failure of electrical components.

How? - A waterproof and UV-resistant canvas case is a great way to protect your gear if you don't already have one. If you don't have one of these, make sure your hedge trimmer is wrapped in a cotton cloth or towel, placed in a plastic bag, and placed in a box off the ground.

By consistently following the tips above, you will get the most out of your hedge trimmer over multiple seasons. While not all of these tips need to be performed for every use, it's a good idea to give it a quarterly maintenance check to keep it in tip-top shape and perform at its best. If you want to buy hedge trimmer spare parts, please contact us.

HUSTIL is a professional custom garden tool spare parts manufacturer with 19 years of experience. We provide customers with a full range of accessories search queries, garden tool accessories replacement, and after-sales service. After more than 10 years of strict screening, it now has more than 300 mature supply chain factories for production.