DIY Tool Tip: Electric Hedge Trimmer

April 28, 2015 DIY Tool Tip: Electric Hedge Trimmer

My electric hedge-trimmer is, without a doubt, the workhorse of my shrub and hedge-heavy yard. It is particularly indispensable for evergreen bushes and laurel hedges, and it also works well to cut back many other types of shrubs and hedges.

For those who have a yard with very big hedges, or lots of shrubs and little-to-no lawn space, the electric hedge trimmer is a tool you will definitely want to get to know.

Choosing a Hedge Trimmer

(Note: For the purposes of this discussion, I will only be talking about cordless electric hedge trimmers, not corded electric or gas-powered versions of the tool. )

Be sure you are getting a model with a dual blade (cutting blades on both sides) so that you can cut in either direction, right-handed or left-handed.
Consider the size and weight of the tool. When you are in the store, hold it at chest level, and also hold it out with your arms extended. Make “air-cuts” in both directions. Be certain that the weight is comfortable for you to manipulate.
Consider the voltage, and the length of time that the manufacturer indicates that the battery will last. In my experience, it is a good idea to purchase a second battery that can be charging while you are using your first one, so that you don’t run out of “juice” in the middle of a big cutting job.
Consider the size of the blades. The bigger the blades, the larger size branches you will be able to cut, so your choice depends largely upon what types of shrubs and bushes you have in your yard.

Safety and Usage Considerations

Note: I always recommend reading the manufacturer’s instructions completely before beginning to operate any power tool.
Wear gloves and safety glasses while operating your hedge trimmer. It is particularly important to not neglect the glasses, as branches can sometimes come flying out at you while you are cutting.
In my experience, children are fascinated by the ninja-sword like appearance of the electric hedge trimmer, so make certain that they are not around when you’re working with the tool. Also, it is a good idea to store the tool with the battery detached from it.
Cutting tips: Some hedges will have a desired shape that is square-ish, and so cutting them is fairly straightforward. Others, like certain evergreen varieties, may require a bit more finesse. For those bushes that are more rounded, or for shrubs where you are hoping to create a certain shape, you will definitely want to practice on a less-visible area to get the hang of it.

Follow these few simple guidelines, and you may find that you actually enjoy using your electric hedge trimmer to clean-up and shape up the shrubs in your yard!

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