Your outdoor power equipment is essential for keeping your property looking amazing. Regular cleaning, service, and maintenance are all crucial for the longevity of your equipment. Your hedge trimmer operates with several different components and there are a handful of things you can do to keep it in great condition.
1. Clean the Blades
Whenever you use your hedge trimmer to cut back branches or bushes, residue will build up on the blades. You may not notice the accumulation of sap and residue immediately, but over time it can cause your trimmer to become sluggish and not perform as well.
You should routinely clean the blades with soap and water to prevent any problems. It’s also helpful to add a lubricant after cleaning.
2. Sharpen the Blades
Clean blades are great, but sharp and clean blades are better. Like any cutting tool, blades will become dull over time. You can use specific sharpening tools to maintain your blades or take your hedge trimmer to a local service department. This maintenance task can be time consuming, but it’s one of the best ways to keep your trimmer in great shape.
3. Check Screws and Fittings
The components of your hedge trimmer are held together with screws and fittings. You should frequently check for any loose hardware and tighten it when needed. The vibrations of the trimmer can cause hardware to shift and loose parts can lead to big problems. You can avoid bigger service issues simply by monitoring how secure the components are!
4. Keep the Exterior Clean
When you check the hardware you can also spend a little time cleaning the exterior. You’ll want to maintain the cleanliness of your equipment for a few reasons.
First, if your hedge trimmer isn’t kept clean, it may not be able to function as intended. For example, any buildup of debris can block essential air flow around the motor. Second, you may not be able to see damage or problems if the equipment isn’t kept clean.
You can use a slightly damp cloth to wipe away dirt and residue. It’s also helpful to use compressed air to blow away any debris. Make sure to check the owner’s manual to determine what cleaning products are right for your model.
5. Utilize the Correct Storage
When your hedge trimmer isn’t being used, you should be storing it correctly. Moisture can be a huge concern because it can cause corrosion and damage to the internal components. Whether you have an electric or fuel-powered trimmer, it’s essential to keep it dry and protected. You can find storage cases or use a tarp to avoid exposure to moisture.
Keeping your hedge trimmer in good condition will improve its lifespan and increase its value. Our team at Star Equipment & Rental would love to help you keep your equipment in top shape! Visit us in Mt. Airy, GA, where we proudly serve the Toccoa and Cleveland areas.