Photo Credit: http://www.stihl.com.au/
Keeping your hedges in check is quick and easy with a hedge trimmer. However, even with the best trimmer on the market, to do an effective job you’ll need to know how to use it properly. If you’re new to the world of hedge trimmers, then read on. Here are 4 great tips on how to use one safely and effectively.
1. Look for the original shape
Before you even start up the hedge trimmer, it’s important that you take a look at the preexisting shape of the hedge, and use that as your guide. It’s much easier to cut according to a guide than trimming without one, and doing so will prevent you from making mistakes. Standing back and looking at the original shape can also give you a better idea of the job in front of you, and knowing this will help you make better use of your time.
2. Get the bulk off first
If you’re looking for an easy and efficient way of trimming your hedge, go about cutting off the bulk of the hedge right away. Getting the bulk out of the way first allows you to trim the hedge to perfection at a latter stage. Once you have the majority of the hedge taken care of, you can then start work on the smaller sections.
3. Operating the trimmer
Sure, it’s always a great idea to use high-quality power tools (e.g., STIHL power tools) to get whatever job needs to be done out of the way. In general, high-quality tools ensure that the job will get done with a minimum amount of time and effort. Still, you do need to know how to operate power tools properly to use them effectively, and of course, to be safe. For example, when it comes to the operation of hedge trimmers, it’s important that you operate it at a lower speed to start so that you can come to grips with the tool’s vibrational levels, and know how it handles. Once you have a firm grip on how it works you can then speed things up. Always use both hands when using the trimmer, and also cut smoothly either left to right, or top to bottom. Taking stabs at particular parts could get the trimmer caught, leaving you in a potentially dangerous position.
4. Being safe
Don’t forget to always be safe when using your trimmer. This includes wearing all the appropriate safety gear (e.g., gloves, goggles and ear muffs). Also, always plug your electric trimmer in the opposite direction to the hedges you’ll be trimming. This is to prevent cutting the electrical cord whilst you’re working. Finally, never use the trimmer whilst standing on a ladder (as you may fall and injure yourself, and potentially others), and also try to cut at a comfortable level to avoid accidents.
Trimming your hedges with a hedge trimmer is a chore that can be performed by almost anyone. When taking to your hedges, just be sure to stand back before you begin, and try and use its pre-existing shape to guide you in your efforts. Also, as always, be safe when using any power tool – including a hedge trimmer – and no doubt your hedge will be looking nifty in no time at all.