If your hedge trimmer has a good edge, learn how to keep it that way

When it comes to pruning and trimming the branches of our garden, the hedge trimmer is the most used tool; Given its intensive use, it tends to show more wear than other gardening machines. For this reason, we must pay attention to its care and maintenance, in order to prolong its useful life.

The first symptom that the hedge trimmer needs attention is when its blades begin to show wear, as they do not cut as efficiently as before; For this reason, the pruning tasks that were carried out in a simple way are now more difficult and require more effort on our part.

The hedge trimmer, unlike other gardening tools, needs constant maintenance if we want it to last longer. For this reason, it is important to pay due attention to the cutting sword, in order to keep it not only clean, but also oiled and sharp.

A sharp blade helps keep the tool in top condition, while allowing gardening and pruning tasks to be carried out safely, with little effort and less time.

Similarly, if the blades are kept sharp and properly oiled, the engine will suffer less. Which in the long run translates into saving money, time and a longer useful life for the machine.

The importance of cleaning the hedge trimmer

Although it is one of the best hedge trimmers , once the pruning work is finished, it is necessary to clean the blades immediately; regardless of whether it has been used for a short period or intensively. This is due to the fact that the sap or resin of the plants is accumulated in the cutting blade and can, when it dries, interfere with the use of the tool. Since it is a sticky and soft substance, it can be easily removed with a cloth. Conversely, if you allow this matter to dry and adhere to the blades, the performance of the tool could be compromised.

In the same way, you must remove all the material such as brush, remains of leaves, splinters, etc. Likewise, to prolong its useful life, it is advisable to apply a product that is capable of not only cleaning the bar, but also offering adequate lubrication.

Sharpening blades is easier than you think

Before starting work in the garden, it is essential to check the condition of the blades. If they are dull, the machine could have problems in its operation and if it is the case that they are damaged, the best option is to replace them with new cutting blades.

To sharpen the hedge trimmer correctly, it is not necessary to disassemble the machine. You just need to consider the issue of safety and handle the tool with caution. In this sense, it is important that the machine is turned off, unplugged from the power outlet (if it is an electric model) and its ignition mechanism is blocked; otherwise you could hurt yourself a lot with the cutting blade.

To proceed with the sharpening of the teeth, you can use two techniques, one is using a manual file or the other is using a radial machine; You just have to take the foresight to carefully sharpen each of the parts that make up the cutting sword. If it is a model with two blades, you will need to sharpen both the top and bottom.

When a file is used to sharpen a hedge trimmer, the task is more laborious, but at the same time more economical; as files offer cheaper cost. Start by applying detergent, but not just any, it must be a special product for cleaning hedge trimmers and then sharpen manually; Likewise, you must take into account the angle of the blade and with the file, always pass it in the correct direction.

In the case of using a radial for sharpening the blade, the process is faster and easier. It is only necessary to pass the machine gently over the blades, without applying too much pressure and without making sudden movements, as the blades could be damaged. To finish, clean the entire length of the cutting bar and if necessary, apply more detergent.

Safety tips for handling a hedge trimmer

Before using a hedge trimmer for the first time, regardless of the model and brand, it is important to read and put into practice the user manual that each manufacturer includes with the purchase. These manuals usually specify the steps to follow for correct handling of the tool.

Likewise, since it is a machine equipped with a sharp sword, its use and handling must be associated with some safety measures, since improper use could cause serious injuries with fatal results. For this reason, it is advisable to be alert at all times while it is on and avoid contact with metal fences or electrical wiring. Likewise, it is best to opt for a model whose size and weight you are able to control and manipulate in a wide variety of situations during pruning.

Among the safety measures most recommended by experts to work with a hedge trimmer we have: the use of protective gloves, headphones designed to isolate noise and specialized glasses to protect the eyes. Likewise, as far as possible, it is advisable to work with long-sleeved garments and avoid the use of accessories that could get caught in the machine.

Similarly, whenever work is finished, you should put a protective sheath over the blades (once they are clean). Also, you must not forget to activate the security lock when it is not in use, in order to prevent its operation from being activated accidentally.

On the other hand, in order to improve the user experience, manufacturers have provided hedge trimmers with a design that provides additional safety to the user. In this sense, they have a plate located on the front that will protect you from the branches that are fired.

Also, remember that the motor of these machines can get very hot, so you should be careful when touching its casing, since you could receive an accidental contact burn. Also, if it is a gasoline model, avoid smoking near the tool.