Short Buyers Guide for a Hedge Trimmer
The hedges around your house offer you several advantages, including privacy, a habitat for birds and beneficial insects and many more, with yearly or bi-yearly maintenance being the only slight drawback. Buying the right hedge trimmer or long reach hedge trimmer to suit your needs is important to effectively complete the task at hand and save unnecessary expense as some hedge trimmers can be pricey.
Features to Look for in Hedge Trimmers
Hedge trimmers come in many variations with features best suited to specific applications. Knowing what type of hedge trimmer or long reach hedge trimmer you need is essential for optimal results.
- Blade length and teeth spacing are chosen according to the use of the trimmer. Large jobs requiring substantial trimming need a roughly 70cm blade with tooth spacing above 20mm, which will let you trim more in one go, saving time and effort. Smaller jobs and more delicate shaping need a 35cm-65cm blade with smaller tooth spacing to prevent unnecessary strain on you, the operator, and get the details right.
- A rotating head allows you to tackle vertical trimming better. When you combine it with a wraparound front handle with multiple switches, you will have an easier time switching from cutting horizontally to vertically.
- Safety is always a primary consideration. A handguard, catcher plate and tip protector are three key safety features to look for when choosing a hedge trimmer. The handguard prevents your fingers from coming near the teeth and stops clippings from getting caught up around your hands as you cut. The catcher plate is attached along the length of the blade to sweep away cuttings, and the tip protector is a short bar across the top to prevent you from damaging the edge if you knock it against a solid object. Another practical feature is a safety switch on both handles so that the trimmer won’t start or run unless the operator grips both handles.
What Power Option to Choose
You have two main options, which are electric and petrol hedge trimmers in corded or cordless versions.
- An electric hedge trimmer with a cord is lighter and cheaper than cordless and petrol trimmers, but you need to be careful of tripping over the cable, which limits your range. They are best for hedges next to the house.
- A cordless electric hedge trimmer can be powerful as battery technology progresses. However, they are often expensive and don’t have enough battery life for substantial jobs.
- Petrol hedge trimmers are ideal for large areas and can be used anywhere for as long as needed, provided you have petrol with you. They are heavy, noisy and cause a lot of vibration - making an electric device the better choice for most applications.
Choose Ulverstone Mowers & Chainsaws
We offer an extensive range of hedge trimmers and other outdoor power equipment, including STIHL and other large brands. Our knowledgeable staff will guide you in your purchase while our sizeable modern workshop can handle all repairs. Contact us today.