How Does an Electric Hedge Trimmer Work?
An electric hedge trimmer is a convenient, labor saving power tool that does an excellent job of shaving and shaping hedges, shrubs and other bushes. Unlike the gas models, electric trimmers do have power limitations, and the corded style is also lacking in versatility. Used as intended, as it is a worthwhile accessory for tending to the landscape.
Hedge Trimmer Design
Hedge trimmers consist of two bars, attached to an electric motor. Below the motor housing is a trigger that is pressed to engage the motor. It will usually include a locking mechanism for easier operation. One of the bars is stationary, while the other moves back and forth across the first one in a slicing action. Each bar is 16 to 30 inches in length, and lined with teeth that serve as blades. The gaps between the teeth are 3/8 to 3/4 inches wide and determine the size of vegetation that may be cut.
Hedge Trimmer Operation
- Corded trimmers are lower in cost than battery operated models. Their main drawback is that they must be connected to an extension cord, and that cord cannot exceed 100 feet in length. This makes them comparatively cumbersome to move about the yard. Care must also be taken to avoid cutting the extension cord when it drapes across the bushes being clipped.
- Battery powered trimmers have the advantage of more freedom in movement. However, at an average of 30 minutes, the battery life is short and may require recharging or a backup for larger yards with many bushes and shrubs.
- Operators frequently attempt to push electric trimmers beyond the capabilities for which they were designed. The trimmer blades work best on stems no wider than 3/4 inch. Larger stems within a hedge or shrub should be removed with a hand clipper. Attempting to cut these stems with the trimmer will leave a shredded branch, hindering the beauty of the plant as well as subjecting it to disease.