Is your greenery in desperate need of a trim? Are you tired of seeing your trees looking like they’ve been attacked by Edward Scissorhands? Then you definitely need to up your gardening game to match the curb appeal of your home and reflect your personal style.
While hiring tree-trimming professionals is a convenient and safe option, it may not be ideal for all budgets or those who want to take matters into their own hands. If you fall into either of those categories, you could certainly use powerful and efficient cordless hedge trimmers as part of your gardening arsenal.
What Should You Look For in a Battery Hedge Trimmer?
Deciding you want one is the first step, but finding a proper model for your specific situation is another story. Oftentimes, people rush in and pick the first one they come across at the store, but that likely won’t solve all their trimming woes or be suitable for their garden.
Cutting Width and Speed
Both corded and cordless hedge trimmers have those long blades for cutting through the foliage, but their width and speed can vary among models. As a general rule of thumb, the wider and faster the blades cut through the greenery, the shorter time it will take for you to trim your garden.
But this goes both ways. If the blades are too wide and move too quickly, you might end up chopping off a few branches that could’ve survived with some tender loving care. To mitigate this risk, consider the size of your garden, the type of plants you have, and the level of precision you demand before making a purchase.
Weight and Balance
An accompanying factor to the speed and width of the blades is how easy it is for you to use them. Hedge trimmers can be quite heavy and bulky, so if you’re already lifting them off the ground and operating them above your head or to your side, you’ll want one that’s as light and balanced as possible.
And since one of the advantages of a cordless trimmer is being able to move around easily, you’ll want one that’s not too heavy so you don’t tire yourself out. The weight should be evenly distributed so the cutting is easy and you don’t feel any strain.
Adjustable Handle
Aside from the weight, the handles should also be adjustable so you can find a comfortable position for cutting and trimming endeavours. Oftentimes, people assume a one-size-fits-all approach since the handles look similar from afar, but that’s not always the case.
Some models come with telescopic handles that can be extended to fit your frame and arm length or to reach those tricky spots, while others have customizable handle grips that let you decide the angle of your arm and wrist when cutting. Think about the way you position yourself when you cut and the type of handle that suits that best.
Battery Life and Capacity
Since this is a cordless hedge trimmer you’ll want to pay attention to the battery life and capacity of the model you’re considering. Some don’t last nearly as long as they should, so check the battery life of each product and make sure that it’s enough for your gardening needs.
As a baseline, the battery should be around 18V or more and last about an hour when fully charged, but this may vary depending on the size of your garden and how much trimming you need to do. If you go lower than 18V, you’ll likely get a shorter battery life and less power for the job.
Safety Features
Finally, safety features should also be taken into account to reduce your risk of injury or accidents. Look for a trimmer with an automatic cut-off switch, which will turn off the blades if you release your grip on the handle. This is especially helpful when you’re reaching over or below your head to cut those branches.
You should also consider a steel protection guard around the blades to shield any errant cuts, and sturdy handles with a rubber or foam gripping to reduce fatigue and soreness in your hands. When you’re properly protected and comfortable, you can focus more on the task at hand and less on any potential accidents.
Additional Maintenance Tips for a Prolonged Lifespan
Once you decide which device fits your lifestyle and budget, you can concentrate on keeping it in tip-top shape. After all, investing in a reliable cordless hedge trimmer means nothing if it doesn’t last you through the years.
Sharpen and Clean the Blades Regularly
Dull blades take longer to cut, so be sure to sharpen your blades regularly – at least once a year – and clean them with soap and water after every session to keep them free from dirt and debris. The exact way of sharpening will depend on the manufacturer, so consult your instruction manual or contact customer service for more accurate instructions.
Ensure Proper Lubrication
The spinning mechanism of your motor requires proper lubrication to maintain its smooth running and reduce the risk of wear and tear. Depending on the product, you may need to lubricate the blades, gears and other moving parts every few months or so. It’s also worth checking the instruction manual for specific advice and information.
Avoid Overloading the Motor
Believe it or not, hedge trimmers can overheat if too much strain is put on the motor. This happens when there’s an uneven distribution of weight or when you try to cut branches that are too thick for the blade. To determine the right thickness of branches, look at the capacity specification of your trimmer and stick to it.