Replacing only one blade in a dual set
A hedge trimmer with two reciprocating blades may not work correctly with only one replacement blade. Check the manufacturer’s parts…
Troubleshooting
Help choosing and using a hedge trimmer based on hedge thickness, blade length and power source.
Maintenance
Troubleshooting
Battery dying halfway through a hedge
A hedge trimmer battery that dies halfway through a hedge usually has reduced capacity, a dirty or dragging blade, or a hedge that is…
Blades binding in thick branches
Hedge trimmer blades usually bind because the branch is too thick for the tool, the blades are dull or damaged, or the cutting technique is…
Blades chewing instead of cutting
Hedge trimmer blades usually chew through branches because they are dull, damaged, dirty, poorly lubricated, or being used on material…
Extension pole wobble on a cheap unit
A wobbly extension pole usually comes from a loose collar, worn locking pin, poor fit between shaft sections, or a cracked connector.…
Gas hedge trimmer flooding
A gas hedge trimmer usually floods when too much fuel reaches the engine and not enough air is available for ignition. Turn off the choke,…
Hedge trimmer leaving ragged tips
Ragged hedge tips usually mean the blades are dull, dirty, damaged, or being used on growth that is too thick. Check the blade and cutting…
Hedge trimmer not starting
If your hedge trimmer is not starting, check the power source, safety controls, blade obstruction, and switches before assuming the motor…
Pole Hedge Trimmer Sagging at the Joint
A pole hedge trimmer usually sags because the angle-lock hardware is loose, worn, damaged, or incorrectly assembled. Disconnect power,…
Rust on hedge trimmer blades after storage
Light surface rust on hedge trimmer blades may be removable, but deep pitting, damaged teeth, or stiff movement can make replacement the…
Blades Hitting the Fence Wire: What to Do
Hedge trimmer blades should never be used against fence wire. Shut off and isolate the trimmer, inspect the blade and housing for damage,…
Corded Trimmer Tripping a Breaker: Causes and Safe Checks
A corded hedge trimmer may trip a breaker because the circuit is overloaded, the cord or tool is damaged, or the blade is jammed. Unplug it…
Safety Switch Making One-Handed Use Impossible
If your hedge trimmer only runs when you hold two controls, that is usually a safety feature—not a fault. Don’t bypass it; check the manual…
