It’s every gardener’s nightmare. You’re trimming your hedges, minding your own business, when all of a sudden you hear a sickening “snap!” You look down to see that your hedge trimmer has cut through the power cord.
Now you’re in for a long walk back to the house to get the extension cord. Or even worse, you’re going to have to buy a new power cord. But it doesn’t have to be this way!
With a little bit of knowledge and some preventative measures, you can avoid cutting your hedge trimmer cable and save yourself a lot of time and money. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about how to avoid cutting hedge trimmer cables.
Table of Contents
Types of Hedge Trimmers
Before we get into how to avoid cutting hedge trimmer cable, let’s first take a look at the different types of hedge trimmers that are on the market. This will help you choose the right type of trimmer for your needs and help you avoid any potential hazards.
There are two main types of hedge trimmers: electric and gas-powered.
Electric Hedge Trimmers
Electric hedge trimmers are the most popular type because they’re lightweight, easy to maneuver, and relatively quiet.
They’re also less expensive than gas-powered models. However, electric hedge trimmers require an extension cord, which can be a hassle. And if you’re not careful, you can easily cut through the cord with the blades.
Gas-Powered Hedge Trimmers
Gas-powered hedge trimmers are more powerful than electric models and can run for a longer period of time before needing a refill. They’re also not limited by a cord, so you can move around more freely.
However, gas-powered hedge trimmers are heavier and more difficult to maneuver than electric models. They’re also louder and emit fumes, so they’re not ideal for use in enclosed spaces. In addition, if not properly maintained, gas-powered hedge trimmers can be dangerous.
Now that we’ve looked at the different types of hedge trimmers on the market, let’s move on to how to avoid cutting your power cord.
How to Avoid Cutting Hedge Trimmer Cable
- The best way to avoid cutting your power cord is to use an extension cord that is specifically designed for outdoor use. These cords are thicker and more durable than indoor extension cords, so they’re less likely to be cut by the blades of your hedge trimmer.
- In addition, make sure that the extension cord is properly grounded so that there is no risk of electrocution if the blades do happen to cut through the cord.
- Another way to avoid cutting your power cord is to invest in a battery-operated hedge trimmer. These trimmers are becoming more popular as technology improves because they offer all the benefits of an electric model without being tethered by a cord. Just be sure to choose a high-quality battery that will hold its charge for a long time so that you don’t have to worry about running out of power in the middle of trimming your hedges.
Some Additional Tips to Keep in mind
Apart from the above, here are a few other additional tips that you can consider to avoid cutting the hedge trimmer cable:
- Check the condition of the cable before you start trimming. If the cable is frayed or damaged in any way, replace it before you start trimming. A damaged cable is more likely to break while you’re trimming, which can lead to serious injury.
- Be careful not to put too much pressure on the cable while you’re trimming. If you’re putting too much pressure on the cable, it can cause it to break. Apply just enough pressure to get the job done without putting too much strain on the cable.
- Keep an eye on the position of the cable while you’re trimming. If the cable starts to get caught on something, stop trimming and repositioning the cable so that it’s not under so much stress.
- Use a cordless hedge trimmer if possible. Cordless hedge trimmers are becoming more popular because they eliminate the risk of cutting through a cord. If you don’t have a cordless hedge trimmer, be sure to keep the cord away from areas where it could get cut by the blades.
FAQs
Q: Is it possible to trim hedges without an extension cord?
A: Yes, you can buy battery-operated hedge trimmers that don’t require an extension cord. The battery life on these models varies, so make sure to check the manufacturer’s specifications before you buy.
Q: What should I do if my power cord gets cut by the blades?
A: If your power cord gets cut, unplug it immediately and inspect both ends for damage. You may need to replace the cord if it’s been damaged beyond repair.
Q: How often should I check my extension cord for wear and tear?
A: Extension cords should be inspected regularly for signs of wear and tear. If the insulation is starting to crack or fray, it’s time to replace the cord. Additionally, if you notice any signs of burning or discoloration, it’s best to replace the cord as soon as possible. Replace any extension cords that are worn or damaged before using them.
Q: Is it okay to use an indoor extension cord outside?
A: It’s not recommended to use an indoor extension cord outside. Indoor extension cords are typically thinner than and not as durable as outdoor extension cords, so they’re more likely to break when exposed to weather and other elements.
Conclusion:
Cutting your power cord is every gardener’s nightmare—but it doesn’t have to be! With a little bit of knowledge and some preventative measures, you can avoid this costly mistake entirely. First, familiarize yourself with the different types of hedge trimmers on the market so that you can choose the right one for your needs.
Then, take some precautions like using an outdoor extension cord or investing in a battery-operated model. By following these simple tips, you’ll be able t keep your power cord intact and trim your hedges without any worries!