How to Adjust Hedge Trimmer Blades

Hedge trimmers are a gardening essential for anyone who wants to keep their hedges looking neat and tidy. While most people know how to use a hedge trimmer, not everyone knows how to adjust the blades.

After all, it’s the blades that do all the work, so it’s important to keep them sharp and in good condition. However, this can be easier said than done, as the blades often become misaligned or clogged with dirt and debris.

As a result, it’s important to check the blades regularly and adjust them as needed. This may seem like a lot of work, but it’s worth it to keep your hedge trimmer in top condition. After all, a well-maintained hedge trimmer will make light work of even the most overgrown hedges.

In this blog post, we’ll show you how to properly adjust the blades on your hedge trimmer so that you can get the best possible results.

Why Adjust Hedge Trimmer Blades?

The blades on your hedge trimmer can become dull over time, which can make it difficult to get a clean cut. Additionally, if the blades are not properly aligned, they can cause the hedge trimmer to vibrate, which can be both uncomfortable and dangerous. For these reasons, it’s important to adjust the blades on your hedge trimmer on a regular basis.

How to Adjust Hedge Trimmer Blades

There are two main types of hedge trimmers: those with adjustable blades and those with fixed blades. If you have an adjustable blade hedge trimmer, you’ll need to use a screwdriver or Allen wrench to loosen the screws that hold the blade in place.

  1. First, you need to identify which way the blades are supposed to rotate. This information can be found in the owner’s manual for your hedge trimmer.
  2. Next, you need to locate the adjustment screws on the blade assembly. These will also be described in your owner’s manual.
  3. Once you’ve found the adjustment screws, use a screwdriver to turn them in the direction that will loosen the blade assembly.
  4. Now, you can rotate the blade assembly until it’s in the correct position.
  5. Finally, use the screwdriver to tighten the adjustment screws so that the blade assembly is secure.

If you have a fixed-blade hedge trimmer, you’ll need to use a file or sharpening stone to sharpen the blades. First, find the angle you need to sharpen the blades at by consulting your hedge trimmer’s manual. Next, use a file or sharpening stone to hold the blade at that angle and sharpen it until it’s nice and sharp. Repeat this process for the other blade.

What Will Happen If You Won’t Adjust Your Blades?

If you don’t adjust the blades on your hedge trimmer, the following problems can occur:

  • The blades will become dull and will no longer be able to make clean cuts.
  • The blades will become misaligned and will cause the hedge trimmer to vibrate.
  • The blades can break off completely, which can be dangerous.

All of these problems can lead to an overall poor experience when using your hedge trimmer. Additionally, if the blades become too dull or misaligned, it can damage the motor on your hedge trimmer. Therefore, it’s important to adjust the blades on your hedge trimmer on a regular basis to ensure that they’re in good condition.

Other Alternatives for Adjusting Your Hedge Trimmer’s Blades

If you don’t want to adjust the blades on your hedge trimmer yourself, there are a few other options.

  • First, you can take your hedge trimmer to a professional who can adjust the blades for you.
  • Additionally, some companies make blade-sharpening kits that you can use to sharpen the blades yourself. These kits usually come with detailed instructions on how to use them.
  • Finally, you can always buy a new hedge trimmer with new blades. This is usually the most expensive option, but it may be worth it if you’re tired of dealing with dull or misaligned blades.

No matter which option you choose, make sure that you adjust the blades on your hedge trimmer on a regular basis. This will help to ensure that your hedge trimmer is always in good condition and will make it easier for you to get the best possible results.

FAQs

Q: How often should I adjust the blades on my hedge trimmer?

It’s generally a good idea to adjust the blades on your hedge trimmer at least once a year. However, if you use your hedge trimmer frequently, you may need to adjust the blades more often.

Q: How much does it cost to adjust the blades on a hedge trimmer?

If you take your hedge trimmer to a professional, it will probably cost around $30 to $50. However, if you adjust the blades yourself, it will only cost you the price of the sharpening kit or new blades.

Q: How much does it cost to buy a new hedge trimmer?

Hedge trimmers typically cost between $60 and $200. However, the exact price will depend on the features and brand of the hedge trimmer.

Q: Is it okay to sharpen the blades on my hedge trimmer?

Yes, it’s perfectly fine to sharpen the blades on your hedge trimmer. In fact, it’s often necessary to do so in order to keep the blades in good condition.

Q: Can I use a file to sharpen the blades on my hedge trimmer?

Yes, you can use a file to sharpen the blades on your hedge trimmer. However, make sure to use a file that’s designed for use with metal. Additionally, you’ll need to be careful not to damage the blades.

Q: How can you tell if the blades on a hedge trimmer are dull?

If the blades on your hedge trimmer are dull, they’ll likely be unable to make clean cuts. Additionally, the blades may be misaligned, which can cause the hedge trimmer to vibrate.

Conclusion: 

Adjusting your hedge trimmer blades is an important part of keeping your hedges looking their best. With properly adjusted and sharpened blades, you’ll be able to get clean cuts without any vibration or discomfort. Follow the instructions in this blog post and you’ll have no problem keeping your hedge trimmer in top condition.