Electric Hedge Trimmer Keeps Cutting Out [Causes & Proven Solutions]

We may earn commission from qualifying purchases through affiliate links - at no extra cost to you.
Updated in January 2026 | By John

There’s nothing more frustrating than trying to use your electric hedge trimmer only to have it keep cutting out. Not only is it annoying, but it can also be dangerous. If you’re dealing with this issue, you’re not alone. Many homeowners experience the same problem. But don’t worry, there’s a fix! In this guide, I’ll walk you through the steps to troubleshoot and repair your electric hedge trimmer so that you can get back to trimming your hedges in no time.

Why Electric Hedge Trimmer Keeps Cutting Out

Electric Hedge Trimmer Keeps Cutting Out

Low battery: The most common reason for an electric hedge trimmer to keep cutting out is a low battery. Make sure the battery is fully charged before using the trimmer.

Dirty or damaged battery terminals: If the battery terminals are dirty or damaged, they can cause the trimmer to lose power. Clean the terminals with a wire brush and make sure they are making good contact.

Faulty battery: If the battery is old or damaged, it may not be able to hold a charge. Replace the battery with a new one.

Loose or damaged power cord: If the power cord is loose or damaged, it can cause the trimmer to lose power. Check the power cord for any damage and make sure it is securely plugged into the outlet.

Faulty switch: If the switch on the trimmer is faulty, it can cause the trimmer to turn off unexpectedly. Replace the switch with a new one.

Trapped debris: If debris is trapped inside the trimmer, it can cause the trimmer to overheat and shut off. Clean the trimmer thoroughly to remove any debris.

Overheating: If the trimmer is used for too long or at too high a speed, it can overheat and shut off. Allow the trimmer to cool down before continuing to use it.

How to Troubleshoot: Electric Hedge Trimmer Keeps Cutting Out

Symptoms

There are a few different symptoms that can indicate that your electric hedge trimmer is cutting out. These include:

The trimmer stops working altogether
The trimmer starts and then stops after a few seconds
The trimmer makes a buzzing noise but does not move
The trimmer’s motor overheats

Causes

There are a number of different things that can cause an electric hedge trimmer to cut out. These include:

A loose or damaged power cord:
If the power cord is loose or damaged, it can cause the trimmer to stop working. Check the power cord for any damage and make sure it is plugged in securely.

A faulty switch:
The switch on the trimmer may be faulty, which can cause the trimmer to stop working. Try replacing the switch to see if that fixes the problem.

A dirty or clogged air filter:
The air filter on the trimmer helps to keep the motor cool. If the air filter is dirty or clogged, it can cause the motor to overheat and cut out. Clean the air filter according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

A worn-out spark plug:
The spark plug on the trimmer helps to ignite the fuel. If the spark plug is worn out, it can cause the trimmer to stop working. Replace the spark plug according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Low oil level:
The trimmer’s engine needs oil to lubricate the moving parts. If the oil level is low, it can cause the engine to overheat and cut out. Check the oil level and add oil as needed.

Troubleshooting

Once you have identified the cause of the problem, you can troubleshoot the issue and fix it. Here are a few tips for troubleshooting an electric hedge trimmer that keeps cutting out:

Check the power cord:
Make sure the power cord is plugged in securely and that there is no damage to the cord.

Try a different outlet:
If the power cord is not damaged, try plugging the trimmer into a different outlet.

Replace the switch:
If the switch is faulty, replace it with a new one.

Clean the air filter:
Clean the air filter according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Replace the spark plug:
If the spark plug is worn out, replace it with a new one.

Add oil to the engine:
Check the oil level and add oil as needed.

Prevention

You can prevent your electric hedge trimmer from cutting out by following these tips:

Keep the power cord in good condition:
Do not damage the power cord by bending it or twisting it.

Don’t overload the trimmer:
Don’t use the trimmer on branches that are too thick for the trimmer to handle.

Clean the air filter regularly:
Clean the air filter according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Replace the spark plug regularly:
Replace the spark plug according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Check the oil level regularly:
Check the oil level and add oil as needed.

By following these tips, you can help to prevent your electric hedge trimmer from cutting out.

Also Read THis: Hedge Trimmer Keeps Jamming

FAQs: Electric Hedge Trimmer Keeps Cutting Out

Why is my electric hedge trimmer cutting out?

There are a few possible reasons why your electric hedge trimmer might be cutting out. Here are some of the most common causes:

The trimmer is not getting enough power: Make sure that the trimmer is plugged into an outlet that is providing enough power. If you are using an extension cord, make sure that it is in good condition and that the gauge is appropriate for the length of the cord.

The trimmer’s battery is low: If your trimmer is battery-powered, make sure that the battery is fully charged.

The trimmer’s motor is overheating: If the trimmer is running for too long without a break, the motor can overheat and shut down. Allow the trimmer to cool down for a few minutes before continuing to use it.

The trimmer’s blades are dull: Dull blades can cause the trimmer to work harder, which can lead to overheating and cutting out. Sharpen the blades regularly to keep them in good condition.

The trimmer is not properly maintained: If the trimmer is not properly maintained, it can become damaged and start to cut out. Make sure to clean the trimmer regularly and to replace worn or damaged parts as needed.

What can I do to prevent my electric hedge trimmer from cutting out?

Here are a few things you can do to prevent your electric hedge trimmer from cutting out:

Use a high-quality trimmer that is designed for the type of work you will be doing: A cheap trimmer is more likely to break down and cut out than a high-quality trimmer.

Make sure that the trimmer is getting enough power: Use a heavy-duty extension cord if you need to extend the reach of the trimmer.

Keep the trimmer’s battery charged: If you are using a battery-powered trimmer, make sure to charge the battery regularly.

Avoid using the trimmer for too long without a break: Allow the trimmer to cool down for a few minutes before continuing to use it.

Sharpen the trimmer’s blades regularly: Dull blades can cause the trimmer to work harder, which can lead to overheating and cutting out.

Maintain the trimmer regularly: Clean the trimmer regularly and replace worn or damaged parts as needed.

What should I do if my electric hedge trimmer keeps cutting out?

If your electric hedge trimmer keeps cutting out, here are a few things you can try:

Check the trimmer’s power cord: Make sure that the cord is plugged into an outlet that is providing enough power. If you are using an extension cord, make sure that it is in good condition and that the gauge is appropriate for the length of the cord.

Check the trimmer’s battery: If your trimmer is battery-powered, make sure that the battery is fully charged.

Check the trimmer’s motor: If the trimmer’s motor is overheating, allow it to cool down for a few minutes before continuing to use it.

Check the trimmer’s blades: If the trimmer’s blades are dull, sharpen them.

Maintain the trimmer regularly: Clean the trimmer regularly and replace worn or damaged parts as needed.

If you have tried all of these things and your trimmer is still cutting out, you may need to take it to a repair shop.

How much does it cost to fix an electric hedge trimmer that keeps cutting out?

The cost of fixing an electric hedge trimmer that keeps cutting out depends on the cause of the problem. If the problem is with the power cord, extension cord, or battery, the cost of repair will be relatively low. If the problem is with the trimmer’s motor or blades, the cost of repair will be higher.

In general, you can expect to pay anywhere from $20 to $100 to fix an electric hedge trimmer that keeps cutting out.

Where can I get my electric hedge trimmer fixed?

You can get your electric hedge trimmer fixed at a variety of places, including:

A local hardware store: Most hardware stores have a repair department that can fix electric hedge trimmers.

A home improvement store: Some home improvement stores also have a repair department that can fix electric hedge trimmers.

A lawn and garden center: Lawn and garden centers often sell and repair electric hedge trimmers.

An online retailer: Some online retailers offer repair services for electric hedge trimmers.

You can

About The Author

Hi, I’m John, the creator of this site.
With years of hands-on gardening experience, I’m passionate about growing fresh fruits and vegetables and making gardening easy for everyone.
Here, I share tips, ideas, and inspiration to help you enjoy a thriving garden—no matter your skill level!