Why Your Electric Chainsaw Isn’t Working (And How to Fix It)

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Updated in April 2025 | By John

Electric Chainsaw Not Working

Electric chainsaws are a powerful and versatile tool that can be used for a variety of tasks, from cutting firewood to trimming trees. However, like any other tool, electric chainsaws can malfunction from time to time. When this happens, it can be frustrating and inconvenient. However, by quickly diagnosing and resolving the problem, you can restore your chainsaw to its full functionality and get back to work.

In this guide, I will walk you through the process of troubleshooting a common issue that can occur with electric chainsaws: the chainsaw not working. I will provide you with a list of common causes for this problem, as well as steps to take to troubleshoot and resolve each one. By following these steps, you can quickly and easily get your chainsaw back up and running.

There are a number of reasons why an electric chainsaw might not be working. Some of the most common causes include:

A loose or damaged power cord. If the power cord is not properly connected to the chainsaw or is damaged, the chainsaw will not be able to receive power.
A faulty switch. If the switch is not working properly, the chainsaw will not be able to start.
A clogged air filter. A clogged air filter can restrict airflow to the engine, causing it to overheat and shut down.
A dirty spark plug. A dirty spark plug can prevent the engine from firing, causing the chainsaw to not start.
Low oil level. If the oil level is too low, the engine can overheat and shut down.

By following the steps in this guide, you can quickly and easily troubleshoot and resolve the issue of your .

Why Electric Chainsaw Not Working

1. No power

The chainsaw is not plugged in or the power cord is damaged.
The circuit breaker is tripped.
The chainsaw’s battery is dead or not properly connected.

2. Chain is too tight

The chain is binding against the bar.
The chain is difficult to turn by hand.

3. Chain is too loose

The chain is falling off the bar.
The chain is rattling against the bar.

4. Bar is bent

The bar is not aligned with the engine.
The bar is rubbing against the housing.

5. Chain oil is low

The chain is not lubricated properly.
The chain is smoking or sparking.

6. Chainsaw is overheating

The chainsaw is running too hot.
The chainsaw is making a loud noise.

7. Chainsaw is out of alignment

The chainsaw is not cutting straight.
The chainsaw is vibrating excessively.

8. Chainsaw is damaged

The chainsaw is broken.
The chainsaw is not safe to use.

How to Troubleshoot: Electric Chainsaw Not Working

Your electric chainsaw is a powerful tool that can be used for a variety of tasks, from cutting firewood to trimming trees. However, like any other tool, it can malfunction from time to time. If your electric chainsaw is not working, there are a few things you can check to troubleshoot the problem.

Troubleshooting Steps

1. Check the power cord. Make sure that the power cord is plugged into an outlet and that the outlet is working. You can test the outlet by plugging in another appliance. If the other appliance works, then the outlet is not the problem.
2. Check the switch. Make sure that the switch is turned on. If the switch is turned off, your chainsaw will not work.
3. Check the battery. If your chainsaw is battery-powered, make sure that the battery is charged. You can check the battery by looking at the battery indicator. If the battery indicator is not lit, then the battery is not charged.
4. Check the spark plug. If your chainsaw is gas-powered, make sure that the spark plug is properly installed and is not damaged. You can check the spark plug by removing it from the chainsaw and inspecting it. If the spark plug is damaged, you will need to replace it.
5. Clean the air filter. The air filter on your chainsaw helps to keep the engine clean. If the air filter is dirty, it can restrict airflow to the engine and cause the chainsaw to not work properly. You can clean the air filter by removing it from the chainsaw and wiping it down with a clean cloth.
6. Adjust the carburetor. The carburetor on your chainsaw helps to mix the fuel and air in the correct proportions. If the carburetor is not adjusted properly, it can cause the chainsaw to run poorly or not at all. You can adjust the carburetor by following the instructions in your chainsaw’s owner’s manual.
7. Take your chainsaw to a qualified repair technician. If you have tried all of the troubleshooting steps above and your chainsaw is still not working, you may need to take it to a qualified repair technician. A repair technician will be able to diagnose the problem and make the necessary repairs.

Preventative Maintenance

The best way to avoid problems with your electric chainsaw is to perform regular preventative maintenance. This includes:

Cleaning the chainsaw after each use.
Lubricating the chainsaw according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Replacing the air filter regularly.
Adjusting the carburetor as needed.
Taking your chainsaw to a qualified repair technician for regular maintenance.

By following these tips, you can help to keep your electric chainsaw running smoothly and efficiently for many years to come.

FAQs: Electric Chainsaw Not Working

Why is my electric chainsaw not working?

There are a few possible reasons why your electric chainsaw might not be working. Here are some of the most common:

The chainsaw is not plugged in properly. Make sure that the plug is firmly inserted into the outlet and that the outlet is turned on.
The chainsaw is not getting enough power. If the chainsaw is plugged into an extension cord, make sure that the cord is in good condition and that it is not overloaded.
The chainsaw’s battery is dead. If the chainsaw is battery-powered, try charging the battery or replacing it with a new one.
The chainsaw’s chain is too loose or too tight. If the chain is too loose, it will not be able to cut through wood properly. If the chain is too tight, it will be difficult to start and operate the chainsaw.
The chainsaw’s bar is bent. If the bar is bent, it will not be able to cut through wood properly.

How do I fix a chainsaw that won’t start?

If your chainsaw won’t start, here are a few things you can check:

Make sure that the chainsaw is plugged in properly and that the outlet is turned on.
Check the chainsaw’s battery to make sure that it is charged.
Check the chainsaw’s chain to make sure that it is not too loose or too tight.
Check the chainsaw’s bar to make sure that it is not bent.
Try starting the chainsaw in a different location. If the chainsaw is not starting because of a lack of air, trying starting it in a different location with more airflow may help.

How do I sharpen a chainsaw chain?

To sharpen a chainsaw chain, you will need a chainsaw chain file and a guide bar.

1. Remove the chainsaw chain from the chainsaw.
2. Attach the guide bar to the chain file.
3. Align the guide bar with the chain teeth.
4. File the chain teeth in a back-and-forth motion.
5. Repeat steps 3-4 until all of the chain teeth are sharpened.

How do I change the oil in a chainsaw?

To change the oil in a chainsaw, you will need a new oil filter, a funnel, and some new oil.

1. Locate the oil tank on the chainsaw.
2. Remove the oil tank cap.
3. Use the funnel to pour new oil into the oil tank until it reaches the fill line.
4. Install the new oil filter.
5. Replace the oil tank cap.

How do I maintain a chainsaw?

To maintain a chainsaw, you will need to:

Inspect the chainsaw regularly for signs of wear and tear.
Sharpen the chainsaw chain regularly.
Change the oil regularly.
Clean the chainsaw after each use.
Store the chainsaw in a cool, dry place.

By following these tips, you can help to keep your chainsaw in good working order and extend its lifespan.

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About The Author

I am John, and I am the creator of this website. I have been in the woodworking industry for about 5 years. I developed my passion for DIY projects around the house when I was in high school. I have discovered a new appreciation for those who have the experience to pass along their expertise. They know what works best and are able to help others. I am proud to be among them.

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