There’s nothing more frustrating than a hedge trimmer that works but doesn’t cut. You’ve got all the power and speed you need, but your hedges are still a mess. It’s a waste of time and energy, and it can be downright infuriating.
If you’re dealing with this problem, you’re not alone. It’s a common issue, and there are a few simple things you can do to fix it. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the steps to troubleshoot a hedge trimmer that works but doesn’t cut. I’ll also provide some tips on how to prevent this problem from happening in the future.
So if you’re ready to get your hedges back in shape, let’s get started!
Why Hedge Trimmer Works But Does Not Cut
Dull Blades
The most common reason for a hedge trimmer not to cut is dull blades. When the blades are dull, they cannot penetrate the branches of the hedge and will simply push them aside. This can damage the hedge and make it difficult to trim. To check if the blades are dull, simply run your finger along the edge. If you can feel any burrs or roughness, the blades need to be sharpened.
Dirty Blades
Another common reason for a hedge trimmer not to cut is dirty blades. When the blades are dirty, they cannot make good contact with the branches of the hedge and will not be able to cut them effectively. To clean the blades, simply wipe them down with a damp cloth. If the blades are very dirty, you may need to use a degreaser or other cleaning solution.
Incorrectly Tensioned Blades
The blades on a hedge trimmer need to be properly tensioned in order to cut effectively. If the blades are too loose, they will not be able to cut through the branches of the hedge. If the blades are too tight, they will not be able to move freely and will also not be able to cut effectively. To check the tension of the blades, simply hold the hedge trimmer in your hand and try to move the blades back and forth. If the blades move freely but do not wobble, the tension is correct. If the blades are too loose or too tight, you will need to adjust the tension.
Misaligned Blades
The blades on a hedge trimmer need to be properly aligned in order to cut effectively. If the blades are misaligned, they will not be able to make good contact with the branches of the hedge and will not be able to cut them effectively. To check the alignment of the blades, simply look at them from the side. The blades should be parallel to each other and should be evenly spaced apart. If the blades are not aligned, you will need to adjust them.
How to Troubleshoot: Hedge Trimmer Works But Does Not Cut
Problem: Hedge trimmer works but does not cut
If your hedge trimmer is running but not cutting, there are a few possible causes. Here are some troubleshooting tips to help you identify the problem and get your hedge trimmer back in working order.
1. Check the blade
The most common cause of a hedge trimmer not cutting is a dull blade. To check the blade, turn off the trimmer and remove the guard. Inspect the blade for any damage, such as nicks, chips, or bends. If the blade is damaged, it will need to be replaced.
To sharpen the blade, you can use a file or a sharpening stone. Be sure to wear gloves and eye protection when sharpening the blade.
2. Check the oil level
If the oil level is low, the blade may not be getting enough lubrication. To check the oil level, remove the oil cap and look inside the oil reservoir. The oil level should be between the full and add marks. If the oil level is low, add oil to the reservoir until it reaches the full mark.
3. Check the air filter
A dirty air filter can restrict airflow to the engine, which can cause the engine to run poorly and the blade to not cut. To check the air filter, remove the air filter cover and inspect the filter. If the filter is dirty, it will need to be replaced.
4. Check the spark plug
A faulty spark plug can cause the engine to misfire, which can also lead to the blade not cutting. To check the spark plug, remove the spark plug cap and remove the spark plug. Inspect the spark plug for any damage, such as a burnt or cracked insulator. If the spark plug is damaged, it will need to be replaced.
5. Check the carburetor
If the carburetor is not adjusted properly, the engine may not run properly and the blade may not cut. To check the carburetor, you will need to remove the carburetor and clean it. You can also adjust the carburetor to ensure that it is properly tuned.
6. Take your hedge trimmer to a professional
If you have tried troubleshooting the problem yourself and you are still unable to get your hedge trimmer to cut, it is best to take it to a professional for repair. A professional will be able to diagnose the problem and fix it quickly and efficiently.
Preventative Maintenance
In addition to troubleshooting, you can also take steps to prevent your hedge trimmer from not cutting. Here are a few tips:
Sharpen the blade regularly:
A dull blade will not cut well and can damage your hedges.
Keep the oil level full:
A low oil level can cause the blade to overheat and become damaged.
Clean the air filter regularly:
A dirty air filter can restrict airflow to the engine, which can cause the engine to run poorly and the blade to not cut.
Replace the spark plug regularly:
A faulty spark plug can cause the engine to misfire, which can also lead to the blade not cutting.
Adjust the carburetor regularly:
A properly adjusted carburetor will help the engine run smoothly and the blade will cut well.
By following these tips, you can help keep your hedge trimmer in good working order and prevent it from not cutting.
Also Read THis: My Hedge Trimmer Won’T Cut
FAQs About Hedge Trimmers That Work But Don’t Cut
Why is my hedge trimmer not cutting?
There are a few possible reasons why your hedge trimmer might not be cutting. Here are some of the most common causes:
The blades are dull: If the blades on your hedge trimmer are dull, they won’t be able to cut through the branches of your hedges. To fix this, you can sharpen the blades yourself or take them to a professional to be sharpened.
The blades are dirty: If the blades on your hedge trimmer are dirty, they won’t be able to cut through the branches of your hedges as effectively. To fix this, you can clean the blades with a brush or a cloth.
The trimmer is not getting enough power: If your hedge trimmer is not getting enough power, it won’t be able to cut through the branches of your hedges. To fix this, you can check the battery or the power cord to make sure they are properly connected.
The trimmer is not being used properly: If you are not using your hedge trimmer properly, it won’t be able to cut through the branches of your hedges. To fix this, you can read the instructions that came with your trimmer or watch a video online to learn how to use it properly.
What can I do to prevent my hedge trimmer from not cutting?
There are a few things you can do to prevent your hedge trimmer from not cutting. Here are some tips:
Sharpen the blades regularly: This will help to ensure that the blades are always sharp and able to cut through the branches of your hedges.
Clean the blades regularly: This will help to remove any dirt or debris that could be preventing the blades from cutting properly.
Make sure the trimmer is getting enough power: If the trimmer is not getting enough power, it won’t be able to cut through the branches of your hedges.
Use the trimmer properly: Make sure you are using the trimmer according to the instructions that came with it. This will help to prevent damage to the trimmer and ensure that it is able to cut through the branches of your hedges properly.
What should I do if my hedge trimmer still doesn’t cut after trying these tips?
If you have tried all of the tips above and your hedge trimmer still doesn’t cut, you may need to take it to a professional for repair. A professional will be able to diagnose the problem and fix it so that your hedge trimmer is able to cut through the branches of your hedges again.
How can I sharpen the blades on my hedge trimmer?
There are a few different ways to sharpen the blades on your hedge trimmer. Here are two methods:
Using a file: You can use a file to sharpen the blades on your hedge trimmer. To do this, hold the file at a 45-degree angle to the blade and stroke it back and forth. Be sure to sharpen both sides of the blade.
Using a sharpening stone: You can also use a sharpening stone to sharpen the blades on your hedge trimmer. To do this, hold the stone at a 45-degree angle to the blade and stroke it back and forth. Be sure to sharpen both sides of the blade.
How can I clean the blades on my hedge trimmer?
There are a few different ways to clean the blades on your hedge trimmer. Here are two methods:
Using a brush: You can use a brush to clean the blades on your hedge trimmer. To do this, hold the brush in one hand and the hedge trimmer in the other hand. Brush the blades in the direction of the cutting edge.
Using a cloth: You can also use a cloth to clean the blades on your hedge trimmer. To do this, hold the cloth in one hand and the hedge trimmer in the other hand. Wipe the blades in the direction of the cutting edge.
