Grass Trimmer Buying Guide
Grass trimmers, also called string trimmers or weed whackers, can transform an unkempt lawn into an immaculate one without breaking your back. Though the most important element in selecting a grass trimmer is thinking about exactly how much area you plan on maintaining, there are many other factors to consider about the grass trimmer itself that make the choice a bit more challenging. Pronto has highlighted some of these items you might want to consider so that choosing your grass trimmer will be as easy as actually trimming your grass.
The five
What are the five key points I need to look at?
Engine Type
Grass trimmer engines are powered by electricity or gas. Electric trimmers are generally lighter and easier to maneuver, while gasoline trimmers tend to be heavier, though less limited in terms of mobility.
Shafts
The shafts of grass trimmers are what connect the handle to the cutting mechanism, and can either be straight or curved. Trimmers with nylon or metal blades usually have straight shafts, which are great for areas harder to access. Smaller trimmers tend to have curved shafts, which are easier to operate and put less strain on the user.
Cord vs Cordless
Cordless trimmers might be a good choice if your yard is relatively small (most batteries last 45 minutes), grass isn’t too think, you plan on maintaining it often. Trimmers with cords are limited to as far as an extension cord will stretch, though they’re easier to maintain and more lightweight.
Height
Because you might be using your trimmer for long periods of time, make sure your trimmer will be comfortable to use; that you’re not bending over too much, or straining to hold one that is too large for you. Machines with adjustable shafts will do better at helping you determine your most comfortable height.
Gap
If you have particularly tall grass, it may be more likely to impede a grass trimmer, as they tend to get stuck around the top of the cutting head. This is more likely to happen if there is a gap between the debris guard and the cutting head itself. The smaller the gap or if there is a protective sleeve available, the less likely you’ll get grass caught in the cutting head.
Shop talk
What are the terms and definitions I need to know about?
Monofilament Line
Also known as a “string” (usually nylon or plastic), some trimmers feature this plus a cutting head instead of a blade.
Two Stroke Engine
These are internal combustion engines. Gasoline engines usually use these, though four-stroke engines are a better choice in reducing pollution.
Rotating Hub
This is the reel or spool on which the line or string is spun.
Brush Cutter
These commonly have 2 handles and sometimes a harness, built more for cutting roadside grass in large areas.
Electric vs Gas-Powered Trimmers
Gas-powered trimmers, though bulkier and heavier, can be used almost anywhere and are more powerful and better for overgrown areas.
Electric trimmers emit less pollution and are better in smaller, tighter spaces
With electric trimmers, you’re limited as far as an extension cord will take you. If you choose a battery-operated electric trimmer, you’ll need to charge for 5-7 hours in order to get at least 30-40 minutes.
There are now four stroke engines and modified two stroke engines for gas trimmers that emit less pollution than a traditional two stroke engine.
String Replacement
The most important component to maintain in your trimmer is the line or string. If the string runs our or gets low, all you have to do is push and make a counterclockwise turn tothe lower part of the head in order to remove, cut a new string that is under 6 inches, and feed it into the trimmer.
Edging
One thing you might want to consider in choosing your trimmer is the ability to edge your lawn after trimming. Edging can make your lawn look even more groomed and prevents stray grasses from creeping outside lawn borders. In order to edge with your trimmer, you’ll need to shift your grip so that the line or string spins vertically. The lighter in weight your trimmer is, the more comfortable this will be.
Need to know more?
- How To Trim
http://www.allaboutlawns.com/lawn-mowing-mowers/how-do-i-trim.php - Facts About Grass Trimmers
http://dailyknowledgetree.com/8627/interesting-facts-about-weed-wackers/ - Choosing and Using Trimmers
http://www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/article/0,,442472,00.html - Pre-Shopping Questions
http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/home-garden/tools-power-equipment/string-trimmers/string-trimmer-buying-advice/str...
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