At present, you will come across different types of weed trimmers on the market featuring different shape styles, power sources, handles, as well as extras. Although it might appear to be a simple device, selecting a trimmer is not that easy after all. You need to experiment with different weed trimmers at the store before picking the one appropriate for you. Below, we have provided a list of the things to consider before purchasing a weed trimmer.
1. Types of weed trimmers
Curved shaft trimmers are usually simple to use since they are somewhat shorter as compared to the straight shaft trimmers and will consume less room for transporting and storage. These are appropriate for the smaller lawns out there.
On the other hand, straight shaft trimmers featuring bevel gears have been designed for performing more tedious weeding tasks since it is quite simple to get to the difficult areas out there. Furthermore, there is no need to bend over for the taller users thanks to the presence of the longer shaft.
The third type happens to be the detachable shaft trimmer that will enable you to transform the device into a multi-purpose machine. In fact, it is a simple task to convert the trimmer into a brushcutter, hedge trimmer, sweeper, edger, tree pruner, or cultivator according to your requirements.
2. Consider the area’s size
It is important to consider the areas where you want to employ the trimmer, including the distance from the electrical outlets along with its size. In case you have a big lot an electric weed trimmer will not be appropriate for you since the distance from the electrical outlets will be quite high. You will have more flexibility when it comes to the trimmer you pick when your yard is smaller in size.
3. Examine the areas
It would be a sensible idea to examine the areas where the trimmer is going to be used. Try to find out any nearby structures. A straight shaft will be ideal in case you have features like bushes and fences which you are going to trim underneath. On the contrary, a carved shaft might get the job done for you in case you want to trim the weed around gardens or any other similar structure.
4. Take into consideration the type of weeds
Make sure to consider the weed types that you are going to trim with the help of the device. In case your area is quite large with plenty of weeds or thick grass, it would be prudent to pick a trimmer using a commercial-grade line. It will not be possible for a standard-grade line within the device to trim weed which is more intense out there.
5. Try out the model before purchasing
Make it a point to verify the controls and comprehend the balance as well as the weight of the device before purchasing it. While you are at the stores, move the device around just like you do while using it practically. According to the experts, the weight of the trimmer must be uniformly distributed along the length of the device or you should go for one which is somewhat heavier at the top.
6. Make a choice between cordless models and corded ones
Before using the trimmer of your choice, make sure to choose between cordless models featuring battery packs, corded electric models, and gas trimmers. It is a fact that the electric models happen to be more inexpensive, lighter, and simpler to use. Moreover, they will also be making less noise. On the other hand, weed trimmers operating on gas or batteries will provide you with more freedom to maneuver without being restricted by cords. The trimmers which are operated by batteries might run for just thirty minutes before recharging the battery. On the contrary, gas trimmers will provide you with better results on bigger projects having more attachment options.
7. Select a power source
• Battery – On most occasions, a cordless electric trimmer will provide adequate cutting power as well as the runtime for handling the average residential yard. One drawback that comes with a battery-powered weed trimmer is that a second battery will be required by you because in case one battery runs out of power, you will need the second one to complete the job.
• Gas – Weed whackers, which happen to be powered by gas is usually the right choice for larger yards where you need to devote more runtime. These are likewise appropriate models for trimming thick and heavy bush. However, gas engines will require more maintenance as compared to electric trimmers.
• Electric – In most cases, the corded electric trimmers will provide sufficient power for an average yard despite the fact that the cord might hamper your freedom to some extent. However, the good thing is that these types of trimmers are more inexpensive as compared to the other two types mentioned above.
8. Review the additional features
Before purchasing the weed trimmer, it will be a sensible idea to review the additional features provided on that particular model. For instance, some gas trimmers come with additional features like a see-through gas tank which will allow you to understand when a refill and the deflector will be required by you. On the other hand, some models feature an innovative guard for safeguarding the plants in the garden that should not be trimmed by any means.
9. Noise output
No one can deny the fact that gas-powered weed trimmers happen to be the loudest ones on the market. On the contrary, the battery-powered, as well as electric trimmers, generate less noise. In spite of this, it will be sensible to make use of ear protection while using string trimmers. Look at the instructions provided by the manufacturer regarding the type of protection for the ears required by you.
10. Low vibration
Your hands can become numb while operating gas-powered weed whackers because of the intense vibrations produced by the device. Consequently, it will be a sensible idea to look for a tool featuring anti-vibration technology. In fact, this particular feature is offered by most of the contemporary versions available out there.