Why Is My Electric Hedge Trimmer Not Working

Imagine you are in the garden, excited to trim overgrown hedges and bushes with your electric hedge trimmer.

You turn it on, ready to make a few cuts. But this excitement ends in just a few seconds.

Suddenly, it stops working…

You check its power source and everything else that is likely to cause trouble, but all seems to be fine.

And you’re left pondering, “Why is my electric hedge trimmer stopped working?”

Your tool has some functional issues, but you’re not familiar with what specific part is damaged. And what made it stop working?

It’s the third time that your tool has suddenly been damaged.

This time, you want to know the reason!

Remember that there can be several simple explanations as to why it has happened. The good news is that you may be able to get it fixed without calling out any expert. Yeah, that’s true!

Want to know the possible causes of why is your electric hedge trimmer running slow, and its simple solutions? Keep reading to find the answer to all your queries;

7 Reasons Why Is My Electric Hedge Trimmer Not Working

There can be a number of reasons why you may face hedge trimmer problems with ensuring your trimmer works properly. But thankfully, most of them will need convenient fixing without requiring extreme maintenance.

It might even be something as small as a loose connection to the electrical outlet or a jam in its blades. Yes, you heard that right!

But at the same time, the problem can be bigger as well. Either way, you need to follow some steps to make it get back to the working pattern correctly to ensure the longest life for your tools.

No more talk; dig right into it!

Reason #1. Your trimmer has an Older or Dead Battery

Consider choosing a battery-powered hedge trimmer over one that requires an extension cord. 

Many people prefer this option as it eliminates the worry of getting tangled in cords or not being able to reach the areas that need trimming.

However, if you are experiencing difficulty starting your hedge trimmer, there may be a few causes to consider. Firstly, ensure that your battery is firmly plugged in. 

If the battery is not properly attached to your hedge trimmer, it may not start.

Typically, when the battery is securely inserted into the hedge trimmer socket, it produces a clicking sound, making it easy to detect and resolve any issues. 

Another potential problem that could prevent your hedge trimmer from starting is a dead battery.

• How to Fix it

Battery-powered hedge trimmers normally have adequate battery life, but it’s significant to charge your battery when it needs charging.

It is suggested to fully charge your hedge trimmer battery every single use. It will make sure that you won’t have to face a dead or low battery when you need to trim your hedges later.

When charging the battery, the charging dock generally has lights that specify the battery’s unfinished charge and alert you when the battery is fully charged with a solid green light.

Reason #2. Debris is Stuck in the Blade

The reason why your electric hedge trimmer is failing to start may not necessarily be related to the power source. Even if the motor seems to be working correctly, the blades may not be operating as they should.

A common cause for this issue could be the presence of debris, such as dirt, leaves, or small pieces of branches lodged in the blade components.

• How to Fix it

Before using a hedge trimmer, it is essential to examine the blades for any blockages that could hinder their proper functioning. Even the smallest piece of a branch can cause issues in its operation.

If you discover any debris on your blades, ensure that your hedge trimmer is not connected to the power source.

It is crucial to avoid accidentally turning on your hedge trimmer while removing the debris.

After ensuring that your hedge trimmer will not activate, locate where the debris is and attempt to remove it. It may be easy to pick out with your hands, but if there is a significant obstruction between the blades, do not insert your fingers between sharp blades to remove it.

Instead, consider using a tool such as pruning shears, pliers, scissors, a knife, or any other appropriate tool to extract the debris. No matter what tool you use, be extra cautious not to damage the blades as it could cause more serious problems.

One of the most effective ways to prevent debris from getting stuck in your hedge trimmer’s blades is to lubricate them before and after every use. 

This will ensure effortless cutting and prevent any blockages!

Additionally, remember that a hedge trimmer is not designed to cut large branches. If you attempt to cut a tree or hedge that is too large, it can cause blade damage. Moreover, large pieces of debris can even clog the blades.

Related: How Thick a Branch Can a Hedge Trimmer Cut

Reason #3. The Buttons Aren’t Pushed Down All the Way

While it is not a common reason for your hedge trimmer not starting, there is a possibility that there is a problem with the handle buttons.

As mentioned earlier, both hands need to hold the buttons present on the handle to operate the trimmer correctly. 

If it seems that your hedge trimmer is not starting, then it is possible that you are not applying enough force on these buttons. 

Some trimmers may only have one button present on the back handle, but this issue can still arise in any case.

• How to Fix it

Although it may seem like a minor issue, not holding down the power buttons strongly enough could be the reason why a hedge trimmer won’t start.

The high-powered swing blades of the trimmer can generate vibrations that make it challenging to maintain a firm grasp on the handles.

If you notice that your hands are slipping on the handles, and keeping the power buttons pressed is difficult, then it makes sense to use yard gloves with a firm grip on the palms and fingers.

This will give you a stronger grip and enable you to hold the buttons more efficiently, eventually leading to a well-ordered trimming experience.

Reason #4. There’s a Loose Connection

To power your electric hedge trimmer with an extension cord, it is important to ensure that the cord is securely connected to your trimmer. 

A loose connection may cause issues with the initial burst of power. Another issue that can arise with the extension cord connection is when you are working in your yard. 

If you are standing too far away from the outlet, the extension cord may become unplugged from either your hedge trimmer or the outlet, that results in a significant interruption to your work.

• How to Fix it

Fortunately, fixing this problem is an efficient and trouble-free task that won’t cost you extra money. 

Sometimes, even if you have sufficient cord slack, the plug connection with your hedge trimmer might look insecure or unreliable because of the pressure of the cord hanging from the trimmer.

Many electric hedge trimmers are equipped with an integrated cord holder that can help in handling the mass of the cord and take the tension off the plug-in. 

If your hedge trimmer doesn’t come with a cord holder, you can still wrap the cord a few times on all sides of the back handle of your trimmer before plugging it in. 

It will provide additional support and keep the cord firmly secured to the trimmer.

Various problems that prevent your hedge trimmer from starting are caused by simple connection problems. 

Therefore, if your electric hedge trimmer is not starting, this should be one of the first things to check. It is an uncomplicated fix that will not create any issues.

Related: What Gauge Extension Cord for Hedge Trimmer

Reason #5. Safety Switch is Still Engaged

In case you have a strong grip on your hedge trimmer, but it is still not functioning, it is suggested to look into the safety switch. 

Most electric hedge trimmers come with a safety switch that prevents the hedge trimmer from turning on accidentally.

• How to Fix it

To solve this problem, all you need to do is shift the safety slot to the off position. It is important to remember that the safety switch is a crucial feature built to prevent accidental startups. 

Therefore, it’s crucial to keep it turned on during transportation or maintenance of a hedge trimmer. 

Just make sure to switch it off only when you are ready to use the trimmer.

Reason #6. Your Hedge Trimmer is Overused

While electric hedge trimmers are definitely more convenient and less exhausting than manual hedge trimming, they also have their limits. 

If you spend a few hours trimming hedges, trees, and bushes in your yard, you might take a short break only to return to work and find that your hedge trimmer will not start.

Overuse of an electric hedge trimmer can cause overheating inside the motor. If you have checked your power source connection, blade condition, and everything else on the outside of your hedge trimmer, your problem might be internal.

• How to Fix it

This is by far the easiest problem to solve out of all the reasons for your electric trimmer not starting. Simply put your trimmer down and give it a break. 

As long as it’s just an overused and overheated trimmer, it should be back in action after it cools down.

One way to tell if your hedge trimmer is overheated is if you see grey or white smoke coming from within the motor. 

This does not mean your hedge trimmer is going to explode, but it is surely something you need to check out.

Lack of maintenance, proper lubrication with oil, and overuse are all problems that might cause overheating inside your hedge trimmer’s motor. 

The build-up of intense friction inside the motor can cause minor problems or even result in your hedge trimmer not starting altogether.

If you think your hedge trimmer is likely overused or overheated from too much trimming in one day or one weekend, this can be an easy fix. Just give it a break. 

Like you, your hedge trimmer can get overloaded with an overwhelming amount of work. It might just need to cool down for a while.

If you are not sure that your hedge trimmer is not turning on just because it has been powered on for a long period of time, your hedge trimmer might have reached the end of its functionality. 

If you have used it regularly over a number of years, its parts have likely worn down due to such use.

Even if you take the most in-depth care of your hedge trimmer, it will eventually reach its endpoint. In this case, there is likely not anything you can do except invest in another hedge trimmer.

Related: How To Store Hedge Trimmer?

Maintenance Tips for Keeping Your Trimmer Running

A well-maintained trimmer will always work amazingly and have fewer problems. Routine care of the trimmer will also reduce the risks of issues popping up. While 

Follow these steps to repair your device yourself & you’ll definitely be able to save some bucks instantly:

Step 1 – Protect Yourself

Safety must be your first priority while working with any kind of machinery or electronics, even something as small as electric trimmers. 

Turn off the trimmer and unplug it completely from its power source.

This will eliminate the chances of accidentally turning the tool on while working. Also, resist the urge to turn off the unit.

Of course, it’s too easy to hit the on and off switch accidentally and injure yourself. Right? 

Step 2 – Examine the Blades

One of the most common issues with trimmers is the jammed blades.

Especially if you cut back thick growth in the bushes or woods, the blades will lock up very easily due to the gathered debris. Frustrating, isn’t it?

To avoid this, inspect the blades to examine if there is any stuck branch there.

Broken wood may be sheared, and you can also pull out larger branches manually. In addition, you can clip away stubborn ones using the pruning shears.

If the blades are cracked or broken instead of broken, you need to replace them instantly!

Also Read: Can You Use Electric Hedge Trimmer In The Rain

Step 3 – Check the Teeth

Now, place the pruner on any flat surface & put on heavy-duty gloves. The gloves will efficiently protect you from getting any cuts and nicks on your arms and hands. 

Also, examine it to see if there’s any debris stuck in the unit’s teeth.

You can pull it out manually. If this does not work for you, use a wooden dowel to make the pieces loose. 

See if any of its teeth are bent. And if they are, they’ll need to be replaced before you start to use them again to resume normal function.

Step 4 – Replace Broken Blades

In this step, open the housing to access the nuts, bolts, and screws securing the blades.

Remember which specific position you are in while removing them, taking a photograph with your phone (if necessary).

You may also need to wear quality gloves to protect your hands from scratches.

After that, insert a new set of blades that are compatible with your tool and secure.

Step 5 – Replace Broken Teeth

Your hedge trimmer’s teeth are on a chain. Even if one is bent out of shape completely, the machine won’t work efficiently. 

While it’s possible to replace and remove just one tooth, it’s not really recommended because the process is time-consuming and difficult.

Instead, try to replace the whole chain of teeth.

Start by opening the housing & using the right tool to loosen the chain sufficiently to pull it off.

Replace it with another chain (the new one), and make sure that you install it with its teeth facing out. Plus, you can wear gloves while doing this if you are highly concerned about cutting yourself.

Now, soak a cloth with a suitable lubricant that is suggested in the owner’s manual. Apply it to its teeth when you are done securing them.

Allow it to sink for almost 15 minutes. Then, simply plug in the pruner, and turn it on. 

Let it run for a few minutes. Lastly, turn the device off; unplug & lubricate again in order to finish up this procedure.

Related: How To Trim Cedar Hedge With Electric Trimmer

Frequently Asked Questions

1) Can electric hedge trimmers be repaired?

With a severed cord, the tool is virtually worthless. However, with a little ingenuity and a small amount of money, you can repair the cord & have your trimmer running smoothly. If the cord left attached to it is long enough to be usable, you can simply add a new plug to its end.

2) Do hedge trimmers overheat?

While using the trimmer, it’s usually for sap and debris to become lodged in the trimming blades. It can cause its blades to bind, making cutting more tough, and even cause its engine to overheat. Regular cleanup can assist in preventing damage to the tool.

3) Can I use an electric hedge trimmer after rain?

You shouldn’t trim your hedges or bushes in or after the rain, and this is specifically important while using an electric trimmer, as electricity and water don’t mix! If the weather is okay to work in, make sure that your trimmer is in nice working condition and not damaged at all.

4) Do electric hedge trimmers get dull?

With the passage of time, all blades eventually get dull & need to be sharpened for the best performance. Your trimmers are no different in this regard. Regardless of whether you utilize them often or sparingly, you will need to sharpen the tool.

5) What to do if my electric hedge trimmer stopped working?

If the trimmer isn’t turning on, especially if it hasn’t been recently used, you may have a drained battery. Simply plug your tool into your charger & examine if anything happens. Your trimmer will ideally recognize that it has been connected to the specific power source & charge its battery.

Conclusion

An electric trimmer that stops suddenly is undeniably super frustrating. Isn’t it?

But guess what? There are various methods you can use to fix them. But that is only possible when you know what caused your tool to stop working.

From issues with motors or blades to problems with power sources, it’s important to troubleshoot the problem thoroughly to determine the root cause.

Identify and address the underlying problem, know why is my electric hedge trimmer not working, and get your tool back in the proper working order!