String Trimmer buying guide

Introduction:

You may have seen people using string trimmers in your neighborhood or on TV and wondered what they are. String trimmers are also known as weed eaters, weed whackers, and line trimmers. They are a type of power tool that uses a flexible monofilament line to cut grass and weeds near the ground. Not sure if a string trimmer is the right tool for your needs? Read on for our string trimmer buying guide.

ENGINE TYPE

There are two basic types of engines you will find when shopping for a string trimmer: gas-powered and electric. Gas-powered string trimmers tend to be more powerful and often larger, making them ideal for heavier duty projects around the yard. Electric string trimmers, while not as powerful as their gas-powered counterparts, come in a variety of shapes and sizes and have the advantage of not requiring you to maintain a separate fuel source. Additionally, electric string trimmers that run off of rechargeable batteries are becoming increasingly popular as people become more conscientious about reducing their carbon footprints. No matter what engine type you choose, be sure to read the manufacturer's specifications carefully to determine the model's voltage, wattage and amp rating to make sure it will be compatible with your home's electrical system.

"FEED SYSTEM "

So, you're in the market for a string trimmer. Great! But with all the different models and manufacturers out there, how do you know which one is right for you? Well, let's start with the basics. There are two predominant types of feed systems in string trimmers, which are the mechanisms that control how much of the “string” is fed out through the head. The traditional method is called a bump feed, because you must press down on the guard in a bumping motion to manually release more of the line. The second type of feed system is called an automatic feed because, as you can probably already guess, the trimmer extends the feed line automatically as you go. Automatic feed systems are becoming more and more popular because they're less frustrating and provide a more consistent cutting length.

CUTTING WIDTH

When it comes to string trimmers, the cutting width is one of the most important considerations. Every string trimmer is going to feature a cutting width expressed in inches, usually between 12 and 14 inches on average. This number refers to the space in which the trimmer can properly cut down grass without you having to move the unit at all. As such, a larger cutting width means that you can cut more at once with less effort, making them ideal for large yards or anyone who wants to get each job done fast.

CONVERTIBLE CONFIGURATIONS

String trimmers are an essential tool for keeping your yard looking neat and tidy, and these days many models offer additional functionality in the form of convertible configurations. This feature allows the trimmer to be quickly switched between a standard trimming mode and an edger mode, which can come in handy if you have a lot of trimming to do around your property. Any model that offers this feature should have at least one attached wheel to help make guiding it easier in the edger mode. While this feature is by no means necessary to be able to use a string trimmer for its primary purpose, it can be quite helpful if you have the need for one.

SAFETY FEATURES

One of the most important things to look for when purchasing a string trimmer is safety features. After all, you don't want to end up with an injury while trying to take care of your yard. Thankfully, most string trimmers on the market today have some great safety features built in, so you can rest assured knowing that you're safe while using it. The most important safety feature is a guard around the head of the trimmer. This will help keep you safe by preventing any accidental contact with the blades. Additionally, some models may include smaller guards that are meant for users with a higher level of experience operating the trimmer. Be sure to read the product description carefully to see if the model you're interested in has these features.

WEIGHT AND SIZE

When it comes to string trimmers, weight and size are two important factors to consider. As with any type of tool, it’s important to think about how much it weighs and how big it is, so that you can make sure you can actually handle using it. For me, as a woman who’s just a hair above 5 feet tall, I try to avoid any tools that are particularly large because I don’t want to face any complications using them out in my yard. The same would be true for anyone who is older or has any kind of joint problems or physical disabilities. Ultimately, you don’t want to buy a string trimmer that you can’t actually use!

OTHER ASPECTS TO THINK ABOUT"

When you’re in the market for a string trimmer, there are a few other things you need to think about. First, consider what other tools might be included in the purchase. Some models may be part of a yard tool bundle, offering leaf blowers or hedge trimmers as a way to giving you everything you need to care for your yard. However, remember that these tools may not be as powerful or as feature-rich as standalone models. It’s also very important to think about the handle positions, as this will determine how easy it is for you to actually operate the trimmer. Some models have adjustable handles, which can make it more comfortable for people of all different heights to use them.
 

Conclusion:

A string trimmer can quickly and easily help you keep your yard tidy, and with the right model you can get the job done quickly and easily. When choosing a string trimmer, it's important to consider the different engine types, feed systems, cutting widths, and convertible configurations available. Be sure to also look for safety features like a throttle lock-out and automatic stop switch. With the right string trimmer, you can quickly and easily take care of all your trimming needs.