Grass Trimmer Buying Guide

Grass trimmers, sometimes called string trimmers or whipper snippers, are an essential tool for making your lawn and garden look its very best by trimming areas your lawn mower cannot reach. Choosing the right trimmer will make it easy to give your yard a flawless finish.

This guide explains the difference that power source makes in your grass trimmer's performance. You'll learn what to look for when comparing trimmers and the features that can make your job easier. We've also included tips on using and maintaining your trimmer for beautiful results.

Comparing Grass Trimmers | Grass Trimming Tips | Maintaining your Grass Trimmer

Grass Trimmer Power

Today you can find Gas, Electric and Rechargable Cordless grass trimmers. Each power source has its own benefits and considerations.

Gas - These heavy-duty units are good for large properties or cutting through heavy and thick grass or weeds. They are more versatile than an electric trimmer, especially if they are attachment capable, but they tend to be somewhat heavier and nosier. Gas units require regular maintenance, which includes replacing air filters and spark plugs.

Electric - These grass trimmers are lighter and start with the push of a button. They are generally less noisy and less expensive than gas models, don't require refuelling, and require little to no maintenance. Electric grass trimmers require an extension cord and access to an electrical outlet, which can make trimming a little more awkward.

Rechargable Cordless - Without any cords to manage while trimming, these models are light, easy to operate and highly portable. Cordless grass trimmers are the most quiet of the three types and, like electric trimmers, are easy to start and do not require a lot of maintenance. However, these units are typically not as powerful as the gas or electric models and you will need to recharge the battery. To avoid waiting for your battery to recharge, it's helpful to purchase an additional battery to keep charged and ready.

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Comparing Grass Trimmers

There are several features to consider when selecting a grass trimmer. Knowing the terms and what they mean will help you compare models, and decide which features you can benefit most from.

Shafts

Grass trimmers can be equipped with curved or straight shafts.
Curved shafts offer better balance, and are easier to handle and lighter weight - ideal for trimming along sidewalks, driveways or gardens.
Straight shafts are generally longer and are designed to be good at getting into hard to reach places like under decks, fences or bushes.

The larger the trimmer shaft's diameter, the more sturdy and durable the trimmer. Split shafts may allow you to use additional attachments, including TrimmerPlus® accessories such as a garden cultivator, hedge trimmer, tree pruner or leaf blower.

Weight – This can vary depending on the type of trimmer. Gas units range from 10 to 20 lbs (4.5-9 kg). Electric and cordless can be as light as 4 lbs (1.8 kg). A trimmer's balance and power can often compensate for its weight.
Balance and grip – Pick up a model and hold it. A better balanced trimmer will be easier to handle and use. Also consider the handle: a "C" grip is standard, but many feature a "D" grip for left and right hand use, and easy switching side-to-side.
Cutting diameter – A wider cutting diameter can be more efficient and reduce the time you spend trimming, but a smaller diameter can be useful in smaller, hard-to-get-at places. In general, diameters can vary from about 8" to 18" (20-45 cm).
Guard – A shield on top of the cutting unit helps prevent grass and other debris from being tossed at you while trimming.
String/Trimmer Line – The string or trimmer line is the cutting blade of your grass trimmer. This plastic or nylon cord spins at high speeds to cut through grass and weeds. The trimming line style, diameter, weight and density determines trimming effectiveness and longevity of the line.
Spool – The spool holds the trimmer line. This can either be fixed, which requires you to wind replacement string around them, or replaceable, which lets you pop in a new string cartridge when string runs out.
Trimmer line feed system – Line may feed manually, automatically or with a bump'n'feed system. With auto-line advancement, each time the trimmer is stopped and restarted the line will advance 1/4" (0.6 cm) of length. Bump'n'feed lets you advance new string without stopping the trimmer by tapping the bottom of the unit on the ground.
Specialized lines and blades – Some trimmers offer dual line heads that can trim faster and more efficiently, while reducing vibration for most grass and weed applications. Brushcutter blades are specifically designed for cutting through dense bush and thick weeds.

Warranty – Consider what your grass trimmer's warranty covers. A longer warranty is your assurance that the trimmer is built to last.

For Gas Trimmers

4-cycle Engine - Gas grass trimmers come with either 4-cycle or 2-cycle engines. 4-cycle engine models are more powerful, use regular gas, and are more environmentally friendly. They tend to be easier to start and quieter to operate. 2-cycle trimmers are generally less expensive with less features. They operate on a gas-oil blend that you mix yourself.
Spring Assist™ Starting – This feature makes it much easier to pull start your gas trimmer.
Electric Start Capable (Press2Start™) – The newest and easiest method of starting your gas trimmer with no pulling required. Use with your own 1000 RPM corded or cordless drill and Power Start™ bit.

For Cordless Trimmers

Lithium-ion Power – Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) batteries are lighter weight than nickel-cadmium (NiCad) batteries. Unlike the gradual decline in the power of a NiCad battery, Li-Ion cells maintain consistent power throughout the entire cycle. Li-ion batteries offer up to 3 times the number of life-cycle charges compared to NiCad batteries, while also offering extended storage times with less self-discharge. Plus you can charge an Li-Ion cell anytime without a negative memory effect.

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Grass Trimming Tips

Following these steps will help ensure trouble-free grass trimming all season long:

Always wear safety goggles to protect your eyes from flying debris. Gloves, long pants and ear protection are also strongly recommended.
Always cut off about 1/3 or less of the total length of the grass.
The average lawn height should be approximately 1-1/2" to 2" (4-5 cm) during cooler months, and from 2" to 3-3/4"
(5-9 cm) during hotter months.
If you notice your grass has a grayish or brownish hue after cutting, advance the cutting line to ensure the sharpest line used while trimming.
Keep your grass trimmer well maintained for safe and effective operation.

Maintaining your Grass Trimmer

For electric grass trimmers, maintenance is as simple as keeping the trimming head clear and free of debris and dirt, and changing trimming line as needed. Gas and cordless models require a little more attention to stay in peak operating condition.

For Gas Models:

Use fresh gas throughout the season.
Change the spark plug and the oil at the start of every seaso.
Replace the air filter every 90 days.
Before storing for the season, empty the gas tank, disconnect the spark plug and clean the exterior with water and dish soap.

For Rechargeable Models:

Wait approximately 15 minutes before recharging a warm battery.
A fully discharged battery will require about 1-5 hours to fully charge.
Store batteries in a fully charged state.

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Grass Trimmer Buying Guide

Grass Trimmer Power

Comparing Grass Trimmers

Grass Trimming Tips

Maintaining your Grass Trimmer

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