Purchasing a corded electric hedge trimmer can turn out to be a very intelligent buy.
These machines can to turn tough jobs into easy ones.
They are fairly inexpensive and easy to operate.
And, although there are some disadvantages to these hedge trimmers, they are an excellent choice for many homeowners.
Size and power of corded electric hedge trimmers
Compared to gas-powered hedge trimmers, corded units are quite light and easy to operate.
These machines use electric motors to power their blades, and the power of these motors is rated in terms of amps.
Most of these hedge trimmers are rated between about 2.5 and 5 amps. While this will not give you the power of a top gas-powered hedge trimmer, it should be more than enough for most common applications.
The overall sizes of hedge trimmers are generally determined by cutting bar length.
Basically, the bigger the cutting bar, the bigger the machine. While the range can extend from 13 inches to 40 inches, most corded electric hedge trimmers feature cutting bars between 17 and 24 inches long. This is an ideal length for most applications and machines with cutting bars of this size are typically quite easy to handle and operate.
How do corded electric hedge trimmers compare to cordless and gas-powered hedge trimmers?
Corded electric hedge trimmers are very popular because they feature much of the power of gasoline models with the light weight and ease of operation common to cordless units. Of course, there are advantages and disadvantages associated with these machines.
When compared to gas-powered hedge trimmers, corded electric units do not offer quite as much power. Also, corded electric trimmers must be kept within about 100 feet of a working electrical outlet in order to operate. That being said, corded models are much quieter and significantly easier to operate for most users. Additionally, corded electric models are friendlier to your neighborhood and the environment.
Cordless hedge trimmers offer a number of advantages like portability and easy operation, but they are not as powerful as corded models. Also, cordless hedge trimmers can only be operated for as long as the battery can hold a charge. This is not something of concern for owners of corded models, but corded models must always be connected to a power outlet for operation.
If you have a smaller property, then you need not worry so much about proximity to a power outlet, but if you maintain a larger property, then you may be better off with a cordless or gas-powered hedge trimmer. Generally speaking, a corded electric model will offer most users the best combination of power, value, and operational ease.
Features to look out for in corded electric hedge trimmers
Not all corded electric hedge trimmers are alike, which is why you should look for certain features before you buy.
Some features are more important than others, and your needs may dictate a specific feature set for your property. Regardless, some features are designed to help you do your work faster and more efficiently and they should be considered carefully before a purchase is made.
Cutting bar length is a consideration that you should take very seriously. If you have a longer cutting bar, you can work more quickly, especially when trimming larger hedges and bushes.
However, larger cutting blades mean heavier and more difficult to handle machines. Because of this, you should weigh up how comfortable it will be for you to operate a larger machine.
Next, you should look for a hedge trimmer featuring double action blades. This allows you to use the trimmer in both directions, and it makes the task of trimming much more efficient.
Also, double action blades tend to make cleaner cuts which ensure that your hedges and bushes stay healthy.
Other important features include an electrical cord pigtail, which allows for a better connection with your extension cord, and a wraparound handle, which can make the machine much easier to operate.
These features may cost you additional money, but they can also make your machine much more easy to operate. It is up to you which features are musts and which ones you can ignore, so do your research carefully.
Best uses for corded electric hedge trimmers
These machines are best used in applications which allow for close proximity to electrical outlets. As long as the corded electric hedge trimmer is plugged in, you will have the power to tackle most hedge trimming jobs. Because these machines are so quiet and easy to use, they are ideal for small to medium sized properties located in cities or suburban neighborhoods.
Summing up
Gas powered hedge trimmers offer more power and cordless trimmers offer more portability, but corded electric hedge trimmers have the power and versatility needed for most jobs. If you are unable to trim in close proximity to an electrical outlet, then this type of machine may not work for you.
However, if you are looking for a great value in a powerful yet quiet machine, a corded electric hedge trimmer might be your best bet.
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