Why maintenance matters
A hedge trimmer that tears instead of cutting cleanly damages plants (wounds that heal poorly, disease) and strains the motor. Autumn, after the final trim, is the time to service before storage.
After each use 1. Clean the blades: sap + stuck debris = hardened resin that jams. Use a brush + resin cleaner. 2. Lubricate the blades: spray lubricant/resin along the full length prevents corrosion and reduces friction. 3. Check blade tightness (play = imprecise cutting and wear).
## Sharpening Teeth dull with use. Signs: you have to go over branches multiple times, branches are crushed.
- Sharpen each tooth with a flat file or stone, respecting the original angle (usually 30–45°).
- Sharpen only the bevelled face, on the same side for each tooth.
- Deburr the underside slightly.
- Don't change the angle: you'll lose cutting efficiency.
