Gas Weed Eater Won’t Start? Try This. Weed eater weed wacker

Gas Weed Eater Won’t Start? Try This

Weed eater, weed whacker, string trimmer – no matter what you call it, here’s how to get it running again.

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No matter what you call it – weed eater, weed whacker, string trimmer – chances are at some point it won’t start. Few things are more annoying than destroying your shoulder trying to start a gas weed eater when there’s work to do.

Fortunately, gas weed-eater engines are pretty simple, so most DIYers with a few tools and some basic know-how can troubleshoot a stubborn trimmer and get it running.

) Check The Gasoline

Gasoline can break down in as little as 30 days, especially today’s ethanol-containing gas.

Homeowners sometimes stash their string trimmer in the garage at season’s end without stabilizing the gas. Oxygen has all winter to break down and ruin the gasoline, leaving you with a trimmer that won’t start in the spring.

If your trimmer falls into this category, empty the old gas from the fuel tank and replace it with fresh fuel.

If your weed eater won’t start, trying removing the air filter and spraying carburetor cleaner into the intake.

) Clean The Carburetor

Once gas breaks down, varnish, gums and other debris can form inside the carburetor and clog the tiny fuel passages. This prevents fuel from reaching the combustion chamber and igniting, leaving you to struggle with a trimmer that won’t start.

Remove the air filter and spray carburetor cleaner into the intake. Let it sit for several minutes to help loosen and dissolve varnish. Replace the filter and try starting the trimmer.

If this doesn’t solve the problem, consider disassembling the carburetor to give it a more thorough cleaning.

Beware, however – taking apart a carburetor marks a point-of-no-return, of sorts. Understanding how the delicate gaskets, tiny screws and needle valves go back together can be a challenge, even on a relatively simple string-trimmer carburetor. Take pictures with your phone throughout the process to help reassembly. Clean all the openings and passages with carburetor cleaner.

If you’re reluctant to take apart the carb, visit the servicing dealer.

Remove the spark plug and use light sandpaper to clean electrode deposits to help fix a gas trimmer that won’t start.

) Clean/Replace Spark Plug

Oil deposits and carbon can foul the spark plug in a two-stroke engine if a low-quality oil is used. Deposits on the electrode prevent the plug from firing properly, which can reduce performance or prevent the engine from running altogether.

Plugs are inexpensive, so replace it if it’s fouled. If you don’t have a new plug available, clean the deposits from the electrode with light-duty sandpaper and check the gap. Consult the owner’s manual for the correct gap size.

If you know the spark plug is good, but the engine still doesn’t produce spark, the coil is likely to blame and requires replacement.

Direct compressed air from the inside of the air filter toward the outside to remove debris that may be restricting airflow.

) Clean/Replace Air Filter

A clogged air filter prevents the engine from receiving sufficient air to operate properly.

Before removing the air filter, brush away loose debris from around the filter cover and filter element. Tap rigid filters on a tabletop or the palm of your hand to dislodge any dirt or debris. Compressed air also works well. Make sure you direct air through the filter from the inside to avoid lodging debris deeper in the filter.

Avoid washing paper filters as this can collapse their micro-fine structure. Foam filters, however, can easily be washed using mild detergent and warm water.

As with the spark plug, however, replacement is often the best practice, especially if the filter is excessively dirty.

A spark-arrestor screen clogged with deposits can choke off airflow enough to prevent the trimmer from starting.

) Clean The Spark-Arrestor Screen

On many trimmers, a small screen covers the exhaust outlet and prevents sparks from exiting the muffler and potentially starting a fire.

As with plug fouling, too much oil in the gasoline, inferior oil and continued low-rpm operation can plug the screen with carbon deposits. This prevents exhaust-gas flow, which leads to power loss. In extreme cases, heavy deposits choke airflow enough to leave you with a weed eater that won’t start.

To fix the problem, remove the spark-arrestor screen and spray it with a heavy-duty cleaner, like AMSOIL Power Foam to soften the deposits before cleaning the screen with an abrasive pad. Reinstall the screen and test the trimmer.

Replace the screen altogether if it’s excessively plugged with carbon.

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Gas-Powered vs. Battery-Powered Weed Eaters

Do the loud noises from neighborhood lawn equipment ruin your quiet Saturday? Or are you more, “Give me power at any cost?” These are things you’ll need to consider when choosing between gas vs. battery-powered weed eaters.

Battery-powered and gas-powered weed eaters do the same job, so you may wonder, “What’s the difference?” Actually, power sources mean big differences in the use and performance of machines. Before you buy a weed eater, you want to know what type of machine will serve your lawn most efficiently and whether or not the noise or gas smell will bother you.

We’ll discuss the pros and cons of gas-powered vs. battery-powered weed eaters to help you decide which is best for your lawn.

Why your Weed Eater Won’t Stay Running. A Quick and Easy Fix

• Why do I need a weed eater?
• Essential weed eater terms
• Pros and cons of gas-powered weed eaters
• Pros and cons of battery-powered weed eaters
• Which is the best weed eater for me?
• FAQ about weed eaters

Why do I need a weed eater?

Weed eaters are an indispensable power tool in the DIY lawn maintenance tool kit. These handy machines help homeowners and lawn pros cut down grass and weeds in areas that a lawn mower just won’t reach.

If you have a drain ditch in your lawn or a steep slope, a weed eater will keep the grass looking nice and neat. These machines also create that professional, finished look when you use them to create clean lines around the edge of your lawn and flower beds.

Believe it or not, battery- and gas-powered machines aren’t the only types of weed eaters on the market. You’ll also see electric string trimmers (AKA corded models that require an extension cord) and even propane weed eaters.

Electric models are popular in very small, “postage stamp” lawns, and propane models perform as well as gas. While it’s good to know there are other options, we’ll FOCUS on the more popular gas-powered and cordless models in this article.

Not only do weed eaters accomplish many lawn tasks, but they also have many names:

• Weed whacker (or weed wacker)
• Whipper snipper
• Weed trimmer
• String trimmer
• Strimmer
• Weed whipper
• Line trimmer
• Grass trimmer

They all mean the same thing and do the same job. Here are a few brands you’re probably familiar with:

Essential weed eater terms

If you’re a weed eater novice, here are a few terms and components to familiarize yourself with as you do your research:

Power source

Gas models rely on gas and oil to power the engine. Battery-powered models rely on batteries — usually a lithium-ion battery. Both types offer brushless motors as well. Brushless motors are more efficient and less noisy than brushed motors. If you’re concerned about cost, though, know that the brushless motors are more expensive.

When you look at these power sources, gas models will label motor power in cubic centimeters (cc) and battery models will label it in volts (24V). The higher the number, the more power they offer.

Battery-powered models work well on lawns up to an acre, depending on your level of power. Use a machine with 20-40 volts for up to ½ acre, or from 40-80 volts for up to an acre. If your lawn is over an acre, you may want to consider a gas-powered machine.

Also, pay attention to rpm (revolutions per minute). Some will have a variable speed option as well (3,500 rpm, 5,300 rpm, 6,500 rpm) to save battery power. The higher rpm, the better the line will cut through thicker material.

Line feed

There are four types of feed systems: bump feed, auto-feed, command feed, and fixed-line feed. The purpose of the feed system is to release more line when you’re running low.

• Bump feed: Tap the machine on the ground a few times while it’s running to get a longer string. This system is quick and easy and, if you’ve removed the guard, it gives you control over the length of your line.

• Auto-feed: The trimmer uses its own “brain” to release more line when the line is too short. This system is convenient but gives the operator less control over the length of the line.

• Command feed: When you run low on line, simply push a button or turn a dial, and the feed mechanism will release more line. This is similar to the bump feed because you can make your line as short or long as you wish.

• Fixed-line system: Buy pre-measured segments of line to load into the feed mechanism when your line runs low. This system works with fixed-line heads to load a pre-cut length of line into the machine. These heads are often ideal for heavy-duty trimmers that require thicker string.

Trimmer line (or blade)

Different trimmers will accept different trimmer line widths. (Trimmer line is the string that does all of the cutting.) Some battery-powered models accept slightly thinner line widths than gas models. Some trimmers come with the option to buy blades for tougher jobs.

Handle

You can choose from two main types of handles: loop handles or bicycle (AKA “bullhorn”) handles. Loop handles are most common on residential weed eaters. Bicycle handles may be more comfortable for larger, longer, brush clearing jobs. Try both types to see which feels more comfortable for you.

Shaft

Weed eaters come with curved shafts or straight shafts. Curved shafts are for light use on a residential property, and they are great for beginners. Straight shafts are for more strenuous commercial work and sometimes come with the option to buy a blade or other accessories. Straight shaft trimmers are also easier to get under bushes. Curved-shaft models are less expensive overall.

Debris guard/deflector

If you have lots of brush or rocks in your lawn, pay attention to the size of your debris guard on the back of the head. Some are larger than others. You’ll want to invest in a model with a larger deflector (or purchase a kit) if this is a concern for you. Some models also come with a flip-down edge guard in the front that ensures you don’t get too close to trees and other plants.

Operator controls

After you’ve started the engine, you may wonder, “How do I spin the line?” There are often two control buttons above the handle. Why are there two? One acts as a safety. For example, if you mistakenly press one while you are holding the machine, the line won’t run (and you’ll be less likely to cut something unintentionally). So, when you’re ready to start weed eating, press both control buttons to spin the line.

Pros and cons of gas-powered weed eaters

Gas-powered string trimmers are the “old guard” of the string trimmer world. They’ve been around much longer than battery or electric weed eaters and have a good track record of reliable performance. Here are some pros and cons of these machines.

✓ Delivers commercial-level, all-day performance✓ Sufficient power for large properties or many properties✓ Handles tall grass and overgrowth with ease✓ Preferred choice of pros✓ Can be repaired ✓ Consistent power throughout use✓ Easy to carry gasoline with you

✗ Gas engine requires maintenance✗ Exhaust emissions may have adverse effects on people and air quality✗ Noisy to operate✗ Engine can become gummed up with old fuel or fuel without proper stabilizer ✗ Pull starters can be difficult for some homeowners✗ Gas and oil can be messy to work with

Pros and cons of battery-powered weed eaters

Battery-powered weed eaters (AKA cordless weed eaters) are the (relatively) new kid on the weed whacking block, but they’ve made quite an impression on many homeowners. Many residential customers enjoy their quiet, emission-free operation and sufficient run time.

✓ Does a sufficient job for a small property or a single property✓ No engine to maintain✓ Batteries swap out easily if you run out of power✓ Very low noise✓ No gas or oil to replace✓ Easier to start — no pull cord✓ No fumes✓ Can use batteries from other machines from the same brand✓ No emissions

✗ Battery power dilemma — Need a recharging station if you want to weed eat all day (or have tons of batteries)

✗ Battery run time✗ Battery recharge time✗ Hard to find someone to repair✗ Power fades as battery life fades✗ Rechargeable batteries and charger may not come with the unit

Which is the best weed eater for me?

Here are a few questions to ask yourself to help you make a decision:

What size property do you have? Smaller residential properties are ideal for battery-powered weed eaters. Larger properties not only have more space but are likely to have taller grass and brush, so gas-powered trimmers may be a better fit.

How do you plan to use the weed eater? Unless you’ve built your lawn care business around being an all-electric provider, you’ll need at least one gas weed eater in your arsenal. If the machine will only be for you as a homeowner, a battery-powered model has plenty of power.

What level of engine care are you willing to do? Gas-powered models require you to get your hands dirty. You’ll need a constant supply of gas and oil, and you’ll need to winterize it before you put it away for the off-season. If you’re not willing to do this, go with a battery-powered model.

What kind of attachments do you need? Before you make a purchase, look into which attachments (if any) your top pick offers. Common attachments include hedge trimmers, pole saws, edgers, and cultivators. Attachments save space and money and are a good investment for many customers.

Both gas string trimmers and cordless string trimmers come with a few models that are dual brush cutter/trimmers. This gives you many more options for ways to use your trimmer.

Physical considerations: As you’re shopping around, pay attention to the weight of the machine. If you don’t like to carry around heavy machinery for a long time, consider that as you shop. Gas-powered machines are generally a little heavier than battery-powered models.

See if it has other ergonomic features for ease of use or for jobs that will require more than a quick walk around the lawn. Sometimes straps and slings are helpful for those larger cleanup jobs. Straps and slings distribute the weight across your shoulders and give your arms and back a break.

Finally, consider the length of the shaft. Although some shafts have an adjustable-length feature, other machines only have one length, which could be problematic for some buyers. If you’re concerned about getting a machine that works well for your stature, go inside the store and hold several different machines to gauge weight, ergonomics, and length.

Extras: Not all battery-powered models include the battery and/or charger. In addition, you’ll probably want to buy a backup battery upfront so you can have an extra battery on days when you want to stay out in the lawn longer than one battery will allow.

Cutting width: If you prefer a wide cutting width (diameter), check this before you buy. If you’re used to a 17-inch cutting path, for example, you might be disappointed if you get home and find that yours only has a 13-inch reach.

Warranty: If this is important to you, check to see what warranty is offered. With battery-powered equipment, battery warranties may be separate. If you don’t see a separate warranty for the battery, check to see whether or not that is included.

FAQ about weed eaters

Which is the best weed eater for seniors?

For seniors or for anyone who isn’t as strong as Joe Lumberjack, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:

—Weight: Look at the tool weight. Also, consider that a battery or tank of gas will add to that. —Pull start vs. battery start: With a gas model, the pull start may be an issue for some seniors. You have to put the weed eater on the ground and quickly pull up on the string. A spring-assist pull start may make starting the machine easier if you prefer a gas weeder. However, if you’re considering a battery-powered model, push a button, squeeze the trigger, and you’re good to go. —Ergonomics: You may want to invest in a special handle or shoulder strap. Even though this tool may only see residential use, these components may make even a small job that much easier. —Cost: If you don’t have a lot of extra money to spend, curved-shaft models are usually less expensive. Also, look for refurbished models or seasonal sales. Generally, stores offer both great and great selection s on lawn equipment on the three summer holidays (Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day). Fall sales starting in September offer great deals (end-of-season), but selection may be more limited.

Which is the best brand of weed eater?

What brand of lawn equipment have you enjoyed using in the past? Or, what brand does your neighbor recommend? Personal experience and the recommendations of friends go a long way.

You may even ask the lawn workers in your neighborhood to see what type of equipment they use. If someone works with a tool day in and day out, they probably have a favorite brand to recommend.

Pro Tip: If neighbors or lawn crews are in short supply, call your local small engine shop. They’ve got the inside scoop on which brands they never see, and which ones come in all the time for repairs.

Which is the best residential weed eater?

Heavy-duty vs. light-duty use: If you have a small, postage-stamp-sized lawn, don’t go all out. A simple, lightweight machine will do fine. If, on the other hand, you have a standard yard, a large yard, or a backyard that looks like a jungle if you let it go, you may want to opt for a more powerful model.

Quality: High-quality machines usually cost more. If you don’t have experience with a particular brand or model, read helpful online “Best Weed Eater” guides, talk to neighbors, and read reviews.

Cost: This is a defining factor for many homeowners. Lighter use means a lower cost and vice versa. Shop sales, and do your research for a model that will do what you need at a price you can afford.

If weed-eating is not your favorite way to relax after a long week, let our local lawn care pros take the guesswork out of “Who’s going to mow my lawn?” Our reliable crews give your lawn a professional cut and edge every time.

Main Photo Credit: StrangeApparition2011 | Wikimedia Commons | CC BY-SA 4.0

Toro trimmer doesn’t start

String Trimmer Maintenance Safety

String trimmers, also known as “weed wackers,” “weed eaters,” “weed whips” and a host of other names, are essential lawn tools and should be as big a part of a lawn care arsenal as a lawnmower. While the lawnmower usually does most of the heavy lifting, the string trimmer cuts down all the grass that the mower can’t reach along hardscaping edges, around trees and other objects. This is a handy guide on how to maintain your string trimmer and use it safely to make your yard a manicured marvel.

Maintain a String Trimmer (Weed Wacker)

Properly maintaining your string trimmer is essential. While both gas-powered and electric models require some effort to keep them in prime running condition, the two types do require different amounts of maintenance. Because of its engine, a gas-powered model requires more upkeep. Corded electric models and models with rechargeable lithium-ion batteries are convenient because they don’t require fuel, oil or spark plugs. Depending on your particular lawn care needs, however, electric models may not supply the amount of power required to cut through heavier growth. So keep that in mind and weigh your specific needs before purchasing.

Step 1: Clean and Inspect the Trimmer

Clean the string trimmer to keep it performing well. Dust, grime and caked-on grass clippings build up on the debris shield and trimmer head and can lead to inefficiency and possible malfunction if not cleaned. Wipe the trimmer parts down with a rag after use and before storing it. Do a deeper cleaning with a stiff brush and a damp cloth periodically. Use cotton swabs, lightly dampened with machine oil to clean exhausts and intakes and other hard-to-clean areas.

Helpful Tip

Use an air compressor or a can of compressed air to blow air into the trimmer engine vents and crevices to remove dirt and dust from inside.

Remember to inspect your string trimmer for any signs of wear or damage when you’re cleaning it.

Safety Alert!

Before cleaning or maintaining your string trimmer—particularly when handling the business end—always remove the spark plug from a gasoline-powered unit. Unplug the power cord or detach the battery from an electric unit.

Helpful Tips

Store your trimmer and accessories somewhere where they will be protected from dust and moisture, preferably in a garage or tool shed. This not only keeps them protected, it also keeps them organized so you can easily find the tool you need when you need it.

Remember to keep the instruction manual. Not only is it a great guide and resource on how to properly and safely use your string trimmer, the manual also has valuable information on how to care for it, find replacement parts and other important pieces of information.

Step 2: Replace Trimmer Line

No matter if your trimmer model is gas-powered or electric, both require replacement of the trimmer line periodically. The type of head on your trimmer does determine how you replace the line though. You will most likely have a single or dual-line head. This means that there will be one or two protruding pieces of line for cutting. Follow the instructions from your trimmer’s manufacturer on how to replace the line.

Helpful Tips

Keep surplus trimmer line around so that you don’t run out and have to stop working to go buy more.

When replacing the trimmer line, take this time to clean the trimmer head. Use a damp rag to remove caked on grass and debris.

Step 3: Check/Change Oil and Fuel

If you’re using a gas-powered string trimmer, you need to maintain its engine by considering its fuel/oil requirements. Gas-powered string trimmers use oil and gasoline to function, with some using a fuel/oil mixture, depending on the type of engine. Four-cycle engines have separate gas and oil reservoirs, while 2-cycle engines operate on a mixture of gasoline and 2-cycle engine oil.

Consult the manufacturer’s instructions on the proper fuel/oil ratio (typically 50:1 or 40:1) if you own a trimmer with a 2-cycle engine. Use a funnel to pour the fuel and 2-cycle oil into a small gas can to mix them together at the correct ratio. Fill the trimmer’s fuel reservoir when needed.

When using a 4-cycle trimmer, check fuel and oil levels before each use. Remove the spark plug before doing any maintenance. This will ensure the trimmer is completely deactivated. Your particular trimmer model will determine how you can check its oil level. Some models will have an oil level window, or a dipstick; in lieu of either of those, you can simply open the oil reservoir and peer inside to check the oil level. Shine a flashlight on the opening if you need help seeing inside. Fill the reservoir with the manufacturer-recommended type and amount of oil when needed. Use a funnel for spill-free filling.

As with a motor vehicle, the oil will turn dark when it‘s time to change it. Remove the reservoir plug and position the trimmer so that the old oil will drain into an oil pan or another container. Once all of the oil has drained, use a rag to clean up anything that spilled and then fill the reservoir with the appropriate oil type by pouring the oil through a funnel into the oil reservoir. Check the oil level again to ensure that the proper amount has been added and then close the reservoir by inserting its plug.

Step 4: Check/Replace Air Filter

Gas-powered models also require that you check the engine air filter. Read the manufacturer’s instructions to determine where your air filter is located and how to access it. Check to see if the filter is covered with dust and debris. Some filters are washable and reusable. Check your owner’s manual for instructions on how to clean the filter. If the filter is unsalvageable or damaged, replace it.

Step 5: Store Trimmer Appropriately

Where and how you store your string trimmer when not in use is essential to keeping it in prime working order. Store your trimmer in a well-ventilated tool shed or garage, out of the elements. Do not store gas or gas/oil mixtures for the trimmer inside your home or basement. Fumes can build up and create a dangerous situation. Be sure that the trimmer and other tools are not accessible by children.

Wait for the engine to cool before putting the trimmer away. When storing your trimmer at the end of the season, remove all dirt, grease and debris from the trimmer using a stiff-bristle brush. Tighten all screws and nuts. Drain the fuel tank, remove the spark plug and add a small amount of oil into the cylinder. Pull the starting cord a couple of times to distribute the oil. Reinstall the spark plug, but don’t connect the ignition cable.

String Trimmer Safety

In addition to maintaining your trimmer, you also need to know how to operate it safely. Follow these tips on how to use your string trimmer safely and efficiently to keep your landscape neat and trim.

Use Proper Technique

Using a string trimmer properly is the first step in keeping yourself and others safe during operation. Keep an eye out for any people or pets around where you’re working. String trimmer line spins at high velocity and can pick up rocks and other debris and fling them at high speed. If someone approaches your vicinity, stop cutting until they have passed. Keep an approximate 50 feet between yourself and any bystanders. Do not remove debris shields and other safety features built into your trimmer. Always cut away from yourself.

When refilling fuel or oil, or when starting a gas-powered trimmer, place the machine on the ground. To start a gas-powered trimmer, pump the primer bulb to feed gas to the engine, turn on the choke and then pull the starter cord. Once the unit is operating, lift it, adjust the choke and let it run for about a minute to warm up.

Keep the engine of the trimmer at waist level with the head of the trimmer parallel to the ground. Move the trimmer from side to side along the area to be cut. Always ease into the cut, so that you don’t cut too much, or damage something you’re not trying to cut. Keep in mind that string trimmers are meant to cut grass and similar growth; don’t use a string trimmer to cut thicker growth. It probably won’t work well—you will waste trimmer line and put strain on the trimmer engine. To get the best results, keep an eye on your trimmer line to be sure it is protruding at an effective length for cutting. Depending on your trimmer model, the line may spool out automatically as it is cuts, then wears and breaks off. If your trimmer head does not have an automatic line feed, you may need to pull it out by hand to the right length. Be sure you have turned off the trimmer beforehand.

Wear Safety Equipment

Dress properly and wear safety equipment to protect yourself from potential injury from flying debris. Wear long pants, long sleeves and work gloves. Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes. Gas-powered models can be very loud when operating and cutting. Wear earplugs to protect your ears. Great job! Now you know how to maintain and safely use your string trimmer.

Project Shopping List

Here’s what you’ll need to complete this project successfully.

• Rag
• Stiff brush
• Cloth
• Cotton swabs
• Machine oil
• Air compressor or compressed air can
• Trimmer line
• Four-cycle or 2-cycle engine oil
• Flashlight
• Funnel
• Oil pan
• Trimmer air filter
• Work gloves
• Safety glasses
• Earplugs

The 5 Best Electric Corded String Trimmers for Your Garden – Bye-Bye Weeds!

A corded electric weed eater – also called a string trimmer – is the best tool for eradicating weeds, clearing up hard-to-reach places in your lawn and garden, and making short work of complex trimming tasks. These powerful trimmers can reach areas a mower might struggle with, making quick work of clearing weeds while running on an infinite power supply.

So, if you’re considering getting a corded electric weed eater. you ‘ve come to the right place. We’ll tell you about our favorite corded weed eaters, covering all the pros and cons.

We’ll also teach you more about what makes some corded string trimmers better than others, comparing corded electric string trimmers to gas and battery-powered varieties. So, let’s find a weed eater that fits your budget and needs!

The 5 Best Corded Electric Weed Eaters String Trimmers

Best Corded String Trimmer: Greenworks 18-Inch 10 Amp Corded String Trimmer

This Greenworks trimmer is the best corded electric weed eater for a good reason. It fancies itself as a hedge trimmer, with a 10-Amp motor that’s almost excessive for the job, but it’ll make short work of any roots or tough weeds hiding beneath your overgrown lawn.

Although you might expect the beefy motor to bump up the price tag, it’s still in line with the cost of every other corded weed eater on this list.

Unlike many other models I’ve seen, the Greenworks trimmer has a D-ring mounted on the body, making it easier to maneuver.

Still, at 9.9 pounds, this corded weed eater is also nearly double the weight of other trimmers I’ve looked at, so you’ll need that handle to keep control. Annoyingly, even with the bolt tightened, it never feels entirely secure.

One of the things I like best about this powerful trimmer is that you can attach other components to the end of the pole, even those from other brands. This feature could save you a lot of money and storage space in the long run between the hedge trimmer, blower, and edger attachments.

Pros

• A safety trigger stops you from firing up the motor unintentionally.
• The 10-Amp motor nearly doubles the power of the other corded weed eaters I’ve listed here.
• A vast 18-inch cutting path practically turns this trimmer into a lawnmower on a pole.
• A D-ring handle is mounted on the telescopic pole, making it super-easy to swing around.
• A quick-connect coupler lets you swap out the string trimmer for a range of other garden tool attachments.

Cons

• As much as I love the D-ring handle, it isn’t as secure as it could be. It tends to move around a bit while trimming.
• The price is higher than other corded stirring trimmers. However, you are paying for a durable steel shaft and a powerful 10-Amp motor that will eat through anything.
• The trigger was stiffer than others I’ve used before. Not a problem at first, but try using it for an hour, and you’ll see what I mean.

Best Value: Worx WG119 5.5 Amp 15″ Electric String Trimmer Edger

The WORX WG119 is our second pick for the best corded electric weed eater due to its great value and powerful, lightweight design. It features a 5.5-Amp motor and can be converted from a string trimmer to an edger in a single click.

The flower guard stops you from catching unintended flowers or ornaments, but you can fold it back if it gets in your way. There’s also a dual-line auto-feed system underneath, which keeps string flowing.

The only thing I disliked about the dual-line feature was the speed that it ate through the first spool of string.

Any good trimmer also comes with a cord retention system, and the WORX is no exception. Thankfully, it’s in the form of a hook – the slot-based designs are often too small to fit larger cables, but it’s not a problem here.

In terms of weight, it’s about average for a corded weed eater, coming in at 6.5 pounds. Thankfully, this corded string trimmer has a D-ring handle, which makes precision work straightforward.

Pros

• The flower guard folds back out of the way when you don’t want to use it.
• It converts from a string trimmer to an edger in seconds so you can pick off those overhanging blades of grass.
• It has a cord retention hook rather than a slot, meaning no worrying about whether your cord will fit through.
• At 6.5 pounds, it’s just over half the weight of our top pick, the Greenworks trimmer, making it an excellent choice for people who want a lightweight corded weed eater.

Cons

• You can’t hook up any extra attachments like you can with the Greenworks one.
• The dual-line feature can quickly eat through your string faster than you’d expect from a single-line.
• Installing a new spool of line can be challenging given the dual-line feature, which works differently.
• Though it has an adjustable height feature, there are no pivoting features for reaching tricky spots.

Best For Small Spaces: BLACKDECKER String Trimmer / Edger, 13-Inch, 5-Amp

BlackDecker is one of those brands you immediately think of when somebody mentions power tools.

As far as quality goes, this is a good trimmer. It’s lightweight at 5.35 pounds and fully adjustable for height and positioning with the pivot handle.

There’s a genuine feel of durability when you’re swinging this thing around. However, if you’re tall, like me, you might still find the highest setting to fall short of being entirely comfortable.

You’ll have to build this one yourself, but it isn’t a complicated job. Once you assemble the various poles and guards, the 5-Amp motor can handle almost anything, including smaller branches.

Still, this corded weed eater seems to eat through string like it’s going out of fashion, partly due to the hungry auto-feed system.

The only real issue I have with this corded string trimmer is that its best strength is also its weakness. The adjustable handles don’t always stay fixed when trimming, which is a rather worrying safety issue. It also suffers from a common problem with trimmers like these: a narrow cord retention slot.

Pros

• Assembly is pretty simple out of the box.
• Super lightweight at just 5.35 pounds, it’s a little below the norm for a trimmer of this size.
• A pull-out guide lets you keep a fixed distance from the surface you’re trimming.
• As well as being height-adjustable, there’s a pivoting handle for reaching those tight, tricky spots.

Cons

• Getting some thicker extension cords through the cord retention slot isn’t always easy.
• The auto-feeder feature leads to you running out of string much more quickly than you otherwise would.
• The adjustable handle kept moving out of place while using the trimmer.
• I’m over 6 feet tall and found that even at its most extended, I had to bend slightly to use this effectively.

Most Adjustable: CRAFTSMAN CMCST900 Electric Powered String Trimmer 13 in

Some corded string trimmers, like the Sun Joe TRJ13STE, don’t have adjustable handles. However, you can adjust the Craftsman CMCST900 for different people, so you’ll be able to offload your gardening onto a family member when the weather is bad.

Powered by a 5-Amp motor, slightly above average for budget trimmers, you won’t struggle in longer grass. Yet, it’s deceptively quiet despite the increased power under the hood.

There’s also a rotating head that can be repositioned for when you’re edging around the flowerbeds. Or, if you don’t have any flowers to protect, you can rotate the head towards you to keep your toes attached instead.

Trust me when I say that one of the most common incidents with corded weed eaters or hedge trimmers is the ease with which you can swipe the blade straight through your extension cord.

Thankfully, this model has a cord retention system, making it far less likely that you’ll cut into the cable. You’ll need a 2-prong extension, which isn’t included out of the box, but they come cheap.

Pros

• A cable grip behind the handle stops you from trimming your extension cable instead of the grass.
• You can adjust the length of the handle. When the kids complain that they can’t do the trimming, you’ll have an answer for them.
• Deceptively quiet, especially when compared to gas-powered trimmers.
• The head rotates for fine-tuned edging around your flower bed borders.
• With a 5-Amp motor, it’s the second most powerful string trimmer I’ve looked at here.

Cons

• At just shy of 7 pounds, it’s not the lightest option.
• It only supports 2-prong extensions, which are a little harder to come by than the usual 3-prong type.
• It doesn’t come pre-assembled, and while I found it easy, some people struggle more with self-build tasks.
• It chews through string faster than it chews through grass, so for more extensive gardens, you’ll need to keep an extra spool handy.

Best Lightweight Trimmer: Sun Joe TRJ13STE Trimmer Joe 13″ Automatic Feed Electric String Trimmer/Edger

Sun Joe is a great brand. In fact, they took 2nd place on our list of the best corded electric hedge trimmers.

This one has a 4-Amp motor under the hood, with a cutting area of 13-inches, though you can also pick up a smaller model with a reduced cutting swatch. It’ll hack through both grass and weeds with ease.

A flower guard wraps 180 degrees around one side of the trimmer, which stops you from butchering your flowers while you trim the edge of your lawn. This guard is the only component you’ll need to put together when you pull this out of the box, as it comes pre-built.

There’ll also be no sudden interruptions to your cutting, as the auto-feed feature keeps your string at the right length, feeding it directly from the spool.

Its lightweight telescopic pole and overall weight of 5.07 pounds is pretty small compared to other trimmers. Still, while the cutting path is smaller, it’s much easier to lug around the garden.

Just be wary that the construction is relatively flimsy. It probably won’t fall apart in your hands, but there’s a 2-year warranty if it does.

Pros

• It comes with a 2-year warranty included by default.
• At 5.07 pounds, it’s the lightest high-quality string trimmer I could find at this price point.
• T his tool also works as an edger to trim the line between your lawn and the soil.
• A wraparound flower guard protects the areas you don’t want to trim while tidying up the lawn borders.
• An auto-feed system keeps the string at the right length to consistently achieve the 13-inch cutting radius.
• Some extension cords – such as a 14-gauge – won’t fit through the upper grip handle.

Cons

• The lightweight design means that this power tool feels pretty flimsy.
• It has a narrower cutting swatch than some other budget string trimmer options.
• I didn’t like that the shaft didn’t adjust for different heights.
• The string is relatively thin, so it can wear out more quickly than others.

Corded Electric String Trimmer Buyer’s Guide

There are tons of corded electric string trimmers in the market, but not all are created equal.

Before investing in your lawn and garden’s maintenance, you might want to know more about what makes one type of weed eater better than the others. After all, you’ll want the best corded electric weed eater you can get!

What is A Corded Electric String Trimmer?

A corded electric string trimmer is a tool that works by spinning a spool of ‘string’ at high speed to trim your lawn. Unlike other weed eaters, corded electric trimmers use a cord and electrical outlet for fuel.

Many people confuse string trimmers with ‘edgers,’ but you use edgers vertically to trim the space between your grass and barriers, like flower beds or fences. On the other hand, you use string trimmers to clear up the strips of grass and weeds that a lawn mower can’t get to.

String trimmers generally come in either gas-powered or electricity-powered models. The electric varieties can be cordless or battery-powered.

Why Use a Corded Electric String Trimmer?

You should use a corded electric string trimmer for cleaning up tight spaces and borders, trimming on slopes, and edging your lawn or garden. String trimmers are lighter than lawn mowers and have two small string “blades” that can clean up spaces a lawn mower cannot. Plus, they don’t need refueling to work.

At face value, corded weed eaters might seem more inefficient for mowing the lawn. However, it’s far better than a lawnmower for specific tasks, like cutting the grass close to obstacles, borders, or steep inclines.

If you’ve mown the lawn before, you’ll know it’s impossible to cut close to a fence or rockery. You’ll end up with an untidy finish or accidentally damage the blades on your lawn mower. This is the niche filled by a string trimmer.

I also find it much easier to mow my sloping garden with a trimmer rather than trying to push a heavy mower uphill.

Still, you should also be able to use the best corded electric string trimmers as edgers. That means that you can quickly adjust the setup to create a neat trim along the edges of your lawn.

If nicely trimmed garden edges are important to you, ensure your trimmer can do both, as not all models can.

Corded Electric Weed Eaters vs. Gas String Trimmers

I used to use gas-powered garden tools exclusively until I got tired of filling up the tank every time I wanted to use them.

My lawn has many twists, turns, and steep inclines, so when I got sick of maneuvering the mower like a go-kart. I picked up a corded electric string trimmer.

While I’ve heard that these weed eaters are less powerful than their gas counterparts, I thought: “how much power can it take to trim small patches of grass and edges? “

It turns out that the answer is not very much. Electric trimmers can chew through the typical grass and weeds you’ll face in the garden, so power is no issue. They’re also much more lightweight without a heavy gas-powered motor and full fuel tank, meaning you can go for longer.

It goes without saying that electric trimmers will also save you a ton on fuel costs.

In a nutshell, I can’t see any reason to pick a gas-powered string trimmer over an electric weed eater. Gas is pricey, worse for the environment, and challenging to keep in stock. Electricity is cheap, and it is much more sustainable than gas.

To learn more about the pros and cons of each variety of string trimmer and get some tips for using them, check out this video from Black Decker:

Author

Elle is the founder and visionary of Outdoor Happens. She adores wild gardens. Makes sense, considering she’s never been very good at fitting into boxes, sticking to neat rows, or following the rules. Elle is a qualified permaculture teacher with a diploma in horticulture and naturopathy. She lives on a farm with cows, sheep, horses, chickens, and a bunch of horses. Passions include herbalism, fermentation, cooking, nature, animals, and reading. View all posts

Home. Gardening. Garden Tools. The 5 Best Electric Corded String Trimmers for Your Garden – Bye-Bye Weeds!

Weed Eater or Weed Whacker? My State Calls it What?

Do you have a question about trimming weeds with a certain mechanical helper? You might need to know a few alternative search terms for your area. To help you out, Google Trends has data about search terms for the tool from the past 12 months.

Inventor’s Choice

A string trimmer has been part of the landscaper’s arsenal since George Ballas of Houston, Texas, invented the tool.

Ballas called his invention the “weed eater”, for its ability to chew up grass and weeds.

South and West States Prefer Weed Eater

Almost half of 51 regions charted in the United States use “weed eater”, with about 70 percent of searches using the term. Only four regions at the lowest end of the results show under 50 percent of searches based on “weed eater”.

Louisiana registers the highest preference, with 85 percent of searches using the name, followed by Alabama and West Virginia, at 83 and 82 percent, respectively.

The preference remains consistent for states to the south and west, such as Texas, Mississippi, Arkansas, North Carolina, and South Carolina, where “weed eater” is used for about 80 percent of searches related to the tool.

The preference for “weed eater” wanes in the eastern and northern states, with Massachusetts and Vermont showing the lowest use, hovering around 40 percent.

String Trimmer

After “weed eater”, the next most popular name in Google searches for the string trimmer is “string trimmer”. Five states — Vermont, Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and New Jersey — show around one-third of the searches using that name, with Vermont at the high end, at 36 percent. Approximately 25 percent of searches from Maine, Delaware, Wisconsin, and District of Columbia used “string trimmer”.

Most other regions use the term between 13 percent and 25 percent of the time; the use sinks to 12 percent and lower for states in the south, where “weed eater” is the most prominent search term.

By Any Other Name

“Weed trimmer” is the third most-used search term for string trimmers, with Rhode Island searches registering the highest percentage, at 26 percent; next is Minnesota, with 24 percent.

About 17 to 19 percent searches in other states in the east used “weed trimmer”, and about 16 percent of searches from North Dakota and South Dakota used the term. States in the west used it the least, with New Mexico the lowest, at seven percent.

“Weed whacker” is next in line, with Connecticut and District of Columbia showing eight and seven percent of searches using the name. Twelve more states use it sparingly, with California and Colorado showing two percent of searches.

In Michigan and Minnesota, a small minority — three and one percent, respectively — use “weed whipper” when searching.