How to Use Chipper Shredders

Chipper shredders can give you quality mulch for less.

Chipper shredders are large yard and garden machines that turn leaves and branches into quality mulch. While many think the only thing you need to do is shove yard waste into the machine, there are other things to take into account. Learn how to use chipper shredders for various landscaping projects while maintaining proper safety.

Things You'll Need

• Yard waste (leaves, sticks, branches)
• Rake
• Tarp
• Gloves
• Eye protection glasses

Instructions

How to Use Chipper Shredders

1. Position the chipper shredder on flat ground with access to an electrical outlet if necessary. Some chipper shredders are gas powered. In that case, fill the chipper as directed with fuel or a fuel oil mixture. Follow manufacturer's directions for this step and clean up any spills immediately.

2. Spread a large tarp or some kind of container under the chipper shredder's outlet for leaves or mulch. This will make collecting and using the chipped and shredded yard waste a lot easier and neater. Gather the items to be shredded at the other end of the machine.

3. Put on safety goggles or safety glasses and sturdy gloves that fit well. Flying bits of chipped wood or branch will fly around and could damage your eyes if you do not maintain proper safety. Gloves will likewise protect your hands from debris and poking branches. Ear protection, to reduce the effects of the noise of these machines, is also a good idea.

4. Load raked leaves, small plants, and twigs into the leaf hopper section of the chipper shredder. On many models, this is a large opening at the top. Use a rake and one hand or a shovel to scoop up the leaves if you do not want to simply grab bunches of them. Beware of picking up large chunks or wood and especially rocks. A rock in a chipper shredder is dangerous and can ruin the machine.

5. Push branches up the width recommended by the chipper shredder manufacturer into the branch opening on the machine. This is often at the side and is usually small to prevent large branches from being inserted. Push the branches in gently, allowing the chipper to draw it in on its own as it chips the wood. Do not push the branches too quickly as it can damage the blades inside.

6. Gather the chipped and shredded material to use in your home landscaping projects. Shredded leaves and plants are ideal for the compost heap or weed-reducing mulch around vegetable and flower plants. Chipped wood is a cost-effective way to get attractive mulch in all your landscaping.

Tips & Warnings

• Always wear eye protection. Never put your hands past the safety point. Unplug or turn off the machine before servicing.