How to Choose a Weed Trimmer for Your Lawn

Have you ever walked into the garden department of your local home improvement store to buy a new weed trimmer and been overwhelmed by the selection? Here's how to make the right choice for you.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Basic information:
• The size of your lawn
• Are there trees/bushes to trim around?
• Do you want an edger too?
• Do you want electric, battery powered or a gas trimmer?

1. Pick up and hold the display models - Remember, you will have to carry the trimmer around your entire yard.

2. Decide between straight shaft or curved shaft model. How? Choose a straight shaft if you have a lot of trees, lawn ornaments, shrubs or corners to maneuver around. The curved shaft model is fine if you are only trimming along a fence line or around your house. Once you have decided, see what type of trimmer is available in the model you need.

3. Electric trimmers are light weight, but you have to drag an outdoor extension cord around with you.
   Battery powered are a little heavier, but there is no cord to hassle with. Depending on the size of your lawn, you may or may not be able to complete trimming on a single charge.
   Gas powered come in 2 types - 2 cycle and 4 cycle. For a 2 cycle, you will have to mix the oil and gas together, the 4 cycle does not require a mix.
   Some trimmers come with a built in edger. This will clean up the area along your sidewalk or driveway, but it will not make the edge as clean as if you used an actual edger.

4. There are many brands of lawn equipment out there. Don't be afraid to ask questions of the garden center employees or do your own research via the internet.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't forget - Safety First
• Use ear protection
• Safety glasses
• Closed toed shoes
• Happy Trimming!