5 Common Strimmer Problems and How to Fix Them Lawn strimmers are invaluable tools for keeping gardens tidy, whether you’re trimming edges or tackling overgrown grass. However, like any garden equipment, they can run into issues and breakdowns. Most common problems are pretty simple to fix, and with a little nudge, you can keep your strimmer maintained at home. Here’s the 5 most common strimmer breakdown issues, and how you can resolve them. As always, if you’re not confident we’d still recommend to get in touch with our FREE helpline by clicking here. The Strimmer Line Keeps Breaking One of the most frustrating issues with a strimmer is when the cutting line snaps frequently. This can interrupt your work and lead to unnecessary costs for replacement spools. Why it happens: The line is too old or of poor quality. You’re using the strimmer on rough surfaces like walls, fences, or stones. The cutting line is too thin for the job. How to fix it: Replace the line with a high-quality one: Cheap lines tend to be brittle and snap easily. Opt for durable, branded lines that are suited to your strimmer model. Avoid hard surfaces: Be mindful of where you’re trimming. Try to keep the line away from fences, bricks, or stones. Choose the right thickness: For tougher jobs, use a thicker cutting line that can handle more resistance without breaking. My Strimmer Won’t Start A strimmer that refuses to start can quickly turn a quick garden job into a source of frustration. Why it happens: For petrol strimmers, this could be due to stale fuel or a clogged air filter. In electric or cordless models, it might be a flat battery or an electrical fault. How to fix it: Petrol strimmers: Empty old fuel and refill with fresh petrol. Stale fuel can clog the engine and reduce efficiency. Check the air filter. If it’s dirty, clean it or replace it if necessary. Inspect the spark plug. A worn or dirty spark plug can prevent ignition. Replace it if it looks damaged. Electric or cordless strimmers: Ensure the battery is fully charged before use. If the battery no longer holds a charge, it may need replacing. For corded models, check that the power source and cables are in good condition. My Strimmer Line Won’t Feed Automatic or bump-feed systems are supposed to make using a strimmer easier, but they can sometimes malfunction, leaving you without enough line to continue cutting. Why it happens: The spool is jammed or incorrectly installed. The line is tangled inside the spool. Dirt or debris is blocking the feed mechanism. How to fix it: Turn off the strimmer and disconnect it from the power source. Open the spool housing and inspect the spool for tangles. Rewind the line neatly if needed. Ensure the spool is correctly installed. Refer to the user manual to confirm it’s seated properly. Clean the spool housing and feed mechanism to remove any dirt or debris. If the problem persists, consider replacing the spool with a new one that matches your strimmer model. My Strimmer Keeps Overheating Overheating can cause your strimmer to shut down unexpectedly and may even damage its internal components if not addressed. Why it happens: Continuous use for extended periods without breaks. Blocked air vents causing poor ventilation. Faulty components, such as the motor or battery. How to fix it: Allow the strimmer to cool down. Take regular breaks during use, especially on warm days. Check the air vents for blockages. Clean them with a soft brush or cloth to ensure proper airflow. For electric models, inspect the power cable for signs of wear or damage. A damaged cable can lead to overheating. If overheating continues, consult a professional or contact the manufacturer to check for deeper issues. The Strimmer Vibrates Excessively Some vibration is normal when using a strimmer, but excessive shaking can make it uncomfortable to use and may indicate a problem. Why it happens: The cutting head is unbalanced due to uneven wear or damage. The shaft or handle is loose. Internal components are worn or misaligned. How to fix it: Inspect the cutting head for damage or uneven wear. Replace it if necessary. Tighten any loose screws or bolts on the shaft and handle. Check the user manual to ensure all components are correctly assembled. If excessive vibration persists, it’s best to have the strimmer inspected by a professional to rule out internal issues. Tips for Preventing Strimmer Problems Regular maintenance is the key to keeping your strimmer in top condition. Here are some simple tips to help you avoid common issues: Clean your strimmer after each use: Remove grass, dirt, and debris to prevent blockages and wear. Store it properly: Keep your strimmer in a dry, sheltered place to protect it from the elements. Use high-quality replacement parts: Cheap or incompatible parts can lead to further problems. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions: Always use the correct fuel, oil, and accessories for your strimmer. Inspect regularly: Check for signs of wear, loose parts, or damage before each use. When to Seek Professional Help While many strimmer problems can be fixed at home, some issues require expert attention. If your strimmer continues to malfunction after trying the solutions above, it’s best to consult a professional repair service. They can diagnose and fix more complex issues, saving you time and ensuring your strimmer remains safe to use. By addressing problems promptly and maintaining your equipment, you can enjoy a reliable, efficient strimmer that makes garden maintenance a breeze.
