No one enjoys mowing the lawn and trimming the yard, especially when the worst part is having to unwind the line just before finishing because the string has caught in the weed trimmer head. If you’ve ever found yourself in this situation, you’re likely wondering how to make the trimmer string last longer. Fortunately, there are several factors to consider, including the size of the trimmer string and the techniques used to trim your lawn. By following a few simple tips, you can ensure that your trimmer string lasts through multiple lawn cuttings, reducing the frequency of spool rewinds and saving you time and effort throughout the season.
Proper Weed Eater Use for Longevity
One of the most important ways to ensure your string lasts longer is by using the weed eater correctly. Proper handling and techniques can significantly extend the life of your string. The key here is to avoid unnecessary wear and tear on the string, which often happens when the trimmer is used improperly.
For instance, always try to keep the trimmer string parallel to the ground, especially when you’re tapping the spool to feed more string. When the string is kept parallel to the ground, it reduces the chances of it coming into contact with rocks, dirt, or other obstacles. This will ensure that the string only interacts with grass, minimizing unnecessary fraying or breaking. Keeping the string parallel to the ground is a simple but effective technique to make your trimmer string last longer.
Pay Attention to the Sound of the Trimmer
The sound of your string trimmer is a good indicator of its condition and when it might be time to replace the string. It may take a little practice to tune into the sound of your trimmer, but learning to recognize it will help you avoid wasting string. A common mistake is overfeeding the string by tapping the spool too often, which leads to more string coming out than is needed. This overfeed results in the string getting cut off by the blade on the trimmer head, which wastes string and reduces its overall lifespan.
To prevent this, practice feeding the string only when necessary. Listen carefully to the sound of the trimmer and adjust accordingly. By using the string more sparingly and efficiently, you’ll extend its life and avoid unnecessary wastage.
Choosing the Right Spool Size
When it comes to making your trimmer string last longer, the size of the spool you use plays a significant role. Different trimmer heads can hold various amounts of string, and this can make a big difference in how long the string lasts. Many trimmer manufacturers don’t specify the exact spool size, but they can vary considerably. By paying attention to spool head sizes, you can select a larger spool that holds more string.
Opting for a spool that can hold twice the amount of string as the standard size can have a huge impact on how long the string lasts before needing to be replaced. A larger spool means less frequent reloading and more continuous trimming, making it a worthwhile investment if you want to keep your trimmer string lasting longer between replacements.
Understanding String Size and Shape
The size and shape of the string you use are crucial factors in how long it will last. Trimmer strings come in a range of sizes, usually ranging from .050 to .200+ inches. The size of the string you choose will often depend on the type of trimmer you have and the nature of the lawn you’re trimming.
Trimmer String Size
String sizes range from lightweight to heavy-duty, with typical sizes being .050 to .080 inches for lighter tasks and .095 to .105 inches for medium to heavy-duty tasks. Very heavy-duty strings are typically larger than .105 inches. For most standard tasks, a .095 string is usually sufficient, and it should last for trimming several large yards on one spool. If a string of that size can’t handle the job, it’s a good idea to consider using a metal blade instead.
Trimmer String Shape
The shape of the trimmer string also affects its durability. Round, multi-sided, diamond, and twisted strings each offer different benefits. Multi-sided strings are particularly effective at cutting grass and tend to last longer than round strings. If you’re aiming to make your trimmer string last longer, consider using a multi-sided or twisted variety of string, as they are designed for improved cutting efficiency and longevity.
A Secret to Protecting Your Trimmer String
A little-known secret to making your trimmer string last longer is to avoid exposing it to direct sunlight, especially during the hot summer months. The sun’s rays can cause the string to deteriorate and lose its effectiveness more quickly. To prevent this, soak your trimmer string in water before using it in direct sunlight. This simple step helps keep the string from drying out and losing its strength, ensuring it lasts longer and performs better throughout the season.
Final Thoughts
By incorporating these tips and techniques, you can significantly extend the life of your trimmer string. Using your weed eater properly, paying attention to the sound of the trimmer, choosing the right spool size, and selecting the appropriate string size and shape all contribute to a longer-lasting trimmer string. Additionally, taking care to protect your string from direct sunlight during the summer months will help preserve its integrity. With these practices, you’ll find that your string will last longer, reducing the frequency of replacements and making your lawn care routine more efficient and hassle-free.
