Review: Cordless Line Trimmers

The latest models of cordless line trimmers makes emissions free lawn care a more practical and affordable choice for almost everyone.

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A handful of models currently selling for less than one hundred dollars, offer different combinations of trimming power and assorted extras such as automatic line feed.

Most are also very lightweight, having a plastic frame surrounding a battery pack linked to a small motor.

Batteries, the source of the trimmers' benefits, also explain their drawbacks. If you think of battery life in terms of other objects such as cell phones and laptop computers, be prepared for battery shock.

Most cordless line trimmers use rechargable NiCad batteries. While they can be recharged hundreds of times, the small battery size needed to keep the trimmers lightweight translates into less trimming time per charge.

At most, the newest 18 volt NiCad battery driven trimmers work for twenty minutes per battery charge. Having a spare battery effectively doubles potential trimming time.

Still, the practical problem with most 18 volt models is that battery power now lags behind motor power. The motors on these models are sufficiently powerful for cutting entire fields of weeds and grass. The short battery life means large job needs to be planned around the battery recharger.

While cordless models still lack the capacity to clear brushy areas, the step up to edger/weedwacker is a marked improvement.

The batteries eventually wear out and need special recycling. Other than that, the trimmers are very good, green lawn care tools. The next generation of cordless line trimmers can only get better.

© 2008 Patricia A. Michaels