Weed eaters, commonly known as string trimmers, are special tools for homeowners. In certain places where the mower can’t get to on your lawn, the string trimmer works on them perfectly.
A key factor in ensuring the general longevity of this often used gardening item is knowing how to store a weed eater properly.
But since this gardening tool has an unusual shape, storing it can be a little bit tricky. Many times, gardeners ask this same question – can you hang a weed eater vertically?
Can You Hang A Weed Eater Vertically?
The answer is yes. You can hang your weed eater vertically as it is the ideal way to store it. Not only will you be reserving a lot of space, but you will also be keeping the tool safe from damage.
Furthermore, many lawn care professionals suggest that hanging the weed eater vertically is preferable.
Now, you may be wondering why hanging your string trimmer horizontally is not advisable. In this article, we will explain why it is not ideal to store your tool this way, how to hang your weed eater, and more.
Keep on reading to learn!
Effects Of Hanging Your Weed Eater Horizontally
Let’s take a look at 3 major reasons why you shouldn’t hang your weed eater horizontally.
1. It Takes Up Space
There’s no way your weed eater won’t take up extra space in the garage or basement if you hang it horizontally. Although you may feel the tool is taking a little space, think about other tools that can fit into the extra space.
Besides, the string trimmer may get in the way when you want to move freely from one corner to another.
2. There Could Be Gas And Oil Leaks
It’s not uncommon to find out that the gas and oil in the weed eater are leaking when in a horizontal position. This also happens when the tool’s engine is upside down.
Apart from creating a mess in your garage, the oil spill may also expose you to danger. In a situation whereby you do not see the spillage on time, you may step on it and slip. While oil or gas leaks will not damage your weed eater, they can cause a lot of avoidable problems.
3. Delicate Parts May Get Damaged
Constantly storing your tool on the ground will put pressure on its fragile parts in the long run. As a result, there may be irreversible damage to these parts. Weed eaters with plastic or aluminum handles can easily bend or crack if there’s pressure on them.
There’s no limit to the damage that can occur on the string trimmer when you place it horizontally.
How To Hang Your Weed Eater Vertically
Hanging your weed eater in a vertical position is straightforward. Whether you use cordless, electric, or gas trimmers doesn’t matter as long as you store them correctly.
Follow these simple steps:
- Purchase a large piece of plywood at the local store.
- Wear your protective gloves, safety goggles, and other safety equipment.
- Using a saw, create an opening in the plywood that can accommodate the base of your weed eater.
- If you’re planning to add more gardening tools to the rack, create more openings with the saw.
- Get a set of shelf brackets and fix them to the plywood rack using a screwdriver.
- Using a screwdriver, fix the shelf brackets to the wall.
- Hang your string trimmer and other tools on the rack on each opening.
How To Store Your Weed Eater In The Winter
During winter, the grass will become dormant and you may have to store some of your gardening tools. Understand that how you store your weed eater in the cold months will determine its effectiveness during the summer. This means it is important to store the tool correctly to prevent problems later.
That said, here are 4 simple tips to keep your string trimmer safe in the winter:
1. Clean Thoroughly
Use a dry cloth to dust off grass and dirt from the weed eater. A small brush can also be used to remove dirt from tight spaces where the cloth cannot reach. Dip the cloth in soapy water and wipe off all oil stains from the tool.
It is important to carry out this cleaning process to keep your weed eater free from corrosion.
2. Remove Cords From Your Electric Trimmers
Disconnect all the plugs from your electric string trimmer. Fold the cords carefully and keep them in a dry place. Also, remove the spark plug from the weed eater using a wrench. Whenever you want to start using the tool again, fix a new spark plug into it.
3. Don’t Leave Gas And Oil In The Weed Eater
Use all the gas in the weed trimmer or empty the fuel tank if the tool is gas-powered. Also, drain the oil in the string trimmer completely before storing it. Doing this will prevent oil and gas spillage.
Refill the gas and oil when you want to start mowing again.
4. Store It In A Dry Place
Hang the weed eater vertically in a cool, dry environment. Make sure the place you’re keeping the tool is not too high or too low. Keep all the attachments you remove from the string trimmer close to it so that you won’t have to look for them later.
Also read: How To Keep The Sprinkler Valve Box Dry
Final Thoughts
Constant maintenance of gardening tools will ensure they remain effective and last longer. We are sure you now know why it is best to hang your weed eater vertically.
Not only will you be keeping your tools safe, but you will also be preventing oil and gas spillage. Moreover, there will be enough space for you to store other gardening tools in your garage.
Choose a convenient space in your garage and create a rack for hanging this gardening tool.
Store the string trimmer properly in winter so that it can continue to be effective during summer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Store My Strimmer Upright?
Yes, the best way to store your strimmer is in the upright position. This will prevent your oil or gas from spilling out of the tool.
Besides, there won’t be much pressure on the fragile parts of the string trimmer. And you will also have some extra space in your garage.
Can You Leave Gas In A Weed Eater?
While you can leave gas in your weed eater, it is not a good idea. There’s a high chance that the gas will spill, especially if you store the tool horizontally. This means you’ll have to keep on cleaning the messy area every time the gas leaks, which may be stressful.
Moreover, leftover gas in your weed eater can damage its engine over time. This is why you should empty the fuel tank before storing your spring trimmer in the winter.
Why Is The Weed Eater Smoking?
Poor combustion is one of the reasons a weed eater may be smoking. This mostly happens when the fuel is not burning fully, which can be caused by leaving the choke on after ignition.
To fix this problem, go through the weed eater’s manual over again. If you’ve not been using the tool correctly, you’ll easily find out.
On the other hand, try to turn off the choke and fill the string trimmer with another fuel. Most of the time, old fuel doesn’t burn effectively and may even damage your weed eater’s engine in the long run.
Hey, I’m Lisa and I’ve been an avid gardener for over 30 years. I love writing, talking and living in the garden! Feel free to connect with me on my socials below
