You can keep your string trimmer running efficiently and extend its lifespan by regularly replacing the air and fuel filters, cleaning or replacing the spark arrestor, maintaining fresh cutting line, and degreasing the unit at the end of the season. Proper maintenance not only improves performance but also saves fuel, reduces emissions, and prevents costly breakdowns during heavy use. Using a tune-up kit designed for your specific model makes the process easier and ensures every component stays in top condition. With consistent care and timely troubleshooting, your string trimmer will deliver clean, powerful cuts all season long.
First, learn how string trimmers work in our popular how-it-works video:
Here are five ways to maximize efficiency, save money and keep your string trimmer working well:
Remember to first consult your owner’s manual for maintenance instructions, as they do vary by model.
The easiest way to maximize the efficiency of a string trimmer is to use a tune-up kit that’s packed with the essentials designed specifically for that model. Enter your string trimmer’s model number here to discover tune-up kits specifically designed for it.
1. Change the air filter.
The air filter has the important job of stopping dirt, dust and debris from getting into the engine. Clean the filter after every four hours of use. Replace it every 100 hours or every three months, whichever comes first.
2. Change the fuel filter.
In most models, fuel filters can be removed and cleaned. Some fuel filters are located in the fuel line and others are located inside of the fuel tank. Be sure to consult your owner’s manual for information about this. If you find debris clogging the mesh screen inside the filter, replace it.
3. Clean/replace the spark arrestor
Located inside of the string trimmer engine’s muffler, the spark arrestor has an important role in the proper functioning of the string trimmer.
It should be cleaned or replaced every 25 hours of use or once a season.
Note that if your model has a fiberglass spark arrestor, it should be discarded and replaced every 25 hours of use, as this type cannot be cleaned and reused.
4. Replace the cutting line.
Over time, string trimmer line weakens, becomes brittle and easily breakable. Use a high quality, non-rounded string for a dramatically better cut. RepairClinic has replacement string trimmer line for all models.
Related post: How to supercharge your string trimmer
5. At the end of the season, degrease.
Before storing your string trimmer at the end of the season, spray a degreaser on greasy and dirty areas. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes before wiping the sprayed area with a clean cloth. Rinse it off and ensure that it’s completely dry before storing the string trimmer.
Here are simple fixes for a few common string trimmer problems:
Problem: The engine starts and then stops shortly afterward.
Possible fix: The spark arrestor may be clogged. This is often caused by using too much oil or the incorrect type of oil in the fuel mixture. With your string trimmer model, head to RepairClinic.com’s Repair Help for troubleshooting information and to discover what may be the cause and solution.
Problem: The engine won’t start at all.
Possible fix: If the engine won’t start at all, the most likely cause is a defective spark plug or a restricted carburetor.
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Check out RepairClinic’s Repair Help information, where you can find additional troubleshooting information for common string trimmer problems.
You’ll find other symptoms and troubleshooting information on our website’s String Trimmer Repair Help.
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Need help finding your string trimmer’s model number? Here’s a helpful video:
String trimmer safety
- Always use safety glasses, as pebbles and debris can be propelled at high speeds.
- Keep pets and people at least 200 feet away when string trimmers are in operation
Something broken?
RepairClinic.com has troubleshooting and repair help information for string trimmers. With your string trimmer’s model number in hand, head to RepairClinic’s Repair Help information. RepairClinic has replacement parts for string trimmers including air filters, fuel lines, spark plugs and many others. Click here to shop.
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