The Australian summer is the most demanding season for your whipper snipper. Warm-season grasses like kikuyu and buffalo explode with growth, weeds seem to appear overnight, and your trimmer works harder than at any other time of year. A well-prepared machine handles this workload reliably; a neglected one will let you down when you need it most.
This guide covers everything you need to do before the summer trimming season kicks into high gear. Spending an hour on preparation now prevents frustrating breakdowns and ensures your trimmer performs at its best when the grass is growing fastest.
The best time to prepare your whipper snipper for summer is in late spring, before the first major growth spurt. Don't wait until your lawn is out of control and the trimmer won't start.
Battery-Powered Trimmer Preparation
Battery Health Check
Lithium-ion batteries are the heart of your cordless trimmer. Before summer arrives:
- Fully charge all batteries and check they reach full capacity
- Note the runtime on a test run—significant reduction indicates battery degradation
- Inspect batteries for damage, swelling, or corrosion on contacts
- Clean contacts with a dry cloth if dirty
- Consider purchasing a spare battery if your current runtime is marginal for your property
Never use a battery that appears swollen, damaged, or that gets unusually hot during charging. Damaged lithium-ion batteries can be a fire hazard. Replace immediately and dispose of according to local regulations (most Bunnings stores accept old batteries).
Charger Check
Ensure your charger is working correctly—test that it completes a full charge cycle without error indicators. Check the charging contacts are clean and the cord is undamaged. A faulty charger can damage batteries or fail at inconvenient times.
Petrol Trimmer Preparation
Fuel System Service
The fuel system causes more petrol trimmer problems than any other component. If your trimmer has been sitting over winter:
- Drain any old fuel from the tank completely
- Remove and inspect the fuel filter—replace if discoloured or clogged
- Check fuel lines for cracks or brittleness—replace if degraded
- Inspect the primer bulb—it should be pliable and free of cracks
- Fill with fresh fuel mixed to the correct oil ratio
Use fuel purchased within the last 30 days. Modern E10 petrol degrades quickly, leaving gummy deposits that clog carburettors. For the best results, use 95 octane (or higher) and quality two-stroke oil at the manufacturer's recommended ratio.
Air Filter Replacement
Summer conditions are dusty, and your trimmer's air filter works overtime. Start the season with a fresh filter:
- Remove the air filter cover
- Replace paper filters; clean and oil foam filters
- Check that the filter housing seals properly
- Have a spare filter on hand for mid-season replacement
Spark Plug Service
A fresh spark plug ensures reliable starting and optimal combustion:
- Remove the spark plug using the correct socket
- Inspect the electrode—replace if worn, damaged, or heavily fouled
- Gap the new plug to manufacturer specifications (typically 0.5-0.6mm)
- Install hand-tight, then 1/4 turn with the socket
All Trimmers: Cutting Head Service
Spool and Line
- Remove the spool and clean out all debris and old line fragments
- Check the spool for cracks or damage
- Inspect the bump knob (if fitted) for wear
- Wind fresh trimmer line onto the spool
- Stock up on line for the season—you'll use more in summer
Guard and Housing
- Ensure the debris guard is securely attached
- Check the line-cutting blade on the guard is sharp
- Clean grass buildup from inside the cutting head housing
- Verify all bolts and screws are tight
General Inspection Checklist
- Shaft: Check for cracks, bends, or loose connections
- Handles: Ensure grips are secure and comfortable
- Trigger/switch: Test operation—should be smooth and responsive
- Harness (if used): Check straps, clips, and padding condition
- Cooling vents: Clear any debris blocking airflow
- Drive shaft lubrication: Add grease if your model requires it (check manual)
Safety Gear Refresh
Summer trimming means more exposure to sun, debris, and fatigue. Refresh your safety gear:
- Replace scratched or damaged safety glasses
- Check hearing protection—replace foam inserts or earmuff cushions
- Ensure you have appropriate closed footwear
- Stock up on sunscreen—you'll be outdoors more
- Consider lightweight, long-sleeved sun protection clothing
Summer Operating Tips
Beat the Heat
Australian summers are brutal. Smart timing makes trimming more pleasant and safer:
- Trim in the early morning or late afternoon, avoiding peak heat
- Stay hydrated—keep water nearby
- Take regular breaks in the shade
- Watch for signs of heat exhaustion
Machine Care During Hot Weather
- Don't leave batteries in direct sun—heat accelerates degradation
- Allow petrol engines to cool before refuelling
- Keep cooling vents clear of debris for optimal airflow
- Clean the machine after each use—dried grass is harder to remove
Fire Safety
Summer brings elevated fire danger. Be aware:
- Never trim on Total Fire Ban days—sparks can start fires
- Avoid trimming near dry vegetation during extreme heat
- Check your spark arrestor screen (petrol models) is clean and functional
- Have a hose or fire extinguisher accessible when working in fire-prone areas
A properly prepared whipper snipper tackles Australian summer growth with ease. Take the time before the season hits to service your machine, stock up on consumables, and refresh your safety gear. Your summer trimming sessions will be more productive, more pleasant, and free of frustrating equipment failures.