How to Use an Electric Chainsaw Like a Pro

Last Updated on January 10, 2023

An electric chainsaw is a cutting tool that is ideal for light work. For instance, you can use it to cut small trees that don’t have a thick trunk.

Unlike petrol chainsaws, electric chainsaws are less cumbersome and can be easily handled as you are cutting wood. If you want to learn how to use a powerful chainsaw, an electric chainsaw might be a good starting point. In this article, we are going to show you how to use an electric chainsaw. We are also going to give you some tips on how to use a chainsaw safely.

Tools for Cutting Down a Tree With an Electric Saw

These are some of the accessories that you might need when using electric chainsaws.

• Gloves – A pair of safety gloves protect your hands when handling an electric chainsaw. It minimises the risks of getting injured with a chainsaw chain.
• Chainsaw Helmet – A safety helmet protects your head as you are cutting different types of trees. It will prevent serious head injuries if something like thick branches falls on you.
• Long Cord – Most electric chainsaws have a power cord that transfers current from the power source to the chainsaw. A long power cord makes it easier for you to move when you’re cutting wood. However, you have to be cautious when walking to avoid tripping over the cable.
• Safety Goggles – Safety goggles protect your eyes. They prevent wood chips from flying into your eyes. Not to mention, they make it easier for you to see as you are pruning or cutting a tree.
• Hearing Protection – Since electric chainsaws can be quite loud, you have to use hearing protection or ear defenders when working with these power tools.
• Long Sleeve Shirt or T-shirt – A long sleeve shirt made from durable material can protect your hands from splinters or falling branches.
• Boots – A pair of boots can save you from a serious injury while working with electric chainsaws.

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Guide to Using Electric Chainsaws

For safety and best results, here are the step-by-step instructions on using these tools.

Step 1: Wear Some Protective Gear

Start by wearing your protective gear. Put on a pair of gloves and a helmet. You should also wear some safety goggles.

These safety gears will save you from various injuries that may be caused by this powerful device.

Step 2: Read the Instruction Guide

Since electric chainsaws come with a variety of features and specifications, reading the user manual gives you insight into the different parts of the electric chainsaw. Through the instruction manual, you will understand how you can operate and handle your electric chainsaw. Not to mention, an instruction guide makes it easier for you to locate different features in your electric chainsaw.

Step 3: Add Some Oil to the Blade Reservoir to Lubricate the Bar and Chain

Oil lubricates the bar and chain, minimising friction on the teeth of the saw. Read your instruction manual to determine the type of oil that is compatible with your electric chainsaw. Using the wrong type of oil can damage your chain and the guide bar.

Pro-Tip: Many electric saws are compatible with the SAE 30 weight oil. Once you find out the suitable type of oil for your device, get one, then pour it into the blade oil reservoir.

Step 4: Connect the Power Cord of This Power Tool to an Electricity Source

Connect the power cord of the electric chainsaw to the nearest mains outlet. If your power cord is not long enough, you can use an extension cable to improve your chainsaw’s mobility. Do not tangle up the wires.

You should also place your power cord on a dry surface. Avoid placing it on wet ground, as it might conduct electricity and cause some accidents. After that, flip the power switch to turn it on.

Step 5: Start the Electric Chainsaw

Hold the chainsaw in a firm and sturdy posture. Start the electric chainsaw by flipping the safety switch and pressing the trigger. Some electric saws come with a pump that lets you lubricate the chain. Press the pump if you want to lubricate the chainsaw.

Since electric saws are not powered by petrol, they do not have a primer button that speeds up the engine-ignition process. A primer button is a special button that makes it easier for you to ignite the engine of petrol-powered saws. However, it is not found on electric saws.

If your model doesn’t have a pump, let it run for a few minutes before you start cutting.

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Step 6: Cut a Small Tree

Start off with a small tree that is neither too big nor too small. A tiny trunk can destabilise your posture while you are cutting it. On the other hand, cutting a large tree trunk can be quite tedious.

Hold the electric saw’s side handle with one hand, then grip the main handle with the other. Press the trigger of the chainsaw to start the rotary motion of the electric chainsaw blade. If the chainsaw blade begins to rotate at its maximum speed, lower the blade slowly until it comes into contact with the trunk you plan to cut. The middle part of the chainsaw is the only part that should come into contact with the wood that you are cutting.

Practising on various trees makes it easier for you to understand how an electric chainsaw blade works. Make sure that you exert some light pressure on the tree trunk as you are cutting it. The tip of the chainsaw bar should not come into contact with the tree trunk.

Importance of Practicing on How to Make a Tree Fall

If you cut a tree using the wrong technique, it may fall on an object and damage it. Not to mention, it might fall back in your direction. To prevent this from happening, you have to use the right technique to cut down an upright tree.

Kickback

You should not use the tip or the front part of electric chainsaws to cut anything. The tip of an electric saw can cause a kickback. If the electric chainsaw’s front section comes into contact with a tree, the saw might be thrown back in your direction at high speed. This could be quite dangerous, especially if you are using a powerful chainsaw blade to cut wood.

Additionally, if the chainsaw comes into contact with something like a nail, it might be thrown forward. Due to this, you should check if the tree or wood that you are planning to cut has any nails. Taking such precautionary measure will prevent any injuries from happening. You can use a chain brake to prevent a saw from yanking back at you. A chain brake minimises the movement of the chainsaw as it swings back.

Safety Tips in Handling a Chainsaw

Always ensure safety when dealing with power tools. Here are some of the things you should look out for when using electric saws:

1. Do not use this tool when you are alone.

Well, it is not advisable to use a chainsaw on your own. You should use it in the company of another adult. You can work with a friend as you are cutting down a tree or pruning branches, for starters. If anything happens while you’re using a chainsaw, you will have somebody to look out for you.

2. You should always hold the chainsaw with your two hands.

Always use both hands to hold the chainsaw. In this way, you can control the saw with lesser effort. Also, in the event of a chainsaw kickback, you can manage the situation safely. Using both hands while sawing also makes it easier for you to get accurate cuts. You should also position the chainsaw at a certain angle preferably at the side of your body. This position minimises the risk of any injuries that the kickback force may cause.

3. Do not cut branches that are above your shoulder height.

Cutting limbs that are higher than your shoulder can be quite risky. Holding a chainsaw at a certain height can make you lose control over your power tool. Not to mention, a kickback can cause some serious accident. You should only work on the branches that are below your shoulder height.

You should also avoid using a ladder while you are cutting wood. The chainsaw’s strong vibration may unsettle the ladder. Not to mention that this position can make it difficult for you to avoid falling branches.

If you follow these tips, you will have an easy time while using an electric saw.

Get an Electric Saw

When you know how to use an electric chainsaw, it can help accomplish different tasks. Unlike a petrol-powered alternative, this saw has minimal injury risks. It is very easy to control for simple jobs like cutting different types of trees.

Have you used an electric saw? How does it compare to using a petrol-powered one? Don’t hesitate to share some tips or hacks. We’d love to see your comments below.