General Safety Information
Always read and understand all safety warnings, instructions, illustrations, and specifications provided with this power tool. Failure to follow all instructions listed below may result in electric shock, fire, and/or serious injury. Save all warnings and instructions for future reference.
- Personal Safety: Always wear eye protection (safety glasses or goggles) and hearing protection. Wear heavy-duty gloves, long pants, and sturdy footwear. Do not operate the trimmer while barefoot or wearing open-toed shoes.
- Electrical Safety: Use only with a properly grounded outdoor extension cord. Ensure the extension cord is rated for outdoor use and is in good condition. Keep the extension cord away from the cutting area and ensure it is not cut by the blades.
- Work Area Safety: Keep children, bystanders, and pets at least 50 feet (15 meters) away from the work area. Clear the work area of debris, wires, and other obstacles before operation. Do not operate in wet conditions or in the presence of flammable liquids or gases.
- Tool Handling: Hold the hedge trimmer firmly with both hands. Ensure proper footing and balance. Do not overreach. Avoid accidental starting; ensure the switch is in the off position before connecting to power.
Product Overview and Components
The CRAFTSMAN CMEHTS822 Electric Hedge Trimmer is designed for efficient trimming of hedges and shrubs. It features a powerful motor and a dual-action blade for reduced vibration and clean cuts. The integrated Power Saw innovation allows for cutting thicker branches.
Figure 1: Side view of the CRAFTSMAN CMEHTS822 Electric Hedge Trimmer, showcasing its red and black housing and long blade.
- 22-Inch Dual-Action Blade: Provides efficient cutting with reduced vibration.
- Power Saw Tip: Located at the end of the blade, designed to cut branches up to 1.5 inches thick.
- Front Handle: For two-handed operation and control.
- Rear Handle with Trigger Switch: Main grip and power activation.
- Safety Guard: Protects hands from debris.
- Cord Retention System: Helps prevent accidental unplugging of the extension cord.
Figure 2: Angled view of the hedge trimmer, highlighting the specialized Power Saw tip at the end of the blade for cutting thicker branches.
Setup
- Attach the Safety Guard: Align the safety guard with the mounting holes on the trimmer body. Secure it using the provided screws and a Phillips head screwdriver. Ensure it is firmly attached before use.
- Connect to Power: Ensure the hedge trimmer's trigger switch is in the OFF position. Insert the extension cord into the trimmer's power inlet. Use the cord retention system to secure the connection, preventing accidental disconnection during operation. Plug the other end of the extension cord into a grounded outdoor power outlet.
Operating Instructions
- Starting the Trimmer: Hold the hedge trimmer firmly with both hands, one on the front handle and one on the rear handle. Press the safety lock-off button (if present) and then squeeze the trigger switch to start the motor. Release the lock-off button once the motor is running.
- Trimming Hedges: Begin trimming from the bottom of the hedge and work your way upwards. Use a sweeping motion, keeping the blades parallel to the hedge surface. For a flat top, hold the trimmer level and sweep across the top.
- Using the Power Saw Feature: For branches up to 1.5 inches thick, position the Power Saw tip over the branch. Apply steady pressure and allow the saw action to cut through the branch. Do not force the tool.
- Cord Management: Always be aware of the extension cord's location. Keep it behind you and away from the cutting blades. Avoid wrapping the cord around your body or the hedge.
- Stopping the Trimmer: Release the trigger switch to stop the motor. Always unplug the trimmer from the power outlet when not in use, before cleaning, or performing maintenance.
Maintenance
- Blade Cleaning: After each use, unplug the trimmer and carefully clean the blades with a stiff brush to remove sap and debris. Apply a light coat of machine oil or blade lubricant to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation.
- Blade Sharpening: For optimal performance, have the blades professionally sharpened when they become dull. Do not attempt to sharpen the blades yourself unless you have proper training and tools.
- Storage: Store the hedge trimmer in a dry, secure location out of reach of children. Use the blade sheath (if provided) to cover the blades during storage to prevent accidental injury and protect the blades.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Trimmer does not start | Not plugged in; extension cord faulty; safety button not pressed; circuit breaker tripped. | Check power connection; inspect extension cord; ensure safety button is pressed before trigger; reset circuit breaker. |
| Poor cutting performance | Dull blades; blades clogged with debris; attempting to cut branches too thick. | Clean and lubricate blades; have blades sharpened; use Power Saw tip for thicker branches or use appropriate pruning tools. |
| Excessive vibration | Damaged blades; loose components. | Inspect blades for damage; ensure all screws and components are tight. If vibration persists, discontinue use and contact customer service. |
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | CRAFTSMAN |
| Model Number | CMEHTS822 |
| Power Source | Corded Electric |
| Motor | 4.0 Amp |
| Blade Length | 22 Inches |
| Cut Capacity | Up to 3/4 Inches (Dual-action blade), Up to 1.5 Inches (Power Saw tip) |
| Blade Material | Carbon Steel |
| Item Weight | 3.04 Pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 35.56"L x 6.13"W x 7.13"H |
Warranty and Support
This CRAFTSMAN Electric Hedge Trimmer (CMEHTS822) comes with a 3-Year Limited Warranty. For full details regarding warranty coverage, claims, and customer support, please refer to the 'Warranty & Support' section in the official product documentation or visit the CRAFTSMAN website. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty validation.
