1. Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective use of your Earthwise LM71313 13-Inch Corded Electric Leaf Mulcher/Shredder. Please read all instructions carefully before operating the machine to ensure proper function and to prevent injury or damage.
Figure 1: Earthwise LM71313 Corded Electric Leaf Mulcher/Shredder. This image shows the complete mulcher unit with its stand and collection bag.
2. Important Safety Information
Always follow basic safety precautions to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and personal injury. Keep this manual for future reference.
General Safety Rules:
- Read the entire manual: Understand all instructions and warnings before operating the mulcher.
- Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE): Always wear safety glasses or goggles, hearing protection, and heavy-duty gloves. A dust mask is recommended to avoid inhaling fine particles.
- Keep bystanders away: Ensure children, pets, and other people are at a safe distance (at least 50 feet) from the operating area.
- Inspect the work area: Remove any rocks, metal objects, or other debris that could be thrown by the mulcher or damage the unit.
- Use on dry leaves only: Wet leaves can clog the mulcher and reduce efficiency.
- Avoid overfilling: Feed leaves at a steady pace that the mulcher can handle to prevent jamming.
- Disconnect power: Always unplug the mulcher from the power source before performing any adjustments, cleaning, or maintenance.
- Do not remove safety guards: The safety guard is designed to prevent debris from being ejected.
- Extension cords: Use only outdoor-rated extension cords that are in good condition and of appropriate gauge for the mulcher's power requirements.
3. Assembly
The Earthwise LM71313 mulcher requires minimal assembly. Follow these steps to set up your unit:
- Attach the stand: Securely fasten the mulcher unit to its wheeled stand using the provided hardware. Ensure all bolts are tightened.
- Install the collection bag: Attach the collection bag to the base of the mulcher using the elastic band and four clips. Ensure the bag is securely fastened to prevent debris from escaping.
- Adjust height (if applicable): The mulcher's height can be adjusted from 46.4 inches to 48.4 inches. Refer to the specific instructions for height adjustment in your packaging.
Figure 2: Key components of the Earthwise LM71313 mulcher, highlighting the wide loading tray, replaceable bag, and easy-to-handle design.
4. Operating Instructions
Before Starting:
- Ensure the mulcher is on a stable, level surface.
- Verify the collection bag is properly attached and empty.
- Connect the mulcher to a suitable power outlet using an appropriate extension cord.
Starting the Mulcher:
Press the power switch to turn on the mulcher. Allow the motor to reach full speed before feeding leaves.
Feeding Leaves:
Carefully feed dry leaves into the wide funnel opening. Do not force material into the mulcher. Avoid feeding twigs, branches, or other hard materials as these can damage the unit or wear out the mulching lines quickly.
Figure 3: A person wearing gloves carefully feeds dry leaves into the mulcher's wide opening.
Mulching Settings:
The mulcher features a sliding control lever with three mulching settings. Adjust the lever to select the desired fineness of the mulch. Experiment with different settings to find the best result for your leaf type.
Figure 4: Detail of the sliding control lever used to select one of the three mulching settings.
Video: Earthwise LM71313 13-Amp Leaf Mulcher in Action
Video 1: This video demonstrates the Earthwise LM71313 leaf mulcher in operation, showing how leaves are fed into the machine and mulched.
Stopping the Mulcher:
Turn off the power switch and wait for all moving parts to come to a complete stop before approaching the unit or performing any tasks.
5. Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your mulcher.
Cleaning:
- Always unplug the unit before cleaning.
- After each use, clean the mulcher's funnel and internal components to remove any accumulated debris. A brush or compressed air can be used.
- Ensure the ventilation openings are clear of obstructions.
Replacing Mulching Lines:
The mulching lines (filaments) will wear out over time and require replacement. Refer to your product packaging for specific instructions on how to replace these lines. Needle-nose pliers can assist in threading new lines through the designated holes.
Storage:
Store the mulcher in a dry, secure location away from children and unauthorized users. Ensure the unit is clean and dry before storage.
6. Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your mulcher.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Mulcher does not start. | No power supply; power switch off; circuit breaker tripped. | Check power connection and extension cord. Ensure switch is ON. Reset circuit breaker if necessary. |
| Mulcher clogs frequently. | Wet leaves; overfeeding; foreign objects. | Use only dry leaves. Feed material at a slower, steady pace. Clear any obstructions after disconnecting power. |
| Poor mulching performance. | Worn mulching lines; incorrect mulching setting. | Replace worn mulching lines. Adjust the mulching setting to a finer option. |
| Excessive vibration or noise. | Unbalanced load; loose components; damaged mulching lines. | Ensure even feeding. Check for loose bolts or screws. Inspect and replace damaged mulching lines. |
If you encounter issues not listed here or if solutions do not resolve the problem, contact customer support.
7. Specifications
- Model: LM71313
- Motor: 13-Amp Electric
- Funnel Opening: 19 inches
- Cutting Diameter: 13 inches (bladeless)
- Mulching Capacity: 55 gallons per minute
- Mulching Ratio: 16:1
- Mulching Settings: 3 (adjustable via sliding control lever)
- Adjustable Height: 46.4 inches to 48.4 inches
- Product Dimensions: 20.98 x 22.52 x 46.02 inches
- Item Weight: 21.8 pounds
8. Warranty and Support
For warranty information, product registration, or technical support, please refer to the documentation included with your purchase or visit the official Earthwise website. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.