As the summer season slowly winds down, the weather starts to get cooler, the days start to get shorter, and the leaves start to fall.
And with those small falling leaves often comes a big, annoying mess. Luckily, with the Flowtron Electric Leaf Mulcher, you can get your yard cleared out in no time.
This fall, follow this comprehensive guide below to get the most out of your Flowtron Electric Leaf Mulcher, the best electric leaf mulcher for efficient yard cleanup.
Getting Started
Safety First
Before you begin, familiarize yourself with the safety precautions:
- Read All Instructions: Understand all sections of the user manual before operating the shredder.
- Keep Children Away: Ensure the work area is free of children and pets.
- Avoid Wet Conditions: Do not use or store the shredder in damp or wet locations.
- Dress Properly: Wear appropriate clothing, including gloves and protective eyewear. Avoid loose clothing and jewelry.
- Stay Alert: Only operate the shredder when you are focused and attentive.
Getting to Know the Flowtron Electric Leaf Mulcher
Once you’ve got the safety precautions handled, get to know your product, and what makes it the best leaf mulcher for gardeners.
The Flowtron Electric Leaf Mulcher is designed to perform with minimum care and maintenance, making fall cleanup a breeze.
Some special features include:
- Adjustable Control Lever: Easily select from coarse to fine leaf reduction, with special positions for pine needles and grass clippings.
- Unique Leg Design: Functions upright or straddles trash barrel for efficient yard cleanup.
- Tilt Feature: Makes loading easy and allows the unit to flip 180° for compact storage.
- Integrated Storage: With hinged doors for storing extra cutting lines, gloves, safety glasses, etc.
- Foam Cushion Handles: Ensure comfort and ease of carrying.
- Powerful Motor: Shreds leaves quickly and easily.
- 120V Current: Conveniently runs on an ordinary 120V, 15A household current.
Operating the Flowtron Electric Leaf Mulcher
For efficient yard cleanup, follow the steps below.
Grounding the Mulcher
Ensure the leaf-eater is properly grounded to prevent electric shock. Use a grounded outlet box or a three-prong adapter connected to a permanent ground. If unsure, consult a qualified electrician.
Starting and Stopping the Leaf Shredder
The ON/OFF switch is located on the side of the lower housing. Push the switch up to turn on and down to turn off.
Moving the Mulcher
Disconnect the power cord before moving the unit. Lift it by grasping the top of the housing tower or the hand grips on the leg extensions.
Loading the Leaf-Eater
- Feed Material: With the leaf shredder running, feed double handfuls of dry leaves or single handfuls of wet leaves into the hopper.
- Avoid Overloading: Allow the leaf-eater to shred each load completely before adding more. Overloading can cause the motor to overheat and shut down.
- Clear Foreign Objects: Ensure no metal, rocks, bottles, or other foreign objects are fed into the shredder.
Adjusting the Mulching Control Lever
- Control Particle Size: Use the lever to adjust the particle size. The “COARSE” setting processes material faster with larger particles, while the “FINE” setting produces smaller particles but processes slower.
- Special Settings: Use appropriate settings for materials like pine needles, grass clippings, and thatch.
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
To keep your leaf mulcher shredder in pristine condition, follow the tips below.
Regular Cleaning
- Clean the Unit: Remove built-up residue from inside the housing area during and after each use. Keeping the unit clean ensures optimal performance and longevity.
Replacing the Cutting Line
- When to Replace: Replace the cutting line when you notice a decrease in shredding efficiency.
- How to Replace: Remove the used cutting line and thread the new line through the spinner holes, pulling tight to secure.
Replacing the Spinner
- Remove Old Spinner: Remove the screw and “O” ring from the center of the spinner. Lift the spinner off the shaft.
- Install New Spinner: Place the new spinner over the shaft and turn until the hex falls into place. Tighten the screw until the “O” ring is slightly depressed.
Cleaning the Air Filter
- Remove and Clean: The removable air filter is located on the side of the housing tower. Grasp the filter with your fingers and pull it out of the compartment. Rinse with clear water and air dry.
- Replace Filter: Ensure the air filter is replaced before using the machine again.
Common Issues and Solutions
- No Power: Check power connections and ensure unit is properly plugged in. Reset the circuit breaker, if necessary.
- Lack of Cutting Power: Replace work cutting lines and clean any built-up residue inside the housing.
- Unusual Noise or Vibration: Turn off the machine, disconnect the power cord, and check for foreign objects or loose parts.
By following these simple guidelines, you’ll keep your yard looking pristine all season long.
For more information, check out the user guide. Happy mulching!
