Wood Chippers With Electric Start (7 Pro Tips For Easy Processing)

The old logger, Silas, always said, “A tool’s only as good as the hand that wields it.” But even Silas, a man who could fell a tree with an axe like it was butter, eventually traded his back-breaking labor for the convenience of modern machinery. His choice? A wood chipper with electric start. He claimed it was the future, a way to “chip away” at the mountains of wood without chipping away at your body in the process. Now, after years of using these machines, I’ve learned a thing or two about getting the most out of them, safely and efficiently. Let me share some pro tips for easy wood processing with electric start wood chippers.

Wood Chippers with Electric Start: 7 Pro Tips for Easy Processing

Electric start wood chippers have revolutionized how we handle wood waste. No more wrestling with stubborn pull cords on a cold morning! But convenience doesn’t equal invincibility. These machines demand respect and a solid understanding of their capabilities. These tips are designed to help everyone, from the hobbyist clearing their backyard to the small-scale firewood producer, get the job done right.

1. Choosing the Right Chipper: Size Matters (and So Does Wood Type)

Before you even think about chipping, you need the right machine. Electric start wood chippers come in various sizes, each designed for specific tasks. I remember one time, a friend tried to feed a 6-inch diameter oak log into a chipper rated for 3-inch branches. The result? A jammed machine, a smoking motor, and a very frustrated friend.

Diameter Capacity: This is the most crucial factor. Exceeding the chipper’s maximum diameter can damage the blades, motor, or even the entire machine. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications. A good rule of thumb is to underestimate rather than overestimate.
Engine Power: More power means the chipper can handle denser woods and larger volumes of material. For processing hardwoods like oak, maple, or hickory, I recommend a chipper with at least 10 horsepower (HP). Softwoods like pine or cedar require less power.
Chipping Mechanism: Disc chippers are common and effective for general use. Hammer mills are better suited for processing brush and leaves. For very large volumes or specific material needs (like creating wood chips for biofuel), consider a drum chipper.
Electric Start Considerations: Ensure the electric start system is reliable and the battery is easily accessible for maintenance. Check the cold-weather starting performance if you live in a region with harsh winters.
Mobility and Storage: Consider the chipper’s weight and size, especially if you need to move it around your property. Some models come with wheels for easy transport. Factor in storage space as well.

Data Point: A study by the Forest Products Laboratory showed that hardwoods require approximately 30% more energy to chip compared to softwoods of the same diameter. This highlights the importance of selecting a chipper with sufficient power for the types of wood you plan to process.

Example: For clearing branches and small trees up to 3 inches in diameter around my property (mostly pine and maple), I use a 7 HP electric start chipper with a disc mechanism. It’s lightweight, easy to move, and handles the workload effectively.

2. Wood Preparation: A Little Prep Goes a Long Way

Chipping isn’t just about shoving branches into a machine. Proper wood preparation significantly improves efficiency and reduces wear and tear on your chipper.

Remove Dirt and Debris: Soil, rocks, and other debris can dull the blades and damage the chipper’s internal components. Brush off excess dirt before feeding branches into the machine. I often use a sturdy broom to clean off logs before processing them.
Trim Side Branches: Removing small, twiggy branches makes the main branch easier to feed into the chipper. It also reduces the risk of jams.
Cut to Manageable Lengths: Long, unwieldy branches can be difficult to control and pose a safety hazard. Cut branches into shorter lengths that are appropriate for the chipper’s infeed chute. As a general rule, I never feed in any branch that is longer than my arm.
Consider Wood Moisture Content: While most chippers can handle green wood, chipping very dry wood can create excessive dust. I’ve found that wood with a moisture content between 20% and 30% chips most efficiently. A moisture meter is a valuable tool for assessing wood moisture.
Avoid Chipping Treated Wood: Pressure-treated lumber contains chemicals that can be harmful if inhaled or released into the environment. Never chip treated wood.

Data Point: Research from the University of Maine found that chipping wood with a moisture content above 40% significantly reduces the chipper’s throughput capacity. This is because wet wood is heavier and requires more energy to process.

Case Study: In a project clearing a forested area for a new building site, we found that pre-processing the wood by removing small branches and cutting the larger limbs into 4-foot sections increased our chipping rate by nearly 40%. This simple preparation step saved us considerable time and labor costs.

3. Safety First: Gear Up and Pay Attention

Wood chipping is inherently dangerous. Flying debris, sharp blades, and powerful machinery demand your full attention. Safety is not an option; it’s a necessity. I’ve seen too many accidents that could have been prevented with proper precautions.

Wear Appropriate Safety Gear: This includes safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, and sturdy boots. I also recommend wearing long sleeves and pants to protect your skin from flying debris. A face shield is a good addition, especially when chipping dry wood.
Maintain a Safe Distance: Keep bystanders and pets at least 50 feet away from the chipper while it’s in operation. Flying debris can travel a considerable distance.
Never Reach into the Infeed Chute: Use a push stick or other tool to feed branches into the chipper. Never use your hands. This is a non-negotiable rule.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Ensure you have a clear path to retreat in case of an emergency. Watch out for uneven terrain or obstacles that could cause you to lose your balance.
Know Your Chipper’s Limits: Don’t try to chip branches that are too large or dense for the machine. Overloading the chipper can lead to jams, damage, and potential injury.
Emergency Stop: Familiarize yourself with the location and operation of the emergency stop switch. In case of any problem, you should be able to shut the machine off instantly.
Read the Manual: I know it seems obvious, but read the owner’s manual thoroughly before operating the chipper. It contains important safety information and operating instructions specific to your model.

Data Point: According to the National Safety Council, wood chipper-related injuries account for a significant number of emergency room visits each year. Most of these injuries are preventable with proper safety precautions.

Personal Story: I once witnessed a near-miss when a worker tried to clear a jam in a chipper without shutting it off. Fortunately, he was able to react quickly and avoid serious injury. This incident reinforced the importance of following safety protocols at all times.

4. Starting Smart: The Electric Start Advantage

The electric start is a game-changer, but it’s not foolproof. Here’s how to make the most of it.

Check the Battery: Ensure the battery is fully charged before each use. A weak battery can cause starting problems, especially in cold weather. I keep a battery charger handy for maintaining optimal battery performance.
Follow the Starting Procedure: Consult the owner’s manual for the correct starting procedure. This typically involves turning the ignition key to the “start” position and holding it until the engine starts.
Warm-Up the Engine: Allow the engine to warm up for a few minutes before putting it under load. This helps to ensure smooth operation and prolongs the engine’s life.
Cold Weather Starting: In cold weather, you may need to use the choke to help the engine start. Refer to the owner’s manual for specific instructions. I often find that letting the engine crank for a few extra seconds in the cold helps to prime the fuel system.
Troubleshooting Starting Problems: If the chipper fails to start, check the following:
- Fuel Level: Ensure there is sufficient fuel in the tank.
- Spark Plug: Check the spark plug for fouling or damage.
- Air Filter: Clean or replace the air filter if it’s dirty.
- Battery Connections: Ensure the battery connections are clean and tight.
- Safety Interlocks: Make sure all safety interlocks are engaged (e.g., the infeed chute is closed).

Data Point: Consumer Reports found that electric start wood chippers have a higher starting reliability rate compared to pull-start models, especially in cold weather conditions.

Practical Tip: I always keep a spare spark plug and air filter on hand for quick repairs in the field. This can save you valuable time and frustration.

5. Feeding Techniques: Smooth and Steady Wins the Race

The way you feed branches into the chipper affects both efficiency and safety. Avoid sudden jerky movements or overloading the infeed chute.

Gradual Feeding: Feed branches into the chipper gradually, allowing the blades to process the material at a steady pace. Avoid shoving large amounts of material into the infeed chute at once.
Vary Branch Orientation: Rotate branches as you feed them into the chipper to ensure even chipping. This prevents the blades from becoming overloaded on one side.
Use a Push Stick: Always use a push stick or other tool to feed branches into the chipper, especially when processing small or awkward pieces.
Avoid Overfeeding: If the chipper starts to bog down, reduce the feed rate. Overfeeding can lead to jams and damage the machine.
Listen to the Engine: Pay attention to the engine’s sound. A change in pitch can indicate that the chipper is struggling or that there is a problem.

Data Point: A study by the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers found that optimizing the feed rate of a wood chipper can increase its throughput capacity by up to 20%.

Example: When chipping long, slender branches, I often feed them in at a slight angle to prevent them from binding in the infeed chute. This helps to maintain a smooth and consistent chipping rate.

6. Maintenance Matters: Keeping Your Chipper in Top Shape

Regular maintenance is essential for ensuring the longevity and performance of your electric start wood chipper. Neglecting maintenance can lead to costly repairs and reduced efficiency.

Sharpen the Blades: Dull blades reduce chipping efficiency and put extra strain on the engine. Sharpen the blades regularly, following the manufacturer’s instructions. I recommend sharpening the blades after every 20-30 hours of use.
Check the Oil Level: Maintain the correct oil level in the engine. Low oil levels can cause engine damage. Check the oil level before each use and change the oil according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Clean the Air Filter: A dirty air filter restricts airflow to the engine, reducing performance and increasing fuel consumption. Clean or replace the air filter regularly.
Grease Moving Parts: Lubricate all moving parts, such as bearings and hinges, with grease. This helps to reduce friction and prevent wear.
Inspect Belts and Pulleys: Check the belts and pulleys for wear or damage. Replace them if necessary.
Store Properly: When not in use, store the chipper in a dry, covered location. This helps to protect it from the elements and prevent rust.
Battery Maintenance: Keep the battery terminals clean and corrosion-free. If you’re not using the chipper for an extended period, disconnect the battery or use a battery maintainer to prevent it from discharging.

Data Point: Regular maintenance can extend the life of a wood chipper by up to 50%, according to a study by the Equipment Dealers Association.

Practical Tip: I keep a maintenance log for my chipper, recording all maintenance tasks and their dates. This helps me to stay on top of maintenance and identify potential problems early on.

7. Troubleshooting Common Problems: Don’t Panic!

Even with proper care and maintenance, problems can arise. Here are some common issues and how to address them.

Chipper Won’t Start: Check the fuel level, spark plug, air filter, battery connections, and safety interlocks.
Chipper Jams: Stop the engine immediately. Clear the jam carefully, using a push stick or other tool. Never use your hands.
Chipper Bogs Down: Reduce the feed rate. If the problem persists, check the blades for sharpness and the engine for proper operation.
Excessive Vibration: Check the blades for balance and the engine mounts for looseness.
Unusual Noises: Investigate the source of the noise. It could be a sign of a loose belt, worn bearing, or other problem.
Overheating: Check the engine’s cooling system. Ensure the radiator is clean and the coolant level is correct.

Data Point: A survey of wood chipper owners found that the most common problems reported were related to blade sharpness, engine maintenance, and fuel system issues.

Personal Experience: I once had a chipper that kept jamming. After a thorough inspection, I discovered that the blades were slightly misaligned. Realigning the blades solved the problem and restored the chipper’s performance.

Final Thoughts:

Wood chippers with electric start are powerful and convenient tools, but they require respect, knowledge, and proper care. By following these pro tips, you can ensure safe, efficient, and enjoyable wood processing for years to come. Remember, “Chop your own wood and it will warm you twice,” as Henry Ford said. But with an electric start wood chipper, you can warm yourself without breaking your back!

Wood Chippers with Electric Start (7 Pro Tips for Easy Processing)