Changing your trimmer line: a quick how to

Your lawn trimmer is one of the hardest-working tools in your garden shed. But it often needs a change of line. Here's a quick how to that outlines carrying out this simple task.

• Monofilament line or pre-wound spool

• For performance and safety, regularly check your trimmer's locking ring, the automatic feed button and the line itself.

• The locking ring stops the spool from tipping out of the trimmer.
• To inspect, first press the locking tab on the side of the spool while rotating the ring counter-clockwise.
• Pull off the ring and replace it if it's damaged.

• The automatic feed, or "tap," button in the centre of the spool monitors and adjusts the amount of line that the spool unfurls.
• Inspect and replace the automatic feed button if it's cracked or damaged.

• You will know that your line is damaged if there is a drop in cutting quality while trimming.
• Act immediately.
• Unlock the spool, slide it from the hub, and either wind the spool with your new line or install a new, pre-wound spool.
• If you're winding line onto a permanent spool, clip the line's end at a diagonal to make it easier to insert.

• Line trimmers are available in electric and gas-driven models.
• Electric models are ideal for average to small gardens, being lightweight and easy to start. But in a large garden the long extension cable is hard to drag around, and it will keep getting tangled in obstructions.
• When choosing a gas trimmer make sure that it is the right size and weight for your build. Check for excessive vibration, and that the starting cord is easy to pull.
• Stop using your line trimmer at least 10 centimetres (25 inches) from the trunks of trees and bushes to avoid damaging them. The whirling line will girdle even quite large plants, removing bark and other protective layers from them and injuring or even killing them.
• As an alternative to keeping away from them, you can protect your trees' trunks and shrubs' bases with a heavy plastic collar, available at garden centres.
• Always keep the cutting head of your line trimmer level. Tilting the head will give the grass an unsightly crew cut.

Keep this quick how to (and these helpful trimmer tips) in mind and changing your trimmer line will be a breeze.