Guide to Using a Polesaw

Knowing how to use a pole saw properly is essential for both efficiency and safety when it comes to yard maintenance. ECHO’s Power Pruner® Pole saws provide an extended reach, enabling you to effortlessly trim tall branches, bushes, and limbs in your yard, eliminating the need for climbing or using ladders. 

Familiarizing yourself with the many pole saw uses and the tool’s components is essential to ensure longevity and keep you safe. There are important safety considerations to note – like maintaining stable footing, facing the blade away from obstacles or powerlines, and wearing the right protective gear – to reduce the risk of or prevent accidents. 

Continue reading to learn everything you need to know about using a pole saw, including which safety tips are critical to remember with every use. .  

How to Use a Pole Saw

From seasoned gardeners and professional landscapers to beginners tackling yard work for the first time, mastering the art of Power Pruner® operation will make all the difference in creating and maintaining a tidy, gorgeous outdoor space. Power Pruner® is like any other tool – with proper care and maintenance, you can count on them for years to come. 

Preparation

  • Check your saw for damage or wear. 
  • Wear protective gear like gloves, goggles, and a helmet. 
  • Survey the area you plan to work in, checking for power lines or other obstacles in your planned cutting path. 

Positioning

  • Always maintain footing and balance. Do not stand on slippery, uneven, or unstable surfaces. Do not work in odd positions or on ladders.
  • Before you power up your Power Pruner®, if your pole saw has a telescopic shaft, extend the pole to the length you need and lock it securely.
  • Hold the Power Pruner® firmly with both hands with thumbs and fingers encircling the front and rear handles.

Approach

  • From a safe distance, direct the pole saw toward the branch you want to cut.
  • Stand to one side, never directly below the cutting area. 
  • Allow the weight of the Power Pruner® to guide the blade onto the branch. 
  • Beware of kickback. Kickback can lead to dangerous loss of control of the Power Pruner® resulting in serious injury to the operator or anyone standing close by.

Technique

  • Make an undercut on the branch and cut around one-third of the way through.
  • Move to the top side of the branch to make a second cut that’s slightly further out. 
  • Let the weight of the branch help with the cutting process.

Pruning

  • To prune or trim branches, make very clean cuts on the outside of the branch collar (the swollen area you see where the branch meets the trunk or a larger limb).
  • Don’t leave stubs – they can invite insect infestation and disease.

Safety measures

  • Maintain a firm grip and control throughout the entire cutting process. 
  • Stay aware of your surroundings and falling branches. 
  • Never use a Power Pruner® in high winds or wet conditions to prevent the risk of accidents.

Battery-Powered vs. Gas Pole Saw

ECHO Power Pruner® pole saws offer convenience and power, available in a battery-powered or a gas-powered option, so you can keep your trees, shrubs, and bushes perfectly manicured year-round. 

Battery-operated: The ECHO Battery System uses innovative technology, power, and efficiency, with several advantages that other brands and styles don’t even come close to comparing to. 

Quiet operation, zero emissions, and minimal maintenance are just a few of the perks. Power Pruner® Pole Saws batteries charge quickly and have an extended capacity and runtime, so you have enough power to get even the big jobs done. ECHO’s industry-leading MAXOUT® Technology ensures your Power Pruner® runs at full power until the charge is gone.

Gas-powered: ECHO gas-powered Power Pruner® comes with a fixed or telescoping shaft that can reach up to 20 feet (some models). Get exceptional power and cutting performance with user-friendly comfort features like ergonomic handle rubber grips and a lightweight design that makes even all-day work doable.     

ECHO Power Pruner® pole saws also prioritize safety and convenience, with additional features like instant start capabilities, ergonomic handles, and automatic chain lubrication systems to ensure smooth cutting performance with every use.

Safety Considerations for Pole Saws

Safety should always be the number one concern when using any power tool, including a Power Pruner®. By following ECHO safety guidelines and being cautious, you can use your tool safely and avoid accidents.

Safety tips when using a pole saw:

  • Wear essential gear – gloves, goggles, and proper footwear should always be worn. 
  • Use a Power Pruner® only when standing on stable even ground, gripping the pole firmly, and keeping your feet securely planted on the ground.
  • Keep your arms and wrists straight to reduce strain and fight fatigue. 
  • Don’t overreach or work in extreme windy conditions. 
  • Watch for hazards like power lines, falling debris, and unstable or partially trimmed branches.

Maximize Power and Cutting Efficiency with an ECHO Power Pruner®

Learning how to use a pole saw correctly and prioritizing safety measures are vital for your safety and to preserve your tool. From wearing the right gear to having the proper stance, even homeowners can achieve professional-level results while reducing risk. 

Tackling tree trimming and pruning doesn’t have to be daunting. With the right knowledge, and safety tips, you can enjoy the enhanced beauty of your outdoor space that’s easily achieved with an ECHO Power Pruner® Pole Saws.