Is it safe to be using a chainsaw in hot weather?
Well, you’ve come to the right place because that’s exactly what I’ll be going over in this post and how to actually do it.
Preventing your chainsaw from overheating
Clean it
In order to prevent your chainsaw from overheating, the number one thing you can do is make sure it’s clean. This is the most common cause for an overheating chainsaw. If you haven’t cleaned your chainsaw in a long time, strip it down as much as you can and go over it with a rag.
I would recommend using an anti greasing chemical, spray it all around and let it sit for 5 minutes. Then wash it with a jet washer and a rag. You should then proceed to regrease it with some motor oil.
If you find your chainsaw is boiling gas, it’s because heat is transferring to the gas tank. You need to remove the flywheel and start cleaning in there.
Refill the bar oil
The bar oil is responsible for lubricating the chain and bar. You see, as the chain is rotating around the bar thousands of times per minute, this causes friction and friction causes heat.
To prevent a dangerous amount of heat from being formed, you must lubricate the chain. Modern chainsaws all come with an automatic lubricator, you simply have to fill it with bar oil.
Clean the air filter
The air filter is responsible for preventing debris from getting to the engine. The engine needs air to operate and an air filter is there to assist with this. If it gets clogged up, the chainsaw will heat up and stop operating.
Eventually, you’ll have to clean the air filter. Simply remove it and give it a clean, you can simply wash it and leave it to dry. Or just get a replacement air filter if you’re unable to clean it to a suitable standard.
Biting off more than you can chew
If you’ve got a small electric chainsaw and you’re trying to cut through 20+ inch hardwood, you may feel your chainsaw overheating, see fumes, and it could suddenly stop.
Stick with what your chainsaw is made for. Even if you do manage to cut up that hardwood with a small electric chainsaw, you’ve probably decreased the lifespan of that chainsaw.
Should I wear gloves?
Even though it’s hot, gloves still need to be worn as a safety precaution. When cutting in the heat, your hands are going to get sweaty, loosening your grip and you don’t need me to tell you that this is extremely dangerous.
So make sure you’ve got some gloves on. They don’t have to be super thick, just something that will encase your hands.
Taking care of yourself
Being out in the heat for long periods of time isn’t good for you. Your body will be burning calories trying to keep you cool. So make sure you’re drinking plenty of water, keeping yourself hydrated.
Make sure you’re cutting in short bursts, no more than one hour at a time. Make sure you’re taking breaks, keeping your energy levels high and hydrating yourself.
Conclusion
Yes, using a chainsaw in hot weather is OK. Make sure you’re wearing the correct safety equipment and you’re staying hydrated. Make sure the chainsaw is free of any debris to prevent it from overheating.
Hope you found what you were looking for in this post.
Happy sawing!
– Adam
