Martha Stewart MTS-EPHT18 - User Manual

Model MTS-EPHT18 Form No. SJ-MTS-EPHT18-880E-M
OPERATOR’S MANUAL
ELECTRIC POLE HEDGE TRIMMER
18IN | 3.8 AMP | MULTI-ANGLE
© 2018 by Snow Joe
®
, LLC
All rights reserved. Original instructions.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
1
IMPORTANT!
Safety Instructions
All Operators Must Read These
Instructions Before Use
Always follow these safety guidelines. Failure to do so may
result in serious bodily injury or death.
General Safety WARNINGS!
You and any other operator of this pole hedge trimmer must
read, understand, and follow these instructions in their entirety.
Failure to follow these instructions may result in ELECTRIC
SHOCK, FIRE, and/or serious PERSONAL INJURY.
Notice the personal safety alert symbol
m used in this
manual to draw your attention to a WARNING given along
with the particular operating instruction. This means that
the operation requires special ATTENTION, CAUTION, and
AWARENESS.
mWARNING! This unit can be dangerous! Careless or
improper use can cause serious injury.
mWARNING! The moving blades can cut you. Keep
hands and feet away from the blades and the cutting area.
Before using the pole hedge trimmer, familiarize yourself with
the controls, especially how to stop the pole hedge trimmer
in an emergency. The only individuals who should use the
pole hedge trimmer are those who thoroughly understand
these instructions and know how to properly operate the unit.
Children should never be allowed access to the pole hedge
trimmer.
Retain this manual for future reference and reread it at the start
of each trimming season.
1. Keep work area clean and well-lit – Cluttered, dark
areas invite accidents.
2. Replacement parts – When servicing this unit, use only
identical replacement parts. Replace or repair damaged
cords immediately.
3. Keep children, bystanders, and pets away – All
spectators, including pets, should be kept a safe distance
away from the work area.
4. Know your product – Know how to start and stop the
machine. Be thoroughly familiar with the controls.
5. Use the right tool – Do not use this machine for any job
except that for which it was intended.
6. Extension cords – To prevent electric shock, use only
with an extension cord suitable for outdoor use.
7. Avoid accidental starting – Do not carry the pole hedge
trimmer with your nger on the switch. Make sure the
switch is o before plugging in or unplugging the unit.
mCAUTION! Moving parts will continue to run for several
seconds after turning o the machine.
8. Do not abuse the cord – Never carry the pole hedge
trimmer by the cord or yank the cord to disconnect it from
the receptacle. Keep the cord away from heat, oil, and
sharp edges.
9. Moving parts – Keep hands and feet away from moving
parts. Keep guards in place and in proper working order.
10. Do not force the tool – It will perform better with less
likelihood of personal or mechanical injury if it is used at
the rate for which it was designed.
11. Do not overreach – Keep proper footing and balance at
all times.
12. Use safety glasses – Also use safety footwear, snug-
tting clothing, protective gloves, hearing, and head
protection.
13. Disconnect the tool – Disconnect the pole hedge
trimmer from the power supply when it is not in use,
before servicing it, when changing accessories, and when
performing any other maintenance task.
14. Store idle tool indoors – When not in use, the pole hedge
trimmer should be stored indoors in a dry and high or
locked-up place out of the reach of children.
15. Maintain the pole hedge trimmer with care – Keep the
cutting edges sharp and clean for optimal performance
and to reduce the risk of injury. Inspect the extension
cord periodically and immediately replace it if damaged.
Keep the handles dry, clean, and free from oil and grease.
Follow the additional recommendations described in the
maintenance section of this manual.
16. Avoid dangerous environments – Do not use the pole
hedge trimmer in rain or in damp or wet locations. Do not
operate the pole hedge trimmer in gaseous or explosive
atmospheres or use the pole hedge trimmer near
ammable or combustible liquids. Motors in these tools
normally spark, and the sparks might ignite fumes.

Summary

Safety Instructions

General Safety Warnings

Essential safety guidelines for all operators to read and understand before use.

Additional Safety, Training & Preparation

Additional Safety Rules

Specific safety precautions for operating and maintaining the pole hedge trimmer.

Training and Preparation Guidelines

Read instructions, prepare the work area, dress properly, and be aware of surroundings.

Operation and Risk Management

Operation Guidelines

Instructions for safe and effective operation, including handling and environmental considerations.

Vibration, Noise, Emergency & Residual Risks

Minimize exposure, manage emergencies, and understand remaining hazards.

Electric Safety Precautions

Double-Insulated Appliances

Safety Symbols Guide

Product Overview and Specifications

Component Identification and Technical Data

Diagram of components and key specifications like voltage, motor, dimensions, and weight.

Unpacking and Assembly

Carton Contents and Tool Assembly

List of items, inspection, and step-by-step assembly of the trimmer.

Shoulder Strap Attachment

Guidance on how to properly attach and adjust the shoulder strap.

Connecting and Operating the Trimmer

Power Supply and Starting;Stopping

Safe connection to power and procedures for turning the trimmer ON and OFF.

Adjusting Pole and Head

Telescoping Pole and Pivoting Head Adjustment

How to adjust the telescoping pole and rotate the trimmer head to different angles.

Operation and Cutting Tips

General Operation and Usage

Basic operational procedures, handling, and using the pole hedge trimmer.

Trimming Best Practices

Tips for effective trimming, including timing and techniques for different hedge types.

Care and Maintenance

Cutting Limitations and Maintenance Procedures

Maximum stem thickness, cutting limitations, and guidelines for cleaning and servicing.

Blade Care, Storage, and Support

Blade Lubrication and Cleaning

Instructions for lubricating blades for better performance and cleaning the unit.

Storage, Disposal, and Service

Guidelines for storing, recycling, and obtaining customer support and parts.

Troubleshooting and Accessories

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Diagnosing and resolving common problems encountered with the hedge trimmer.

Optional Accessories

Information on available accessories and their compatibility.

Customer Warranty Information

Warranty Coverage and Exclusions

Details on the 2-year limited warranty, what is covered, and what is excluded.

Overview

1. Function Description
2. Important Technical Specifications
3. Usage Features
4. Maintenance Features

This document is an operator's manual for the Martha Stewart Electric Pole Hedge Trimmer, model MTS-EPHT18. It provides comprehensive safety instructions, technical specifications, and operational guidelines for the device.

Function Description

The Martha Stewart Electric Pole Hedge Trimmer is designed for trimming hedges and shrubs. It features a telescoping pole and a multi-angle head, allowing users to reach tall, low-lying, and difficult-to-access foliage. The dual-action cutting blade is made of rust-resistant steel, ensuring durability and efficient cutting. The device is intended for residential and personal household use only, and not for commercial, rental, or re-sale purposes.

Important Technical Specifications

• Model: MTS-EPHT18
• Rated Voltage: 120 V ~ 60 Hz
• Motor: 3.8 A
• No Load Speed: 3800 ± 10% rpm
• Blade Movement: Dual-action
• Multi-Angle Head: Adjustable to -90°, -60°, -30°, 0°, 30°, 60°
• Blade Material: Rust-resistant steel blades
• Blade Length: 18 in. (46.6 cm)
• Cutting Diameter Max: 0.7 in. (1.8 cm)
• Telescopic Pole: Extends from 5.9 ft to 7.4 ft (1.8 m to 2.25 m)
• Overhead Reach Max: 13.4 ft (4.1 m)
• Weight: 7.5 lbs (3.4 kg)

Usage Features

The pole hedge trimmer is designed for ease of use and versatility.

• Telescoping Pole: The pole can be extended from 5.9 ft to 7.4 ft, allowing users to adjust the length to reach various hedge heights. It features a cam-lock mechanism for secure locking at the desired length.
• Multi-Angle Pivoting Head: The trimmer head can be rotated into six different cutting angles (-90°, -60°, -30°, 0°, 30°, 60°) by pressing a pivot button. This allows for precise shaping and sculpting of hedges, including trimming tall hedges, bottoms and sides of hedges, and low-lying ground cover.
• Shoulder Strap: An included shoulder strap helps support the trimmer during use, reducing user fatigue and improving control. It features a quick-release latch for emergency situations.
• Cord Restraint Hook: The device includes a cord restraint hook to prevent the extension cord from disconnecting during operation, enhancing safety and convenience.
• Safety Lock Button + Trigger Switch: To operate, the user must first push and hold a safety lock button with their thumb, then squeeze the trigger switch with their fingers. This two-step activation prevents accidental starting.
• Cutting Tips: The manual provides guidance on effective trimming techniques, such as using a wide sweeping action for new growth and a sawing movement for older, thicker stems. It advises against forcing the trimmer through dense growth and recommends using non-powered hand saws for stems thicker than 0.75 inches.
• Environmental Considerations: The product is designed for outdoor use and requires an extension cord suitable for outdoor conditions. It is recommended to use a residual current device (RCD) protected supply when operating in damp locations.

Maintenance Features

Proper maintenance is crucial for the longevity and safe operation of the pole hedge trimmer.

• Blade Lubrication: For easier operation and longer blade life, the cutting blade should be lubricated with lightweight machine oil before and after each use. This involves laying the trimmer on a flat surface and applying oil along the edge of the top blade. Intermittent re-oiling is advised during extended use.
• Cleaning: After use, the motor should be stopped, and the power supply disconnected. The body of the trimmer should be cleaned of dirt and debris using a damp cloth with a mild detergent. Users are warned against using strong detergents, aromatic oils (pine, lemon), or solvents (kerosene) on plastic parts, as these can cause damage.
• Storage: The pole hedge trimmer should be stored indoors in a dry, high, or locked-up place, out of reach of children. The blade cover should always be placed on the blade before storing or transporting the unit to prevent injury from sharp teeth. It should be kept away from corrosive agents like garden chemicals and de-icing salts. The ideal storage temperature is between 50°F and 86°F (10°C and 30°C).
• Inspection: Before each use and after any impact, the tool, power cord, plug, and accessories should be checked for signs of wear or damage. Damaged guards or parts should be repaired or replaced immediately.
• Replacement Parts: When servicing, only identical replacement parts authorized by Snow Joe® + Sun Joe® should be used. The manual emphasizes that using unauthorized parts can create hazards or cause product damage.
• Double Insulation: The trimmer is double-insulated, eliminating the need for a separate grounding system. Servicing double-insulated appliances requires extreme care and knowledge of the system, and should only be performed by qualified service personnel using identical replacement parts.
• Troubleshooting: The manual includes a troubleshooting section to help users identify and resolve common issues such as the product not starting, not reaching full power, unsatisfactory results, or excessive vibration/noise. Solutions often involve checking power connections, using appropriate extension cords, cleaning air vents, replacing damaged blades, or tightening loose bolts/nuts. For more complex issues, users are directed to contact Snow Joe® + Sun Joe® customer service.
• Optional Accessories: An optional universal wall bracket with mounting hardware (SJWB) is available for storage, compatible with most Snow Joe® + Sun Joe® tools.

Martha Stewart MTS-EPHT18 Specifications

General

Brand	Martha Stewart
Model	MTS-EPHT18
Category	Trimmer
Language	English