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Log Splitter Safety: How To Use A Log Splitter Properly

Log Splitter

Before we get to the main details, let us first understand what a log splitter is. A log splitter is a type of outdoor equipment used for splitting logs to turn them into smaller pieces. These pieces are useful in making firewood.

This equipment is equipped with an engine that powers the machine. Generally, it is a four-stroke engine, which can either be powered through gas or electricity. The engine is then connected to a hydraulic pump that creates oil steam that goes through a valve.

Other main parts of a log splitter include a holding tank and an oil filter. A holding tank holds hydraulic oil that goes through the equipment using a pump. An oil filter, as its name implies, filters oil to make sure it stays clean.

A log splitter was primarily created to make splitting wood easier and less energy-consuming. Before it was made, people had to split logs manually by using an axe. If you have experienced this, you can very well understand how tiring it is and how it consumes so much of your time.

By using a Hydraulic log splitter, you can split wood more efficiently. This allows you to spend less time in this task and more on other important things. However, using such equipment requires the utmost safety. If you plan to invest or use a log splitter, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you so you can use the equipment safely and effectively.

Step 1: Determine Whether Your Log Splitter Is Electric Or Gas-powered

Log Splitter

Source: Pinterest

The first thing you need to do is to ensure what type of log splitter you have. This equipment can either be gas-powered or electric. If you have a gas-powered log splitter, you need to make sure you have enough gas to power it.

Once you complete this step, the next thing you need to do is to put hydraulic oil into your equipment. The amount of oil your log splitter needs will rely on its model. So before you do this step, make sure to check the user’s manual.

Step 2: Check If Every Part Is Not Damaged

Before powering up your machine, make sure to check if every part is fine. This is to make sure that no accidents will happen once you start using the machine. If you know anyone in your home who is knowledgeable about log splitters, let them double-check the equipment.

Step 3: Feed Logs Into The Log Splitter Properly

Log Splitter Properly

Source: Unsplash

If you are 100% sure that everything is in place, it’s time to power up your log splitter. Once it is running, you can now start feeding logs into the wedge properly. When doing this step, make sure you put each log in a way that it is positioned securely against the wedge. After this, find the activation mechanism to start the piston. The piston will then put pressure to the log.

The activation mechanism is usually an arm you must pull or a button you must press. Once you press or pull it, the log will start receiving high pressure so the wedge can split it into the specified size.

If You Are Using A Manual Log Splitter

Manual Log Splitter

Source: Pinterest

If your log splitter requires to be operated manually, the process might be a bit different. This type of splitter utilizes a welded edge on one end and on the other, a hydraulic jack. If this is the case, you must make sure that the screw is really tight on the jack to ensure the log is secured. This allows you to motion the cylinder into its proper position. After this, you need to pump the jack manually until the log splits.

Once this is done, you will have to let the screw go and push back the cylinder into its original place. For the next log, just repeat the entire process.

Important Safety Tips To Remember

  • A log splitter offers you ease and convenience when splitting logs. However, it can still be dangerous equipment if not handled properly. So if you don’t have experience yet, it would be really helpful if you read the user’s manual first. Make sure you understand everything. Also, there are several videos available online you can watch to give you a better picture of how a splitter is used.
  • Another important thing you must take note is you must firmly hold the log at the center to secure it in place. This greatly helps in preventing injuries and accidents.
  • When operating a log splitter, make sure that you are in a spacious location. Also, there shouldn’t be anyone near when you are doing your task. If you need help, then make sure that you operate the equipment carefully.
  • Do not forget to wear the proper attire and protective gear. Wear sturdy boots, gloves, and protective eyewear. This also goes for your companion (if there are any).
  • Lastly, your equipment must be from a reliable log splitter supplier. This is especially true if you are going to use your equipment frequently. This is to prevent your log splitter from having issues and damages prematurely. If a log splitter functions optimally, you’ll get the job done easily without compromising your safety.

About the author

Editor N4GM

He is the Chief Editor of n4gm. His passion is SEO, Online Marketing, and blogging. Sachin Sharma has been the lead Tech, Entertainment, and general news writer at N4GM since 2019. His passion for helping people in all aspects of online technicality flows the expert industry coverage he provides. In addition to writing for Technical issues, Sachin also provides content on Entertainment, Celebs, Healthcare and Travel etc... in n4gm.com.

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