Clogged shredders are not uncommon. The reason for this is almost always improper use. Find out below why shredders clog, how to avoid blockages and how to loosen jammed branches and leaves.

Shredders clog up if used improperly

Reasons for clogging of a chopper

Small garden shredders are not designed for large amounts of branches and twigs. They also have their problems with thick wood. The most common reason for a clog is that the user is trying to chop too many branches at once or branches that are too thick. The shredder (€199.99) groans under the load and only works slowly. Anyone who then loses patience and tamps up with a stick, finishes off the shredder. It is overloaded and comes to a standstill.

Another common cause of clogging is shredding soft, wet material. Do not shred anything that you can already compost as is. A blockage is favored when the knives are blunt. Therefore, it should always be ensured that the knives are sufficiently sharp.

Fix a clog

To clear the clog you will need to remove the cover on your shredder. This can look very different depending on the model and can be located in different places. It is important that you expose the knives. To do this, proceed as follows:

  • Unplug your shredder and put on gloves.
  • Unscrew the cover fixing screws and loosen the cover.
  • Remove leaf debris, bits of wood and anything else that is preventing the knives from cutting.
  • Remove stubborn parts with pliers. Be careful not to hurt yourself! The knives are sharp.

Obstruction from blunt knives

If the knives are blunt, the shredder will clog faster. So if you find that your shredder isn't working as fast as it used to, you should sharpen the blades. The knives are often only attached with a simple screw connection and can thus be removed and sharpened without any problems.

Avoid constipation

With the right application you avoid annoying blockages.

  • Be patient when chopping. Give your shredder the time it needs.
  • Do not put too many branches in the shredder at once
  • Chop up branches that are too thick with an ax or secateurs
  • Avoid putting wet, soft material in your shredder
  • Always chop from the thick part to the thin part

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