If you’re looking for a powerful and eco-friendly tool to handle your yard work, you’ve likely come across the Greenworks 24012. This 24-volt cordless string trimmer is designed to be both reliable and efficient, making it a popular choice for gardeners who want to avoid the hassle of gas and cords.
It promises a clean cut without the noise, fumes, or constant maintenance of traditional trimmers. But does it live up to the hype in a real garden setting? Let’s take a closer look at what makes this tool stand out and how it can simplify your lawn care routine.
Greenworks 24012 – Reliable and Efficient
The core promise of the Greenworks 24012 is right there in its description. It’s built to start with the press of a button and deliver consistent power until the job is done. For most residential lawns, this trimmer hits a sweet spot. It’s not meant for clearing acres of thick brush, but for the everyday tasks of edging walkways, trimming along fences, and cleaning up grass that your mower can’t reach, its efficiency is impressive.
You get a good balance of runtime and power, especially if you invest in an extra 24V battery. This means you can often finish all your trimming and edging on a single charge, which is a key part of its reliable workflow.
Key Features That Save You Time and Effort
What exactly makes this trimmer so user-friendly? Here’s a breakdown of its standout features:
* 24V Cordless Design: The freedom of cordless operation cannot be overstated. You’re not limited by an extension cord’s length or worrying about accidentally cutting the cord. Just pop in a charged battery and you’re ready to go anywhere on your property.
* Adjustable Shaft: This is a huge benefit for comfort. You can easily adjust the shaft length to fit your height, reducing back strain and making the tool feel more balanced in your hands.
* Easy Line Advance: The trimmer features a simple bump-feed head. When you need more cutting line, just tap the head on the ground while the tool is running. It’s a quick and intuitive system that keeps you working without interruption.
* Lightweight Build: Compared to gas trimmers, the Greenworks 24012 is significantly lighter. This makes it much easier to control for precise edging and less tiring to use over longer sessions.
Getting the Most Out of Your Trimmer: A Step-by-Step Guide
To ensure your Greenworks trimmer remains reliable and efficient for seasons to come, proper setup and use are crucial. Follow these steps for best results.
1. Unboxing and Assembly. Carefully remove all parts from the box. You’ll typically need to attach the handle and the guard. The instructions are clear, and it usually requires just a few screws with the provided wrench. Make sure everything is snug before use.
2. Battery Charging. Before your first use, give the battery a full charge. The LED indicators on the charger will let you know when it’s ready. It’s a good habit to store your battery in a cool, dry place.
3. Adjusting the Shaft. Hold the trimmer in your normal working position. Loosen the collar, extend or retract the shaft until your arm is at a comfortable, slightly bent angle, and then tighten the collar firmly.
4. Loading the Trimmer Line. You’ll need to spool fresh .065-inch diameter trimmer line onto the head. Follow the directional arrows inside the spool. Don’t overfill it, as this can cause jams. Cut the ends so about 6 inches of line protrudes from the eyelets.
5. Starting Your Work. Insert the fully charged battery until it clicks. Find a clear area, press the safety lock button on the handle, and then squeeze the trigger. The motor will start immediately—no pulling required!
6. Technique for Trimming and Edging. For trimming, use a slow, sweeping motion from side to side, letting the tip of the line do the work. For edging, you can rotate the head 90 degrees to create a clean vertical cut along driveways and beds.
Maintenance Tips for Long-Term Reliability
One of the biggest advantages of this tool is its low maintenance. But a little care goes a long way in preserving its efficient performance.
* After Each Use: Gently tap the trimmer head to remove any grass clippings and debris. Wipe down the shaft and motor housing with a dry cloth.
* Line Check: Regularly check your trimmer line for wear. Reload the spool before it’s completely empty to avoid having to restart a big job halfway through.
* Battery Care: Avoid leaving the battery on the charger indefinitely or storing it in extreme hot or cold temperatures. For winter storage, a partially charged state in a cool garage is ideal.
* Guard Inspection: Every few uses, check the debris guard for cracks or damage. It’s there for your safety, so replace it if it becomes compromised.
Common Issues and Simple Solutions
Even the most reliable tools can have minor hiccups. Here’s how to troubleshoot common problems.
* Trimmer line won’t advance: This is often due to the line being tangled inside the spool. Stop the tool, remove the spool, and rewind the line neatly, ensuring it’s not crossed over itself.
* Tool suddenly stops running: First, check the battery charge. If it’s charged, remove and reinsert it to ensure a good connection. Also, check if the motor housing feels unusually hot; if so, let it cool down for 15-20 minutes—it may have an automatic overload protection that kicked in.
* Vibration or unusual noise: Stop using the trimmer immediately. Check for any loose parts, especially the guard and the trimmer head. Make sure no thick weeds or string have become wrapped around the head’s spindle.
* Reduced runtime: Over time, battery capacity can diminish. If you’ve had the battery for several years, it might be time for a replacement. Also, cutting very thick weeds will drain the battery much faster than trimming fine grass.
FAQ: Your Questions Answered
Q: Is the Greenworks 24012 powerful enough for my needs?
A: It’s perfect for typical suburban lawn maintenance—trimming grass, light weeds, and edging. For very large properties or consistently thick, woody weeds, a higher-voltage model might be more suitable.
Q: How long does the battery actually last?
A: With the standard 24V 2.0Ah battery, you can expect about 20-30 minutes of continuous runtime, which covers most small to medium-sized yards. Runtime varies with the density of what your cutting.
Q: Can I use other Greenworks 24V tools with the same battery?
A: Yes! This is a major benefit. The 24V battery platform works across many Greenworks tools, like blowers, hedge trimmers, and even chainsaws. This makes building a cordless tool kit very cost-effective.
Q: Is it really easier than a gas trimmer?
A: For most users, absolutely. There’s no mixing fuel, no pull starts, no spark plug changes, and much less noise and vibration. The trade-off is raw power, but for efficiency and convenience, it’s a winner.
Q: Where can I buy replacement parts like trimmer line and spools?
A: Greenworks parts are widely available online through retailers like Amazon, Home Depot, and the official Greenworks website. Always use the recommended .065-inch line for optimal performance.
In conclusion, the Greenworks 24012 stands as a solid choice for the homeowner who values a tidy lawn without the complexity of gas equipment. Its design prioritizes user comfort and straightforward operation, living up to its promise of being a reliable and efficient partner in the garden. By following the simple setup, usage, and maintenance tips outlined here, you can ensure this tool helps you achive a well-kept yard for many seasons to come.