How to Use a Wood Chipper: 5 Easy Steps & Safety Tips

You have a yard, and it will quickly become full of branches, so you will need a wood chipper. This equipment can help make your cleanup easier, especially after pruning trees or trimming hedges.

Using a wood chipper is not too difficult, but it does require careful handling. In this guide, you’ll learn how to use a wood chipper and some useful safety tips.

What Is a Wood Chipper?

A wood chipper is a machine that can break down branches, twigs, and other sorts of lawn debris into small chips. It operates by dragging wood through a hopper.

The sharp blades or hammers inside will chop it into small pieces. These wood chips can be used as mulch, compost, or even fuel in some heating systems.

Getting Ready to Use Your Chipper

Take a few minutes to prepare before using your wood chipper. Proper preparation will keep you safe and your chipper running properly.

Safety Gear 

This is serious, so don’t skip this. Here’s what you will need:

• Safety goggles or a face shield: Protect your eyes since the chips fly very fast.
• Earmuffs or earplugs: Reduce noise to avoid ringing ears.
• Heavy-duty gloves: Those splinters can hurt a lot.
• Long sleeves, long pants, and closed-toed shoes (not flip-flops): Protect your skin from scrapes and splinters.

Avoid wearing jewelry or loose clothing (like necklaces, scarves, or baggy shirts). They can become trapped in the machine.

Prepare the Work Zone

Stick the chipper on flat ground. Give yourself space—like, don’t wedge it next to your car or your favorite gnome statue. Clear the area of rocks, toys, and other junk. And point the chute away from people or anything breakable.

How to Use a Wood Chipper: A Simple 5-Step Guide

It’s simple to use a wood chipper. Below is a step-by-step guide for you:

Step 1: Start The Wood Chipper

First, check the fuel. Is the tank full? Are all the guards and shields there? Attach the collection bag and make sure nothing’s jammed inside.

Then, you turn on the machine. Let it warm up for a sec before feeding.

Step 2: Feed The Branches

Feed in one branch at a time, thick end first. The blades will grab it and pull it in. Don’t push with your hands—use a stick if you have to.

Stand to the side, not right in front, to avoid backlash that can hurt you.

Step 3: Shred the Small Stuff

Many chippers include a separate shredder tube for leaves, twigs, and tiny debris. Drop them in slowly, and double-check for rocks or metal.

Step 4: Clear The Hopper As Necessary

If the hopper becomes clogged, turn off the engine and check it. Use a stick or tool to clear stuff out, not your hands.

Step 5: Finish & Store Your Wood Chipper

Once finished, let the machine run until all debris has passed through.  Turn it totally off and unhook the power supply.

Brush out any leftover chips from the blades and chutes. Store the chipper in a dry and sheltered area to prevent it from rusting or weather damage.

Safe Tips & Precautions When Using a Wood Chipper

Never reach any part of your body inside while it’s running. Tie your hair back if it’s long. Keep kids and pets far away. And always stand to the side. If you have to move the chipper or clear a jam, turn it off first.

Conclusion

And now, you know how to use a wood chipper. It can turn those messy branches into mulch in no time at all. But safety is first. Use your chipper with careful attention to keep you and others safe.