Wood Chipper Safety & Clearing a Jam: What You Need to Know
Landscapers using wood chipper blowing chips into the back of a truck
Renting a wood chipper can make clearing trees and brush a breeze, whether you’re a homeowner or a landscaper. But operating one safely and avoiding jams is key to getting the job done right. In our latest video, we show you exactly how to use a wood chipper safely and what to do if it gets clogged. Let’s go over the basics.
Why Rent a Wood Chipper?
Wood chippers are essential for trimming trees, managing overgrown yards, and cleaning up storm debris. Our rental models can handle branches up to six inches in diameter, but we recommend sticking to four inches to prevent overloading the machine.
One important tip: always use green wood. Dry wood doesn’t chip properly—it just rubs against the blades, dulling them and increasing the chance of a jam.
What Causes a Wood Chipper to Jam?
The most common cause of a jam is feeding dry wood into the machine. Unlike green wood, dry branches don’t cut cleanly and can clog up the internal components.
If a jam happens, don’t panic! Follow these steps to clear it safely.
How to Clear a Wood Chipper Jam:
- Turn Off the Machine – Never attempt to clear a jam while the chipper is running. Shut it down completely.
- Raise The Feeder Bar– Use the jack to raise it.
- Check the Blades – Look inside the machine to see if debris is stuck near the blades.
- Manually Clear the Jam – If the blade won’t move freely, use a crowbar or similar tool to gently free the stuck material. Never reach in with your hands until you’re sure the machine is safe.
- Reassemble & Secure Everything – Once the jam is cleared, lock the safety mechanisms back in place before restarting the chipper.
- Restart the Machine & Check Performance – When restarting, check that the machine is running at full power. The indicator lights should confirm that the chipper is operating correctly.
Additional Safety & Rental Tips
- Need a Hitch? We rent hitches for $5-$10 to ensure your chipper is safely transported.
- Bring It Back Clean & Fueled – Return the chipper with a full tank of gas and free of excess debris.
- Protect Yourself – Safety glasses and gloves are available at our store for your convenience.