Maintaining Your Buzz

Technological advancements have allowed manufacturers to make professional clippers that are smaller, lighter, faster and more powerful. Increased stokes per minute, two-speed, variable speed and turbo-speed options save groomers time and effort, but increased speed and power means more heat, stress and wear on clipper parts.  Regular maintenance is key in maintaining a clipper’s performance and longevity. Regular maintenance will keep blades cutting longer and will lengthen the life of a clipper. 

The most common clipper wear part is the blade drive, lever or swing arm. The part name may vary depending on the manufacturer, but we will refer to it as the blade drive. The blade drive is what moves the cutter blade, thus cutting the hair. If a newly purchased blade or newly sharpened blade doesn’t seem to cut, the blade drive may need to be replaced. When the blade drive is worn, the clipper will no longer cut properly. This part must be checked regularly and changed after it shows wear from use.


Blade Issues
Several common clipper problems are actually related to the clipper blade and not the clipper itself.  If a new blade will not fit correctly, check the blade bracket, also referred to as the blade socket or blade saddle. This part is on the clipper blade and is what the clipper hinge locks onto. Although most detachable blades claim to be universal, each manufacturer uses a slightly different blade bracket design. The bracket may need to be adjusted or changed for the blade to fit and cut properly. 

Another common blade problem is related to blade tension; too much tension will cause a clipper and the blade to run hot.  Blade tension should be firm, but the cutter portion of the blade should be able to slide back and forth with little effort. To loosen blade tension, simply pry up each side of the tension spring.


Overheating
Too much heat or heating up too fast are common problems with multiple possible causes. If the blade tension is correct, the problem might be worn carbon brushes. Carbon brushes should be at least 1/16” in length. Brushes shorter than that should be replaced. Overly worn brushes will cause heat to build up against the armature motor inside the clipper. 

Hair build-up is a maintenance problem for any piece of grooming equipment.  Hair build-up on clipper switch caps will restrict airflow and cause a clipper to overheat.  Check the clipper switch cap frequently and remove hair build up.

Heat is a natural byproduct of speed and friction, and blades and clippers heat up faster as clipper power and speed increases. Changing blades frequently and using spray coolants can help reduce heat transfer. Blade lubrication is also very important. Blades need to be oiled regularly with clipper blade oil, even if spray lubricant is used. Some groomers prefer ceramic blades. They are slightly more expensive than traditional blades, but they conduct less heat. 


Stay Prepared
Maintaining a supply of common clipper wear parts such as carbon brushes and blade drives will save time and money and will allow a groomer to quickly troubleshoot most clipper problems. Other items that are helpful to have on hand are a small brush such as a toothbrush to remove hair from blades and clipper parts, a screwdriver, clipper oil and grease, and clipper blade lubricant, cleaner and coolant.

Before conducting any maintenance or repairs, always make sure the clipper is unplugged.  If the cord is frayed or shows any signs of wearing it should be replaced.

It is recommended that clippers be serviced by a trained technician at least once a year in order to ensure clipper safety and that the clipper meets manufacturer specifications.  A trained technician will completely dismantle the clipper and clean the inside, repair any worn parts, and make any necessary repairs or adjustments.

Michelle Austin has been Project Manager for Ryan’s Pet Supplies since 2001. Ryan’s Pet Supplies manufactures, imports and distributes professional pet care products. Michelle is involved in most aspects of the business. She participates in new product selection and development, catalog production, and managing marketing and communications for the company.