Are you tired of your clipper blades getting hot and uncomfortable during a grooming session? Fret not, as we delve into the burning question and explore the reasons behind this common occurrence. Whether you're a professional groomer or a pet owner, understanding why clipper blades heat up can help you take preventive measures and ensure a comfortable grooming experience for both you and your furry friend.
One possible reason for hot clipper blades is friction. When the blade makes contact with the hair, it generates friction, which in turn generates heat. This can be exacerbated if the blade is not properly lubricated or if the blade tension is too tight.
In this article, we will discuss these reasons and more, providing you with the knowledge to avoid hot clipper blades. Our experts will also share valuable tips and tricks to keep your blades cool and performing at their best. So, stay tuned to discover the secrets behind this burning question!
The importance of properly functioning clipper blades
Before we dive into the reasons behind hot clipper blades, let's first understand why it's crucial to have properly functioning blades. Clipper blades are the heart and soul of any grooming session. They determine the speed, efficiency, and overall quality of the grooming process. When blades heat up, it not only causes discomfort but can also lead to uneven cuts, skin irritation, and even injury to the pet. Therefore, it's essential to address this issue and keep your blades cool to ensure a smooth grooming experience.
What is the secret to keeping clipper blades cool?
Proper maintenance and cleaning play a crucial role in preventing hot clipper blades. Regularly cleaning your blades not only removes hair and debris but also helps improve their performance and prevent overheating. Start by removing the blade from the clipper and brushing off any loose hair. Next, use a cleaning solution like Clipit Ice Care Spray that is specifically designed for clipper blades to remove any buildup or residue. Forget spray coolants, they don't lubricate your clipper blades. They are a quick fix to keeping your clipper blade going. The secret to keeping your clipper blades cool is lubrication.
Once clean, dry the blades thoroughly before reattaching them to the clipper.
Choosing the right lubricant for clipper blades
Lubrication is key to reducing friction and heat generation in clipper blades. Using the right lubricant can significantly improve the performance and lifespan of your blades. When choosing a lubricant, opt for one specifically formulated for clipper blades such as Clipit Easy Oil.
Avoid using household oils or lubricants, as they can gum up the blades and lead to overheating. Lubrication is essential to clipper blades, and should never be allowed to dry out. If the blade gets dry it will cause more friction and more heat. By lubricating your clipper blade every 5-8 minutes, there is less chance of heat causing red buildup and cutting surfaces going dull quickly. This will reduce friction, heat, and wear, keeping your blades cool and running smoothly.
Lubrication is done by spraying Easy Oil Spray onto your clipper blade before, during and after you have cleaned and sterilised your clipper blade when completing a clip. This spray offers cooling, lubrication and cleaning. Its purpose is to get you through clipping that animal quickly and efficiently.
Spraying coolant lubes hardly contain any oil. A majority of the product is made up of alcohol and less than 1% disinfectant. A lot of groomers tend to use them thinking they're doing the best thing for their blades, but in fact the spray lube is drying the blade out. There is not enough lube in spray coolants to use them as a base for blade care. Coolant sprays will start to slow down the clipper blade from the increased friction and with the grime and coat dander building up, this will put undue tension onto your clipper.
Spraying the teeth of the clipper blade will cause a reddish buildup, which can be seen if you part the two cutters. When the reddish buildup gets bad, it will cause the blade to drag. Sometimes it can cause the blade to seize together and cause the cutter to lift up from the sole plate and can put stress on the clipper blade drive mechanism as well.
If you experience any of these issues you are not oiling enough. Our recommendation while the blade is running on the clipper is to spray Easy Oil every 5 minutes. You do not need to take the blade off the clipper, but to aim the spray onto the teeth. There is no issue of making the dogs coat greasy as the oil adheres to the blade and not the coat. We guarantee this product will contribute to the efficiency of your grooming time as well as prolonging your sharpening and maintenance of your clipper blades.
Understanding the impact of blade material on heat
Another factor that influences the temperature of clipper blades is the material they are made of. Different blade materials have varying heat conductivity properties, which can affect how quickly they heat up during use. Blades made from materials like ceramic or titanium tend to heat up less compared to traditional steel blades. These advanced materials that are used in the manufacturing of the Clipit Titanium clipper blades offer better heat dissipation properties, minimising the risk of overheating. Investing in high-quality blades made from these materials can make a significant difference in keeping your blades cool and comfortable during grooming sessions.
The role of blade tension in heat generation
Blade tension is often overlooked but plays a significant role in heat generation. If the blade tension is too tight, it increases friction and puts unnecessary strain on the motor, leading to overheating. On the other hand, if the tension is too loose, it can cause the blades to pull and snag on the hair, again generating excess heat. The ideal blade tension varies depending on the clipper and the type of coat you are grooming. It's essential to find the right balance by following the manufacturer's guidelines and making adjustments as needed. Proper blade tension will not only improve cutting performance but also reduce heat buildup. A great article to read on tensioning of clipper blades is in the Clipit Education section, where you'll find the Essential Guide to Clipper Blades
Professional tips for preventing hot clipper blades
To wrap up our exploration of hot clipper blades, let's hear some expert tips from Paula Bryan, Founder of Clipit Grooming. These tried-and-tested techniques will help you prevent heat buildup and ensure a smooth grooming experience:
1. Take regular breaks: Give your clipper blades a chance to cool down by taking short breaks during grooming sessions. This will prevent excessive heat buildup and prolong the life of your blades.
2. Use multiple blade sets: If you have a lot of grooming to do, consider using multiple blade sets and rotating them. This allows the blades to cool down naturally while you continue grooming with a fresh set.
3. Keep spare blades on hand: Having spare blades readily available allows you to switch them out when the current ones get too hot. This ensures that you can continue grooming without interruptions.
4. Invest in quality clippers: High-quality clippers with efficient cooling systems can significantly reduce the chances of heat buildup. Consider investing in professional-grade clippers that are designed to handle long grooming sessions without overheating.
5. Lubricate every 5 minutes. You cannot over oil your clipper blades. It is essential you use the correct oil.
Conclusion: Taking care of your clipper blades for optimal performance
In conclusion, hot clipper blades are a common issue faced by pet owners and professional groomers alike. Understanding the reasons behind this problem and implementing preventive measures can make a world of difference in ensuring a comfortable and efficient grooming experience. From proper maintenance and lubrication to choosing the right blade tension and material, every step counts in keeping your clipper blades cool and performing at their best. By following the expert tips from Paula Bryan shared in this article, you can bid farewell to hot clipper blades and enjoy hassle-free grooming sessions with your furry companions. Remember, a little care goes a long way in keeping your blades cool and your pets happy!