Waterproof Chainsaw: Are Chainsaws Waterproof?

Waterproof Chainsaw: Are Chainsaws Waterproof?

The primary keyword to focus on here is: are chainsaws waterproof? The simple answer is no. A Waterproof Chainsaw is not available for the average user. Most chainsaws are not designed to be waterproof. There are, however, some specialized chainsaws built for underwater use, but they are not commonly found in households and are typically more expensive. These specialized chainsaws are meant for commercial use and are not available at your local retailer.

So, although the majority of chainsaws are not waterproof, some can still be used in wet conditions, such as light rain or when cutting wet wood. However, it is essential to know the limitations of your chainsaw and follow proper safety guidelines when using it in such conditions.

Types of Chainsaws and Their Suitability for Wet Conditions

There are three main types of chainsaws: gas-powered, corded electric, and battery-powered. Each of these chainsaws has its own set of advantages and disadvantages when it comes to using them in wet conditions.

Gas-powered Chainsaws

Gas-powered chainsaws are the most popular type of chainsaw and are often used by professionals due to their power and durability. These chainsaws can handle moisture relatively well, making them suitable for use in light rain. However, they should never be submerged in water.

When using a gas-powered chainsaw in wet conditions, there are several precautions you should take:

• Ensure the fuel cap is tightly sealed to prevent water from entering the fuel tank. Water and fuel do not mix well, and water in the fuel can lead to engine malfunction and possible damage to your chainsaw.
• Similarly, avoid letting water enter the bar oil tank. Although not as damaging as water in the fuel, it can still affect your chainsaw’s performance.
• After using your chainsaw, dry the chain thoroughly to prevent rusting. Rust can significantly decrease the cutting performance of your chainsaw.
• Clean the air filter before using your chainsaw in wet conditions, especially if you have been cutting dry wood previously. Moisture can cause dust on the filter to expand, leading to potential choking of your chainsaw.
• Run your chainsaw for a few minutes before storing it to evaporate any moisture inside and prevent rusting of internal components.

Corded Electric Chainsaws

Using any electric device in the rain can be risky, and corded electric chainsaws are no exception. A Waterproof Chainsaw would be a great idea, but alas they are not available for now. Although manufacturers design these chainsaws to prevent water ingress, it is strongly advised not to use a corded electric chainsaw in the rain. Water entering the chainsaw can cause short circuits, damage the chainsaw, and pose a risk of electric shock to the user.

Battery-powered Chainsaws

Battery-powered chainsaws share similarities with corded electric chainsaws when it comes to using them in wet conditions. While it may be less dangerous due to the absence of a cord and the battery being the only source of electricity, it is still not recommended to use a battery-powered chainsaw in the rain. Water entering the chainsaw can cause short circuits and damage the battery, leading to expensive repairs or replacements.

Safety Considerations for Using Chainsaws in Wet Conditions

Using your chainsaw in wet or rainy conditions poses several risks, mainly due to environmental factors. To minimize these risks, follow these safety tips:

• Be cautious of slippery surfaces, especially when walking on wet ground. Use footwear with good traction to prevent slipping and potential accidents.
• Wear chainsaw chaps made by a reputable brand. These pants are specifically designed to stop chainsaw blades from cutting deep into your leg, providing essential protection.
• Use protective gloves that allow you to maintain a firm grip on your chainsaw, even when wet. Losing control of your chainsaw can lead to accidents that could have been avoided.

Using Chainsaws After Rain

Most chainsaws can be safely used after the rain has stopped. However, there are some factors to consider when doing so:

• The ground may still be slippery, so continue to wear appropriate protective gear and exercise caution.
• Wet wood is harder to cut than dry wood, so expect the cutting process to take longer than usual.
• Steam may rise from your guide bar when cutting wet wood. This is a natural occurrence caused by the evaporation of excess water and should not be mistaken for smoke.

Chainsaws for Underwater Use

As mentioned earlier, there  specialized Waterproof Chainsaw designed for underwater use. These chainsaws can be divided into two categories: hydraulic chainsaws and pneumatic chainsaws.

Hydraulic Chainsaws

Hydraulic chainsaws operate differently from traditional chainsaws. Instead of a motor directly rotating the chain, a stream of high-pressure liquid powers the chain. The chainsaw is connected to a petrol or electric pump by a set of hoses, which rotates the liquid in the hose, in turn, moving the chain.

Advantages of hydraulic chainsaws include:

• Ability to be fully submerged in water without damage to the chainsaw, as the components that could be damaged by water exposure are separate from the chainsaw itself.
• Lighter weight due to the absence of a motor and fuel storage in the chainsaw, making it more convenient for underwater use.
• Longer run time as a result of increased fuel capacity provided by the separate pump.

An interesting feature of underwater hydraulic chainsaws is that their chain rotates in the opposite direction compared to regular chainsaws. This prevents small fragments and debris from clogging the chainsaw, as they are thrown away from the chainsaw instead of towards it.

Pneumatic Chainsaws

Pneumatic chainsaws are similar to hydraulic chainsaws, with the primary difference being that they use compressed air or gas as a medium instead of liquid. They are typically not as powerful as hydraulic chainsaws, as maintaining high-pressure air is more challenging.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if water got inside my chainsaw?
For gas chainsaws, let them dry before using them, and run the chainsaw until the water inside evaporates. For electric chainsaws, try to disassemble them and do not turn them on until you are sure that all internal parts have dried.

Is it easier to split firewood wet or dry?
Dry firewood is easier to split because there is less moisture, making the wood less tough. However, wet firewood can still be comfortably split with a gas or electric-powered chainsaw.

Is frozen wood harder to cut?
Yes, frozen wood is more challenging to cut due to the added hardness caused by ice. To cut frozen wood more efficiently, sharpen your chain, let the chainsaw warm up to help melt the ice, and cut at full throttle.

What is the best chainsaw for cold weather?
The Husqvarna 130 is an excellent gas-powered chainsaw for cold weather conditions. It has a 16-inch bar, weighs 10.3 lbs, and features a chain brake to prevent kickback injuries.

Final Thoughts – Waterproof Chainsaw

While most chainsaws are not waterproof, they can still be used in wet conditions with proper care and safety precautions. When using your chainsaw in the rain or after rain, be aware of the risks and take appropriate measures to protect yourself and your equipment. If you encounter extreme weather conditions, it is best to postpone your chainsaw tasks until conditions improve. Remember, safety should always be your top priority when using any power tool, including chainsaws.